The country reopened the sector two weeks ago following increased demand for security guards and pressure from local companies seeking to hire Nepalis for the job. It had stopped recruiting Nepalis in security jobs in 2009, citing unskilled Nepali workforce.The latest decision of the Malaysian government means many Nepalis aspirants having a background in Nepal Army, Police and Armed Police Force will get an opportunity for overseas employment.

 

According to the Security Services Association of Malaysia, the government lifted the ban after pressure from employing firms and increased demand. “We hope this decision will help address the demand for quality workers,” said a member of the association.

 

According to a report, there are around 5,000 Nepalis in Malaysia working as guards legally. The Malaysian government had planned to hire 10,000 security guards after legalisation of illegal migrant workers as part of its amnesty programme. However, the plan failed with only around 3,500 Nepali applying for security guard job after legalising themselves.

 

The Nepal Association of Foreign Employment Agencies has said it will soon hold discussions with agencies to send quality and experienced guards. “We will utilise this opportunity in the best possible way,” said Kumud Khanal, vice-president of the association. Khanal said they have already started to get orders for security guards. Lately, with the US dollar and Malaysian ringgit soaring, salary of security guard has also increased in the range of Rs 38,000 to Rs 41,000 a month.

Nepalis are considered best workers in the security sector in Malaysia. “It will be better if aspirants learn English before going to Malaysia for effective job performance,” said Khanal.