The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has revoked the work passes of four work pass holders and suspended the work pass privileges of six employers.

Banned from Singapore and had work passes revoked

In a media release on Sunday (Feb. 9), MOM explained that the workers had breached the leave of absence (LOA) requirements which was put in place to manage the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak (nCoV).

The four work pass holders were caught working at their workplaces between Feb. 4 and Feb. 8.

They were supposed to be on LOA instead.

In addition, MOM found two Permanent Residents (PRs) who were also working during their LOA period.

Consequently, the four work pass holders had their work passes revoked and they were repatriated within 24 hours.

They have also been banned from working in Singapore permanently.

MOM said that it will hold the employers responsible for ensuring that those who need to be on LOA stay away from the workplace.

Thus, MOM has also suspended the work pass privileges of all six employers involved for two years.

Should comply with advisory

All work pass holders with recent travel history to mainland China are required to serve a mandatory 14-day LOA upon their arrival in Singapore.

MOM has been conducting regular random checks through inspections, telephone or video calls as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that work pass holders placed on LOA abide by the requirements.

All employers should comply with the advisory given by MOM.

MOM said in its news release:

"Employers and employees have a joint duty to ensure that the employee behaves responsibly during the leave of absence. MOM will not hesitate to revoke the work passes and withdraw work pass privileges against errant employers or employees."

From 11:59pm on Feb. 8 onwards, employers must obtain MOM’s approval for all work pass holders with travel history to mainland China within the last 14 days, before they can enter or return to Singapore.

Employers who require assistance to secure accommodation for their employees can contact 1800-333-9999 or email MOM at [email protected].

Members of public who have any information on work pass holders or employers breaching the LOA requirements can email MOM at [email protected] or call 6438 5122.

Top image from MOM/FB.