Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and Bangladesh have reached a consensus that the exploitation and mistreatment of migrant workers must no longer be tolerated, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasizing the urgency for a more transparent and equitable recruitment system. Speaking at a joint press conference with Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Anwar highlighted the importance of foreign workers to Malaysia's economic growth while underscoring the necessity to safeguard their welfare and that of their families.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar pointed out that human resource cooperation has been pivotal for economic survival but has brought with it numerous scandals and humanitarian concerns. He expressed gratitude for the sentiments shared privately and in bilateral meetings, advocating for leadership in curbing excesses and ensuring transparency that aligns with the needs of both nations. Anwar stressed the importance of protecting the interests of the workers and their families.
Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman urged Malaysia to consider increasing the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers and to reopen its labor market promptly. He also addressed the need to regularize undocumented Bangladeshi workers and facilitate the repatriation of Bangladeshi nationals currently in detention. Tarique reiterated that both leaders concurred on the necessity for a transparent, fair, and affordable recruitment process with minimal intermediaries.
"We look forward to continuing our close cooperation on issues of shared interest. I am confident that today's discussion will open a new chapter in Bangladesh-Malaysia relations," Tarique stated. Earlier, both leaders engaged in bilateral talks to review the progress of Malaysia-Bangladesh relations and explore opportunities to enhance cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, human resource management, semiconductors, energy, agriculture, and education. They also exchanged perspectives on regional and international issues of shared interest.
The leaders later witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation, along with two Exchanges of Notes concerning Counter-Terrorism Research, and Investment Promotion and Facilitation. Tarique's visit marks his first bilateral official visit abroad since assuming office in February 2026, upon the invitation of Anwar.
In 2025, the total trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh amounted to RM12.18 billion (USD2.84 billion), with Malaysia's exports accounting for RM10.08 billion (USD2.35 billion), primarily driven by petroleum products. Imports from Bangladesh totaled RM2.10 billion (USD0.50 billion), consisting mainly of textiles, apparel, and footwear. Bangladesh was Malaysia's 28th largest trading partner globally in 2025 and its second largest trading partner, export destination, and source of imports in the South Asia region, following India.