Pay fine, legalize status

November 10, 2013

Jeddah, Nov 10: The Labor Ministry announced on Saturday that it would continue to accept applications from undocumented expats to legalize their status despite the end of the amnesty on Nov. 3.

However, it insisted that such workers have to pay fines or face other penal measures for the delay in legalizing their status.

Faisal Al-Otaibi, director-general of inspections at the ministry, also pointed out that it would not accept any request for exemptions from raids being carried out by the ministry and security officials to rid the country of labor law violators.

“The correction process is continuing and those who want to legalize their status can do so through our electronic services and labor offices,” he said.

The ministry's statement has been widely welcomed by expats and private companies whose activities have been hampered by raids that are being conducted throughout the Kingdom to crack down on undocumented workers.

Hundreds of illegals have been reportedly arrested in different parts of the country and many companies have suspended operations to avoid raids.

“Companies with a'closed' sign on their window will not be exempt from questioning and search and our teams will visit such firms several times,” Al-Otaibi said, adding that the raids were aimed at creating a secure and organized labor market in the country.

Abdul Rahman Al-Zamil, president of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, urged expats to make use of the ministry's offer that aims at legalizing workers in the country and protecting their rights.

“Saudi Arabia has changed. It will not accept anymore illegal workers and illegal coverup businesses,” he told Arab News. He refuted suggestions that the raids would affect the Kingdom's economic development.

The ministry has deployed 55 teams in Riyadh, 45 in Jeddah and 64 in the Eastern Province to inspect firms. Every team includes at least two inspectors and a security officer. “We have deployed these teams in major cities and townships considering the number of firms there,” he said.

The ministry has prepared a list of companies for inspections and it covers firms in different sectors and varying sizes. Teams appointed by the ministry conduct about 80 percent of raids.

“The raids will be carried out at any time, not necessarily during the government working hours of inspectors. It will be conducted during the working hours of private firms,” Al-Otaibi said.

The ongoing labor raids have affected the work of many companies, as a considerable number of their foreign workers could not legalize their status during the seven-month amnesty.

The ministry has promised it would issue visas to companies that have complied with Saudization regulations and have ongoing projects in order to meet their manpower shortages.

“The ministry's offer will help stabilize the labor market and bring down the prices of goods and services,” said Ibrahim Al-Hodaithy, deputy chairman of the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

He said the raids would affect the market because of a shortage of workers doing jobs that cannot be done by Saudis. “Failure by the ministry to issue visas to compensate workers who have already left the country will lead to a hike in prices of goods and services,” Al-Hodaithy said, adding that Saudis would be the first victims of such effects.

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Philanthropist, Visionary Entrepreneur, A K Group Founder M Ahmed passes away

coastaldigest.com news network

October 8,2024

Mangaluru, Oct 8: The city of Mangaluru mourns the loss of M Ahmed, a pioneering businessman, philanthropist, and the Founder Chairman of the AK Group. He passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that spans decades of service, innovation, and community building.

M Ahmed, also fondly known as A K Ahmed, was a man of humble beginnings who grew into one of the most respected entrepreneurs in South India. He founded the AK Group in 1984, which has since flourished into a multi-faceted business empire. The company, which began as a small frame manufacturing unit, now encompasses a wide range of industries, including plywood, formaldehyde, particle boards, fire-rated products, and more. AK Group's growth extended beyond India, with manufacturing units established in Myanmar and Vietnam.

What began with 18 employees in 1984 has today expanded to provide employment to approximately 3,000 people in India and 400 abroad. M Ahmed’s dedication and vision were instrumental in transforming the company into a market leader, recognized for its high-quality products and innovation. AK Plywood is now one of India’s top plywood manufacturers, and the largest in South India. The company was Karnataka’s first plywood manufacturer to receive ISO certification and has garnered prestigious awards, including the Rising Stars Power Brands Award in London (2017) and the Best Manufacturer Award from MSME Karnataka (2018).

Ahmed’s business success was deeply rooted in values instilled in him during his early years. He worked alongside his father, the late Abdul Khader Moopa, loading sawn timber, and it was from these humble beginnings that he developed his work ethic, pioneering spirit, and respect for time—values that remained the cornerstone of his remarkable career.

His foresight was evident when he recognized the potential of timber from Perumbavoor, Kerala, for plywood and blockboards at a time when it was merely being used as firewood. This strategic move led to the establishment of one of the first frame manufacturing and peeling units there, and soon after, Ahmed launched his own company in Mangaluru, swiftly earning national and international recognition.

Beyond plywood, the AK Group has diversified into multiple industries, including marine food, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, hypermarkets in India and the UAE, and food industries in Indonesia. Under Ahmed’s leadership, the company’s reach expanded, ensuring its position as a formidable player in various sectors.

Ahmed was not only an extraordinary businessman but also a deeply compassionate individual, dedicated to social and religious causes. He served as the founding president of the managing committee of Ihsan Masjid in Mangaluru and established the Highland Educational and Cultural Centre. His philanthropic efforts were as vast as his business ventures, benefiting countless communities both in India and abroad.

His kindness, simplicity, and punctuality were hallmarks of his character. Those who knew him admired his unyielding commitment to excellence, as well as his warmth and generosity. M Ahmed is survived by his wife, three daughters, and four sons, who continue his legacy of philanthropy and social service.

As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from all sectors of society. Social, religious, and political leaders in Mangaluru expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of a man who dedicated his life to improving the lives of others.

M Ahmed’s journey from humble beginnings to massive success will continue to inspire generations. His life serves as a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and, above all, integrity.

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