Ministry of Manpower Enforces Strict Measures Against Unethical Employment Practices
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has taken enforcement action against an average of 102 employers each year for collecting kickbacks from migrant workers between 2016 and 2020, Senior Minister of State for Manpower Koh Poh Koon informed Parliament on Tuesday (Mar 1).
On average, each offending employer affected around five migrant workers. The typical kickback amounts, which are illegal payments extorted from migrant workers as a condition for employment, ranged from S$1,000 to S$3,000, Dr. Koh stated in response to questions from Member of Parliament Louis Ng (PAP-Nee Soon).
During investigations into kickback allegations, employers are prohibited from repatriating the affected workers. For those who wish to remain in Singapore, MOM will connect them with employment agencies that do not charge any fees to these workers. “This ensures that workers can continue to earn an income while reporting their employers for collecting kickbacks. Furthermore, MOM will require the accused employers to return the kickbacks to the affected workers,” Dr. Koh explained.
From 2016 to 2020, approximately 20% of the affected migrant workers successfully found new employment, while about 30% opted to continue working for their current employers after the kickback issues were resolved. The remaining workers decided to return home, Dr. Koh noted.
He also highlighted that authorities have increasingly utilized data analytics to better identify such cases, although it is more effective when workers come forward to report these unethical practices. Enhanced data mining capabilities have improved evidence gathering, enabling MOM to enforce actions against violators more effectively.
Additionally, the ministry has intensified efforts to educate and engage migrant workers. For instance, the issue of kickbacks is addressed in the mandatory Settling-In Programme for first-time work permit holders. “Migrant workers who are asked to pay kickbacks should immediately seek assistance from MOM. We take all complaints and whistleblower reports seriously,” Dr. Koh concluded.
