Tourism sector needs 15,000 to 20,000 more workers, says Nancy

KUCHING (May 14): Malaysia's tourism sector is currently facing a shortage of about 15,000 to 20,000 workers, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri. However, she noted that the problem of labour shortage is not only faced by the tourism sector but also involves all other industries in the country. According to her, the government is now trying to address the issue, including by bringing in workers from abroad. "My ministry has relayed this matter (the problem of the shortage of workers) to the Cabinet and the government has given approval to bring in workers from abroad. Commenting further, Nancy said to address the shortage of workers, she also suggested that employers hire local workers.