DHAKA, June 5, 2024 (BSS) - State Minister for Expatriates Welfare and Overseas Employment Shofiqur Rahman Choudhury today said that the Malaysian government has been requested to receive Bangladeshi workers who couldn’t enter Kuala Lumpur despite having valid visa.

“We have requested the Malaysian government to give permission to the Bangladeshi workers who earlier couldn’t enter the country’s (Malaysia) territory in spite of having valid visa,” he told reporters after a meeting with Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Haznah Md Hashim at the minister's office in city’s Eskaton.

Hashim said Malaysia cordially believes that Bangladesh is their friendly country and the two countries have historical relations. “The state minister requested us to reconsider the deadline, and I will convey the message to Kuala Lumpur," she added.

Shofiqur said the deadline of the agreement between the two countries ended on May 31. The two governments have tried to fulfill the agreement and about 17,000 visas were issued, he added.

“Bangladesh firmly believes that Malaysia is our friendly country. The friendly relations will be strengthened further. I believe that Malaysia will consider our application,” he added.

Responding to a query, the state minister said, "The investigation committee will determine why the workers could not go to Malaysia. For those who have BMET cards or e-visas, arrangements will be made to ensure that they receive compensation."