Md Iman Mollah, 49, of Manikganj, left for Malaysia six months ago with a dream -- to change his fate and secure a brighter future for his children, wife, and family.

Dhaka wanted to allow all 1,520 licenced recruiting agencies to send manpower to Malaysia, but Kuala Lumpur selected only 101 agents, which industry insiders say are involved in manipulation and exploitation of migrants.