Climate Change, Labour Migration and Palm Oil Production in Malaysia

This policy brief summarizes the findings of a joint study by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) that examined links between climate change and labour migration. In Malaysia, the study focused on workers from Bangladesh and Indonesia employed on large estates in Johor and Pahang, the top two palm oil-producing states in Peninsular Malaysia. The purpose of this brief is to provide insights on the experiences of migrants working on palm oil estates and recommend policy reforms and other actions to improve conditions, in line with Malaysia’s commitments on human rights, labour rights and sustainability.