From nearly a million migrant workers, here are some of their experiences
7
08, 2020
Loan amount goes up, up and away
Shafiqul borrowed 200,000 taka from a bank to finance his recruitment cost. He now owes 250,000.
5
08, 2020
Chokder’s three jobs: win, draw, lose
We ask Chokder to tally how much he paid job agents through the three jobs he's had. If not for these hefty fees, he would have savings to support his family after his injury.
2
08, 2020
Kibria and Selim held hostage by Singapore’s underground economy
Selim and Kibria, not paid for their previous jobs, are looking for new ones. They talk about inescapable demands for money from agents, supervisors and bosses.
29
07, 2020
Boss wanted to deduct $500 for one day’s absence
Sharif wasn't feeling well and wanted to rest in his room rather than go to work. As many employers of migrant workers do, a fine was to be imposed for absence.
25
07, 2020
Four and a half years to get compensation for Md Sharif’s family
Employer and insurer objected to the compensation award. The case went to a 'labour court' hearing, and then to the High Court, the issues becoming technical along the way.
24
07, 2020
A precarious life: 4 years, 5 jobs
Sharif has had five jobs in Singapore over four years. Has work migration been a path to a better life for this young father and his family?
21
07, 2020
Post-Covid layoffs begin — from the hospitality sector
TWC2 is seeing more laid-off workers joining our food programme, and they're coming from an industry sector flattened by Covid-19.
18
07, 2020
“Have you got the $2,000 ready for me?”
$2,000 is cheap as far as recruiters' fees go, but just as easily lost. Razzak's story is unfortunately as common as dirty money in the migrant labour market.
13
07, 2020
Water, water every where, but three cups a day to drink
If being locked up in dormitories through Covid-19 was bad, being held on a ship was worse. On reaching out to workers there, we heard cries for deliverance.
10
07, 2020
Sudeb climbs the ladder of life
Sudeb recounts the many jobs he's had -- most ending in disappointment. He's been laid off, deceived, cheated of wages and now, injured. But he has fortitude.