Suicide, chronic diseases among main causes of Nepali deaths in Malaysia

In Malaysia, between 2018 and May 2024, 2,214 Nepali migrant workers lost their lives, according to the Human Rights Commission of Malaysia (Suhakam). These deaths, reported by the Nepali embassy, should not be viewed as mere numbers, emphasized Suhakam Chairman Hishamudin Yunus. Suicide and chronic diseases, such as heart failure, were among the primary causes of these fatalities. The loss of these invaluable lives is a critical issue that warrants immediate attention, according to Yunus.

The renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Suhakam and the National Human Rights Commission of Nepal (NHRCN) extends until 2028, focusing on migrant workers' rights and well-being. This agreement aims to investigate alleged human rights violations related to migrant workers, including deaths, and monitor conditions at detention centers.

Additionally, Suhakam and NHRCN will collaborate on addressing recruitment fees, forced labor risks, and enhancing Nepali workers' access to social security protection through the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso).

There are approximately 400,000 Nepali workers in Malaysia, and Suhakam has received 46 complaints involving Nepali workers between 2021 and August 2024. These complaints detailed various allegations, such as withheld passports, excessive working hours without rest days, unpaid or delayed wages, unsafe working conditions, and inadequate protection.

The renewed MoU will also involve reviewing policies and making recommendations to respective governments to improve migrant workers' access to justice. In the coming days, NHRCN will visit Malaysia to meet the Malaysian prisons department and Perkeso as part of its working visit and the implementation of the MoU.