Goodwill, forgiveness for RI illegals in Malaysia
New Straits Times, Kuala Lumpur
What began as a gesture of goodwill to the new government of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and the people of Indonesia, and limited to illegal workers from that country, has now become a two-week amnesty to all undocumented migrants living and working in Malaysia, irrespective of their country of origin.
By extending the reprieve to all illegal foreign workers, without regard to race or religion, the government demonstrates the spirit of charity and forgiveness that epitomize the Muslim fasting month of Ramadhan. Earlier, the government had heeded appeals from Indonesian officials to delay plans for the mass deportation of illegal workers in view of the legislative and presidential elections.
In attending the inauguration of Indonesia's first popularly elected president, Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi had already sent a clear signal about the importance of good relations with its close Asean neighbor. The generosity of spirit displayed in the offer of amnesty should give efforts to enhance bilateral ties between the two countries in general, and to resolve the long-standing problem of illegal Indonesian migrants in particular, a good start in the early days of the republic's new government.
Bearing in mind what happened the last time such an amnesty was offered, goodwill and close co-operation between the two countries will be badly needed, as the planned massive crackdown on illegal foreign labor is expected to begin in January. If and when that happens will depend, of course, on how many decide to return home to celebrate Deepavali, Idulfitri or Christmas with their families and friends, and more importantly, not to return to Malaysia unless it is through legal channels.
Home Affairs Minister Azmi Khalid is confident that if they decide to stream back into the country to continue working without proper documents, they "would not be able to hide from enforcement officers". Many Malaysians may be forgiven for not sharing the minister's faith in the effectiveness of the enforcement agencies. It is a mystery to many why, despite three Ops Nyah over the last 13 years where thousands of illegals were rounded up and deported, we still have more than a million of them.
In truth, the government agencies have a poor track record in enforcing immigration laws. The minister is also confident that his ministry is better prepared to deal with the logistical problems of repatriating the illegals. It is hoped that his trust is not misplaced. Two years ago, our relations with Indonesia soured following allegations of abuse during the mass expulsion. It is vital that such problems do not erupt again. There is a need for effective communication and better coordination between Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, something which was sorely missing during the previous amnesty and deportation.