Comparison of Indonesian and Malaysian regulations on migrant workers: A comparative study in legal and security aspects
Keywords:
Migrant Workers, Legal Protection, Security, ICMW, Comparative LawAbstract
This study compares Indonesia and Malaysia in providing legal protection and security guarantees for migrant workers. The main focus is on analyzing the national legal framework, the effectiveness of policy implementation, and its relationship to international standards such as the UN Convention on Migrant Workers (ICMW). Indonesia has ratified the ICMW and regulates protection through Law No. 18 of 2017, while Malaysia still relies on the 1955 Employment Act without ratifying the convention. The research method used is normative juridical with a qualitative approach. The results show that although Indonesia is more progressive in terms of regulations, implementation in the field still faces structural and institutional obstacles. On the other hand, Malaysia has a strict administrative system but tends to be protective of its domestic labor market, leaving migrant workers vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination. This study recommends the need for harmonization of bilateral policies and strengthening regional cooperation to improve legal protection and security for migrant workers in both countries.
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