Migrant workers to undergo COVID-19 test in Malaysia
Country’s Senior Minister (Security Cluster) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has said that Migrant workers in Malaysia will be required to undergo mandatory COVID-19 test from December 1. The first phase of coronavirus screening will be carried out in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Labuan and Negri Sembilan, according to a report of The Straits Times.
On the mechanism for implementing the screening test, he said to prevent overcrowding, employers should arrange for appointments with private healthcare facilities for the COVID-19 RTK-Antigen test.
The private health facilities would then send their staff to the factory or construction site to conduct the test according to the standard operating procedures (SOP) set by the Health Ministry, he said.
The Human Resources Ministry also started enforcing the Workers’ Minimum Standards of Housing and Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446), where employers who flout the regulations would be fined RM 50,000 per worker, said Ismail Sabri.
Employers should ensure that foreign workers are given basic housing facilities to ensure safety and hygiene, he said. “The ministry will share further details on this matter in due time.”
