[🇧🇩] Evolving partnership between Bangladesh and Malaysia

[Saif]

Malaysia extends repatriation programme for undocumented Bangladeshis

The Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia has announced an extension of the Migrant Repatriation Programme for undocumented Bangladeshi nationals, allowing them to return home under revised provisions set by the Malaysian government

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Malaysia extends repatriation programme for undocumented Bangladeshis

The Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia has announced an extension of the Migrant Repatriation Programme for undocumented Bangladeshi nationals, allowing them to return home under revised provisions set by the Malaysian government.

For those who registered online with Malaysian immigration to return home by the December 31, 2024 deadline but were unable to do so for various reasons, the repatriation programme has been extended until March 21, 2025, the high commission said in a notification today.

This extension applies to undocumented Bangladeshi migrants, alongside those from other relevant countries.

Previously, undocumented Bangladeshi migrants were required to pay fines to Malaysian immigration authorities based on the length of their stay in the country before availing the opportunity to return home.

Under a decision by the Malaysian government, from March 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024, irregular migrants were allowed to return by paying a maximum fine of 500 Malaysian Ringgit, irrespective of their duration of stay.​

 

[Saif]

Deliver on assurances to stranded workers

Govt should work with Malaysia to fast-track their travel

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Deliver on assurances to stranded workers
Govt should work with Malaysia to fast-track their travel

Our heart goes out to the over 18,000 Bangladeshis who missed the deadline to fly to Malaysia for work around eight months ago through no fault of their own, and are still waiting to travel, despite various assurances given to them over time. It can be recalled that Malaysia reopened its labour market to Bangladeshi workers in 2022—after a four-year suspension due to recruitment irregularities—but then announced a freeze on hiring foreign workers in March 2024. This affected prospective workers from 14 countries, including Bangladesh, who were asked to enter the country by May 31. However, despite obtaining clearance from the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET), completing other necessary paperwork, securing visas, and even purchasing plane tickets in some cases, thousands of Bangladeshis failed to enter Malaysia by that deadline.

The failure was primarily due to mismanagement by the previous regime and local recruiting agents. Since June, numerous promises have been made, but none have been fulfilled. To be fair to the current government, it appears to have made sincere efforts to address the grievances of these prospective migrants. However, the reality remains that these individuals have faced significant hardships to prepare for their travel. Many have incurred substantial debts—with some even selling their land—to cover travel-related expenses. As they continue to wait, some have had to take on further loans, while others are struggling to cope with mounting interest on their existing debts. The psychological toll of this prolonged uncertainty has also been immense, with many families facing anxiety about their financial stability and future. Under these circumstances, the longer they have to wait to travel to Malaysia, the more debt-ridden and vulnerable they will become.

Recently, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul assured prospective migrants that they would be sent to Malaysia in phases, starting in late March or early April. He stated that those with BMET clearance and visas would begin travelling by the end of March, while those without BMET cards but with visas would be prioritised next. He further mentioned that individuals without BMET cards or visas should reclaim their passports and funds from the recruitment agencies, with ministry support in the process if necessary.

While we are encouraged by the law adviser's assurance, it is essential that these promises translate into action without further delay and that the timeline is followed without exception. Transparency and regular updates on the progress of the phased travel plan would help rebuild trust among the affected workers. Additionally, the government should ensure strict oversight of recruiting agents and agencies to prevent similar lapses in the future.​

 

[Saif]

UNIMAS offers special scholarships to Bangladeshis

The VC invited more Bangladeshi students to get enrolled at their university taking advantage of its affordable fee structure, quality education, and eco-friendly campus

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UNIMAS offers special scholarships to Bangladeshis

The University Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Sarawak has offered special scholarships to Bangladeshi students.

The UNIMAS VC Prof Ahmad Hata Bin Rasit, during an interaction with Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia Md Shameem Ahsan, said that the university will consider offering special scholarship to the interested students from Bangladesh.

Shameem Ahsan participated in an interactive session organized by the UNIMAS at the University Premises on Friday.

VC Professor Ahmad Hata Bin Rasit appreciated Bangladesh for sending talented students and faculty members to UNIMAS, saying they are making valuable contributions to the university's academic credentials.

The Bangladesh envoy congratulated UNIMAS for its high ranking for its academic excellence and thanked the University for hosting Bangladeshi students and faculty members.

The university has been hosting about 200 Bangladeshi students and some faculty members.

The UNIMAS authority lauded Bangladeshi students studying at the university.

The VC invited more Bangladeshi students to get enrolled at their university taking advantage of its affordable fee structure, quality education by distinguished academia and eco-friendly campus located on the lap of nature.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh, Malaysia to begin Joint Working Group meeting tomorrow

Safe migration, overseas employment on the discussion table

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Bangladesh, Malaysia to begin Joint Working Group meeting tomorrow
Safe migration, overseas employment on the discussion table

The third Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting between Bangladesh and Malaysia, aimed at ensuring safe migration and employment, is set to begin tomorrow in Dhaka.

A 12-member delegation from the Malaysian government has already arrived in Dhaka to attend the meeting. The two-day-long meeting will be held at the InterContinental Hotel.

Confirming the development, Gazi Md Shahed Anwar, deputy secretary (Employment-3 branch) of the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, told The Daily Star today that the deputy secretary-general (policy and enforcement) of Malaysia will lead the Malaysian delegation, while the senior secretary of the ministry will lead the Bangladeshi delegation during the JWG.

Sources at the ministry said the declaration may pave the way for sending Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia.

On May 14, ahead of the JWG meeting, a Bangladeshi delegation led by Asif Nazrul, adviser to the ministry, participated in a preparatory joint session with Malaysia's home and human resources ministers in Putrajaya.

The delegation also included Neamat Ullah Bhuiyan, senior secretary to the ministry, and Sarwoer Alam, its deputy secretary.

Lutfey Siddiqi, the chief adviser's envoy on international affairs, accompanied Nazrul in the meetings.

After the meeting, Asif Nazrul, in a video posted on Facebook, said Malaysia will hire 1-1.5 lakh foreign workers, and that he requested Human Resources Minister Sim to prioritise recruitment from Bangladesh.

The Malaysian minister said he would consider the matter.

Sim also reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to remain an ethical employment destination by ensuring that foreign workers have access to social protection, welfare, and skills training, in line with the principles of compassion, justice, and well-being under the Malaysia Madani framework.

Currently, as per Malaysian data, about nine lakh Bangladeshis are working in Malaysia. They include nearly 500,000 who travelled to the Southeast Asian country through 101 agencies selected by the Malaysian government for recruiting Bangladeshi workers since late 2022.​

 

[Saif]

Suspected Militancy: Dhaka concerned over arrest of Bangladeshis, to coordinate with Kuala Lumpur

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, now in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday expressed concerns over the arrests of Bangladeshi nationals on charges of terrorism. He said the government of Bangladesh will work with Malaysia to investigate allegations of militancy against Bangladeshi nationals who were a

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Suspected Militancy: Dhaka concerned over arrest of Bangladeshis, to coordinate with Kuala Lumpur

UNB
Published :
Jul 11, 2025 22:45
Updated :
Jul 11, 2025 22:59

Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, now in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday expressed concerns over the arrests of Bangladeshi nationals on charges of terrorism.

He said the government of Bangladesh will work with Malaysia to investigate allegations of militancy against Bangladeshi nationals who were arrested recently by the Malaysian Police.

The issues were discussed during a bilateral meeting with Malaysian Foreign Minister Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan held in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) ministerial meeting.

Adviser Hossain reiterated the firm stand of the government against terrorism and sought Malaysia's cooperation in its own investigation into the allegations through exchange of information and findings.

The Malaysian Foreign Minister assured Dhaka of facilitating access and cooperation to Bangladesh authorities.

Earlier, the Foreign Advisor met UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy where the two held discussions on diverse bilateral, regional and multilateral issues.

Both sides discussed, among others, the ongoing reforms in Bangladesh, Rohingya crisis, post-LDC graduation support, according to the Bangladesh Mission in Kuala Lumpur.

The Foreign Adviser also called on Winston Peters, the Foreign Minister of New Zealand, Hon Vijitha Herath, the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, and Park Yoonjoo, the Vice Minister and Head of Delegation of the Republic of Korea where a wide range of bilateral and multilateral issues came for discussions.

Bangladesh became a member of ARF in 2006, a forum established in early nineties to promote confidence and trust among its 27 members that include countries in the broader Asia-Pacific.

At present, Bangladesh is co-chairing two of the ARF priority areas, "Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime" and "Disaster Relief."

The next session of the ARF ministerial meeting is scheduled to take place in Manila in 2026.

In the afternoon, the Foreign Adviser delivered the national statement at the Ministerial Meeting of ASEAN Regional Forum where he called for greater attention to the Rohingya crisis, in consideration of its national and regional security implications.

The Foriegn Adviser also urged the ASEAN members to positively consider Bangladesh's bid to become Sectoral Dialogue Partner.

The Foreign Adviser was accompanied by Md Shameem Ahsan, the High Commissioner of Bangaldesh to Malaysia, Md Forhadul Islam, Director General of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other senior officials of the Bangladesh government.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh showcases export diversification in Malaysia

Bangladesh has showcased its diversified export potential, including engineering, plastic, and light industrial products, at the 36th Malaysia International Machinery Fair in Kuala Lampur, reflecting the country’s growing focus on expanding exports beyond readymade garments...

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Bangladesh showcases export diversification in Malaysia
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 13 July, 2025, 22:15

Bangladesh has showcased its diversified export potential, including engineering, plastic, and light industrial products, at the 36th Malaysia International Machinery Fair in Kuala Lampur, reflecting the country’s growing focus on expanding exports beyond readymade garments.

The fair featured participation from over 450 companies across 10 countries including China, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, India, Japan, and Iran, occupying 753 booths, according to a message received on Sunday.

The fair, organised by the Malaysia Promas International Business Society and ES Event Management, was held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from July 10-12, it said.

Malaysia’s minister of plantation and commodities, YB Datuk Seri Johari bin Abdul Ghani, officially inaugurated the fair on July 11.

Bangladesh high commissioner to Malaysia Md Shameem Ahsan attended the concluding day’s business matching session as Guest of Honour at the organisers’ invitation.

Addressing representatives of business chambers and entrepreneurs, he highlighted Bangladesh’s trade and investment opportunities, particularly in engineering, plastic, light engineering, leather goods, jute, handicrafts, and electronics, in line with the Bangladesh government’s directive under Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus to diversify exports.

In recognition of Bangladesh’s active participation, the organisers awarded a special honour, received by high commissioner Shameem Ahsan.

Later, the high commissioner visited Bangladesh’s two stalls and exchanged views with visitors, briefing them on Bangladesh’s diverse range of export products.

He expressed optimism that Bangladesh’s participation in such international fairs would help expand the market for Bangladeshi products amid increasing demand in Malaysia.

Since the opening day, the Bangladeshi stalls have attracted significant interest from foreign buyers and visitors, reflecting a positive perception of Bangladeshi products.

Currently, the bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Malaysia stands at around $3 billion, with Malaysia being the ninth-largest foreign investor in Bangladesh.​

 

[Saif]

Malaysia to issue multiple entry visas for Bangladeshi workers: Asif Nazrul

Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today (Tuesday) said Malaysian government would issue multiple entry visas for the Bangladeshi workers from now on. “I’ve good news for brothers and sisters, who are in Malaysia as workers...We have been official

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Malaysia to issue multiple entry visas for Bangladeshi workers: Asif Nazrul

Published :
Jul 15, 2025 23:32
Updated :
Jul 15, 2025 23:43

Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today (Tuesday) said Malaysian government would issue multiple entry visas for the Bangladeshi workers from now on.

“I’ve good news for brothers and sisters, who are in Malaysia as workers...We have been officially confirmed that the workers will get multiple entry visas from now on,” he wrote in a post on his verified facebook page, BSS reports.

He said, “We have visited Malaysia in May last. At that time we met with the home minister of Malaysia. We informed him that Bangladeshi workers get single entry visa in Malaysia while the other countries workers get multiple visa. He was astonished and asked the officials concerned about the matter. The officials confirmed it to him (home minister). Then he directed them to resolve the issue.”

Dr Asif Nazrul, who is also the Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser said, “After that we have communicated with them continuously. Finally we have been confirmed it.”

He also said that a Bangladeshi delegation is now visiting Malaysia and another strong delegation team will visit the country in next month. “I hope that we would able to provide more good news in this regard soon,” he added.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh-Malaysia agree to enhance cooperation to check transnational crimes

Bangladesh and Malaysian police have agreed to enhance mutual cooperation in combating transnational crimes. The agreement was made at a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Police and Royal Malaysia Police held at the Police Headquarters this morning, said a press release of the Police Headquarte

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Bangladesh-Malaysia agree to enhance cooperation to check transnational crimes

FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Jul 30, 2025 23:22
Updated :
Jul 30, 2025 23:22

Bangladesh and Malaysian police have agreed to enhance mutual cooperation in combating transnational crimes.

The agreement was made at a bilateral meeting between Bangladesh Police and Royal Malaysia Police held at the Police Headquarters this morning, said a press release of the Police Headquarters.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Bangladesh Police Baharul Alam led the Bangladesh delegation while Head of the Counter Terrorism Unit of the Royal Malaysia Police Azman Bin Abd Razak led the Malaysian seven members delegation.

Bangladesh Police Chief welcomed the Royal Malaysia Police delegation and highlighted the cordial and friendly relations existing between Bangladesh and Malaysia, reports BSS.

During the meeting, the delegation discussed various issues related to terrorism, human trafficking, money laundering and mutual interests between Bangladesh and Royal Malaysian Police.

The police of both countries expressed their hope that they would continue to cooperate in exchanging information on regular basis.

RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman, Special Branch Additional IG, Md. Golam Rasul, Police Headquarters Additional IG, (Crime and Operations) Khondaker Rafiqul Islam, among others, were present.​

 

[Saif]

Migration, investment to be highlighted during Chief Adviser’s Malaysia tour: Press Secretary

Migration and investment issues will be given priority during Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’s visit to Malaysia, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on Sunday. “The Chief Adviser is leaving for Malaysia tomorrow (Monday) on a three-day state visit. This is a very...

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Migration, investment to be highlighted during Chief Adviser’s Malaysia tour: Press Secretary
BSS Dhaka
Published: 10 Aug 2025, 19: 31

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam speaks at a press briefing organised on the Chief Adviser’s Malaysia tour at the Foreign Service Academy on 10 August 2025 PID

Migration and investment issues will be given priority during Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus’ visit to Malaysia, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on Sunday.

“The Chief Adviser is leaving for Malaysia tomorrow (Monday) on a three-day state visit. This is a very important visit. Many agreements will be signed during this visit. Through this visit, we want to deepen our relations with Malaysia. The main focus of the visit is to talk about immigration, the second focus is investment,” he said.

Alam said these at a press briefing organised on the Chief Adviser’s Malaysia tour at the Foreign Service Academy.

Noting that Malaysia is a very important country for Bangladesh’s manpower sector, he said, “We can take our migration to a place where Malaysia takes the maximum number of manpower from us. There will be some discussions on the issue and some agreements will be signed in light of this.”

He further said there will be meetings with the CEOs of the big Malaysian companies.

A business conference will be held on 12 August, while on 13 August, the Chief Adviser will be conferred an honorary degree by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) (the National University of Malaysia), Alam said.

“We hope that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will be present at this event. There will be a bilateral meeting with the Malaysian Prime Minister on 12 August. That is also very important, we hope that the good relations we have with Malaysia will reach a new height,” he said.

Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Shah Asif Rahman said the Chief Adviser will go to Malaysia on a state visit from 11 to 13 August at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

A high-level delegation will accompany the Chief Adviser.

The delegation includes Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain, Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Asif Nazrul, Power, Energy and Mineral Resources adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman, Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser for International Affairs Lutfey Siddiqui and BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Bin Harun.

Asif Rahman said on the first day of the visit, the Chief Adviser will be welcomed with a guard of honour, where Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail will receive him.

A bilateral meeting will be held between the two countries at the Malaysian Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya on 12 August. After the meeting, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed between the two countries.

The possible MoUs will be signed on defence cooperation; energy cooperation including LNG and petroleum supply and infrastructure construction; Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) and Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia (ISIS); cooperation between Bangladesh-Malaysia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BMCCI) and chip manufacturing company MIMOS; and an agreement between the top business chamber of Bangladesh, FBCCI, and the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce.

An exchange note will be signed on halal ecosystem, Foreign Service Academy of the two countries and cooperation in the areas of higher education.

On 8 August 2024, after the formation of an interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim became the first head of government to visit Bangladesh.

Asif Rahman said after the bilateral meeting between the two countries, a press conference and a state lunch will be hosted in honour of the Chief Adviser.

Prof Yunus is expected to participate in a business forum in the afternoon of the same day and then participate in a meeting with expatriate Bangladeshis, he said.

In the bilateral meeting with the Malaysian Prime Minister, the issues of recruiting new Bangladeshi workers in various sectors of Malaysia, hiring more professionals, and providing facilities to workers will be discussed with importance, he added.

In addition to the labour market, Asif Rahman said the issues of strengthening bilateral trade relations, including agriculture and proper use of the deep sea, will be discussed.​

 

[Saif]

Promoting labour migration, wooing investment

Bangladesh's relationship with Malaysia is one of the most vital partnerships in our labour migration and economic cooperation framework. Over the years, Malaysia has become a major destination for Bangladeshi workers, hosting over one million of our citizens who send home substantial amount of rem

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Yunus's visit to Malaysia
Promoting labour migration, wooing investment

Mir Mostafizur Rahaman
Published :
Aug 11, 2025 23:39
Updated :
Aug 11, 2025 23:39

Bangladesh's relationship with Malaysia is one of the most vital partnerships in our labour migration and economic cooperation framework. Over the years, Malaysia has become a major destination for Bangladeshi workers, hosting over one million of our citizens who send home substantial amount of remittances. These workers form an essential part of Malaysia's workforce in sectors such as construction, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. However, the long-standing relationship has been punctuated by recurring crises -- the most recent being Malaysia's suspension of manpower recruitment from Bangladesh last year.

This is not the first time such recruitment has been halted. History tells us that Malaysia has, on multiple occasions, stopped hiring Bangladeshi workers due to irregularities in recruitment processes, high recruitment costs, and allegations of human trafficking. One of the most pressing reasons behind these suspensions is the influx of illegal workers, a problem perpetuated by a strong and well-connected syndicate. This syndicate, composed of both Malaysian and Bangladeshi actors, thrives on exploiting desperate job-seekers for hefty profits. The result is harassment, financial ruin, and even the loss of life for thousands of our migrant workers.

Against this troubled backdrop, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus's ongoing visit to Kuala Lumpur carries high expectations. His trip, beginning Monday on the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, offers an opportunity to address these entrenched issues head-on, restore trust, and pave the way for reopening Malaysia's job market to Bangladeshi workers.

According to officials, the primary focus of Dr Yunus's visit is on labour migration and investment. He will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia at his Office in Putrajaya. This will be followed by delegation-level talks and the signing of several memorandums of understanding (MoUs). The agenda covers a broad spectrum: recruitment of new workers in various Malaysian sectors, increased hiring of skilled professionals, and improving the benefits and facilities available to Bangladeshi workers.

Foreign Ministry officials described this visit as "very important," noting Malaysia's central role in Bangladesh's manpower sector. The hope is to "take our migration sector to a stage where Malaysia takes the maximum number of manpower from us." This requires not only an agreement to lift the current suspension but also reforms that would prevent the same issues from resurfacing.

A significant part of the talks will also focus on securing Malaysian investment in emerging sectors in Bangladesh, such as deep-sea fishing and electronic vehicle (EV) manufacturing. Malaysia's Proton already has a presence in Bangladesh, and with global demand for EVs growing, this could become an important area of cooperation. Beyond jobs for low- and semi-skilled labour, this opens up pathways for technology transfer, skilled employment, and industrial growth back home.

One least discussed aspect of the Bangladesh-Malaysia migration equation is the potential for skilled employment. Hundreds of Bangladeshi students are currently studying at Malaysian institutions, many of them in technical, engineering, and IT-related fields. Yet after graduation, many return home or seek work in other countries due to limited opportunities to work in Malaysia. If the two governments can agree on frameworks that allow these graduates to be absorbed into Malaysia's high-tech industries, the benefits would be twofold: Bangladesh would gain valuable remittance from skilled jobs, and Malaysia would address its own shortage of qualified professionals.

This would also help diversify the profile of Bangladeshi workers abroad. Currently, the bulk of our overseas workers are in low-paid, physically demanding jobs. Increasing the proportion of skilled professionals in the migration mix would not only raise overall remittance volumes but also improve the image of Bangladeshi workers globally.

Dr Yunus's itinerary includes more than just political meetings. There is a major business conference bringing together Malaysian corporate leaders and Bangladeshi entrepreneurs. This is followed by a series of high-level meetings with chief executives of Malaysia's major companies. These engagements are designed to encourage investment partnerships, facilitate joint ventures, and strengthen trade links.

The visit is also set to feature ceremonial and symbolic elements. On August 13, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) will confer an honorary degree on Dr Yunus. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is expected to attend the ceremony. These events will contribute to the public diplomacy aspect of the trip, showcasing mutual respect and goodwill between the two nations.

Three notes of exchange are also expected, covering the halal ecosystem, higher education, and cooperation between the diplomatic training academies of both countries. The breadth of these agreements signals a desire to deepen the bilateral relationship beyond just migration and building a more diversified and resilient partnership.

For all the promise of these agreements, the heart of the matter remains the suspension of manpower recruitment. Any breakthrough in this area will require frank discussions about the governance of migration. Both countries must confront the issues of the role that syndicates play and the political protection they enjoy. A transparent, accountable, and affordable recruitment process is essential. This includes digitalisation of recruitment systems, rigorous background checks for recruiters, and direct government-to-government hiring arrangements to bypass exploitative middlemen.

Bangladesh also needs to strengthen its pre-departure training and worker protection measures. This is to ensure that workers are fully informed about their contracts, rights, and the cost of migration before leaving the country. On the Malaysian side, stricter enforcement against illegal recruitment channels and better monitoring of employers' compliance with labour laws are necessary.

The timing of this visit is critical. The suspension has left tens of thousands of prospective workers in limbo, many of whom have already paid significant sums to recruiters. The frustration among these workers and their families is growing. For the interim government in Dhaka, securing a reopening of Malaysia's job market would be a major political and economic achievement, boosting remittance inflows and easing domestic unemployment pressures.

Moreover, the global labour market is becoming increasingly competitive. Countries such as Nepal, Indonesia, and Vietnam are aggressively expanding their labour export to Malaysia and other destinations. If Bangladesh does not move quickly to resolve its issues, it risks losing market share permanently.

While the immediate priority is resolving the suspension, the longer-term vision should be about building a sustainable migration framework with Malaysia. This means moving from a cycle of crisis and reopening to a stable, predictable flow of workers. It also means aligning migration policies with the changing needs of Malaysia's economy - for example, by increasing the supply of skilled technicians for its growing EV sector, or IT specialists for its expanding digital economy.

Equally important is expanding cooperation in education and vocational training, so that Bangladeshi workers are better prepared for higher-paying jobs. Joint training centres, mutual recognition of qualifications, and targeted scholarship programmes could be part of this approach.

If the visit can deliver concrete agreements on transparent recruitment, stronger labour protections, and expanded economic cooperation, it will go a long way towards resolving the existing problems and preventing future ones. With over a million Bangladeshis already contributing to Malaysia's economy, and countless more hoping to do so, this is a relationship that deserves careful nurturing. The stakes are high, but so is the potential for a win-win outcome.​

 

[Saif]

Malaysia rolls out red carpet for Dr. Yunus

Malaysian home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail received the chief adviser at the airport

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Malaysia rolls out red carpet for Dr. Yunus
BSS Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: 11 Aug 2025, 20: 10

Chief Adviser Prof Yunus reached Kuala Lumpur on a three-day state visit at 7:50 pm local time by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight on 11 August 2025 BSS

Malaysia rolled out the red carpet for Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus upon his arrival in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday on a three-day state visit.

"Chief Adviser Prof Yunus arrived in Kuala Lumpur on a three-day state visit at 7:50 pm local time by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight on Monday," chief adviser's deputy press secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder said.

Malaysian home minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail received the chief adviser at the airport.

Prof Yunus was also given a guard of honour on the occasion.

Earlier, the flight carrying the chief adviser and his entourage departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at about 2:00 pm.

Briefing reporters on the chief adviser's Malaysia tour, chief adviser's press secretary Shafiqul Alam on Sunday said migration and investment issues will be given priority during the chief adviser's visit.

A business conference will be held on 12 August, while on 13 August, the chief adviser will be conferred an honorary doctorate degree by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), he said.

Prof Yunus will hold a bilateral meeting with Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim on 12 August at the Malaysian Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya. After the meeting, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) will be signed between the two countries.

During the tour, five MoUs and three notes of exchange are expected to be signed. It is also expected that Prof Yunus would join a view-exchange meeting with Bangladeshi expatriates.

A high-level delegation is accompanying the chief adviser during his tour.

The delegation includes foreign affairs adviser Touhid Hossain, expatriate welfare and overseas employment adviser Asif Nazrul, power, energy and mineral resources adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan, national security adviser Khalilur Rahman, special envoy to the chief adviser for international affairs Lutfey Siddiqi and BIDA executive chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud Bin Harun.

Chief Adviser Prof Yunus is expected to return home on 13 August.​