New York, Nov 28 (V7N) - United Nations human rights experts have expressed serious concern over the exploitation, abuse, and fraud faced by Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. They warned that many workers are systematically subjected to unfair treatment and human rights violations, with an increasing risk of being trapped in debt.

A report published Wednesday on the website of Human Rights Watch (HRW) highlighted that many Bangladeshi workers are living in dire conditions after having their passports confiscated. Some were lured with false job offers and, upon arrival, found that their employment conditions did not match their contracts. Poor oversight by the relevant Malaysian authorities has further worsened their situation.

Over 800,000 Bangladeshi workers currently hold permits to work in Malaysia. According to the UN, many had to pay fees up to five times the official rate, yet still faced exploitation or were unable to travel. Undocumented workers face arrest, inhumane treatment, and deportation under Malaysia’s strict immigration laws, with approximately 18,000 migrant workers, refugees, and asylum seekers currently held in detention centers.

Earlier, the United States imposed import bans on several Malaysian factories. The European Union’s “Forced Labor Regulation,” set to take effect in 2027, could also target incidents involving debt bondage and worker exploitation. Countries sending workers, including Bangladesh and Malaysia, are obligated to protect labor rights, and international buyers in the US, UK, and EU fall under similar standards.

UN experts urged sending countries to investigate complaints promptly and ensure effective remedies. They emphasized that forced repatriation or retaliation constitutes a violation of international human rights norms.

HRW recommended that international buyers sourcing products from Malaysia follow the Fair Labor Association guidelines, including recruitment costs in procurement calculations, ensuring suppliers maintain accurate documentation, and providing legal support for workers.

Experts warned that countries benefiting economically from migrant labor must reform practices, or risk future sanctions and prolonged suffering for thousands of workers. They stressed that Bangladesh and Malaysia must end the abuse of workers and take urgent steps to prevent practices that cause widespread hardship.

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