FREEZE ON BANGLADESHI WORKERS' INTAKE WON'T AFFECT TIES - ENVOY

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 (Bernama) -- The decision by Malaysia to freeze the
intake of Bangladeshi workers has not affected the relations between both
countries, Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia A.K.M. Atiqur Rahman said.

He said that the temporary freeze would not mar the existing ties as both
countries had their own strength in terms of religion, history and culture.

"We understand Malaysia's position, so we are working together now to find
the best solution to tackle the matter. It is not a big issue," he told Bernama,
here Friday.

Earlier, Atiqur Rahman attended a media briefing on the "Showcase Bangladesh
2010" exhibition, to be held at the Putra World Trade Centre, from Jan 8 to 10,
next year.

The exhibition, the first in its series, will feature 65 companies from
Bangladesh.

Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin is expected to open the exhibition
organised by the Bangladesh High Commission in collaboration with the Malaysia
South-South Association, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers and chambers of
commerce in Bangladesh.

On the 400,000 Bangladeshi workers, currently working in the plantation,
construction and services sectors in Malaysia, Atiqur Rahman said their visas
were approved before Malaysia decided on the freeze.

The cabinet decided to freeze the intake of Bangladeshi workers in October
2007 due various issues including social problem.

This is the second time such a decision was made after the first in 1999.

In March this year, the cabinet also cancelled visas for Bangladeshi
nationals who obtained their work permits in 2007 but have yet to enter the
country.

The move was taken in line with the government's decision to minimise intake
of foreign workers, except in certain critical sectors.
-- BERNAMA