Singapore refutes claim that over 100 Malaysian workers homeless

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Singapore Ministry of Manpower Refutes Claims of Over 100 Homeless Malaysian Work Pass Holders

The Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has stated that claims of over 100 Malaysian work pass holders being homeless in Singapore are unsubstantiated. Following engagement with the individual who made the assertion, it was found that he could not provide specific details or confirm the alleged homelessness of any Malaysian workers. Singapore's government maintains established procedures and an Inter-Agency Taskforce to address such issues, and has found no evidence to support the claims.
Inability to Substantiate Claims

MOM engaged with Shahruddin Hael Helmy Mohd Noh, the Malaysian individual who made the claims, on November 23 and 27. During these engagements, Shahruddin was unable to furnish specific names or contact details of the alleged homeless workers. He admitted to never having spoken directly with any of these individuals and could not confirm if they were indeed homeless, nor was he aware of any Malaysian worker without accommodation. Furthermore, he stated he did not tell a reporter from The New Straits Times that "over 100 Malaysians there had become homeless."
Inter-Agency Taskforce Findings

Singapore's government operates an Inter-Agency Taskforce, comprising officers from MOM, the Ministry of Social and Family Development, and the Singapore Police Force, which conducts routine inspections across the island. As part of these checks, officers visited various locations, including those cited by Shahruddin, on the night of November 26. These inspections did not result in the discovery of any work pass holders sleeping on the streets.
Assistance Protocols for Rough Sleepers

In instances where individuals are found sleeping in the open, including work pass holders, assistance is rendered. Their employers are then required to provide immediate lodging. Should an employer be unable to do so, the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) will provide interim housing. MOM also maintains links with various non-governmental organisations (NGOs) for referrals, but has not received any such referrals for work pass holders sleeping rough in recent months.
Employer Obligations and Public Reporting Channels

MOM reiterated that employers are obligated to provide proper accommodation for their foreign employees during their stay in Singapore. The ministry also highlighted that members of the public who are aware of any work pass holders facing accommodation issues can report these cases to MOM or the MWC's 24-hour hotline at 6536 2692 for further assistance.

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Singapore refutes claim that over 100 Malaysian workers homeless

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