Overseas Job Prospects in Saudi Arabia Brighten, but Low Payments Worry Bangladesh
Limited job opportunities but promising prospects for Bangladeshi workers in Saudi Arabia
Low Payments Pose a Problem for Bangladeshi Workers
Labor migration from Bangladesh has seen a slight increase of 0.50% in March compared to February, bringing a glimmer of hope for the country heavily reliant on remittances for foreign exchange earnings. However, despite the positive outlook for overseas jobs, there is a growing concern about low payments for Bangladeshi workers heading to Saudi Arabia, a major destination for employment. In March, there was a 32% year-on-year decrease in labor migration from Bangladesh, with 74,679 workers flying abroad for overseas employment, as reported by the Bureau of Manpower, Employment, and Training (BMET). This decline is attributed to various factors, including joblessness in Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and other destinations, causing a sense of caution among both workers and labor recruiters. The flow of workers to Malaysia and Oman has decreased in recent months, with a notable decline in employment opportunities in these countries. As a result, labor migration to Malaysia is expected to remain halted for the time being, affecting the number of migrations from Bangladesh in the coming days.Challenges in Sending Workers Abroad
Abul Bashar, president of the Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (Baira), expressed concerns about the situation, particularly regarding the low wages offered to workers. While there is a good demand for workers in Saudi Arabia, the current salary levels are not deemed satisfactory by the Bangladeshi government and labor associations. "Our prime minister has instructed us not to send workers with low wages. We are negotiating with the Saudi authorities to increase their pay," Bashar stated. This push for better compensation reflects the government's commitment to ensuring fair treatment and wages for Bangladeshi workers abroad. Despite the challenges, there remains a demand for low-skilled workers in Saudi Arabia, with roles such as construction workers, cleaners, and housemaids being common among Bangladeshi workers in the country. However, the disparity in minimum wages between countries like Saudi Arabia and Malaysia poses a significant concern for workers seeking better opportunities overseas.Implications for Bangladeshi Workers
While Saudi Arabia continues to be a prominent destination for Bangladeshi workers, with a significant percentage of migrants coming from Bangladesh, the issue of low payments remains a pressing concern. The demand for low-skilled jobs is expected to persist in Saudi Arabia, but the need for fair wages and better working conditions is paramount for the well-being of Bangladeshi workers. In contrast, Malaysia, another key destination for Bangladeshi workers, has seen a decline in the recruitment of foreign workers in recent months. With the expiration of existing quotas in May, the flow of recruitment to Malaysia is expected to decrease further, impacting the number of Bangladeshi workers entering the country for employment. Overall, the challenges faced by Bangladeshi workers seeking opportunities abroad highlight the importance of fair labor practices, adequate compensation, and supportive policies to safeguard the rights and well-being of migrant workers. As the global labor market evolves, it is crucial for countries like Bangladesh to advocate for the rights and welfare of their workers abroad, ensuring their contributions are valued and respected. Remember, the journey to finding the right job abroad may have its obstacles, but with perseverance and advocacy for fair treatment, Bangladeshi workers can overcome these challenges and secure better opportunities for themselves and their families. Stay informed, stay empowered, and keep striving for a brighter future.The Reader's Guide
Hi, Ali Rahman in the house! From Chittagong, Bangladesh, I've been on a wild ride from Banskhali Bangabandhu High School to Govt. Alaol College and beyond, landing me at National University. Now, I'm here to dish out the lowdown on national issues and global news. Stick around for a fresh take on what's shaking up our world! Connect With Me