FROM PAGE 12

“We want the amount in one instalment. We have been in debt for more than two years. Unless we are repaid the recruitment fees, we will be in trouble,” the worker said, requesting anonymity.

Addressing the workers, Nazrul said he knew that the migrants were facing various problems, including delay in payments, while they were worried over a delay in work visa extension.

“Some of you also face trouble in getting work. Unfortunately, some die here, and it is difficult to send the body back home. You also remain in fear of raids,” he said.

The adviser said he spoke to the employer, who was trying to resolve the problems and repay the recruitment fees.

“You have to do certain things. Always resolve problems through discussions. Don’t do anything harmful to you and the employer,” he said.

Referring to the political changeover and the corruption during the Awami League regime, Nazrul said, “You know what happened in Bangladesh in the past. The situation was unimaginable. Expatriates’ money was kept in thieves’ bank.

“There were thieves in the ministry as well. We are trying to retrieve Tk 1,200 crore. From now on, no money of the expatriates will be kept in the private bank,” he said, adding that the interim government is trying to improve the services for the migrants.

He recognised the contribution of the migrants, saying the remittance they send is of utmost importance for the economy of Bangladesh.

Md Sumon, a migrant working for Mediceram, in his speech described the troubles they faced over the last two years.

“Now, we are all united. Initially, we went to the high commission but got no response. Today, we are happy that you’ve pledged to be by our side. We have strong faith in you,” he said.

There are some 9 lakh Bangladeshis working in the Southeast Asian country, according to the Malaysian authorities. Rights groups say a substantial number of migrants there are undocumented and are jobless, underpaid or unpaid.

The Malaysian labour market has remained closed for Bangladeshis since May 31 last year after serious allegations of irregularities relating to a syndicate of 101 recruiting agencies surfaced.

“We will try to have the labour market reopened and request the Malaysian authorities to regularise the undocumented migrants,” said an official of the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment.