Protection of Indonesian Female Worker’s Rights in Malaysia

The year is 2010 and the day – 8^th March – represents International Women’s Day. Throughout the world, there is so much talk about it but in many countries, the plight of women remains unaddressed by government and the society.

Sexual Abuse and Commercial Exploitation of Indonesian Women in Malaysia

In Malaysia, for example, there is an urgent need to improve the situation of Indonesian women who are working there. Lakhs of Indonesian women are working for up to 18 hours daily, without any day off. They are given meager salaries spanning 400 to 600 ringgit (US$118-177). Even worse is the extent of physical or sexual abuse that many women have to bear at the hands of their Malaysian employers. Many employers take advantage of the government’s indifference to these domestic female workers. Violation of their human rights continues despite the 2006 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two countries.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): Proposed Revisions

The two governments comprising Malaysia and Indonesia have come to certain terms following several meetings. As per the revisions, domestic workers will have the right to keep their passports. Although one weekly off has been allowed, the issue of salary hike is still under debate. Indonesia is seeking an increase in wages to a minimum of 800 Malaysian ringgit ($US237). The agreement still does not provide freedom to workers to form associations and unions. It does not also include realistic restrictions on work hours. The proposed revisions to the MOU do not provide accessible complaint mechanisms. It is also devoid of eliminating current limits on recruitment fees.

Remedy for Effective Enforcement of Human Rights

The pact should be completed keeping in focus the basic labor protections. Effective enforcement measures should be approved to improve the deplorable status of domestic workers. Such measure should include random inspections, strict punishment, although monetarily, for violations and proper distribution of information pertaining to the rights and responsibilities of employees and workers.