26 Bangladeshi Workers Rescued In Port Klang Raid

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The labour department warned employers to honour their obligations after applying for foreign workers. (Bernama pic)PETALING JAYA: A total of 26 Bangladeshi workers were rescued during a raid by the labour department at a residential area near Port Klang yesterday following a tip-off from the public.
The agency said in a statement that the rescued workers had been in the country since Feb 15.
“They entered legally but unfortunately their employers failed to provide them with jobs and left them without any income.
“All 26 workers have been rescued and placed in a safehouse for their protection,” said the department.
The joint operation by the labour department’s headquarters and Selangor’s labour department was conducted at 12.30pm yesterday and led by deputy director-general (operations) Asri Abd Wahab.
The authorities said the raid was conducted to ensure that the migrant workers would not fall victim to scams, which could lead to forced labour.
The labour department will be providing assistance including finding potential jobs or as a last resort, sending the workers back to their country.
“The department will not compromise on any issues that will lead to forced labour which will adversely affect the image of the country.
“Employers from every sector must honour their obligations after applying for foreign workers. This includes providing jobs as well as suitable accommodation.
“We would also like to remind employers to obey the mandatory criteria and guidelines when applying for foreign workers or risk being blacklisted,” said the statement. - FMT

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