The Bangladesh Civil Society for Migrants (BCSM), comprising 23 organizations dedicated to migrant welfare, is calling for the safeguarding of rights for Bangladeshi migrant workers facing unemployment in Malaysia. Expressing concern over the plight of workers sent through syndication post-2022, the BCSM highlights escalating issues observed over recent months.
Since 2022, challenges such as increased immigration costs and widespread unemployment among Bangladeshi migrants in Malaysia have intensified, affecting an estimated 100,000-200,000 individuals. Disturbing reports, like that of 100 Bangladeshi men enduring dire conditions at Pembinan Ricoller Sdn Bhd, underscore the urgent need for action.
Recent interventions, including the Malaysian government’s rescuing of workers and legal actions against errant companies, signify progress. However, BCSM stresses the necessity of holding both recruiting agencies and host countries accountable for such situations.
Furthermore, BCSM urges meticulous scrutiny by the Labour Wing of the Bangladesh Embassy in Malaysia regarding company demand letters and advocates for swift redressal mechanisms for cheated workers. Recognizing positive gestures from the Malaysian government, BCSM appeals for sustained diplomatic efforts to alleviate worker suffering.
The impending halt on foreign worker recruitment by Malaysia from May 31, 2024, poses further challenges, prompting BCSM to implore immediate government action. This crisis underscores the pitfalls of syndicated recruitment, emphasizing the need for preventive measures to avert future debacles.
BCSM calls for bilateral dialogues to address job losses, unregistered workers, and substandard living conditions, stressing the importance of learning from past recruitment failures to secure the welfare of Bangladeshi migrants.
