Are locals unwilling to do demanding service jobs?

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Locals May Be Unwilling to Undertake Demanding Service Jobs, According to Business Operators

Business operators in Kuala Lumpur have expressed difficulties in employing local workers for service industry roles, citing concerns about discipline, stamina, and commitment. These observations have prompted Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) to conduct a feasibility study into the employment of locals, aiming to understand the underlying reasons for this trend over the next three to six months.
Business Operators Report Lack of Local Worker Stamina and Discipline

A significant point raised by business operators is the perceived lack of stamina among local workers for physically demanding tasks and late-night shifts. Complaints include that locals do not possess the endurance for strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, common in environments like wet markets, nor are they inclined to work late hours. Furthermore, employers have reported issues concerning truancy and the frequency of medical leave taken by local employees, which disrupts operations.
Question of Local Interest in Service Sector Jobs

The mayor of Kuala Lumpur, Tan Sri Mhd Amin Nordin, has publicly questioned the genuine interest of local individuals in these specific service sector jobs. Preliminary engagements with business owners reveal a common sentiment that while employment opportunities exist, locals appear to prefer higher-end positions rather than those available in the service industry. This lack of interest, coupled with the reported work ethic issues, contributes to the reliance on foreign workers.
Foreign Workers Predominantly Occupy Front-Line Roles

The study also addresses public complaints regarding the high number of foreign workers in shops and restaurants. Observations in areas like Kuala Lumpur's Chinatown indicated that foreign workers were frequently in front-line positions, such as salespersons or stall managers. This practice has led to suggestions that owners should instead have foreign workers handle the more physically arduous labour, while locals could potentially fill roles involving direct customer interaction or management, though the latter is acknowledged as requiring significant manpower.
DBKL Study Aims to Understand Employment Challenges

DBKL's feasibility study is a direct response to these widespread concerns and aims to gather comprehensive data from all stakeholders. The initiative seeks to determine the viability of increasing local employment in the service sector without unduly burdening business operators. The findings of this study, expected within three to six months, will be compiled into a report for submission to the relevant minister if a solution cannot be reached.

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Are locals unwilling to do demanding service jobs?

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