Forum: Enforcement on work pass offences must also protect deceived workers
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We refer to the report “MOM probes 45 firms involved in Changi Airport operations for work pass offences” (Nov 2).
The Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics (HOME) has been raising concerns with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) about the abuse of Employment Pass (EP) arrangements since 2025.
These EP applications are used to circumvent Work Permit (WP) quotas, source-country restrictions and foreign worker levies imposed by MOM.
Our casework indicates “EP holders” are being deployed to low-paid sectors such as parcel delivery, cleaning, and food and beverage services, which are occupations typically hired under WPs.
HOME has assisted many deceived and indebted workers who feel coerced to stay in such jobs despite highly exploitative working conditions, including excessive working hours, abject living conditions, inadequate food and underpayment.
The cases also underscore the need for companies to maintain stronger oversight and accountability throughout their supply chains. Companies’ tenders for outsourced services should include requirements for strong labour protections, including whistle-blowing protections for workers. Contracts should not simply be awarded to the cheapest bidder.
In meting out punishment, we also urge MOM to distinguish between employers and agents who profit from such arrangements and workers who have been deceived.
Affected workers should be allowed to recover unpaid salaries, seek redress and be given meaningful opportunities to secure jobs in Singapore, rather than face repatriation and be blacklisted.
Stephanie Chok
Executive Director
Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics