The policy, which came into force on 6 July, means that labour permits will only be issued to migrant workers who can evidence that their flight and visa costs are being covered by their prospective employer. The policy only applies to migrant workers going to six Gulf countries and Malaysia.
he main criticism from the recruitment agencies is the lack of consultation with the labour receiving countries; namely Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait.
Around 2,000 prospective migrant workers were affected when staffing agencies and recruitment agents shut down the front desk office of the Department of Foreign Employment (DoFE) on the first day.
Recruiting agencies said they would continue to obstruct the DOFE until the government rescinded its controversial new policy. Bimal Dhakal, NAFEA chairperson, said: “We are ready to support the free visa and free ticket decision if the government signs labour agreement with the concerned destination countries clearly mentioning the provision. One-sided decision of Labour minister is not acceptable.”
