Let Young Cambodian Muslim Women Work In Malaysia - M'sian Defence Minister

PNOMH PENH (Cambodia), June 1 (Bernama) -- The dilemma over a lack of housemaids faced by Muslim families in Malaysia could be overcome if young Cambodian Muslim women were allowed to work in that country, said Malaysian Defence Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He noted that Cambodia had a pool of potential housemaids as most of its young women did not have a permanent job, and could thus, adapt easily in Malaysia as they practised similar lifestyle. He said the Yayasan Dakwah Islam Malaysia and Yayasan Restu had stated their willingness to help employers obtain housemaids from here. Ahmad Zahid said he would discuss with Human Resources Minister of Malaysia Dr S. Subramaniam soon on the matter. "The measure can reduce dependence on housemaids from Indonesia and the Philippines," he told Malaysian reporters after presenting humanitarian aid here on wednesday. Ahmad Zahid said, besides helping to enhance the economic status of Muslims in Cambodia, the women could also take the opportunity to further their education at institutions of higher learning in Malaysia to become part of their country's professional manpower. In this regard, he urged technocrats and non-governmental organisations to help sponsor their studies. "The gesture could enhance Malaysia's relations with other Asean countries," noted the minister. -- BERNAMA