The government has fixed the cost of sending workers to Malaysia at Tk 154,000. The Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister made the announcement on Thursday (November 12), ending months of uncertainty over migration expenses.

Cost Structure and Process

The fixed amount covers visa fees, airfare, medical examinations, and other administrative charges. Previously, workers often paid significantly higher amounts to brokers and recruiting agencies, which had been a persistent source of complaints and disputes.

Target to Send Workers Before December

The government is aiming to begin the process of sending workers to Malaysia before December. According to a report by Jugantor, administrative preparations are nearly complete. The new cost framework is intended to bring transparency and speed to the migration process.

Context

Malaysia remains a primary destination for Bangladeshi migrant workers. The labor market was largely closed for several years following the Covid-19 pandemic. Following a recent bilateral agreement, initiatives to resume worker deployment were undertaken, but the process faced repeated delays over cost-related disputes. The new fixed rate is expected to resolve these hurdles.

Reactions and Next Steps

Migration experts have welcomed the fixed cost structure but cautioned that authorities must ensure no agency demands extra money beyond the official rate. The government has stated that monitoring mechanisms will be strengthened and strict action will be taken against any irregularities.