In a significant move to support the rights of migrant workers, the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) announced today that beginning in the first quarter of 2025, it will provide free legal assistance and representation to migrant workers facing employment-related challenges. The new service, based at MWC’s Serangoon office, will be available to workers dealing with issues such as unpaid salaries, work injury compensation disputes, and other employment grievances.
The Migrant Workers’ Law Centre, a key component of this initiative, will be staffed by a full-time community lawyer and program coordinator, with the added support of volunteers from Pro Bono SG, SG Cares Volunteer Centres, and other organizations specializing in migrant worker advocacy.
This groundbreaking initiative follows the signing of a partnership agreement between the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Pro Bono SG on December 15, 2024. The signing ceremony took place during an International Migrants Day celebration at Jurong Lake Gardens, an event jointly organized by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), MWC, the Alliance of Guest Workers Outreach, and the Salvation Army.
The collaboration between MWC and Pro Bono SG aims to enhance legal awareness, provide legal advice, and advocate for the rights of migrant workers in Singapore. The partnership seeks to bridge the gap between legal services and other forms of social support, helping migrant workers navigate legal systems that can be complex and intimidating, particularly for those who may face language barriers or lack financial resources to hire a lawyer.
Michael Lim, Executive Director of MWC, emphasized the importance of the new service. “We understand the difficulties migrant workers face in accessing legal services. With this partnership, we aim to bring better legal access to migrant workers as part of our ongoing commitment to championing their rights,” he said. “The Migrant Workers’ Law Centre is a significant step towards ensuring every worker in Singapore feels supported and valued.”
One of the most pressing challenges migrant workers face is unpaid salaries or disputes over compensation. Kyaw Myo Naing, a migrant worker and MWC volunteer, shared his experience of helping migrant workers resolve salary-related issues. He highlighted that many workers are reluctant to raise concerns about late salaries or unpaid overtime due to fear of job retaliation. “Spreading the message that legal help is available is crucial,” Kyaw said. “Many workers don’t know where to turn for help.”
The announcement comes amidst the vibrant celebrations of International Migrants Day, which saw over 10,000 migrant workers participate in activities designed to strengthen bonds between local and migrant communities. Held at Jurong Lake Gardens, the event featured cultural performances, sports tournaments, and a special Kabbadi competition.
In his address, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng reaffirmed the essential role migrant workers play in Singapore’s growth. “The migrant community is an integral part of Singapore’s story. You build our homes, care for our loved ones, and contribute to our nation’s progress,” he said.
In addition to the legal support initiative, MOM announced plans to enhance migrant worker recreation centres, which provide essential social spaces for workers. The ministry is calling for proposals to revitalize the Kaki Bukit and Woodlands recreation centres in 2025, as part of an ongoing effort to create vibrant, inviting environments that cater to the diverse needs of migrant workers.
MWC’s initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve the welfare of migrant workers in Singapore. MOM is also working on plans to transform the Soon Lee and Kaki Bukit recreation centres into hubs of community activity, providing more government services, retail options, and spaces for training and development. The redevelopment project is expected to be completed by the early 2030s.
Through these efforts, MWC, Pro Bono SG, and MOM aim to create a more inclusive environment for migrant workers, offering them the legal tools, social support, and recreational opportunities they need to thrive in Singapore.
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