THERE are, at present two million documented migrant workers in Malaysia.

The number of undocumented migrant workers is estimated at between 1.5 million and four million, according to a World Bank report.

Migrant workers are one of the most vulnerable groups disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Most of them are left without employment, social and health security.

The lack of decent accommodation prevents the implementation of proactive measures, and this could cause the further spread of the virus.

There are many barriers to healthcare facilities faced by migrant workers. These barriers include access, cost, language, and fear of arrest and detention.

Undocumented migrant workers face added vulnerabilities, as they are deemed illegal and have no rights within the legal system. They live in the shadow, on the margins of society, with no legal rights whatsoever.

The present government policy is to arrest and deport undocumented workers. Further, the policy requires doctors to report undocumented migrants seeking healthcare to police and immigration authorities.

Such policies and the barriers blocking migrants’ access to healthcare threaten the health security of all.

The government should:

- Embark on a policy that does not discriminate when providing healthcare, including Covid-19 testing and treatment, to migrants, regardless of their status, and without them having to fear arrest and detention;

- Work with the employers of migrant workers, missions of these workers’ countries of origin, and civil society organisations to reach out to migrant communities and ensure that they have the relevant information and access to healthcare facilities;

- Have a moratorium on the arrest and detention of migrants for immigration-related offences during this pandemic;

- Ensure the rights of migrant workers to wages and benefits are protected;

- Ensure compliance with all labour laws, including those pertaining to accommodation, occupational safety and health, as well as regulations and policies pertaining to Covid-19; and,

- Put in place an amnesty and legalisation programme for undocumented migrant workers to overcome the issue of undocumented workers in Malaysia. – April 24, 2020.

* M. Ramachelvam is deputy president of the National Human Rights Society.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.