The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

A total of 485,000 Bangladeshi workers have gone abroad on employment this year till November 14 as per statistics provided by the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare here on Thursday.

Everyday on an average 2500 to 3000 are departing for their destinations. So far 709,000 have been cleared of immigration, and this number is also increasing daily, an official press release said.

These figures constitute record numbers. In no other previous year so many have gone abroad. Last year the total number was 381,000.

The flow to Malaysia is also continuing. Every day on an average 900 to 1000 workers are going to that country, the press release added.

"Government understands that such vast numbers also mean greater problems. We are doing the best to address the problems so that hardship is reduced," a spokesman of the ministry said.

Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury, adviser in-charge of the ministry, observed: "Welfare of our workers must receive priority. Also we must keep looking out for newer and better markets and enhancing our skills accordingly."

"Bangladeshi expatriates are our greatest assets for development, and society owes them a debt of gratitude," he added.