Kuching: The recent increase in charges under the Foreign Workers’ Transformation Approach (FWTA) has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Sarawak Government’s review process, according to DAPSY Sarawak Treasurer Lesley Chong.
She noted that the increase in foreign worker permit renewal fees comes after the government had announced that the matter was being reviewed following concerns raised by Pending assemblywoman in the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly and by various industry stakeholders.
“Many employers and businesses across Sarawak had welcomed the announcement of stakeholder engagement sessions, expecting their views and concerns would be taken into account before any further decisions were made,” she said.
However, Chong said the latest development has prompted questions about whether the consultation and review process was able to effectively influence policy outcomes.
“How could the public be led to believe that meaningful consultation and review were taking place when the eventual decision appears to move in a different direction?” she asked in a statement.
Chong stressed that businesses are not opposed to efforts aimed at improving foreign worker management, digitalisation or administrative efficiency. However, she said such reforms should not result in higher operating costs that are eventually borne by businesses and consumers, nor should they reduce transparency in government administration.
She added that the FWTA issue highlights the importance of public participation and institutional oversight in ensuring policies remain accountable and responsive to the needs of the people.
According to Chong, the review process would have been an opportunity for stakeholders to contribute constructive feedback and help shape policies that balance administrative efficiency with economic realities faced by employers.
She emphasised that raising concerns and seeking clarification should be viewed as part of a healthy democratic process that strengthens governance and public trust.
“Checks and balances help improve policy outcomes and ensure that government decisions remain accountable to the people,” she said.
Chong also stated that greater autonomy should enable Sarawak to achieve higher standards of governance and transparency, while ensuring that important public concerns are addressed openly.
She said Sarawakians deserve policies that are transparent and fair, with consultation processes that produce meaningful outcomes and reflect the concerns raised by stakeholders.
