Increased demand for Indonesian workers in plantations
nabalunews

18 August 2024
By AVV
KOTA KINABALU: The demand for Indonesian workers in Sabah's plantation sector has increased, as reported by Indonesia's Consul General in Kota Kinabalu, Rafail Walangitan.
Numerous plantation companies, including Sawit Kinabalu, a state government investment arm, have approached the consulate to discuss the labour supply.
"They have expressed a continued need for Indonesian workers. With demand comes supply naturally.
"We have also observed a significant improvement in the quality of life for Indonesian workers," he remarked after leading the flag-raising ceremony to commemorate Indonesia's 79th Independence Day at the consulate in Sembulan recently.
The number of Indonesian workers needed depends on the size of the plantations, with an average ranging between 30 and 300 workers.
"We understand that the minimum wage has been enforced by the Sabah government.
"What we ask is that the companies provide good facilities for the workers, along with a good salary and healthcare," he said.
He added that since workers are assets, their well-being must be taken care of.
"If the workers are given a good working environment, they will certainly perform well and contribute to the company's profit," he said.
He also called on Indonesian workers to always respect Malaysian laws. About 80 per cent of the workers are needed in palm oil estates, while the rest are required in agriculture and construction.
Under the theme 'Nusantara Baru, Indonesia Maju' (New Archipelago, Advanced Indonesia), the republic commemorated its independence in the forthcoming new capital on Borneo Island, under the leadership of President Joko Widodo.
"We anticipate that this relocation will cultivate a fresh sense of unity and drive new economic growth.
"Sabah, being the closest state to Nusantara in Kalimantan, presents an opportunity for enhanced relations and collaboration across all sectors," he remarked.
During the celebration, the consul general unveiled the electronic passport (e-passport) for the Indonesian community in Sabah at the Kota Kinabalu community hall.
Featuring advanced security features, the e-passport enables holders to utilize the autogate facilities at airports, he highlighted.
He encouraged Indonesian communities in Sabah to exchange their old passports for the new e-passport.
A range of activities, including food stalls, entertainment, and games, were organized to delight the community.
Comments