Asif Nazrul discusses labour issues, bilateral ties with Malaysian ministers

Adviser to the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, Dr Asif Nazrul, held separate meetings with Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong in Putrajaya on Thursday (15 May), focusing on labour migration and wider bilateral cooperation.

Dr Nazrul was accompanied by Lutfey Siddiqi, Special Envoy of the Chief Adviser on International Affairs.

During the meetings, the Malaysian ministers reaffirmed their support for Bangladesh’s interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus and expressed willingness to reset labour relations, acknowledging the contributions of Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia’s economy.

Dr Nazrul urged Malaysia to address the issue of over 17,000 stranded Bangladeshi workers who were unable to enter Malaysia despite meeting all formalities. In response, the Malaysian Human Resources Minister assured that 7,964 workers would be recruited in the first phase through Bangladesh Overseas Employment Services Limited (BOESL).

The two sides also discussed reforms in Malaysia’s labour policies, including the introduction of a multi-tier levy system and quotas for foreign workers. Malaysia assured Bangladesh of priority in future recruitments and agreed on the need for a transparent, ethical and cost-effective migration system.

Dr Nazrul requested that the Malaysian labour market be opened to all registered Bangladeshi recruiting agencies, highlighting concerns over monopolisation. Malaysia agreed to facilitate access for all compliant agencies and proposed a performance review system and more regular technical-level meetings to resolve issues.

On visa-related matters, Dr Nazrul called for multiple-entry visas for Bangladeshi workers. The Malaysian side said it was considering a proposal to shift from single-entry to multiple-entry visas.

He also raised the issue of irregular Bangladeshi workers, requesting opportunities for regularisation. Malaysia noted its existing recalibration process, which allows undocumented workers to regain legal status under certain conditions.

Besides, Bangladesh proposed the recruitment of more skilled professionals, including doctors, nurses and security personnel. The Malaysian side responded positively, particularly regarding nurses, and agreed to explore opportunities through technical-level engagement.

Both countries also discussed enhancing economic cooperation, particularly in trade and investment, to generate more employment opportunities.