Malaysia opens doors for Bangladeshi workers in plantation sector

The Malaysian government has announced the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers for its plantation sector.

Selected Bangladeshi workers have until January 31, 2025, to enter Malaysia.

This information was revealed in a letter signed by Gazi Mohammad Shahid Anwar, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.

According to a recent decision made at a meeting chaired by the ministry’s adviser on October 26, the last date for the Malaysian High Commission in Bangladesh to verify demand letters is December 31.

Workers must obtain exit permits from the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET) by January 15, 2025.

Recruiting agents are not allowed to charge workers more than the government-set maximum migration cost of 78,990 taka.

All transactions need to be documented with proper receipts or bank statements. Additionally, workers are strictly prohibited from dealing with any individual or organization other than approved recruiting agents, according to the guidelines.

Recruiting agents are required to complete all necessary pre-departure procedures for workers, including medical examinations, visa processing, obtaining exit permits from the Bureau of Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET), and booking flight tickets.

They must also provide pre-departure orientation to inform workers about their job roles, salaries, benefits, and working conditions, as per the guidelines.