GEORGE TOWN: If only there were a foreign workers’ hostel on the north side of the island, then Long (not his real name) would not need to rent a RM1,900 a month condominium for his six foreign workers. We follow the landlord’s and management’s rules because we need our workers within walking distance from work,” said Long, 38. She said she understood the need for foreign workers to live near their workplaces and hoped employers would help them integrate into residential areas. Penang has approved several workers’ hostels, classed as ­centralised labour quarters (CLQ), near industrial zones. H’ng said the CLQ system allowed foreign workers in ­specific areas to be housed more organised, reducing scattered housing in residential areas.

Source: The Star February 27, 2026 05:20 UTC