The South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance’s Center for Migration Studies at North South University hosted a live webinar titled “Prime Minister’s Malaysia Visit: Will the Closed Labor Market Reopen?” on Monday. The discussion centered on Prime Minister Tareq Rahman’s visit to Malaysia and the potential reopening of the Malaysian labor market for Bangladeshi workers. The session was moderated by Associate Professor Selim Reza.

Speakers highlighted the challenges faced by Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia, including documentation issues, high migration costs, work permit renewals, and limited access to legal support. Dr. Md. Mahbubul Haque noted that no formal agreement on reopening the labor market has yet been confirmed. Other participants emphasized the need for broader economic cooperation, improved worker protection, and transparent recruitment systems. They also called for stronger collaboration between civil society groups in both countries.

The webinar concluded with calls for evidence-based policymaking, sustainable diplomatic engagement, and enhanced protection for Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia.