PM reveals 'multiple-entry visa facility' for Bangladesh workers

The plight of Bangladeshi migrant workers was among the topics of discussion between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in Putrajaya today.

Anwar, in a joint address with Muhammad, said that among matters discussed and agreed to was the introduction of a multiple-entry visa to Malaysia for Bangladesh citizens.

Describing the country as an important partner for Malaysia, Anwar also credited the contributions of their workers in various sectors here.

“Your workers have been instrumental in working together in contributing to our development.

“That’s why the home affairs minister has agreed on this multiple-entry visa facility, mainly so workers can go meet their family and feel secure in their jobs,” said Anwar, who did not further elaborate on the matter.

It was previously reported that over 480,000 Bangladeshi workers entered Malaysia between 2022 and 2024 through approved agencies.

A Malaysian multiple-entry visa currently allows the holder to enter and exit Malaysia multiple times within the visa’s validity period, typically for one year, with each stay limited to 30 days and no extensions allowed, according to the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Apart from Bangladesh workers in employment here, Anwar also noted Muhammad’s suggestions to assist his citizens who arrived here on false promises of non-existent jobs.

“You have made some proposals and we have given priority, particularly to assist the stranded workers,” said Anwar.

In his speech, Muhammad said Bangladesh looks forward to Malaysia’s support in various areas, in the run-up to the country’s general election in February next year, after a youth uprising toppled the former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina.

Other issues raised during the meeting included opportunities for Malaysia and Bangladesh to strengthen ties in trade, education, halal industry, and semiconductors, as well as Malaysia’s role as Asean chair to assist Bangladesh in handling the Rohingya refugee crisis as a result of the ongoing conflict in Myanmar.

Muhammad’s official three-day visit, along with a delegation of ministers, came in the wake of media reports in both countries that exposed government dealings connected to labour recruitment.

Last month, Malaysiakini reported that Bangladesh had agreed to stop its investigation into an alleged syndicate exploiting its citizens who wish to work in Malaysia, at the behest of the Malaysian government.

Since then, it was reported yesterday that alleged members of a recruiting agency syndicate accused of exploiting the Malaysian labour market may walk free after Bangladeshi authorities concluded they were not involved.

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