Malaysia Employment Syndicate Resurfaces, Nepali Businesses and Government Protest
Summary
Malaysia has listed only 25 Nepali manpower agencies as registered recruitment agencies on its foreign worker portal, sparking accusations of a syndicate and monopoly. Nepali businesses and the government have protested the move, warning it will raise costs for workers and violate the bilateral labor agreement.
Key Points
- Malaysia’s foreign worker portal has reportedly authorized only 25 out of about 1,200 licensed Nepali manpower companies, triggering strong backlash.
- Nepali business groups say the change creates a monopoly, reduces competition, and could increase fees and exploitation for workers heading to Malaysia.
- The Ministry of Labour and Employment has raised the issue with Malaysia and demanded that the existing system continue without disruption.
- Nepal says any new arrangement on Malaysian employment must be decided through the joint technical committee and mutual agreement.
