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Bangladeshi professionals are increasingly gaining recognition in Malaysia’s rapidly expanding digital economy, with growing opportunities emerging in information technology, software engineering, fintech, data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI) and entrepreneurship, according to industry leaders.
Once known primarily for their contributions to labour-intensive sectors, Bangladeshis are now establishing themselves as skilled technology professionals, helping Malaysian companies accelerate their digital transformation while strengthening Bangladesh’s reputation in the country’s corporate sector.
Afnan, Managing Director of Brain Station 23 Tech Sdn. Bhd. and Chief Executive Officer for Southeast Asia, said the perception of Bangladeshi professionals in Malaysia has changed significantly over the past two decades.
Speaking to Sarabangla, Afnan, who was recognised by the Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia as an outstanding entrepreneur during International Migrants Day last year, said Bangladeshis are no longer seen only as hardworking migrant workers.
“Today, they are increasingly recognised for their knowledge, innovation, leadership and technical expertise,” he said.
“Bangladeshi technology professionals are playing an important role in the digital transformation of Malaysian companies while delivering solutions that meet international standards.”
He said Bangladesh’s rapidly growing ICT sector and Malaysia’s advanced digital ecosystem complement each other, creating enormous potential for collaboration in technology and innovation.
“If we can strengthen technology partnerships between the two countries, we will unlock new opportunities for innovation, job creation and regional business growth,” Afnan said.
He noted that Malaysia is experiencing an increasing demand for highly skilled digital professionals, while Bangladesh has a young, dynamic and fast-growing pool of technology talent capable of meeting that demand.
“Bangladeshi professionals can make a meaningful contribution to Malaysia’s digital economy,” he said.
“At the same time, Malaysia can serve as an important gateway for Bangladeshi technology companies seeking to expand into Southeast Asia and other international markets.”
Afnan said the growing presence of Bangladeshi engineers, software developers and technology entrepreneurs is helping reshape the image of the Bangladeshi workforce in Malaysia.
He urged young Bangladeshis aspiring to build international careers to focus on acquiring specialised skills rather than relying solely on academic qualifications.
According to him, expertise in software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, fintech, cloud computing and digital business will be among the most sought-after skills in the coming years.
He also encouraged students to gain practical experience through internships, contribute to open-source software projects, build strong professional portfolios and actively expand their professional networks to improve their competitiveness in the global job market.
Acknowledging that visa procedures and immigration requirements remain challenges for many foreign professionals, Afnan said those obstacles can be overcome through proper planning, internationally competitive skills and a professional attitude.
He expressed optimism that well-trained Bangladeshi technology professionals would continue to secure rewarding careers not only in Malaysia but also across the global digital industry.
Looking ahead, Afnan said Bangladesh and Malaysia have an opportunity to build a stronger technology partnership through greater collaboration in innovation, skills development, digital entrepreneurship and knowledge exchange.
“By investing in skilled human resources and strengthening technology cooperation, both countries can build a mutually beneficial partnership,” he said.
“With the right preparation and continued collaboration, Bangladeshi technology professionals will increasingly be recognised not only for their hard work but also for their innovation, leadership and ability to compete in the global digital economy.”