A company was fined $17,500 for not paying salaries to five employees, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said in a statement yesterday.

Raycom Engineering & Aerospace, which manufactures metal precision components, defaulted on paying the five Singaporeans and permanent residents from March to May last year.

They were earning salaries of between $1,100 and $3,000, and the total amount owed came up to about $30,000.

MOM has since helped the workers recover the money and the corresponding Central Provident Fund contributions.

MOM director of employment standards enforcement Raymond Tan pledged strong action against employers "who have no respect for our employment laws".

The MOM urges workers who have not been paid or who feel that their wages have been wrongfully withheld to seek help from the ministry or their unions early.

Those who know of employers who contravene the Employment Act can make a report to MOM or call the WorkRight hotline on 1800-221-922, or e-mail workright@mom.gov.sg. All information will be kept confidential.

Lydia Lam