No specific figure for Bangladeshi workers entering Malaysia

The ministry in a statement Thursday said the number of Bangladeshi workers entering the country will also be assessed based on the qualification and ability of the employer to comply with regulations set by the government.

At the same time, the entry of foreign workers will be monitored by the government through regulatory agencies to avoid an influx of foreign workers and ensure that only qualified foreign workers are allowed to work in Malaysia.

"The government is still giving priority to locals where jobs are concerned. Foreign workers will not affect nor threaten the employment opportunities of the local people or the stability of the country's labour market.

"This is because foreign workers are only allowed to work in five sectors, namely construction, manufacturing, plantation, agriculture and services," the statement said.

According to the ministry, the figure '1.5 million Bangladeshi workers' that received wide media coverage is actually the number of Bangladeshis who are registered with the Bangladesh government for the purpose of employment.

"In the context of the employment policies of foreign workers in Malaysia, hiring Bangladeshi workers is subject to industry demand for a sector that is allowed to employ foreign workers in line with the concept of supply and demand," said the statement.

According to the ministry, the concept of Government to Government Plus (G-to-G Plus) between Malaysia and Bangladesh, which will make full use of the online system begins with the application process for a worker.

This is to control the involvement of agents of foreign workers illegally which contributes to the increase in payroll costs as well as exploitation of foreign workers.