World · Malaysia Bureau
Myanmar airlifts thousands of migrant workers back from Malaysia
Myanmar says it has successfully repatriated nearly 10,000 of its nationals from Malaysia this year, with the majority returning home by air. The UN has raised concerns over Malaysia's migrant management approach.
LSN Malaysia ·
YANGON — Myanmar has brought back approximately 10,000 migrant workers from Malaysia in 2024, according to official statements released Monday, with air transport serving as the primary means of return for most returnees.
The repatriation effort reflects ongoing efforts to manage labour migration flows between the two countries. Myanmar's state media highlighted the scale of the operation, noting that the majority of workers chose or were arranged to fly home rather than return by sea.
The repatriations come amid increased scrutiny of Malaysia's handling of migrant workers. United Nations officials have publicly criticised aspects of Putrajaya's migrant management scheme, raising concerns about worker protections and conditions.
Migrant workers form a significant portion of Malaysia's workforce, particularly in manufacturing, construction, and domestic service sectors. Myanmar remains one of the largest sources of migrant labour to Malaysia, alongside Bangladesh and Indonesia.
Both countries have previously established agreements on labour migration, though implementation and enforcement of worker protections continue to draw international attention.