Malaysia to Recruit Over 2.4 Million Foreign Workers, Opportunities for Bangladeshis

Malaysia is set to hire 2,467,756 foreign workers by December 21 under the Revised Calling Visa Framework, according to a report by *Malaysian Business Today*, citing the country’s Home Ministry. This massive recruitment drive opens significant opportunities for Bangladesh in Southeast Asia’s robust economy, experts suggest.

In a statement on Monday, the Home Ministry revealed that a recent meeting between Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail and officials from the Human Resources Ministry finalized plans to recruit workers for agriculture, forestry, mining, manufacturing, construction, and related sub-sectors over the next four months.

Malaysia has long faced a labor shortage in its agriculture, industry, and mining sectors, with the crisis intensifying over time. This has compelled the country, which previously restricted its labor market, to open up to foreign workers. However, the ministry emphasized that the recruitment process will adhere to strict regulations. According to government sources, the agriculture sector will focus on rubber, palm oil, and fisheries, while construction workers will be limited to government buildings and infrastructure projects. Manufacturing workers will only be employed in factories approved by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Previously, aspiring workers could apply directly or through third parties, but under the new rules, applications must be submitted through government-approved agencies. A joint committee comprising the Home Ministry and Human Resources Ministry will scrutinize applications to finalize visa approvals.

In the 1990s, Bangladeshi workers formed a significant portion of Malaysia’s foreign workforce. However, countries like Indonesia, Nepal, India, and Vietnam currently dominate the market. With improving diplomatic ties between Dhaka and Kuala Lumpur, experts are optimistic that Bangladesh will secure a substantial share of the new recruitment opportunities.

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