24 October 2014, Bernama.com.my
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 24 (Bernama) — Malaysia and Bangladesh intend to carry out the recruitment of Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia on a government-to-government (G-to-G) arrangement, without the involvement of any third party, agent, outsourcing company or employer.
The Human Resources Ministry said this mechanism would minimise the recruitment cost from RM13,000 to RM1,300, preventing the workers from debt bondage.
“This will also prevent any form of profiteering from human trafficking and smuggling activities,” it said in a statement today to clarify the issue of the recruitment of 12,000 Bangladeshi workers into Sarawak as reported by the media.
Alluding to the visit by Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot Anak Jaem to Bangladesh on Aug 18-20, the ministry said it was during this visit that both countries highlighted their intention on the G-to-G recruitment mechanism.
“Employers and employees involved through this mechanism will need to abide by the criteria specified in the memorandum of understanding on matters such as the conduct of security vetting, medical examination, suitability and genuineness of the employer,” it said.