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Two men broke our laws, sent to jail
Musa and Akkas were sent to jail. They had tried to find a way to survive and this landed them in trouble.
Ready, lights, camera, action!
Although he has worked many years in Singapore before, Elyas arrives in Singapore in February 2022 for a new job. He tells us two interesting things about the recruitment process.
Laws as cobwebs
MOM's directive that all dormitory-based workers must be paid their salaries through bank is nearly two years old. Yet a worker recently came to TWC2 saying he was paid in cash.
As borders reopen and workers return, so do the usual abuses
Borders are open and workers are coming back. So are the age-old abuses such as excessive recruitment fees and worker churn.
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.
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.