THE HOT STORY

Saudi Arabia expands Saudization to 69 administrative roles

Saudi Arabia has broadened its Saudization programme, mandating full nationalisation of 69 additional administrative support roles from April 5. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced the expansion, which includes secretarial work, translation, and data entry. The initiative aims to enhance national workforce participation and create more job opportunities. The Saudization programme, launched in 2011, requires private firms to meet hiring quotas for nationals under the Nitaqat system. The ministry emphasised the importance of compliance, saying: "The update comes as part of the ministry's efforts to enhance the participation of national talent in the labour market."

Arab News

WORKFORCE

UAE and Philippines reaffirm commitment to protect Filipino workers

The UAE and the Philippines have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Senior officials highlighted the importance of safeguarding workers' rights and promoting economic growth. The Philippine government expressed gratitude for the UAE's support, recognising it as a key partner in ensuring fair working conditions. Both nations are preparing for the upcoming Abu Dhabi Dialogue, focusing on enhancing regional cooperation in labour migration and worker protection, particularly in the context of digitalisation and skill development.

Gulfnews.com

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Bahrain's graduate-training bill is referred back to Parliament

A proposal requiring large companies to provide structured annual training for Bahraini university graduates has been referred back to Parliament. The draft law seeks to add a new article to the Vocational Training Law, obliging employers with 50 or more workers to train nominated Bahraini university graduates for at least three months each year, at a rate of one trainee for every 50 employees.

Gdn Online

LEGAL

Kuwait tightens wage monitoring

The Public Authority for Manpower in Kuwait is actively monitoring salary payments for expatriate workers in the private sector. Officials stated that delays or irregularities could lead to strict legal actions, including temporary suspension of company files. The Authority emphasised that workers' wages are a "red line," as per directives from Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef and Eng. Rabab Al-Osaimi. Under Article 57 of Kuwait's Private Sector Labour Law, employers must transfer wages directly to employees' bank accounts and provide proof to the Authority. Non-compliance may result in temporary suspensions until conditions are met.

Zawya EN

WORKPLACE

Bahrain's midday work ban returns on June 15

Bahrain will enforce its annual midday work ban from June 15 to August 31, prohibiting outdoor labour under direct sunlight from noon to 4pm. This regulation aims to protect workers from heat-related illnesses during peak summer temperatures. Employers must display a visible schedule of working hours and ensure compliance. Certain roles, such as those in oil and gas and emergency maintenance, are exempt. The Labour Ministry urges employers to monitor workers closely, provide adequate rest areas, and ensure access to fluids and medical assistance. Last year, compliance was reported at 99.97%.

Gdn Online

INTERNATIONAL

PM defends new workers' rights

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has launched a robust defence of new workers' rights which came into force on Monday, criticising business figures and "vested interests" opposing the changes. The Prime Minister described the measures, including the lifting of the two-child benefit cap and the introduction of statutory sick pay from day one, as the most significant enhancement of workers' rights in a generation. “At every stage, we faced those same voices of opposition,” the prime minister wrote of the measures, which had been met with resistance from some business leaders. “They warned of costs, of disruptions, and said the time was not right. But once again, we made a different choice. We chose working people,” said Starmer. Under the Employment Rights Act 2025, statutory sick pay becomes a right from day one of becoming ill and workers will become entitled to paternity and unpaid parental leave from the first day of employment.

The Guardian

Indian trade unions observe 'Black Day' against Labour Codes

Workers across India on Wednesday last week observed a "Black Day" to protest against the Union Government’s four controversial Labour Codes. Workers wore black badges and headbands, saying that the new legislation would push the workforce back into a colonial-era state of exploitation. The demonstrations were helmed by a united front of major unions, including the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC), All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), Hind Mazdoor Sabha (HMS), and Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU). “These labour codes are designed to push the workforce into conditions akin to slavery. They contravene the spirit of the Indian Constitution, International Labour Standards, and basic human rights,” the joint platform of ten central trade unions stated.

The Pioneer

The Times of India

Tribune India

Court orders Air Malta to pay former HR chief €65,000 in unpaid bonuses

Air Malta has been ordered to pay €65,000 in unpaid performance bonuses to James Genovese, its former chief human resources officer. The ruling came after the airline ceased operations on 30 March 2024. Judge Audrey Demicoli said: "The contractual bonus clauses created binding obligations." Despite Air Malta's claims that the bonuses were discretionary and unenforceable due to a lack of formal policies, the court upheld Genovese's entitlement. The amount awarded includes 8% annual interest and legal costs, although Genovese initially claimed €103,407.

Independent

Employee disengagement is affecting Singapore business

Over 80% of employers in Singapore report that employee disengagement is impacting their business, according to a survey by recruitment agency Robert Walters. The survey revealed that 65% of workers experience so-called "quiet cracking," a state whereby employees appear present but struggle internally due to pressure and job uncertainty. The phenomenon can, it is claimed, lead to a decline in well-being and productivity. Kirsty Poltock, country manager of Robert Walters Singapore, emphasised the need for leaders to care for their employees to foster a motivated work environment. The report warns of a potential "engagement recession" in 2026 if these issues are not addressed.

Business Times SG

OTHER

Super-rich may be hiding $3.55tn offshore, Oxfam warns

Oxfam estimates that the world’s wealthiest individuals may have concealed up to $3.55tn from tax authorities through offshore holdings, despite increased transparency measures introduced in recent years. The charity said total offshore wealth reached $13.25tn in 2023, with the majority of hidden assets likely held by the richest 0.1% of households, and it renewed calls for a global wealth tax and stronger international cooperation to close tax loopholes and improve reporting standards.

The Guardian

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