PETALING JAYA: The government plans to introduce a technology-driven, artificial intelligence (AI)-based recruitment system applicable to all source countries, says Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan.
The Human Resources Minister said the move is aimed at reducing intermediaries, lowering migration costs and ensuring that employers bear the full cost of recruitment, resulting in zero cost to workers.
He said this following a bilateral meeting on labour migration between Malaysia and Bangladesh in Putrajaya.
“The Bangladesh side expressed full support and readiness to collaborate in implementing such digital platforms as a global initiative engaging all other sending countries,” he said in a statement on Thursday (April 9), adding that the move is in line with the Employer Pays Principle under the guidelines of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
Ramanan also said that Malaysia and Bangladesh have agreed to expedite the reopening of the labour market for Bangladeshi workers based on Malaysia’s sectoral needs.
He said that the agreement was reached as both countries pledged to uphold their commitment to a fair, ethical and transparent recruitment process.
“This includes addressing structural challenges to reduce intermediaries and migration costs, utilising credible and qualified recruitment agencies, as well as establishing measures to quickly facilitate the recruitment of remaining stranded workers,” he said.
Ramanan said both Bangladeshi and Malaysian officials reaffirmed their longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership in labour migration.
“Both countries also shared their commitment to strengthening cooperation through a transparent, inclusive and pragmatic framework that ensures safe, orderly and regular migration, while addressing existing recruitment challenges,” he added.
Ramanan said the meeting also discussed concerns regarding ongoing legal cases related to human trafficking in worker recruitment.
He said the Malaysian government emphasised the need to address any unfounded or malicious actions that may affect its international reputation.
“The Bangladesh side reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, ensuring due process, accountability and timely justice.
“Both sides exchanged views on addressing challenges faced by irregular workers and enhancing cooperation in skills development, training, certification and information-sharing, to better align labour supply with market demand and improve productivity,” he said.
The meeting also agreed that both countries will maintain close engagement through regular consultations.
“The Bangladesh delegation expressed its appreciation to the Malaysian government for the warm hospitality and for hosting the meeting in Putrajaya,” Ramanan said.
The Malaysian delegation was led by Ramanan, while the Bangladesh delegation was led by His Excellency Ariful Haque Choudhury, Labour and Employment Minister and Minister of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, accompanied by His Excellency Mahdi Amin, adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
