Diplomatic Correspondent :
Malaysia and Bangladesh have taken a significant step towards deepening their bilateral ties, with the recent official visit of Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus resulting in a series of landmark agreements aimed at boosting cooperation across multiple sectors.
Malaysian Interior Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail, who also served as Minister-in-Charge of the visit, on Thursday described the recent trip of Dr Yunus as a “turning point” in the relationship between the two nations.
The visit concluded with the signing of five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and the exchange of three Notes of Understanding covering defense, energy, halal industry, STEM research,
education, semiconductor development, and the blue economy.
One of the most notable outcomes was the introduction of a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) for Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia, enabling them to travel home and return without the need to apply for a new visa each time.
Saifuddin in a facebook post wrote: “The official visit that took place recently was not just a diplomatic event, but a turning point to a range of important initiatives, including the signing of five MoUs and the exchange of three Notes of Understanding covering the areas of defense, energy, halal, STEM, research, education, semiconductor, and the blue economy. The agreement demonstrates the commitment of both countries to design a more progressive, inclusive and mutually beneficial future.”
Regarding the MEV, he said, “This MEV allows legal workers to visit their families in their homeland and return to Malaysia without having to apply for a new visa each time of the trip.
This step is a symbol of Malaysia’s appreciation for the immense contribution of Bangladeshis, who have not only been the driving force in various economic sectors, but have also become a part of the large community of the country.”
“This policy was born out of a desire to strengthen the welfare of legal foreign workers in Malaysia, regardless of origin or background,” he added.
“The implementation of this MEV also reflects Malaysia’s bravery in pioneering a more friendly, inclusive and progressive approach to the management of foreign workers. It is supported by the close cooperation between the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN), Ministry of Human Resources (KSM) and the authorities of Bangladesh,” he added.
Highlighting the bilateral relations, he said, “Malaysia-Bangladesh relationship is built on the foundation of mutual respect and trust. The discussions between the Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to expand cooperation to new sectors, in addition to strengthening traditional areas such as trade, education, and workforce.”
About his ministry’s role, he said, “As the Ministry responsible for domestic security and immigration management, KDN takes seriously the developments in Myanmar and its implications for regional stability and security.”
“Malaysia also notes Bangladesh’s crucial role in addressing the refugee issue, particularly the Rohingya community, and will continue to support solution efforts through diplomatic channels and multilateral cooperation,” he added.
About the role of ASEAN in regional peace, he said, “KDN believes that regional peace can only be achieved through the close cooperation of ASEAN and the support of the international community. In this regard, KDN supports the ASEAN peaceful mission to Myanmar that will be led by the Foreign Minister together with regional friends to hold dialogue with stakeholders in order to achieve sustainable solutions.”
“KDN will continue to play a key role in ensuring that these policies and agreements work smoothly, including the management of foreign workers, border security, and the monitoring of the implementation of the agreed MoU,” he added.
“These diplomatic ties are not only important on paper but have a real impact on the citizens of both countries – from job opportunities and skills enhancement, to joint economic development,” Saifuddin said, expressing confidence that Malaysia and Bangladesh are poised to become strong regional and global strategic partners.
