Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) and the Immigration Department have officially issued a notice regarding the Foreign Workers Quota...
Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) and the Immigration Department have officially issued a notice regarding the Foreign Workers Quota System for 2025/26. Under this policy, employers in specific sectors are allowed to hire foreign workers on a case-by-case basis. The initiative aims to regulate the labour market and curb illegal employment.
According to the ministry, the special application period will run from 19 January 2026 to 31 March 2026, while the online appointment system has been activated from 16 January 2026. All applications must be submitted strictly through the official appointment system.
The notice outlines several sectors eligible to employ foreign workers:
Service Sector:
Wholesale and retail businesses, cleaning and laundry services, warehouses, security guards, scrap metal and second-hand goods shops, restaurants (both new hiring and replacement), commercial laundries, and cargo handling services.
Agriculture Sector:
Fish farming, livestock breeding, and crop cultivation.
Plantation Sector:
All types of plantations are included.
Construction Sector:
Only government projects are allowed. This approval applies strictly to main contractors or government-approved subcontractors. Private construction projects are not eligible.
Manufacturing Sector:
Existing factories may apply for replacement workers.
For new investments, approval from MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority) is mandatory. Companies must present a provisional MIDA approval letter during interviews. This applies only to new projects, expansion projects, or diversification projects.
Mining and Quarry Sector:
Foreign workers are allowed for mineral extraction and construction material quarrying.
For replacement workers, companies must comply with specific requirements, including:
- Submission of a Check Out Memo (COM)
- A verification letter from the Immigration Department
- Compliance with the minimum salary requirement
- Submission of complete documentation in a full file
The ministry emphasized that only legally registered companies are eligible to apply. Strict legal action will be taken against those submitting fake or forged documents.
For official communication, the ministry has provided the email:
📧 osc_kdn@moha.gov.my
Applicants are also advised to refer to the official Ministry of Home Affairs website for further details.
Special Guidelines for Foreign Workers:
- Regularly check visa validity
- Work only for the employer stated on the work permit
- Avoid falling into agents’ traps
- Always keep original documents in personal possession
The government stated that this policy has been implemented to control illegal employment and ensure a transparent and secure labour market.
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