Synopsis
The Ministry of Manpower in Singapore is urging migrant workers to report illegal kickback practices after a significant case involving a contracting firm. Workers with valid claims may switch employers if they wish to continue working.Key Takeaways
- Migrant workers are encouraged to report illegal kickbacks.
- Lian Cheng Contracting Pte Ltd was involved in a major kickback case.
- Workers can change employment if they have legitimate claims.
- Construction sector fatalities have alarmingly increased.
- Ministry vows to enforce strict actions against violators.
Singapore, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Ministry of Manpower in Singapore has urged migrant workers to report kickback practices promptly, following a significant incident involving a contracting firm that demanded illegal fees for work pass renewals. The ministry stated, "Workers who have legitimate claims can change their employment if they wish to remain in Singapore."
A case highlighted by the ministry involves Lian Cheng Contracting Pte Ltd, where a former operations manager amassed kickbacks amounting to 396,440 Singapore dollars (around 289,400 US dollars) from 57 migrant workers between 2014 and 2020. These payments were a prerequisite for workers' continued employment or the renewal of their work passes, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Adrian Quek, Divisional Director of the Foreign Manpower Management Division, noted that this case ranks among the largest kickback scandals investigated by the ministry thus far.
As of last June, Singapore relied on a workforce exceeding 1.5 million foreign workers, according to recent ministry statistics.
In the previous month, the Ministry of Manpower reported a worrying increase in construction sector fatalities, with 15 deaths recorded in the latter half of 2024, a stark rise from the five fatalities in the first half.
The ministry described the situation regarding workplace safety and health in the industry as "concerning" in a social media post.
Many incidents stemmed from "the lack of basic safety measures or non-compliance with established safety protocols," citing a sentiment of complacency and insufficient ownership of workplace safety.
In October and November 2024, over 400 inspections were conducted in the construction sector, leading to fines exceeding 300,000 Singapore dollars (approximately 222,000 US dollars) and the issuance of 13 Stop Work Orders.
The ministry has emphasized that it "will not hesitate to take stronger actions against errant companies and individuals" if significant improvements are not observed.
