MALAYSIA intends to expedite the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing process with Indonesia for recruitment of workers for the construction sector, said Works Minister Fadillah Yusof.

He said this matter had been discussed with the Home Ministry and Human Resources Ministry during the cabinet meeting yesterday.

“Both ministers will go to Indonesia to settle several outstanding issues,” he said in Petaling Jaya today.

Fadillah said among the biggest challenges was compliance with standard operating procedures and also the Employees’ Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Amenities Act 1990, requiring construction companies to provide accommodation.

“To provide a permanent housing is a challenge for the industry, especially for small companies.

“Hence, the government has proposed that the Construction Industry Development Board assist through the construction labour programme,” he said.

Fadillah said the MOU signing with Indonesia has been scheduled for February, adding that a similar deal with Myanmar had been finalised.

The Human Resources Ministry is scheduled to make an announcement on the issue soon, he added. – Bernama, January 13, 2022.