SEREMBAN: Malaysia and Bangladesh are expected to reach a decision within the next two days on matters related to the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers, following high-level discussions between both countries, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said.

Speaking after a meeting with Bangladesh’s Minister of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment and a special adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Ramanan described the discussions as positive and comprehensive.

“We had a very good meeting. We communicated in both directions on issues related to hiring workers, including timelines, procedures and the standard operating procedures (SOPs) that are currently in place. We had a thorough discussion,” he said.

Ramanan said both sides are now working towards a conclusive decision and are expected to make an announcement either jointly or separately once discussions are finalised.

“Most likely tomorrow or the day after, we will come up with something final and make a decision which will be announced either jointly or separately, depending on what we see fit,” he said.

He noted that while the existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and Bangladesh remains valid until the end of the year, the immediate focus of both governments is addressing labour market demands rather than revisiting the agreement.

“The MoU is still valid until the end of the year, if I’m not mistaken. But we are not looking so much at the MoU at this stage. What both countries are focused on is the need to open up sectors so that workers can come in,” he said.

According to Ramanan, Bangladesh has expressed readiness to facilitate the deployment of workers, while Malaysia continues to face labour shortages in several sectors, particularly the food and beverage industry.

“The demand for restaurant workers is high. Therefore, both countries need to adjust to the current situation. This is the area we are looking at first before addressing the other details and technical matters, which will be ironed out in the near future,” he said.

Ramanan added that the discussions are also in line with directives issued by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to ensure labour market needs are addressed effectively.

“At this moment, based on the instruction and direction given by the Prime Minister, I have to make sure that it is carried out and followed,” he said.

The meeting is seen as part of ongoing efforts by Malaysia and Bangladesh to strengthen labour cooperation and address workforce requirements in key economic sectors.

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