ILLEGAL migrant workers are a hot topic among Malaysians. Citizens are getting increasingly uncomfortable with the ever-growing numbers that seem to have conquered certain parts of major cities.
Think of the Bukit Bintang area or Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur on weekends where foreign workers seem to vastly outnumber the locals and the concern is understandable.
However, one netizen has cautioned against some of the xenophobic rhetoric being spewed and to not be so arrogant.
Using the handle @lorettabagg, she highlights that Malaysians themselves are fast becoming notorious for overstaying their welcome or breaching visa rules, not least in Down Under.
Thanks to Malaysians who have been overstaying in Australia, this is another country that is adding restrictions on Malaysians.
Looks like Malaysia is losing its passport strength
When we call others illegal but don’t realise we’re not too far away https://t.co/10vq4YjsO9
— Loretta (@lorettabagg) February 29, 2024
The post sparked a lively discussion. Here is what others had to say on this thorny subject.
Many agreed that the tables have been turned.
More than a few agreed with the poser’s sentiments that Malaysia treats its migrant workers very poorly.
Some lamented how this has come to be.
More than a few predicted a bleak future for those in the lower income groups.
Some said that these Malaysians working abroad were merely fulfilling a demand for manpower.
Some lay the blame at errant employers abroad for not adhering to the rules.
One netizen had harsh words for the overstaying Malaysians and posited stiff punishment.
The post is a timely reminder for Malaysians to remain humble and emphatise with the plight of the migrant worker as many of our brethren now belong in that category, too.
Hypocrisy and xenophobia are an unwelcome combination no matter how one looks at it. – March 5, 2024
Main image credit: Kerja Petik Buah Di Australia Facebook
