15.Jun.2026
On 15 June 2026, PRIMAS President, YBhg. Dato’ J. Govindasamy @ Suresh, and Deputy President, Mr. C. Krishnan, met with YB Dato’ Sri Ramanan Ramakrishnan, Minister of Human Resources, as well as the Honourable Prime Minister, Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, to discuss matters relating to the foreign worker issue affecting the restaurant industry. Also in attendance were PRESMA President, Datuk Mohammed Mosin Abdul Razak, and Vice President, Tuan Razali Yusof.
YB Dato’ Sri Ramanan informed PRIMAS that the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) is actively engaged in discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) to address the matter as soon as possible. He emphasised that both ministries are working diligently and are currently examining the relevant issues and potential solutions.
Following the submission of the memorandum by PRIMAS to the Prime Minister during the AIMST programme in Sungai Petani, Kedah, the matter was subsequently brought to the attention of the Cabinet. The Prime Minister has instructed the relevant ministries involved in the formulation and implementation of foreign worker policies, including KDN, KPDN and KESUMA, to study the matter comprehensively.
The ministries are currently gathering relevant data and assessing the actual workforce requirements of the industry, while also reviewing the current status of foreign workers in the country.
During today’s meeting with the Prime Minister, PRIMAS once again took the opportunity to appeal and highlight the serious challenges faced by the restaurant industry, particularly in relation to the foreign worker issue and the difficulties currently faced by operators nationwide.
The Prime Minister reiterated and reassured both associations that the matter is being studied based on his instructions and that the Government remains committed to resolving the issue as soon as possible. He further assured that the concerns of the business community are being taken seriously and that the Government will continue working towards a practical and sustainable solution.
Members are advised to remain assured that the issue is being actively addressed by the Government, which is fully aware of the challenges faced by the industry and is working towards an appropriate resolution. PRIMAS will continue to engage with the relevant authorities and keep members informed of any further developments.