Malaysia to launch platform for direct foreign worker recruitment
Malaysia is preparing to launch a new digital platform that will allow employers to directly recruit foreign workers, bypassing private recruitment agents. Announced by Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan in early February 2026, the initiative aims to curb worker exploitation, reduce excessive recruitment fees, and eliminate the "middleman problem". Key Features of the Platform Direct Matching: Employers can connect directly with prospective workers via a centralized digital system, ensuring job descriptions and terms are clear before contracts are signed. Virtual Interviews & AI Translation: To overcome language barriers, the platform will feature virtual interview tools with AI-powered real-time translation (e.g., translating Bahasa Malaysia into a worker's mother tongue). Integrated Identification: The system is expected to utilize MyDigital ID for worker identification, salary crediting, and administrative tracking. Government-to-Government (G...