SINGAPORE - To date, more than 200 companies here have pledged this year to show their cleaners that they matter, up from the 150 who made the commitment last year, the Labour Movement said.

It hopes to encourage more people to care for their cleaners by making them the first group of workers to be celebrated in this year's campaign under the nationwide "Appreciating U" movement that was rolled out on Monday.

"As we continue to push for better jobs for our low-wage workers to better their lives, we must remember that nurturing a culture of kindness towards them also contributes to more meaningful lives for them and their families," said Mr Zainal Sapari, Assistant Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Director of NTUC U Care Centre.

Some 115 cleaners in the Bishan-Toa Payoh area were treated to a buffet lunch, served by union leaders, and performances at an event at the Housing & Development Board Hub Mall. Certificates of recognition were presented to thank 26 of them for their outstanding work.

Nominations for the inaugural national "Appreciating U - Our Cleaners" awards, to be given out on June 27, are open. The awards are meant to recognise cleaners, cleaning companies, service buyers and customers. Cleaners can also nominate individuals who have made the effort to make them feel appreciated and respected.