Dhaka: Malaysia’s home minister Saifuddin Nasution bin Ismail has said Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus’s just concluded Kuala Lumpur visit yielded positive developments in bilateral ties, particularly in ‘strengthening strategic and high-impact multi-sector cooperation’.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Ismail stated in a Facebook post that Yunus’s official visit was ‘not just a diplomatic event, but a turning point to a range of important initiatives’. He expressed honor in witnessing the achievements and positive development of the Malaysia-Bangladesh relationship, emphasizing the strengthening of strategic and high-impact multi-sector cooperation.
The minister highlighted that the visit resulted in the signing of five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and the exchange of three Notes of Understanding. These covered areas including defense, energy, halal, STEM, research, education, semiconductor, and the blue economy. Ismail, who acted as minister of escort during the visit, described the agreements as a demonstration of both countries’ commitments to a progressive, inclusive, and mutually beneficial future.
One significant initiative from the visit is the implementation of a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) for Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. This MEV allows legal workers to travel back to their homeland without reapplying for a visa for each trip. Ismail remarked that this step symbolizes Malaysia’s appreciation for Bangladeshis’ contributions across various economic sectors.
The Malaysian minister emphasized that this policy aims to enhance the welfare of legal foreign workers in Malaysia, irrespective of their origin or background. The MEV’s implementation is seen as a pioneering move towards a more friendly, inclusive, and progressive management of foreign workers.
Malaysia’s interior affairs ministry, KDN, and the human resources ministry, KSM, will coordinate closely with Bangladeshi authorities during the implementation of this arrangement. The minister anticipated that Yunus’s visit would strengthen ‘trust and respect’ between the two countries, with the relationship built on mutual respect and trust.
Ismail noted that Yunus’s warm reception in Kuala Lumpur signifies a long-standing familiar relationship. Discussions with Malaysia’s prime minister reaffirmed commitments to expanding cooperation into new sectors, while also strengthening traditional areas like trade, education, and workforce.
As the Assistant Minister, Ismail witnessed meetings filled with openness and a willingness to share expertise to build a prosperous future together. He emphasized KDN’s responsibility for domestic security and immigration management and acknowledged Bangladesh’s crucial role in addressing regional stability, particularly regarding the Rohingya refugee issue.
Malaysia supports ASEAN’s peace mission to Myanmar and aims to hold dialogues for sustainable solutions. KDN will play a key role in ensuring smooth implementation of policies and agreements, including managing foreign workers and border security.
Ismail concluded that these diplomatic ties have real impacts on citizens of both countries, from job opportunities to joint economic development. He expressed confidence that with a strong foundation, Malaysia and Bangladesh can advance as regional and global strategic partners, guided by mutual respect and trust.