Migrant worker labour issues mean S-E Asia's companies risk losing business, investments

THE reliance of South-east Asia companies on migrant workers means companies in the region need to be prepared for greater scrutiny on their labour practices, or risk losing their ability to attract investments from investors, observers told The Business Times.

Wilson Ang, partner and head of regulatory compliance and investigations at Norton Rose Fulbright Asia, said South-east Asia's reliance on foreign migrant workers and the presence of recruitment agents are factors that could drive up the risks of labour issues.

"As consumers become more socially conscious, we can expect to see such considerations shape business commitments as firms increasingly adopt responsible business practices," he said.