Measures to Maintain Racial Harmony and Security in Migrant Workers Dormitories

Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Manpower (a) what are the measures taken to maintain harmony and security in dormitories which house migrant workers from different nationalities, ethnicities and backgrounds; and (b) whether there are any proactive steps to promote multi-racial and ethnicity harmony among residents in these dormitories.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) pays close attention and emphasis to ensure harmonious relations amongst migrant workers living in dormitories through various measures.

First, all newly arrived work permit holders are required to attend the Settling-in Programme (SIP) to introduce them to Singapore laws and social norms, including the importance of living and working harmoniously with people of different races and religions. The SIP is conducted in the workers’ native languages to aid understanding.

MOM also works closely with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), dormitory operators, employers, and community partners to organise regular social activities for our migrant workers at the dormitories and the Recreation Centres. This includes festive occasions such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa and Deepavali and the International Migrants’ Day where migrant workers regardless of nationalities and ethnicities can participate in these cultural and religious celebrations. These activities serve as an opportunity for migrant workers of different nationalities to be more aware and appreciate different cultures.

To deepen engagement and strengthen social support for our migrant workers, MOM had established the Friends of ACE (FACE) Network, which comprise of migrant worker volunteers who serve as a bridge between their peers and MOM. These FACE volunteers who are residents in the dormitories can identify and surface ground sentiments and concerns for early intervention.

To maintain a safe and harmonious living environment, dormitory operators are mindful and alert to the religious and cultural sensitivities of the various ethnic groups. They are required to put in place measures to minimise potential conflicts amongst residents and respond swiftly to manage any incident affecting the safety, security or well-being of residents. MOM takes a serious view on civil disturbances in the dormitories by any migrant worker using violence and will revoke the work pass and permanently bar them from employment in Singapore.