Politics · Malaysia Bureau
Malaysia worker recruitment claim not official Bangladesh position
Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Zahary Zacho has clarified that a Bangladeshi junior minister's statement about recruiting 200,000 workers does not represent Dhaka's official stance on labour migration between the two countries.
LSN Malaysia ·
PUTRAJAYA — A statement by a Bangladeshi junior minister claiming Malaysia planned to recruit 200,000 workers from Bangladesh does not reflect the official position of the Bangladeshi government, according to Malaysia's Foreign Minister.
Datek Seri Zahary Zacho made the clarification following remarks that had circulated regarding the proposed recruitment figures. The minister emphasized that any significant bilateral labour agreements would need to be formally confirmed through official diplomatic channels.
The distinction comes as Malaysia and Bangladesh continue discussions on labour cooperation. Malaysia has historically relied on migrant workers from Bangladesh to fill positions in construction, manufacturing, and domestic services sectors.
Both nations maintain ongoing dialogue through their respective foreign ministries on employment and migration matters. Officials indicated that any concrete arrangements regarding worker numbers would be announced through formal government-to-government channels once negotiations are concluded.
The clarification underscores the importance of distinguishing between individual statements and official government policy in bilateral relations between the two Southeast Asian and South Asian neighbours.