Civil Aviation and Tourism state minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat has instructed airport officials to address expatriate workers (expats) as ‘Sir’ as part of showing respect for their contribution to country’s economy.

State minister made the directive during inspection of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Thursday alongside minister Afroza Khanam Rita. They met CAAB officials at authority headquarters in Kurmitola before visiting airport facilities.

“Culture of addressing expatriate workers as ‘Sir’ should be developed as part of showing respect”, Millat told officials during lounge visit. He emphasised that expatriates’ hard-earned remittances fund country’s economy and government salaries.

Rita reinforced message, stating many expatriate brothers and sisters face difficulties at airport due to lack of understanding various procedures. “We must ensure our expatriate brothers and sisters do not suffer any hardship. Their hard-earned money contributes significantly to country's economy and our salaries come from that money. Therefore, we must show them utmost respect and sincerity”, she said.

They both inspected third terminal and reviewed implementation progress, requesting cooperation to rapidly launch facility for public use. They also visited cargo village and import cargo terminal damaged in recent fire incident.

Millat ordered maximum caution to prevent future fire incidents or security risks. He instructed strengthening monitoring system, maintaining airport cleanliness and increasing accountability at all levels. State Minister declared zero tolerance policy must be followed against irregularities.

Rita announced that her ministry will conduct surprise inspections to ensure service quality standards are maintained. Officials and employees pledged to work collectively improving services and ensuring passenger-friendly environment.

Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Nasrin Jahan, CAAB Chairman Air Vice Marshal Mustafa Mahmud Siddique and senior ministry officials attended meeting and inspection.