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Original Article

Author(s): Alam MS, Sikandar A, Sultana T, Nafiuzzaman, Tamanna SA

PAH Med Col J. Jul 2026; 3(2): 40-47

Abstract

Background: Bangladeshi migrant workers in Malaysia often work in labor-intensive sectors where occupational exposure, crowded accommodation, and restricted healthcare access may affect health. This study assessed reported occupational health conditions, healthcare utilization, treatment responses, and access barriers among Bangladeshi migrant workers in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.

Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 Bangladeshi migrant workers aged 18 years or above and employed in Malaysia for at least six months. Data were collected by face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. Variables included demographic profile, occupation, living condition, PPE, safety training, reported health problems, treatment pathway, treatment outcome, satisfaction, language, and cost barriers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were applied, and p<0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Mean age was 30.60±8.18 years. Construction workers constituted 45.0% of respondents. 250 (62.5%) respondents reported at least one strict occupational disease. Infection was the commonest occupational condition [145 (36.3%)], followed by spinal/musculoskeletal pain [110 (27.5%)], skin disorders [80 (20.0%)], and traumatic injuries [65 (16.3%)]. Overall, 320 (80.0%) respondents sought treatment for any health problem. Language and cost barriers were reported by 196 (49.0%) and 120 (30.0%) respondents. Infection was significantly associated with dormitory/shared accommodation (p<0.001). Language barrier, high medication costs, duration >3 years, and no PPE significantly predicted an unsatisfactory outcome.

Conclusion: Bangladeshi migrant workers experienced a substantial burden of occupational morbidity and healthcare access barriers. Improved PPE provision, safety training, improved living conditions, and migrant-friendly health communication may reduce morbidity and improve outcomes.

Keywords

Bangladeshi migrant workers, Occupational health, Healthcare utilization, Malaysia, Personal protective equipment, Language barrier

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How to cite: Alam MS, Sikandar A, Sultana T, Nafiuzzaman, Tamanna SA. Occupational Health Conditions, Healthcare Utilization and Access Barriers among Bangladeshi Migrant Workers in Malaysia: A Cross-sectional Study. PAH Med Col J. Jul 2026; 3(2): 40-47.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.70945/pahmc.v03i02.02