Details of regulatory framework for large dorms to be announced in a few months' time

Westlite Mandai, a migrant workers' dormitory that comprises three 12-storey buildings. Large dormitories in Singapore will come under a regulatory framework, and more details will be announced "in a few months' time", the Ministry of Manpower said o
Westlite Mandai, a migrant workers' dormitory that comprises three 12-storey buildings. Large dormitories in Singapore will come under a regulatory framework, and more details will be announced "in a few months' time", the Ministry of Manpower said on Friday, April 18, 2014. -- NP FILE PHOTO: BENJAMIN LIM

Large dormitories in Singapore will come under a regulatory framework, and more details will be announced "in a few months' time", the Ministry of Manpower said on Friday.

Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin said that the ministry held a dialogue on Thursday with industry players, such as members of the Dormitory Association of Singapore Limited, the Singapore Contractors Association Limited and the Port of Singapore Authority, to gather feedback.

He was speaking on the sidelines of the official opening of a new, large, foreign worker dormitory in Mandai.

Housing close to 6,300 workers, the Westlite Mandai Dormitory is jointly owned by Lian Beng Group and Centurion Corporation. It is Centurion Corporation's third dormitory and includes facilities such as a minimart, air-conditioned gymnasium, futsal court and free wi-fi.

"We appreciate the foreign workers' contribution to Singapore's continuing growth and development," said Mr Tan in his opening address.

"It is only right that they are properly taken care of in the course of their employment here, not just in terms of the physical infrastructure, but the way in which the physical infrastructure and services are provided for the workers."

Mr Tan later joined Westlite Mandai Dormitory's management and workers in a short football game.

Centurion Corporation's chief operating officer of accommodation business, Mr Kelvin Teo, said that the management has been looking into activities "to keep workers busy, keep them engaged on the social side", such as excursions and sports competitions.

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