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Difficulties getting aboard the SCAL retention scheme
A review of cases related to the SCAL retention scheme identified the main obstacles workers faced in getting onto the scheme. These obstacles meant more work at MOM and reduced effectiveness of the scheme.
60 percent of construction demand stems from public sector projects
The public sector is a huge buyer of construction. That weight can be applied for good. Government projects should come with ethical labour requirements.
Facebook publicity insufficient if definition of ‘kickback’ remains narrow
It is good to see MOM put out warnings to employers on Faceboook against taking kickbacks, but if previous cases are any guide, few complaints by workers get anywhere.
Blacklisted: Imagined fears or unspoken reality?
Many low-wage migrant workers fear that lodging any complaint with the authorities may lead to their being blacklisted. Is this real or imagined? Our intern investigates.
International Migrants Day 2021
As is our tradition at TWC2, we marked International Migrants Day 2021 by adding cheer to workers' lives. Find out what we did.
Work permit approval process weaponised for blackmail
Boss and worker agreed to renew work permit, but renewal process got stuck. Another company laid claim to the worker; its IPA approved by the Manpower ministry.
Work permit approval process weaponised for retaliation
Dulal did not want to work for the current employer anymore. He would find a new job. The employer's reaction was to shackle him. The manpower ministry provided the metaphorical shackle.
46 days’ quarantine for worker arriving from Bangladesh
A worker who came to Singapore in September 2021 gives us details of the pre-departure and post-arrival quarantines he had to serve.
What a choice company!
It began when a worker said a company had gotten a Work Permit for him, except that he did not apply for a job there.
No-consent period for job transfers “adjusted”, in effect shrunk
MOM's "adjustment" of the no-consent period makes it contingent upon employers giving consent. Circular logic?