Bangladeshi workers are finally getting opportunities to work in Malaysia after nearly two years of uncertainty, though only 236 workers received recruitment approval despite demand letters covering 500 positions.

Construction sector jobs are currently available, with workers paying between TK 6 lakh-7 lakh to secure employment. Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare prepared around three thousand workers through verification and selection processes, but actual openings remain limited.

Prospective migrants began preparations three years ago, spending TK 4 lakh-5 lakh each. After 19 months of visiting government offices, Bangladesh Manpower, Employment and Training (BMET), and recruiting agencies, 60 workers received permission last May.

One worker who paid TK 5 lakh last year said, "We've been waiting for two years. If we had gone one and a half years earlier, we might have been much more advanced. Hopefully, if we go now, God willing, we can earn the money, return home, and live happily with our families."

Although 8 thousand workers registered initially, sending workers in phases is considered progress by ministry officials. Workers must pass medical tests and cover necessary fees to qualify.

Government recruiting agency Bangladesh Overseas Employment and Services Limited (BOESL) handles worker deployment. Officials calculated an additional TK 1 lakh 62 thousand per worker for processing. Ministry sources claim BOESL is supporting vulnerable workers from its own funds rather than profiting from the process.

Approved workers are expected to leave for Malaysia this week. However, fate of remaining candidates remains uncertain. Experts question how many workers will ultimately go, how long they can stay, and whether previously paid money will be refunded.

Bangladeshi workers can access Malaysia's construction and tourism sectors until December 31 this year.