News
MLSD Minsiter meets the New Designated Turkish Ambassador in Kingdom of Bahrain
17-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met at the Ministry with Her Excellency Mrs. Esen Cakil, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan welcomed Mrs. Cakil upon her appointment as Ambassador, wishing her success in her diplomatic duties and realising the aspirations of the leaderships of both countries to deepen cooperation across various fields. Humaidan reviewed the Kingdom’s efforts in developing human resources and the labour‑market reform project, as well as in enhancing social protection for workers and implementing policies and initiatives aimed at attracting more investment, given Bahrain’s favourable business environment and advanced national legislation. He called for strengthening cooperation between the two countries and drawing on pioneering experiences in diverse sectors. For her part, the Turkish Ambassador praised the strong relations between the two friendly countries, noting the progress achieved by Bahrain and the prestigious status it enjoys thanks to its advanced legislation—especially with regard to safeguarding workers’ rights—and the fact that a safe, healthy working environment is an attractive factor for investment. She affirmed her country’s keenness to strengthen and develop relations with the Kingdom in a manner that serves the interests of both countries and their peoples.
MLSD Minister Discusses with MP AlSaloum Improving National Human Resources
16-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Ahmed Sabah Al‑Salloum, Member of the Council of Representatives, at the Ministry to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities in support of development and social projects and initiatives in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed MP Al‑Salloum on the Ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance social welfare, qualify and integrate citizens seeking employment into private‑sector establishments, and maintain employment stability under various circumstances. He highlighted the Ministry's support for youth initiatives and assistance in establishing entrepreneurial projects and small and medium enterprises. He noted the Council of Representatives' role in supporting legislation, proposals and initiatives that improve and develop labour and social services. For his part, MP Al‑Salloum underscored the importance of close cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities, citing its positive impact on strengthening the social protection system and improving the level and quality of services provided by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to citizens, thereby advancing the desired sustainable development goals.
MLSD Minister: The noon work ban reflects Bahrain's commitment to preserving and protecting the workforce
15-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain has made great strides in enhancing the safety and health of all workers at production sites through a series of legislation and measures designed to develop occupational safety and health systems and create a safe working environment. This commitment, grounded in the Kingdom’s principles of protecting human rights—especially those of the working class—has placed Bahrain among the leading countries in workforce protection and earned it the international community's respect. He stressed that Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, which prohibits work under direct sunlight and in open areas from 12:00 to 16:00 during July and August, is entirely consistent with international labour standards in providing the necessary protection for workers. This came in a statement by His Excellency the Minister after a surprise field visit to a number of construction work sites, which he conducted with a number of officials and occupational safety supervisors at the Ministry, on Thursday afternoon, to review the extent of the concerned establishments’ commitment to implementing the decision. During the visit, he met with a number of work site supervisors and reviewed the measures taken by their establishments at the sites to ensure a safe and sound work environment for workers, and to improve the efficiency and means of prevention to reduce occupational injuries. Humaidan praised companies’ and institutions’ adherence to the midday work‑ban decision, noting that Ministry inspectors have conducted 3,344 site visits since the measure took effect at the beginning of July. Only fifteen establishments were found in breach—an incidence rate of no more than 0.4 per cent—and the number of offending workers stood at twenty‑six. He underscored the importance of sustaining this commitment, highlighting both the decision’s humanitarian dimension and the productivity gains realised by compliant establishments. The decision has also fostered a culture of rescheduling work each year, shifting tasks away from periods of extreme heat and humidity and reallocating them to cooler hours, such as the early morning. This approach boosts facility productivity and enables projects to be completed on schedule. Safeguarding workers’ health and safety remains a paramount value, as the measure plays a direct and tangible role in protecting them from summer illnesses, heat stress, sunstroke and heat exhaustion caused by midday heat and humidity. Compliance with the decision has increased annually, exceeding 98 per cent in recent years. The ministerial decision stipulates that anyone who violates the provisions of this decision shall be punished with the penalties set out in Article (192) of the Private Labour Law, promulgated by Law No. (36) of 2012, which provides for imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months or a fine of not less than five hundred dinars and not more than one thousand dinars, or either of these penalties.
MLSD Minister Briefs MP Buhamoud on the National Plan for the Labor Market
14-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Bu-Hamoud, Member of the Council of Representatives, today, Wednesday, in his office at the Ministry. The two parties reviewed ways to strengthen cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, particularly regarding the employment and integration of citizens into private‑sector establishments, and the support of legislation to sustain labour‑market development in the Kingdom of Bahrain. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed the MP on the details of the National Labour Market Plan 2021–2023, approved by the Cabinet chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him. The Plan comprises several pillars designed to achieve sustainable growth and ensure the labour market's stability and cohesion. He noted that the Plan seeks to create more quality employment opportunities for citizens—making them the preferred choice for recruitment—by intensifying technical and vocational training programmes, enhancing the private sector’s contribution as the primary driver of economic growth, and continuing to develop oversight and regulatory measures. In this context, he praised the legislative authority’s support for all projects and initiatives to develop national human resources and expand employment opportunities, thereby helping to keep unemployment rates within safe and stable limits. For his part, Bu-Hamoud commended the efforts of all relevant parties in preparing the National Labour Market Plan, affirming the Council’s support for such initiatives, which are positively received by citizens and reflect the Government’s commitment to implementing projects and programmes that fulfil citizens’ aspirations for increased employment in the labour market.
MLSD Minister: The plan reflects the visions of His Highness the Crown Prince and the Prime Minister for the sustainability of comprehensive development
13-07-2021
The plan is aligned with government policies and programmes for the coming period. It provides more employment opportunities and enhances Bahrainis' employment advantages. It strengthens the role of the private sector and stimulates productivity and job quality. His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the Cabinet’s decision to adopt the National Labour Market Plan 2021‑2023. This plan reflects the vision and directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, to sustain growth and develop the labour market in accordance with the fundamental principles of Bahrain Economic Vision 2030—sustainability, competitiveness and fairness. It also aims to create quality employment opportunities for citizens, making them the preferred choice for employment, while continuing to develop oversight and regulatory measures and enhancing the private sector’s contribution to the labour market. In a statement on this occasion, Humaidan affirmed that the plan took into account the challenges facing the labour market and the achievements already made, building on them through a comprehensive national strategy that enhances economic growth, develops the capabilities and skills of national human resources, and improves the mechanisms, databases and indicators that contribute to sustainable growth in a world rife with changes. He stressed that the unprecedented measures adopted to maintain labour‑market stability during the Coronavirus (COVID‑19) pandemic demonstrated the Kingdom’s ability—supported by its business sector—to address these challenges responsibly, achieving cohesion and stability and enabling the market to overcome the repercussions of this exceptional phase. His Excellency noted that the National Labour Market Plan comprises key axes integrating the achievements of government and private entities to develop, stabilise and sustain the labour market and to provide a strategic framework guiding state institutions, employers and workers. He emphasised that the plan is consistent with, rather than a substitute for, the operational plans of the relevant state institutions linked to government programmes for the coming period. Humaidan added that the plan’s axes aim to create more quality opportunities for citizens—making them the preferred employment choice—by intensifying technical and vocational training, enhancing the private sector’s role as the primary driver of economic growth, and strengthening oversight, regulation and periodic review. He expressed confidence that Bahrain will enter a new phase, especially with the gradual return to normal life, increased economic activity and the generation of more employment opportunities for citizens across productive sectors. Under the axis of creating quality opportunities for citizens, the plan calls for continued alignment of educational outcomes with labour‑market needs and for strengthening technical and vocational training infrastructure. This goal is being pursued by the Supreme Council for the Development of Education and Training, chaired by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, through initiatives such as an advanced, sustainable post‑school education plan to prepare highly qualified national cadres by modernising the post‑school education system. In addition, the Employment Skills Platform initiative—developed in cooperation with the public and private sectors—provides integrated data on the key skills and jobs required by the labour market and helps shape future government policy. The plan, in its general framework, seeks to achieve the principle of employment preference for national workers as the goal and means for all policies and procedures governing the labour market in Bahrain. The plan also aims to develop a mechanism for the selective and gradual rationalisation of foreign worker recruitment, aligning demand with economic development requirements and bridging skills gaps in the labour market. This is so that the recruitment of workers complements, rather than replaces, the employment of qualified national workers. Policies and procedures for employing foreign workers must take into account the principle of balance in the structure of the labour market to ensure fair competition for national workers and prevent flooding the market with a surplus of unproductive and irregular workers. In addition, the plan will review and evaluate Bahrainisation rates in private‑sector establishments to ensure they are updated in line with labour‑market variables and indicators, thus enhancing the preference of Bahraini citizens when hiring, without harming the workflows of establishments, and focusing on attractive, quality jobs and sectors. The plan calls for capitalising on challenges and transforming them into opportunities, drawing on the realities imposed by the COVID‑19 pandemic. It also urges the continued use of government initiatives that mitigated the pandemic’s economic repercussions and safeguarded national employment by paying the salaries of citizens working in the private sector. Furthermore, the plan endorses successful experiences such as part‑time and remote‑work systems—flexible arrangements that harness the productive female workforce. This approach aligns with the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women 2013‑2022, supervised by the Supreme Council for Women, which aims to sustain the participation of Bahraini women in the labour market. A significant section is devoted to the private sector, promoting it as a key driver of development through the creation of quality job opportunities and increased investment. This is to be achieved by raising productivity, investing in digital and technological transformation, and enhancing job quality for Bahrainis in the private sector. In this context, the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) is working to meet market demands by increasing support for private‑sector institutions—covering operational costs, infrastructure and growth opportunities—while providing financing programmes, business‑development services and support for e‑transformation projects, as well as granting special privileges to companies committed to employing Bahraini citizens. To accelerate the employment of national workers, the plan calls for investing in training and human resource development so that job seekers secure quality positions. It supports all vocational training programmes that raise professional skills and enhance job stability. The plan also emphasises regulating workers’ housing licences and ensuring full compliance with safety requirements through continuous monitoring. It calls for intensified efforts to control informal workers and reduce their numbers, preventing unfair competition and protecting employers. In addition, the plan underscores the need to safeguard workers’ rights and benefits by completing the Wage Protection System, developing labour inspection and dispute‑resolution mechanisms, and strengthening action against forced labour and human trafficking. Finally, the plan stresses that sustaining labour‑market growth and achieving its objectives require ongoing cooperation among the three parties of production, institutional integration in programme implementation, and up‑to‑date data to track progress and labour‑market indicators—enabling well‑informed decisions that bolster labour‑market cohesion and advance the Kingdom’s comprehensive development goals.
MLSD Minister Reviews Youth Employment Initiatives & Promoting Social Protection
11-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Abdullah Khalifa Al‑Thawadi, Member of the Council of Representatives, at his office at the Ministry. The two sides reviewed the complementary relationship between the executive and legislative branches—particularly the integration of citizens into the labour market—and discussed the Ministry’s social welfare and protection services. Humaidan briefed the MP on ongoing efforts to accelerate the employment of citizens in the private sector and on incentive initiatives for employers and new employees aimed at attracting more national cadres, qualifying them to work across productive sectors, and raising the standard of social welfare services available to all segments of society. For his part, Al‑Thawadi affirmed the Council’s support for the Ministry’s various programmes to speed up the employment of Bahraini human resources and to introduce initiatives that place young people in specialised jobs and professions within private‑sector establishments—supported by wage subsidies and targeted training. He also praised the Ministry’s work to enhance social welfare provision and to streamline access to those benefits.
Issuing 107 of Money Licenses for NGOs during the first half of year 2021
10-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed that, thanks to the close cooperation between the Ministry and the competent bodies responsible for issuing fundraising licences to civil society organizations and NGOs, the licensing process has been streamlined in line with all regulatory and security requirements. This progress is reflected in the quality of services delivered by charitable associations, with the number of NGOs that have obtained licences since the beginning of this year reaching 107 to date. Humaidan explained that charitable work in the Kingdom of Bahrain has enjoyed numerous facilitations in both normal and exceptional circumstances, pursuant to Government directives to support the sector. Enhanced coordination with the relevant authorities has raised the approval rate for licence applications to 94 % of all submissions. Additional momentum has come from boosting the efficiency of associations by training their employees in financial management: in cooperation with the Institute of Public Administration (BIPA), NGO accountants and financial secretaries have been awarded specialist certificates in association financial management. Moreover, NGOs have been guided to comply fully with the laws and regulations governing fundraising, which has reduced the number of non‑compliant applications. In a related development, NGOs have embraced electronic payment technologies. The Ministry coordinated with BenefitPay to regulate e‑payment operations after approving and designating companies licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain to collect donations and disburse them to beneficiaries. It also worked with the Central Bank and licensed providers such as Sadad and CrediMax to shield NGOs from the risks of money laundering and terrorist financing. With regard to fundraising during the holy month of Ramadan, the Ministry provided additional support by issuing special licences and regulating the distribution of Ramadan donations, including via electronic channels—measures that proved particularly valuable amid the COVID‑19 pandemic.
A direct line to report violations of the noon work ban in open spaces
10-07-2021
أعلنت وزارة العمل والتنمية الاجتماعية عن تخصيص رقم هاتف مباشر لتلقي بلاغات الجمهور عن مخالفات القرار رقم (3) لسنة 2013، بشأن حظر العمل وقت الظهيرة في الأماكن المكشوفة، في الفترة ما بين الساعة 12 ظهراً وحتى الرابعة عصراً، خلال شهري يوليو وأغسطس، وذلك على الهاتف رقم 32265727. وبهذه المناسبة تود الوزارة أن تعرب عن جزيل شكرها لكافة المواطنين والمقيمين على تعاونهم الدائم في هذا الخصوص، والذي يعكس ما يتمتعون به من حس إنساني يضمن التطبيق الأمثل لقرار حظر العمل وقت الظهيرة تحت أشعة الشمس المباشرة، والذي يهدف إلى الحفاظ على سلامة العاملين في مختلف مواقع العمل من مخاطر العمل في ظل الأجواء القاسية وسط الحرارة المرتفعة ونسب الرطوبة العالية في فصل الصيف ويقي العاملين من مخاطر الاجهاد الحراري وضربات الشمس.
MLSD Minister Praises the Efforts of the Philippine Ambassador to Enhance Cooperation in Labor Fields
09-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, at the Ministry, marking the end of his diplomatic tenure in the country. During the meeting, Humaidan praised the Ambassador’s efforts to strengthen relations between the two friendly nations and advance them to broader horizons across various fields, particularly the technical and labour sectors. He wished the Ambassador success in his future endeavours. Humaidan also highlighted the contributions of the Filipino workforce and community to Bahrain’s comprehensive development, affirming the Kingdom’s desire to deepen and expand existing cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries. For his part, the Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Bahrain for the support provided throughout his posting, including facilitation of his duties involving the Ministry and the Authority. He commended the protection and care enjoyed by the Filipino community under Bahrain’s advanced labour laws and legislation. The Ambassador further lauded the Kingdom’s achievement in maintaining Tier 1 status for the fourth consecutive year in the United States Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons Report, a distinction that enhances Bahrain’s international standing in protecting human rights.
MLSD Minister Confirms the Quality of Development Services Provided to Citizens
08-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Dr. Hisham Ahmed Al‑Asheeri, Member of Parliament, at the Ministry. The meeting considered strengthening cooperation between the executive and legislative branches in labour and social welfare services. During the meeting, Humaidan reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to raising the standard of living for citizens and providing them with quality employment opportunities by expanding investment opportunities in the Kingdom of Bahrain. He outlined the latest initiatives implemented by the Ministry in the labour sector, measures to enhance social welfare for various segments of society, and efforts to improve the quality of services provided to them. Dr. Al‑Asheeri lauded the Ministry’s efforts to advance development services for citizens in labour and social services. He underscored the importance of intensifying initiatives aimed at providing more employment opportunities for Bahraini human resources and maintaining the stability of the national workforce in their jobs, especially under these exceptional circumstances.
MLSD Efforts to Recruit National Labor in Private Sector
04-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency Mr. Ali Mohammed Ishaqi, Member of the Council of Representatives, at the Ministry. During the meeting, Humaidan briefed the MP on the foremost initiatives and projects undertaken by the Ministry of Labour and Social Development to serve citizens—particularly those related to rehabilitation and employment programmes, developing labour‑market systems, and enhancing employment stability for citizens in the private sector. He emphasised the Government’s commitment to providing comprehensive social care to all segments of society. For his part, MP Ishaqi praised the Ministry’s efforts to implement the Government’s policy of ensuring a decent standard of living for citizens and delivering the best services. He noted the measures adopted during these exceptional circumstances to safeguard employment stability for national human resources in private‑sector establishments, along with the Ministry’s work to foster community development and strengthen its social partnerships with NGOs.
MLSD Minister Meeting with Japanese Ambassador
01-07-2021
His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, received His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Mr. Masayuki Miyamoto, at the Ministry. Humaidan welcomed the Ambassador at the outset of his mission, wishing him every success in enhancing cooperation between the two friendly countries. In this context, Humaidan reviewed the Kingdom’s efforts to develop human capital, the progress of the labour‑market reform project, and initiatives to strengthen social protection for workers and attract additional investment, underpinned by advanced national legislation and a competitive business environment. He expressed hope to deepen cooperation by drawing on the pioneering experience of both nations in labour, welfare and social development. Ambassador Miyamoto voiced his pleasure at serving in Bahrain and affirmed Japan’s keenness to strengthen bilateral relations across diverse development fields.
Bahrain is the First in Victims of Human Trafficking Report
01-07-2021
He praised Bahrain's rich historical heritage and advanced and prosperous present, stressing his country's keenness to strengthen relations with the Kingdom and cooperate in various development fields . His Excellency the Minister of Labor and Social Development, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labor Market Regulatory Authority, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, praised the civilizational and humanitarian achievement accomplished by the Kingdom of Bahrain by maintaining its Tier 1 status for the fourth consecutive year in the US State Department's Trafficking in Persons Report, issued on Thursday evening, July 1, 2021 , which is the highest international ranking in this field . وبهذه المناسبة، رفع سعادة الوزير أسمى آيات التهاني والتبريكات إلى مقام حضرة صاحب الجلالة الملك حمد بن عيسى آل خليفة، ملك البلاد المفدى، حفظه الله ورعاه، وإلى صاحب السمو الملكي الأمير سلمان بن حمد آل خليفة، ولي العهد رئيس مجلس الوزراء، حفظه الله، مؤكداً أن محافظة المملكة على هذه المكانة الدولية الرفيعة للعام الرابع على التوالي يأتي نتاجًا للتوجيهات الملكية السامية لتسخير كافة الجهود والامكانات لتكون مملكة البحرين واحة للتعايش والعيش الكريم وحفظ حقوق جميع المواطنين والمقيمين على حد سواء، فضلًا عن الرؤية بعيدة المدى للعاهل المفدى حفظه الله ورعاه بإعطاء ملف حقوق الإنسان ومكافحة الاتجار بالأشخاص أولوية قصوى ضمن استراتيجية المملكة التنموية لبناء سوق عمل يرتكز على المبادئ الإنسانية والحضارية، ويتوافق مع المعايير والتوصيات الدولية. وأوضح حميدان أن المملكة تجني اليوم ثماراً جديدة للمسيرة التنموية الشاملة لجلالة الملك المفدى حفظه الله ورعاه، ويأتي هذا التصنيف ليعكس نتاج نظرة ثاقبه، وعمل دؤوب، واستراتيجيات ناجحة، نفذتها الحكومة بقيادة وتوجيه صاحب السمو الملكي ولي العهد رئيس مجلس الوزراء حفظه الله، الموجه والراعي الأول لسياسات ومبادرات اصلاح وتطوير سوق العمل. His Excellency the Minister appreciated the cooperation of all government agencies in highlighting the Kingdom’s global and international reputation and status, commending the role of all partners concerned with the human trafficking file, foremost among them the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which manages the international human rights file, and the Ministry of Interior through its efforts in combating trafficking through the Anti-Human Trafficking and Protection of Public Morals Department at the Ministry, and its continuous cooperation with various government agencies, in addition to the role of the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, the Public Prosecution, and the Labor Market Regulatory Authority, stressing that this partnership and cooperation reaffirms the success of Team Bahrain, led by His Highness the Crown Prince, may God protect him, in institutionalizing and sustaining the various government achievements . He added that the cooperation between these agencies has had a significant impact on achieving best practices that have enabled the Kingdom of Bahrain to maintain its international standing and reputation in combating this cross-border crime, to the point that the Kingdom has become a global model adopted by international and global organizations and praised in various forums . His Excellency the Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, affirmed Bahrain's commitment to continuing the Kingdom's achievements in promoting human and labour rights, which tops its priorities by securing workers' rights and providing a sound working environment, in accordance with international labour standards and based on encouraging and developing social dialogue and fruitful cooperation between the three parties of production, which will be an incentive towards further developing national services, practices and legislation to serve the human element, which is the optimal guarantee for the sustainability of comprehensive development at various levels . His Excellency the Minister of Labor and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, met with Member of the Council of Representatives, His Excellency Mr. Ali Mohammed Ishaqi, in his office at the Ministry . During the meeting, Humaidan briefed the MP on the most important initiatives and projects implemented by the Ministry of Labor and Social Development to serve citizens, particularly those related to rehabilitation and employment programs and the development of labor market systems, in addition to efforts to enhance job stability for citizens in the private sector.
MLSD signs (4) Memoranda for Citizens Training & Employment
30-06-2021
Four Memoranda of Understanding were signed at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development building between the Ministry and private training institutions and establishments operating in the private sector, to train and qualify national cadres and enhance their professional capabilities and technical skills through the on-the-job training programme (Opportunities) and training courses, via distance learning technology. These cover various specialisations, including occupational health and safety, management, technology, and other technical fields and job skills, aligning with the Ministry of Labour and Social Development’s commitment to accelerating the employment of citizens seeking work and developing the workforce to ensure their job stability. The Minister of Labour and Social Development, Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, delegated the Assistant Undersecretary for Labour Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Jaafar Al-Hayki, to sign the memoranda of understanding on behalf of the Ministry. These agreements were also signed by representatives of the training establishments and entities, namely the Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), Nasser Saeed Al Hajri Corporation, INJAZ Bahrain, Excellence Training Solutions, and Al Qoud Foundation. The event was attended by Mr. Khalid Abdul Rahman Ishaq Al-Kooheji, Acting Undersecretary, Assistant Undersecretary for Community Development, along with Dr. Essam Ismail Al-Alawi, Director of Training and Manpower Development, and several officials from the Ministry’s training sector. The Memorandum of Understanding signed with Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO) and Nasser Saeed Al Hajri Company, under the On-the-Job Training Programme (Furas), stipulates training several job seekers in occupational safety and health. They will receive a monthly salary of BD300 during the training period, after which they will be employed by Nasser Saeed Al Hajri Company with a salary of no less than BD400 per month. The memorandum signed with the Al Qaoud Foundation for Entrepreneurship requires training (500) job seekers on the job through the “Furas” programme, targeting various educational qualifications, during the current year (2021), for a duration of eight weeks via virtual training methods. Under the Memorandum of Understanding signed with INJAZ Bahrain, (1,200) job seekers will be trained free of charge to equip them with skills aligned with employers’ actual needs. The memorandum concluded with Excellence Training Solutions mandates training (36) job seekers in a range of free training programmes focusing on diverse occupational health and safety professions, with (12) participants per training programme. Additionally, (2,000) short training workshops will be held in English language and job skills, to develop and enhance the personal capabilities of job seekers and increase their employment opportunities in private sector establishments.
Afternoon Work Ban begins on Thursday, 1st July
30-06-2021
Beginning tomorrow, Thursday (1 July), Ministerial Resolution No. (3) of 2013, regarding the prohibition of working under direct sunlight and in open places during the afternoon from 12 noon to 4 pm in July and August, goes into effect. This resolution is part of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to safeguarding workers from occupational diseases and injuries, particularly in summer when temperatures and humidity levels are high. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has completed its preparations to oversee the implementation of the aforementioned resolution, conducting field inspection campaigns at targeted sites to ensure establishments to which the resolution applies remain compliant. On this occasion, His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development, called on employers to adhere to the resolution to preserve the safety and health of workers during this time of year, when the Kingdom of Bahrain experiences high temperatures and humidity. He also urged employers to implement regulatory measures, including rescheduling working hours, to ensure workflow is not disrupted. In this context, Humaidan affirmed the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to implementing safe and healthy work standards at production sites, emphasising the importance of everyone’s adherence to occupational safety principles and requirements to foster a productive, safe work environment free of occupational accidents.
29-06-2021
His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, met in his office on Tuesday with His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Mohammed Al-Hassan, Ambassador of the sisterly Republic of Sudan to the Kingdom of Bahrain, on the occasion of the end of his diplomatic tenure in the country. During the meeting, Humaidan lauded the fraternal relations between the two brotherly nations, commending Al-Hassan’s efforts to strengthen and develop these ties throughout his tenure as his country’s Ambassador to the Kingdom. He wished Al-Hassan success in his future assignments. For his part, Al-Hassan highlighted the existing cooperation between the two countries and the facilities offered by various official bodies during his diplomatic tenure. He praised the progress and prosperity achieved by the Kingdom under the prosperous era of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the country, may God protect and preserve him. He also commended Bahrain’s advanced national legislation that safeguards workforce rights, as well as the care and appreciation extended to Sudanese workers and the Sudanese community in their second home. He wished the Kingdom continued progress, growth, and prosperity.
28-06-2021
Under the patronage of His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development, the “Coronavirus Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities” forum, organised by the Ministry via videoconferencing, was launched. This forum is part of a series of events the Ministry intends to implement as part of its efforts to advance the national workforce and develop its professional capabilities and skills. It features the participation of a number of human resources officials from private sector institutions, business owners, institutes, and training centres. It also aims to keep pace with the transformation of training paths from traditional methods to the use of technological tools that enhance distance learning. It will also explore ways to foster an institutional culture that supports the development of the training sector, discuss current challenges facing human resources officials in preparing employees, and address other objectives that serve the development of training within labour market establishments. In his opening remarks at the forum, Humaidan emphasised the importance of private sector training institutions keeping pace with technological developments in training methods and curricula. He noted the need to turn the COVID-19 pandemic’s effects on the training sector into opportunities for advancement and to ensure training sustainability under various circumstances, as this is the primary guarantee for supplying the labour market with qualified Bahraini cadres possessing the professional skills it needs. He called for leveraging technology in the training process, particularly given the accelerating reliance on modern technologies across diverse productive sectors. Humaidan praised the expertise and prominent figures participating in the forum, stressing that the Kingdom of Bahrain is moving forward with a clear vision for the professional future, in accordance with well-considered plans in the training sector. He noted that the pandemic has led to the development of many unconventional methods to maintain training continuity. In response, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development issued a circular to private training institutions, directing them to implement virtual and electronic training. Additionally, in cooperation with the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), the Ministry has trained over 4,000 job seekers, with ongoing efforts to meet a target of training 10,000 job seekers by year-end. Humaidan added that 19 memoranda of understanding have been signed to ensure the continued progress of training under these exceptional circumstances. During his participation, Mr. Nawaf Mohammed Al-Jishi, Chairman at Bahrain Society of Private Training Institutes, addressed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the training sector, alongside the most significant solutions adopted to overcome them and guarantee the continuity of human resource training under these exceptional conditions. Mr. Ibrahim Ali Al-Tamimi, an institutional assessment expert, reviewed notable institutional practices related to qualifying and employing national cadres. Dr. Wajdi Abu Shabab, CEO of the Career Development and Business Excellence Company, spoke about the concept and significance of leading institutional innovation in the private sector. The participants strongly engaged with the speakers on the topics discussed, and their contributions significantly enriched the forum by introducing subjects of relevance to the current situation.
26-06-2021
Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Welfare and Social Rehabilitation at the Ministry of Labour, and Director of NGOs Support, Ms. Najwa Abdullatif Janahi, confirmed that the Ministry’s family guidance offices examined 1,153 family and individual cases during the first quarter of this year, addressing family, marital, educational, and personal issues. This comes within the framework of the Ministry’s efforts to achieve the highest levels of mental health and family stability, and to reduce the incidence of such problems by relying on preventive, therapeutic, and developmental approaches. Janahi stated that the family guidance offices at the Ministry’s social centres in all governorates of the Kingdom of Bahrain aim to promote and disseminate a family-oriented culture within society through various programmes that include developmental, preventive, and awareness lectures. These initiatives are designed to provide families and individuals with effective, positive skills, enabling them to achieve stability and contentment, thereby preserving the family and community. Janahi pointed out that the family guidance offices did not record any cases related to social or professional issues during the cited study period. She noted that the offices offered numerous guidance services to target groups, including individual and group counselling, guidance, and rehabilitation sessions. A total of 635 men and 518 women benefitted from these services. Seven virtual development and preventive guidance programmes were also delivered using modern technologies, benefitting 644 individuals. She explained that April recorded the highest number of beneficiaries (471 cases). The implementation of visitation and judicial rulings regarding visits for divorced or separated families under the family care programme resumed at the end of March at the Ibn Khaldoun Centre, Al-Riffa, and the Hamad Town Community Centre, with an average of 404 families in attendance. Ms. Najwa Abdul Latif Janahi confirmed that family guidance offices provide the courts with reports prepared on psychological aspects, which are the result of providing family guidance to the category of children of divorced people or those about to divorce and their children, in order to help resolve disputes and disagreements between them, and to overcome their family, marital and educational problems, as the number of reports submitted to the courts reached ( 9 ) reports during the year 2021.
25-06-2021
The Ministry of Labour and Social Development announced the launch of its annual summer programme for children and youth of various age groups. This programme will be conducted via video conferencing throughout July and August 2021. Aisha Mohammed Al Zayed, Director of the Family and Childhood Department at the Ministry of Labour and Social Development, explained that the launch of these diverse activities reflects the Ministry’s keenness to care for children and youth, develop their capabilities, expand their horizons, and help them make better use of their free time to their own benefit. She noted that the summer programmes cater to age groups ranging from 7 to 17, taking place three days a week—Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday, during the evening. The Ministry of Labour and Social Development has invited all interested parties to register for the summer programmes through its website (www.mlsd.gov.bh). It is worth noting that the range of programmes has been designed to accommodate children’s and youths’ varied interests, offering several purposeful activities—including decoupage, faith oases, science club, arts, journalism, drawing, Arabic calligraphy, printing, reading, creative thinking, and sign language.
22-06-2021
His Excellency Mr. Jameel bin Mohammed Ali Humaidan, Minister of Labour and Social Development, lauded the directives of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the country’s great king, may God protect and preserve him, to extend a number of support initiatives within the financial and economic package to counter the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also lauded the Cabinet decision, chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him, to ensure the government pays the salaries of insured Bahrainis in private sector companies in pandemic-affected sectors for three months, from June 2020 to August 2021. The support covers 100% of Bahraini workers’ wages for June, and 50% for July and August 2021. He emphasised that this generous support fosters job stability for the national workforce, securing the labour market’s stability and reducing the pandemic’s impact on work and production levels. In light of the Cabinet’s decision, His Excellency issued a ministerial decree identifying the sectors affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, for which the government will cover the salaries of insured Bahraini workers via the Unemployment Insurance Fund from June to August 2021. The decree also clarifies the terms and conditions for Bahraini workers in private-sector establishments to benefit from this support. The decree enumerates the affected sectors: 1. The travel and aviation sector 2. Hospitality and restaurants 3. Personal services (salons, gyms, games, and entertainment) 4. The industrial sector 5. The health sector 6. The transportation and communications sector 7. The rehabilitation and training sector (including nurseries and kindergartens) 8. The retail sector (non-food) 9. The administrative services sector (public relations, media, and event organisation) 10. The real estate sector, engineering and technical offices, and contracting 11. The local newspapers and magazines sector 12. Any other affected sectors, excluding major companies, the insurance sector, the financial sector, communications, scientific, technical, and professional activities, university education and schools, hospitals, pharmacies, and the food retail sector. He indicated that 10,880 private sector companies and institutions will benefit from this support, covering 58,298 workers, at a total cost of approximately BD60 million over three months. This comprises BD30 million for June at 100% salary coverage, BD15 million for July at 50%, and BD15 million for August at 50%. The decree stipulates that financial support eligibility requires a complete or partial suspension of an establishment’s activities, or an impact from travel and tourism that compromises its ability to meet wages. The establishment must maintain its national workforce throughout the support period, cover the remaining proportion of Bahraini workers’ wages, and ensure complete, timely wage payments without any deductions—while taking measures to address the pandemic’s repercussions. Eligibility further requires that the Bahraini worker be insured under the Social Insurance Law through the end of May 2021, or have been employed and insured via the National Employment Program until the end of the month preceding disbursement. According to the decree, the Ministry of Labour and Social Development will refer the list of eligible establishments for financial support to the General Organisation for Social Insurance, which will transfer the support amounts to those establishments in the fourth week of each month.