Widespread exploitation of Bangladeshi workers persists in Malaysia
- Human Rights Research Center
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Author: Peter Clarkin, MA
December 4,, 2025
HRRC strongly supports human rights experts at the United Nations (UN) who have highlighted the ongoing exploitation of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. Countries that benefit from the work of migrant workers should be held accountable, and pressure must be applied to ensure policies are implemented to improve conditions for all.
Human rights experts at the UN have cited “widespread and systematic” exploitation of Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia. The UN strongly recommended that both countries improve their relations and carry out an independent investigation into the mistreatment of Bangladeshis working in Malaysia.
An estimated 800,000 Bangladeshi nationals possess work visas in Malaysia, representing approximately 37% of the country’s foreign workers. The attraction of employment in Malaysia is clear: higher wages, vacancies in manual labor, and a three-decade-old relationship allowing ease of legal pathways to working in one another’s countries entices Bangladeshis to seek employment opportunities outside of their home country.
However, the exploitation often begins before Bangladeshis have left their own country. Many individuals are fooled into paying recruitment fees for jobs that do not exist, often at more than five times the standard rates. The growing influence of digital technology has also made migrant workers even more vulnerable, with promises of immediate employment remaining unfulfilled, leaving large groups stranded in Malaysia without work.
The allegations made by Bangladeshis working in the country are equally serious. There have been reports of individuals remaining unpaid for significant periods, being forced into work they did not agree to, and having their passports confiscated by employers. Working in Malaysia without a passport can lead to serious challenges for employment and legal status in the country. Immigration raids are common, and there are approximately 18,000 people currently held at detention centres in the country.
Both Bangladesh and Malaysia are complicit when it comes to the exploitation of these workers. By failing to implement legal protections for their citizens, Bangladesh allows their citizens to be exploited abroad. Malaysia must ensure migrant workers are protected within their borders, as well. UN experts have recommended that independent reviews are carried out and that both countries work closely together to improve cooperation and help monitor the manipulative recruitment networks that exist in the region.
Glossary
accountable – responsible for actions and expected to explain them
allegations – claims or accusations that someone did something wrong
complicit – involved in or helping with wrongdoing
confiscated – taken away by authorities
manipulative – controlling or influencing someone in a dishonest way
migrant – a person who moves to another place or country for work or opportunities
mistreatment – poor or abusive treatment
raids – sudden actions by authorities to check for illegal activity
stranded – unable to leave or return home
systematic – organized, planned, and often widespread
vulnerable – at risk of harm or easily taken advantage of
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