Govt to introduce regulatory framework for larger dormitories for foreign workers

SINGAPORE – The Manpower Ministry will be introducing a regulatory framework for larger dormitories, as part of its efforts to better manage and look after foreign workers in Singapore, said Acting Manpower Minister Tan Chuan-Jin today (April 18).

The ministry yesterday held a discussion with key players in the foreign worker dormitory sector – such as the Dormitory Association of Singapore, the Singapore Contractors Association and the Port of Singapore Authority – where it explained the need to do so.

Mr Tan described the discussions so far as constructive, and added that the ministry looks to introduce the regulation in the next couple of months, without elaborating further.

Mr Tan was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the official opening of Westlite Mandai Dormitory.

The joint development between construction group Lian Beng Group and dormitory developer Centurion Corporation can house 6,300 workers, in 14-16 bed units which have ensuite bathrooms and a kitchen.

Besides a supermarket, a coffeeshop, ATM machines, laundromats and a gymnasium, the facility also has a reading room with local newspapers in addition to national newspapers from India and Bangladesh, and provides free WIFI access.

It also has a futsal, a basketball and a volleyball court, and a cricket batting cage.

In his speech at the event, Mr Tan said developments such as Westlite Mandai, which cater to workers’ social and recreational needs, complement the Government’s efforts to ensure that the well-being of foreign works is taken care of, while enabling employers to fulfil their obligations to provide appropriate accommodation to these workers.