Bangladeshi workers face exploitation in Malaysia: HRW

United Nations human rights experts have expressed concern that Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia are facing exploitation, abuse and fraud. They warned that workers are being systematically subjected to such unfair treatment and mistreatment, leaving them at risk of falling into debt bondage.

According to a report by Human Rights Watch, many workers are living in inhumane conditions because their passports have been confiscated. They are being given fake appointment letters with false job promises, and many face severe hardship as workplaces fail to provide the opportunities outlined in their contracts. Their situation is further worsened by the lack of oversight from government agencies.

More than 800,000 Bangladeshi workers are currently employed in Malaysia. However, many had to pay up to five times the official recruitment fee, yet still could not work in safe and dignified conditions. Workers without proper documentation face the risk of arrest, detention or deportation. Malaysia’s stringent immigration laws classify any unauthorised entry as a criminal offence.

UN experts have urged migrant-sending countries to conduct immediate investigations and ensure effective remedies. They said that deportation or retaliatory actions violate international human rights standards.

Human Rights Watch also stated that international buyers sourcing goods from Malaysia should follow Fair Labor Association guidelines. These include incorporating recruitment costs into procurement standards and ensuring access to legal support.

Experts warned that countries dependent on migrant labour could face further sanctions if such behaviour does not change, prolonging the suffering of thousands of workers. Bangladesh and Malaysia must end mistreatment of workers and take steps to address these conditions.