Singapore ramps up support for migrant workers amid salary arrears and housing issues

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has announced fresh measures to support migrant workers affected by salary arrears and housing disruptions, with around 20 workers already placed in new jobs and most of the remaining workers expected to secure employment within the next two to three weeks.

Speaking at the Kranji Recreation Centre on June 28, Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash said the government, together with industry and labour partners, is working to ensure displaced workers can quickly return to stable employment.

According to Dash, the employment placements have been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC), the Singapore Contractors Association Limited (SCAL), and the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), which have helped identify alternative opportunities for affected workers in equivalent sectors.

The government is also addressing the workers' immediate accommodation needs. Approximately 230 migrant workers who are required to vacate their dormitories at Tuas View will be relocated to the MOM Onboard Centre, where they will receive temporary lodging and meals while their employment situations are resolved.

Dash also acknowledged the support extended by community organisations, including several temples, the Hindu Endowments Board, and the Hindu Advisory Board, which have distributed care packages to affected workers to help them through the transition.

Providing an update on the employer at the centre of the case, Dash confirmed that the individual, who had been overseas, returned to Singapore on June 26 and is currently assisting authorities with investigations. The employer's passport has been impounded as inquiries continue.

The Ministry reiterated that it treats violations of the Employment Act and the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act seriously. Authorities said enforcement action will be taken if investigations establish any breaches.

Dash urged migrant workers experiencing unpaid wages or employment-related disputes to seek assistance from the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM), which helps workers recover outstanding salaries.

While acknowledging that businesses may occasionally face cash flow challenges, Dash stressed that employers remain legally responsible for fulfilling their obligations under Singapore's employment laws.

He warned that employers found guilty of violating the relevant legislation could face fines ranging from S$3,000 to S$15,000 per offence, imprisonment of up to six months, or both, underscoring the government's commitment to protecting migrant workers' rights and enforcing labour standards.