Malaysia to lift ban on manpower import, hopes president
President Abdul Hamid yesterday hoped that Malaysia will soon lift its temporary ban on manpower import, enabling Bangladesh to send workers as per the agreement signed between the two countries. He expressed the hope when newly appointed Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Nur Ashikin Binti Mohd Taib presented her credentials to the President at Bangabhaban, President Press Secretary Joynal Abedin told the news agency. Abdul Hamid said Bangladeshi workers have been contributing positively to the economic development of both Bangladesh and Malaysia. Malaysia recently suspended hiring foreign workers from any source countries, including Bangladesh, until it ascertains its actual manpower needs. Bangladesh, with 600,000 of its nationals working in many parts of the country, is listed as one of the source countries from which Malaysia recruits manpower. The decision came barely a day after Malaysia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bangladesh for hiring 1.5 million workers over the next five years. Malaysia also warned that foreign workers without valid documents or those who have overstayed in the country will be arrested and sent back to their country of origin.
Expressing satisfaction at the existing trade-investment scenario between the two countries, the President said the Malaysian entrepreneurs can invest more in different sectors of Bangladesh, including textiles, chemical, power and infrastructure. The envoy said Malaysia attaches importance to its relations with Bangladesh and assured that she would continue to make all-out efforts to boost Malaysian investment in Bangladesh. She also sought Presidents cooperation in discharging her duty in Bangladesh. Secretaries concerned to the President were present. Earlier, on her arrival at Bangabhaban, the High Commissioner was given a guard of honour by a contingent of the Presidents Guard Regiment.
