I refer to malaysiakini report Gov't targets 6.3% growth over 15 years .

The report cited that Malaysia should cut its dependence on foreign workers and added that as of December 2005, there were 1.8 million foreign workers, of which 32 percent were in the manufacturing sector and 8.8 percent in the services sector. I would like to say that the government has cried 'wolf' too many times in cutting back foreign workers.

It is most disappointing to note, with hindsight, that Malaysia is probably the only country which allows foreign workers to work as unskilled labour notably even in barber shops and hawker centres. This government not only lacks wisdom but also has completely ignored our Yang diPertuan Agung's advice on March 22 last year when he called on this government to reduce the large presence of foreign workers here.

The Human Resources Ministry announced on April 11 last year that it would seek to amend the Employment Act 1955 to compel employers to ensure that at least 51 percent of their workforce comprise locals for those engaged in the manufacturing, construction and the service industries. Has this happened? Should we then believe in another reduction policy or is it just another 'wayang kulit'?

The government cut back on its petrol subsidies for the rakyat but did not mind that foreign workers in Malaysia remitted some RM19.5 billion (according to the 2005 Malaysian Budgetary report) back to their home countries. This government should realise the serious implications of its foolish 'yo-yo policies' and weak enforcement in keeping out illegal entry while turning a deaf ear to local NGOs expressing concerns.

It seems the government is not really bothered that the rakyat are exposed to criminal victimisation, contagious diseases and the high social price of keeping them here.

Some now even wonder if the large number of foreign labour in the country outnumbers our military and security personnel. Isn't this now a national security issue that a self-acclaimed responsible government should ponder and be accountable for the welfare of all Malaysians, especially the unemployed?

This issue of foreign labour should be an important platform that we, as Malaysian voters, should judge this government through our vote at the next general election.