A Lifeline for Migrant Workers Awaiting Investigation Outcomes
In recent years, Singapore has seen a shift in its approach toward migrant domestic workers accused of crimes. Through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) Temporary Job Scheme (TJS), more workers are now allowed to seek temporary employment while awaiting the outcomes of investigations, a move welcomed by NGOs and employment agencies.
Take the case of Nathalie, a 47-year-old Filipino domestic worker. Accused of theft by her employers in early 2024, Nathalie was initially unable to work while under police investigation. Concerned about her inability to support her daughter back home, she was granted permission in February to find temporary work. She secured a six-month contract as a hotel housekeeper in April, which provided much-needed financial relief.
Historically, the TJS was primarily offered to workers who were victims of crimes, but recent trends indicate a growing willingness to grant accused workers the same opportunity. Employment agencies have noted that fewer restrictions are now in place for workers involved in minor allegations, allowing them to take on roles like housekeeping or dishwashing in hotels and restaurants.
However, the shift in policy is not without challenges. Not all employers are willing to hire workers with criminal accusations pending, and those who do often find that these employees are particularly motivated to prove their worth. While many accused workers, like Nathalie, are ultimately exonerated, they often face stigma and difficulty in securing permanent employment once investigations conclude.
Rights groups argue that allowing accused workers to find temporary employment during investigations is crucial. For many migrant workers, being unemployed for an extended period can lead to financial hardship and anxiety, especially when they are the primary breadwinners for their families.
Despite the improvements, challenges remain for workers like Nathalie, who faced rejection from her former agency despite the charges against her being dropped. Fortunately, she was able to find a new agency and a potential employer, demonstrating the resilience of many migrant workers in Singapore’s complex employment landscape.
