Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Choudhury said on Tuesday that the government will not allow any syndicate or corruption in the manpower export sector.
Speaking at a briefing at the Ministry of Expatriate Welfare and Overseas Employment, he said that the government will follow a strict 'zero tolerance' policy against irregularities and corruption in sending workers abroad.
Ariful Haque said, "I have been saying since day one that there will be no scope for any syndicate. The government's position on this issue is very strict."
The minister also announced plans to introduce a single 'Expatriate Card' for Bangladeshi workers abroad.
He said expatriates will not need separate BMET cards if the new card is introduced.
We are working so that expatriates can enjoy all services with one card. What will they do with so many cards said Ariful.
Regarding allegations of human trafficking linked to Russia and some recruiting agencies, Ariful Haque said a committee has been formed to investigate the matter.
He said all relevant documents will be examined and necessary action will be taken. If evidence of irregularities is found against any individual or organization, strict action will follow.
The investigation will also look into whether any documents or cards were issued without approval from Bangladesh missions abroad, he added.
The minister said the government is planning to establish a special cell within the ministry to quickly address complaints and problems faced by expatriates.
Under the initiative, Bangladeshis living in different countries will be able to directly contact the ministry regarding their problems, investment-related issues and administrative harassment.
Ariful Haque said many expatriate workers, especially those employed in Middle Eastern countries, are not comfortable using e-mail. For this reason, the ministry is considering easy communication platforms, including WhatsApp to improve services.
Talking about the Malaysian labour market, the minister said there has been positive progress in efforts to reopen the market and good news may come very soon.
He said that once the market reopens, the recruitment process will be transparent and free from syndicates. No particular group will receive special advantages as happened in the past.
The minister said expatriates who send remittances through legal channels will receive special benefits through the proposed Expatriate Card.
According to him, the card may provide advantages in government and private services, including banking facilities, digital identity services, priority in land-related matters and special healthcare benefits.
Ariful Haque also said one of the government's biggest challenges is to make the country's 101 Technical Training Centres (TTCs) and the manpower export system free from corruption.
"This is one of my commitments. If I cannot make this sector transparent and accountable, then I will not consider myself successful," he said.
Seeking cooperation from journalists, the minister said the government would immediately investigate any specific information about corruption or irregularities reported in the media.
"You provide information, and we will take action. If evidence of irregularities is found anywhere, strict action will be taken," added Ariful.
