Over 100 migrant workers from 2 companies seek help for unpaid wages & housing issues, MOM investigating

Over 100 migrant workers, primarily from India and Bangladesh, approached the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Services Centre in Bendemeer on Jun. 22 regarding their outstanding salary payments and housing arrangements.

In response to Mothership's queries, MOM said they were providing the workers with the necessary assistance, together with the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM).

The workers are work permit holders from KPA Engineering Pte Ltd and SK Industries Pte Ltd.

According to CNA, two workers from KPA Engineering said they had not been paid their wages for about three months.

One said he is owed more than S$4,000 and has not been able to get in contact with his bosses.

Providing assistance

Ng Hwei Min, general manager for TADM, told the media that they are helping the workers with their salary claims and are also reaching out to the employers to find out more about their current situation.

"We understand that the current period is a difficult and uncertain one for the workers. Our immediate priority is to assist the workers by providing them with the necessary support during this period," Ng said.

She added that they are working very closely with the Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) to provide support for the workers, including ensuring that they have access to appropriate housing and meals.

During this period, workers will also be allowed to change employers, so that they can look for new employment should they wish to continue working in Singapore.

MOM is also investigating the companies for any breaches of employment laws, Ng said.

MOM will take the necessary and appropriate enforcement action against the companies should they be found to have breached any of the employment laws.

Workers had no money for food and transport

Director of Migrant Workers Segment at NTUC, Michael Lim, said MWC has taken immediate action on Jun. 22 morning to meet and help the affected migrant workers.

"When MWC met the migrant workers at the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) this morning, many had little or no money for food or transportation," Lim said.

MWC has since stepped in to take care of their immediate needs, arranging for food and transportation assistance.

MWC is also providing further support, including temporary shelter and a change of employment, should any of the migrant workers need it, he added.

Additionally, MWC visited the dormitory of the migrant workers later in the evening and engaged more than 300 workers to hear their concerns and offer them assurance and assistance.

MWC will be helping the affected migrant workers pursue their salary claims through TADM, Lim shared.

"While their claims are being worked out, MWC will continue to take care of the migrant workers’ more immediate needs and help them through this difficult period," he added.

"MWC encourages any migrant worker who is owed salaries or facing workplace issues to seek help early.

No worker should face these problems alone, and MWC will stand by those who come forward so that they can receive the support and guidance they need.

Workers can approach MWC for assistance via MWC’s 24-Hour Helpline: 6536 2692"