Panel in Penang Focuses on Rights of Bangladeshi Workers in Malaysia
A panel discussion in Penang, Malaysia, addressed the rights and protection of Bangladeshi migrant workers. Officials highlighted ongoing efforts and statistics regarding worker grievance resolutions.
On September 8, 2026, a panel discussion took place in Penang, Malaysia, focusing on the critical issues surrounding the rights and protection of Bangladeshi migrant workers in the country. The event, titled 'From Commitment to Implementation: Sharing Good Practices of Human Rights Due Diligence in Supply Chains', was organized by the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA).
During the event, Mosammat Shahanara Monica, the Deputy High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia, delivered significant remarks emphasizing the necessity of safeguarding migrant workers. She stated that worker rights protection cannot be limited to the recruitment stage alone, stressing that human rights must be ensured throughout the entire migration cycle.
Elaborating on the comprehensive approach required, Mosammat Shahanara Monica added that coordination among all relevant parties is essential. This includes the swift resolution of worker grievances, securing compensation or remedies, providing welfare support, and creating opportunities for a dignified return to their home country.
Highlighting the operational role of diplomatic missions, she noted that the Bangladesh High Commission functions as a bridge connecting workers, employers, Malaysian government authorities, and other stakeholders. Through this collaborative engagement, efforts are actively maintained to ensure dispute settlements, necessary remedies, welfare assistance, and safe, dignified repatriations.
Providing operational context during the discussions, official figures revealed the scope of casework handled under the current recruitment cycle. Since the commencement of the current recruitment cycle in the year 2022, approximately 450 complaints have been officially recorded.
Out of the total grievances registered since 2022, authorities and relevant stakeholders have successfully resolved more than 330 complaints, demonstrating ongoing administrative efforts to address the challenges faced by Bangladeshi workers within Malaysia's supply chains and employment sectors.
