Mansukh Mandaviya Engages with Indian Workers in Malaysia, Stresses Viksit Bharat@2047

Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, today held an interaction with members of the Indian workers’ diaspora in Malaysia, recognising their invaluable role in strengthening India’s economic, cultural, and global partnerships.

Indian Diaspora in Malaysia: A Strong Bridge of Friendship

Malaysia is home to the third-largest Indian diaspora in the world, with more than 2.9 million people of Indian origin residing there. The Minister commended the diaspora for preserving their cultural roots while achieving excellence across multiple professions, ranging from business and industry to medicine, law, academia, and public service.

Dr. Mandaviya acknowledged that the Indian community has not only contributed to Malaysia’s progress but has also deepened India–Malaysia relations through shared values, traditions, and economic cooperation.

Expanding India–Malaysia Economic Ties

Underscoring the strength of bilateral relations, the Minister pointed out that more than 150 Indian companies, including three major public sector undertakings, are actively operating in Malaysia across sectors such as oil & gas, power, healthcare, telecommunications, infrastructure, and tourism.

Simultaneously, nearly 70 Malaysian companies are engaged in India, contributing to projects in infrastructure development, pharmaceuticals, palm oil, and other emerging sectors. Dr. Mandaviya noted that these partnerships are not just about trade, but about mutual growth and shared prosperity.

Safeguarding the Rights of Overseas Indian Workers

Dr. Mandaviya reaffirmed the Government of India’s dedication to ensuring the welfare and rights of Indian workers abroad. He highlighted the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Recruitment, Employment, and Repatriation of Workers, signed with Malaysia in August 2024, as a landmark agreement that strengthens the framework for fair treatment, transparency, and security of Indian workers.

He further urged the workers to take advantage of the Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY), which provides comprehensive insurance coverage, including:

• Accidental death and disability benefits,

• Medical emergency coverage,

• Repatriation of mortal remains, and

• Financial security for families back home.

Viksit Bharat@2047: Role of the Global Indian Community

Placing the interaction within the larger vision of Viksit Bharat@2047, Dr. Mandaviya stressed that India’s march towards becoming a developed nation by its centenary of independence would be incomplete without the active contribution of the global Indian community.

“You are not just workers abroad; you are ambassadors of India’s culture, talent, and values. We are committed to ensuring that your rights are protected, your voices are heard, and your families back home remain secure,” he told the gathering.

A Future Built on Cooperation and Shared Aspirations

The Minister expressed confidence that the enduring bonds between India and Malaysia, anchored in the strength of their diaspora, will continue to expand into new areas of cooperation. He urged the Indian community to remain active stakeholders in both India’s growth story and Malaysia’s development journey.

By reinforcing welfare measures for overseas workers, strengthening bilateral agreements, and fostering cultural and economic ties, the Government of India aims to ensure that the Indian diaspora continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a stronger, self-reliant, and globally respected India.