Members of the Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (BAIRA) today urged the government to take immediate steps to reopen the Malaysian labour market, highlighting its significance as the second-largest destination for Bangladeshi migrant workers after Saudi Arabia.

At a human chain and memorandum submission event held in front of the Expatriates' Welfare Bhaban in the capital, BAIRA members said thousands of workers are at risk of losing employment opportunities due to delays and alleged interference from vested quarters.

They praised the interim government, led by Prof Muhammad Yunus, for its initiatives—including joint working group meetings—to restore labour ties with Malaysia. However, they alleged that "certain groups acting on behalf of rival countries" are attempting to derail the process.

These groups are carrying out a destructive agenda that harms national interest, said speakers.

The recruiters demanded a transparent and low-cost migration process, saying they are not concerned with which agency sends how many workers, but are focused on ensuring employment for Bangladeshi workers and boosting the country's remittance inflow.

"We, the recruiters, stand united for the interest of the country and its people," a participant said.

"There is a demand for 1.2 million Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. If this opportunity is lost, the country could lose nearly $5 billion in remittance."

They warned that while 13 other source countries have already complied with Malaysian requirements and retained access to the market, while Bangladesh is at risk of being left out.BAIRA members reaffirmed their commitment to supporting any government-approved process for overseas employment.

"We, as legitimate recruiting agency owners, are united and committed to providing maximum support," they added.

Several hundred recruiting agency representatives joined the programme, carrying banners, festoons, and placards in support of their demands.

Earlier on April 24, leaders of several recruiting agencies formed a human chain in front of the Expatriates' Welfare Building in Dhaka, urging the government to fulfil the conditions set by the Malaysian authorities and immediately restart the process of sending workers to Malaysia.

In March 2024, the Malaysian government announced a suspension of worker entries from Bangladesh and 13 other countries, effective May 31, due to concerns over irregularities, including corruption and high migration costs linked to recruitment processes. This suspension has raised alarms among Bangladeshi recruiters and potential migrant workers, as Malaysia has historically been a significant destination for Bangladeshi laborers.