Employers must submit foreign workers application online from April 1 (Updated)

PUTRAJAYA: Effective April 1, applications to hire foreign workers must be submitted online to ensure employers are not cheated by third parties like agents.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the move was to ensure employers are not cheated by agents into paying a hefty amount of money and to avoid agents from taking advantage of foreign workers.
"The Home Ministry and the Immigration Department has decided to make it compulsory for the application of foreign workers to be done online only," he told a press conference after officiating the Home Ministry's monthly assembly, here today.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said the move applied to foreign workers from all source countries, except for the application of maids.
Previously, the application for foreign workers could also be done manually over the counter and through agents.
Earlier in his speech, Ahmad Zahid spoke of corrupt practices among government officers and of agents who charged unreasonable fees.
"We know that foreigners wanting to work in Malaysia are those among the poor. They can't afford to pay, and are forced to sell their properties, take loans and what not.
"Don't take advantage of them. So I have decided that foreign workers application can no longer be done manually," he said.
Ahmad Zahid also announced an "arms card" for all licensed firearms owners in the country that is to be issued beginning June 1, for greater accountability and easier identification.
He said the card would include several safety features including a photo of the card holder, the owner's MyKad number, the Inspector-General of Police's signature, and information of the owner's firearms.
"We have been planning for the card for about two years. It involves both individuals and security companies, and it will have to be renewed ever year," he said.