End syndicates, simplify Saudi exit clearance: Baira Combined Coordination Front

The Combined Coordination Front of the Bangladesh Association of International Recruiting Agencies (Baira) has called for dismantling syndicates in the labour markets of Malaysia and other countries, alongside introducing an exit clearance certificate without needing attestation for single-visa holders in Saudi Arabia.

The demands were made at a press conference held on Monday (27 January) at the Sagar-Runi Auditorium of the Dhaka Reporters Unity in the capital. 

During the event, the group also called for the closure of the airline ticket syndicate.

A written statement was presented by former member of parliament and former Baira president MAH Selim. 

He strongly criticised the syndicates, saying, "Syndicates were formed with the direct support of the autocratic Awami League government. Unfortunately, the current interim government has not taken any action against them. Due to this impunity, the masterminds of the syndicates are once again trying to establish a syndicate in Malaysia for exporting migrant workers."

Selim continued, "We are hearing that the syndicates are once again trying to export manpower to Malaysia, and some individuals from the ministry are allegedly helping them. If the interim government allows the export of workers to Malaysia through these syndicates, what will be the difference between them and the authoritarian government?"

He expressed hope that the government would not fall into the trap of syndicates, adding, "We hope the government will not fall into the syndicate trap and will keep the market open for all legitimate exporters. If any attempts are made to send migrant workers to Malaysia or any other country through syndicates, we will be forced to take strict action."

Selim also highlighted the difficulties faced by migrant workers and exporters in Saudi Arabia, noting, "The Saudi Arabian embassy has very few staff members. For many years, attestation of demand letters for fewer than 25 people was not required. However, a recent notification now mandates that every demand letter must be attested by the embassy. As a result, thousands of workers and hundreds of exporters are experiencing significant difficulties."

"The notification has left agency owners unable to export workers. Employers are also becoming discouraged about recruiting from Bangladesh," he added.

Selim urged the government to reconsider the recent changes. "In the interest of keeping the market open and to stop the harassment of migrant workers and exporters, we request the government to revert to the previous system of issuing exit clearance certificates," he said.

The press conference was attended by Mustofa Mahmud, secretary-general of Baira's Combined Coordination Front, along with business representatives from various recruiting agencies.