THERE seems to be a never-ending tale of sufferings of a large number of Bangladeshi workers in Malaysia. Having fallen victims to fraudulent dealings among corrupt recruitment agents in both Bangladesh and Malaysia, today these workers are passing their days in uncertainty regarding the authenticity of their work permits, payment of promised salary, fixation of working hours and working conditions and finding a decent accommodation. Unknowingly, these Bangladeshi citizens have landed themselves in a grave situation that demands immediate attention of the highest authorities of both the countries.

The tale of their woe began at home, where, driven by poverty and lack of employment opportunities, these young men sought employment in Malaysia. This destination being nearer to home, and the offered salary seemingly attractive enough, the young men sold off valuables to meet the demand of the local agents to get a job. But reports suggest that upon landing in Malaysia they either failed to find the employers or discovered that they have been cheated as far as the amount of salary and other facilities were concerned. Eventually they came to learn about a vicious circle of corrupt elements in Malaysia operating to cheat the Bangladeshi workers. Some of these workers are now forced to work at much cheaper rates elsewhere and some are on the run from the law.

The racket has been going on for many years and it is time the matter has been taken up at the highest level of the two friendly countries. The Bangladesh Mission in Malaysia should look into the matter as a top priority and take it up with their local counterparts to stop this trading on human misery. It is their official duty and moral obligation to stand beside the unfortunate Bangladeshis who are starving for days with some of them hiding in thejungles.

We urge the caretaker government to take immediate steps through the relevant ministry in collaboration with the association of the recruiting agencies (BAIRA) to either bring back the stranded workers orarrange fortheiremploymentwith the help of the Malaysian government. This goes without saying that the vicious syndicate behind the scam must be apprehended and put behind bars.