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.