Nearly 240 foreign workers owed up to 2 months’ pay; MOM investigating 2 firms

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has launched an investigation into two companies, Process Maintenance Solutions and Jurong Technical & Construction, regarding unpaid wages owed to nearly 240 migrant workers in the process sector. NTUC Deputy Secretary-General Desmond Choo stated that the workers, primarily from Bangladesh, have gone without pay for up to two months, with some having incurred recruitment fees of up to SGD 12,000. In response, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and MOM are coordinating efforts to provide centralized accommodation, meal assistance, and job-matching services for the affected individuals. Approximately 90 workers are currently receiving daily meals funded by the Migrant Workers’ Assistance Fund, while the Migrant Workers’ Centre assists them in filing salary claims with the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management. MOM emphasized that it views non-payment of salaries seriously and will take appropriate enforcement action if violations of employment laws are confirmed.

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower announced on October 24 that it is investigating two firms, Process Maintenance Solutions and Jurong Technical & Construction, regarding unpaid wages owed to migrant laborers. The ministry stated in a written release that it recognizes salary arrears affecting employees of these specific companies. Investigations remain active, and officials warned that appropriate enforcement measures will occur if violations of employment statutes are confirmed. Desmond Choo, deputy secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress, disclosed on October 23 that nearly 240 migrant workers in the process industry had not received compensation for periods extending up to two months. In a social media update, Choo detailed that the union is collaborating with the ministry to secure centralized housing, facilitate job placement, and assist with wage claims, including overtime remuneration. Approximately 90 of the affected individuals are currently receiving daily meals. Representatives from the Migrant Workers’ Centre and the ministry’s Assurance, Care and Engagement Group convened with 230 workers on October 19 and 20 to assess their requirements. Jeremiah Khoo, a senior executive at the union, noted in a video posted alongside Choo’s message that the workers originated from Bangladesh. Some had expended 12,000 Singapore dollars merely to arrive in the country. Khoo explained that if employers fail to settle debts, a nominal amount will be disbursed via an assistance fund. He added that workers unable to secure new positions locally might need to repatriate. Michael Lim, the union’s director for the migrant worker segment, issued a media statement on October 23 confirming that the center is aware of the outstanding claims against both firms. Lim emphasized that unpaid wages create severe hardship for workers and their dependent families. The center is helping staff file complaints with the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management. Meals are funded through the Migrant Workers’ Assistance Fund, while the center coordinates with recruitment agencies to provide transition aid and suitable employment options. The ministry stated it views non-payment of salaries with great seriousness. It is coordinating with the Migrant Workers’ Centre and the dispute management alliance to address immediate necessities such as shelter and alternative work arrangements. Both Choo and Lim encouraged members of the public to direct any migrant workers experiencing workplace or wage issues to the center’s 24-hour helpline at 6536 2692. The service offers support in multiple languages. Lim advised individuals to seek guidance promptly. Choe remarked that these workers merit payment for their labor and pledged full support. He concluded his remarks by stating that no worker should endure such difficulties in isolation. Almost all impacted individuals serve as the primary earners for their households abroad, meaning the delayed payments significantly affect their families.

2 reports

The Straits TimesParty-aligned🔒CenterFactual 90Objective 95Oct 24

Nearly 240 foreign workers owed up to 2 months’ pay; MOM investigating 2 firms

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of a labor dispute involving government regulatory action and union advocacy. It cites official statements from the Ministry of Manpower regarding enforcement actions alongside quotes from NTUC leaders detailing support measures for the workers. The tone is f

Why factuality (90): Highly accurate and detailed. Includes specific dates (Oct 23 vs Oct 24) and additional verified details like the $12,000 recruitment fee mentioned by Jeremiah Khoo, which aligns with typical reporting on this issue. No contradictions found.

Why objectivity (95): Objective and balanced. Presents the situation through factual reporting and attributed quotes from both the government (MOM) and the union (NTUC/MWC) without taking sides.

Channel NewsAsia (CNA)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 95Oct 24

MOM investigating two companies over unpaid salaries to migrant workers

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has launched investigations into two firms, Process Maintenance Solutions and Jurum Technical & Construction, regarding unpaid wages owed to migrant workers. NTUC Deputy Secretary-General Desmond Choo reported that approximately 240 workers in the process sector had not been paid for up to two months. In response, MOM stated it is collaborating with the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) and the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) to provide immediate aid, including accommodation, meals, and job-matching services. Officials met with around 230 affected workers in mid-October to assess their specific needs. The ministry emphasized that it treats wage non-payment seriously and will take enforcement action if violations of employment laws are confirmed. Most of the impacted individuals are sole providers for their families abroad, prompting calls for others to report similar issues via the MWC helpline.

Bias read (Center): The article reports on a regulatory enforcement action by a government ministry regarding labor law compliance. It relies heavily on direct quotes from official sources (MOM) and union representatives (NTUC), presenting the facts of the investigation and the support measures being provided without加载

Why factuality (85): Accurately reflects the core facts regarding MOM's investigation and NTUC's statements. Contains a minor typo ('invesgitations') but no substantive factual errors compared to the consensus.

Why objectivity (95): Neutral and professional tone. Relies on direct quotes from official sources (MOM, NTUC) without injecting editorial opinion or emotional language.

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Nearly 240 foreign workers owed up to 2 months’ pay; MOM investigating 2 firms

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