Proposal to use foreign workers neglects local Sabahans — Warisan
KOTA KINABALU: Parti Warisan Youth chief Terence Au claimed that Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe's proposal to utilise foreign workers in Sabah's plantation sector neglects local Sabahans.
Au, in a statement asked Phoong if he has forgotten his coalition's vehement opposition to illegal immigrant labor, often slanderously referred to as 'Warisan Mesra PTI'.
He accused Phoong of political amnesia, wondering aloud if the GRS cabinet member's memory fails to recall their own strong stance against such practices.
Phoong told the media recently that the United Nations proposal that Sabah tap into the potential of immigrants as a source of labour is something that should be given due consideration.
He pointed out that the idea has potential as Sabah is still short of labour in certain sectors.
Phoong said that the dependency on foreign workers could be reduced if the state is able to tap into the available sources it currently has.
Au pointed out the glaring inconsistency in GRS's approach, contrasting their previous hardline promises to expel illegal immigrants, made during the 16th Sabah State Election campaign, with the current suggestion to legalize those who have entered and worked in Sabah illegally.
"It's not just a policy shift; it's a betrayal of the people's trust," emphasized Au.
Casting doubt on the government's priorities, Au accused GRS of abandoning their commitments and neglecting Sabahans' welfare.
He argued that prioritizing foreign workers over locals was not just a policy failure but a moral one as well.
The Youth chief strongly advocated for Sabahans to be the primary beneficiaries of job opportunities in their state. He urged plantation owners to invest in local talent, providing adequate training and improving working conditions. "Sabahans must not be second-class citizens in their homeland," he declared.
Au also called for strict and immediate action against illegal immigrants, warning that any leniency would lead to an uncontrollable surge of undocumented workers. He emphasized the need for the state to uphold its laws and protect its borders, not just for economic reasons but for the sovereignty and security of Sabah.
In a final rebuke, Au urged Phoong and the GRS to remember their promises and obligations to the people of Sabah. "We demand consistency, transparency and, above all, respect for the rights and aspirations of Sabahans," Au concluded, setting a tone of defiance and demanding accountability from the state government.