Malaysian highlights the abundance of migrant workers in Kuala Lumpur during the Chinese New Year weekend, netizens are quick to defend them
A viral video sparks conversation about the vital role and treatment of migrant workers in Malaysia's bustling capital
MALAYSIA— A video posted by a user on X (formerly Twitter) over the Chinese New Year weekend showed migrant workers enjoying themselves in Kuala Lumpur during the public holiday. However, the user shared the video accompanied by a remark 'like being a tourist in the country', seemingly directed at the migrant population.
The area encompassing Puduraya, Petaling Street and Central Market in Kuala Lumpur is a common hub for migrants to gather for both work and leisure.
The user's video however, drew empathy from other Malaysian netizens towards these communities, highlighting their contributions to the city and the country.
Lalu sini,
memang rasa kita pulak macam pelancong 🤔
📹 : fzlmrd pic.twitter.com/HchABgxBfE— ًِ (@bckupacc99) February 11, 2024
A user, @hazwanhfiz, pointed out that locals are often unwilling to undertake the same strenuous roles as they they do.
"We like to relax and chill, and even you yourself don't want to stay in the city. Let them go out during holidays; surely we wouldn't want to ask them to just stay at home all the time," the user said.
This sentiment was echoed by @pusatkomas, highlighting the danger of cultivating xenophobia.
"It can lead to hatred towards migrant workers who have contributed significantly to the development of our country, especially in the 3D sector. Let us not demean their contributions," they wrote.
Other users also chimed in with their support for the migrants, being the backbone to Malaysia's development.
"Without them, there wouldn't be your home, the highway you pass through, all those skyscrapers. They only take a vacation once a year. Can you relax?" said @osmankubis.
"Migrant workers are the backbone of the country's progress and development. Treat them like ordinary humans with full dignity," wrote @Alissalovesf1.
Malaysia's diverse migrant workforce landscape
As of July 2023, Malaysia had around 3 million migrants, making up 8.9 per cent of its total population of 33.4 million, according to the Malaysian Department of Statistics.
Most of these migrants come from Indonesia, Bangladesh, Philippines and other Asian nations
They are employed in diverse sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality, security, and domestic services.
Labour migrants play a pivotal role in both Malaysia's economy and that of their countries of origin, comprising an estimated 15.3 per cent of the Malaysian workforce and predominantly occupying low-skilled and semi-skilled positions.
Furthermore, the presence of migrant workers necessitates their employers' contributions to government health and insurance programs, thereby bolstering social protection schemes and benefiting Malaysia's overall economy.
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