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| "Datuk" arrested for scamming migrant workers: A Bangladeshi individual with a "Datuk" title has been arrested by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) over fraudulent migrant worker quota applications involving about RM1 million in levies. We reached out to Adrian Pereira, Director of the North-South Initiative, to discuss the implications of this case, including the ongoing human rights abuses and systemic issues affecting workers at the Bangladesh-Malaysia migration corridor. |
| A former MP has urged the government to act swiftly on Bangladesh’s request that two businessmen be extradited to assist in a probe into allegations of money laundering, extortion and human trafficking. |
| Our top story: Bangladesh’s Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating a syndicate involving several high-ranking officials from the former Awami League Government. The syndicate is alleged to have embezzled around 8.9 billion ringgit by sending approximately 450,000 workers to Malaysia over 18 months, with most returning home jobless and empty-handed. We explore this with Adrian Pereira, Executive Director, North-South Initiative. |
| While Malaysia’s upgrade to Tier 2 in the US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) 2024 report is a positive sign, migrants rights activists say more can be done to improve the situation in Malaysia. |
Malaysia has been upgraded to Tier 2 in the US State Department’s 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report for strides in addressing human trafficking. However, local activists have critiques about the report. We hear from Adrian Pereira, Executive Director of the North South Initiative. |
Pengarah Eksekutif North-South Initiative Adrian Pereira berkata aktivis terkejut kerana pemerdagangan manusia dikatakan ‘masih berleluasa’.
| Activists have expressed scepticism over Malaysia’s improvement to Tier 2 in the US State Department's 2024 Trafficking in Persons report as situations on the ground contradict this. Additionally, the nation is on the Ranking 5 level in the ITUC 2024 global rights index – a category for nations providing no guarantee of workers' rights. |
Activists question the US State Department report’s accuracy, arguing more must be done to address labour abuses in the country’s factories
| The US State Department says this is because there are significant efforts to eliminate human trafficking. |
| A recent exposé by MalaysiaKini documented how fake contracts, worth millions of ringgit with non-existent companies, were used to get quotas to bring in migrant workers who were then stranded in Malaysia without jobs or any income for months. |
| A recent exposé by MalaysiaKini documented how fake contracts, worth millions of ringgit with non-existent companies, were used to get quotas to bring in migrant workers who were then stranded in Malaysia without jobs or any income for months. |
STRENGTHENING THE MIGRANT VOICE
Championing Labour Rights for All
Stay informed with the latest articles and hot topics on refugees and migration in Malaysia and the ASEAN region. These articles cover refugee rights, migrant worker issues, human trafficking, asylum policies, and regional migration trends. We provide insights into legal frameworks, humanitarian efforts, and advocacy initiatives impacting migrant communities and displaced individuals. Whether you’re a policy maker, researcher, or activist, explore in-depth analyses, real-life stories, and expert perspectives to understand the challenges and opportunities within the migration landscape of Southeast Asia.
The Significance of Labour Rights
Labour rights are fundamental to ensuring dignity and justice for all workers, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. Migrant workers, refugees, and asylum seekers often face unique challenges in the workforce, including discrimination and exploitation.
Our organization is dedicated to advocating for these individuals, providing them with the resources and support they need to navigate the complexities of employment in a foreign land. By promoting awareness and understanding, we strive to create a more equitable and inclusive society.