More than 400 Bangladeshi workers who returned from Malaysia in late October and early November 2025 have accused multiple Malaysian factories of withholding salaries, providing substandard living conditions, and forcing them onto flights home after they demanded their dues. From 6–9 November, groups of returnees staged protests in Dhaka, urging immediate government action.

Months of Unpaid Wages and Cramped Housing

Workers previously employed at Mediceram and Kawaguchi Manufacturing say they went six to eight months without receiving full wages. Many reported cramped dormitories, unexplained deductions, and withheld payslips. Several had borrowed Tk 5–6 lakh to finance their migration, leaving them deeply indebted after returning without earnings.

Forced Deportation After Complaints

Between 2–5 November, workers allege that Malaysian factory representatives and officials attempted to forcibly repatriate them after they raised complaints over missing wages and expiring work permits. Some were escorted directly to Kuala Lumpur airport for immediate deportation, while others say their permits were intentionally allowed to lapse, leaving them at risk of arrest.

Dhaka Seeks Clarification from Kuala Lumpur

Bangladesh’s Expatriates’ Welfare Ministry has acknowledged receiving formal complaints and is seeking detailed explanations from Malaysia. The allegations surface at a sensitive moment, as both countries negotiate updated recruitment frameworks. Rights groups warn that ongoing loopholes across the labour corridor continue to expose Bangladeshi workers to severe exploitation.