61.   However, the effectiveness of this free labour force was called into question by Prof Ammar from the TDRI.

62.   In the case of Malaysia, foreign labour now amounted to almost two million, out of a labour force of eight million.

63.   It has gained significance globally because of its size-able market, competitive and disciplined labour force and its geographical location.

64.   Labour militancy has proved to be counterproductive in the longer run for the unorganised labour force.

65.   Lustig suggested that safety nets be linked to investment in human capital of current and, particularly, future entrants to the labour force.

66.   Policies in developing countries he added, must take into consideration the need to upgrade capabilities of their labour force through human resource development programmes.

67.   The future of Malaysia depends a lot on the availability of a skilled labour force which can only be realised through the provision of a sound education system.

68.   The expectation is that the burden and hardship will fall on the immigrant labour force.

69.   The economy was charging ahead, businesses could afford to pay high salaries and the labour force almost forgot the meaning of layoffs as the country achieved full employment.

70.   The increase in the number of returning emigrants during the past few years has been a major factor in the increase in the labour force.