PUTRAJAYA, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- The treatment of Indonesian workers in Malaysia continues to improve, said President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

"Every year we monitor the treatment of Indonesian workers in Malaysia in terms of the workers rights and protection.

"It has improved over the years and this is a significant development," he told a joint news conference with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Abdul Razak here today.

Susilo, who had earlier held talks with Najib, was asked whether he was happy with the treatment of Indonesian workers in Malaysia.

Thanking Malaysia for employing Indonesian workers, Susilo said he admitted the problems over law and justice involving the workers but both countries should work on mechanisms to resolve issues that emanated.

"I appreciate the clarification given by the Malaysian prime minister in our meeting. Law and justice must be upheld. Offenders must be punished.

"Indonesia respects Malaysia's law and likewise foreigners in Indonesia must respect the republic's law," he said.

Susilo said efforts must be geared towards improving the recruitment process of Indonesian workers.

Meanwhile, Najib stressed that while Malaysia appreciated the presence of foreign workers, especially Indonesian workers, they would have to face the law of the land if they broke the country's law.

"While we appreciate their presence, those who transgress the law will have to pay for their deeds. The same goes for those who abuse their foreign workers, including maids, even if they are Malaysian employers," he added.

The prime minister also said that the Malaysian government hoped that Indonesian workers wanting to work in Malaysia would take the legal path in securing their employment.

"If they come in illegally, then they stand a chance of being exploited by certain quarters.

"We will be just and fair to all, including to Malaysian employers. Everyone has to follow the law," he said.

Najib said: "We have had several high profile cases involving maid abuse. At the same time we also hope that Indonesian workers will not break the law, or they will have to face the consequences... the Indonesian government understands this."