The Wire

The Malaysian government has cracked down on its illegal immigrant work force this week, with thousands from neighbouring countries facing heavy fines, jail sentences or even the punishment of whipping. Although a sizeable percentage of Malaysia’s industry is dependent on these low-paid, unskilled workers, they are often blamed by the public for high crime levels and the spread of disease. Now, the Malaysian government wants a more skilled work force, to keep it on a par with its competitors – Korea, Taiwan and Japan. Despite a four-month amnesty, at least 200,000 illegal workers remain in the country. And human rights organisations are now concerned about their treatment at the hands of the Malaysian police. Glen Withers, Professor of public policy from the Australian National University, spoke to 2SER’s Anja Kueppers about what has prompted this crack down by the Malaysian authorities.