MOM investigating two firms after more than 100 migrant workers seek help over unpaid wages, housing issues
Two workers told CNA that their company had not paid them their wages for about three months.
Migrant workers at the Ministry of Manpower services centre in Bendemeer on Jun 22, 2026. (Photo: CNA/Ooi Boon Keong)
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SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is investigating two companies after more than 100 migrant workers showed up at the ministry's services centre in Bendemeer on Monday (Jun 22) to seek help for unpaid salaries and housing arrangements.
Ms Ng Hwei Min, general manager of the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM), said the work permit holders were from KPA Engineering and SK Industries.
Two workers told CNA that their company, KPA Engineering, had not paid them their wages for about three months.
Mr Zakir Hossin, 38, said he is owed more than S$4,000 (US$3,100). He has been working for the company since September last year.
He received S$200 two weeks ago, but said it was not enough to survive on.
"We cannot find any of the bosses," he said. "We are calling them, but we cannot find them, that's why we came here."
Mr Zakir said he believes the company is likely bankrupt.
He added that MOM staff had told him his work permit could be cancelled, and arranged for him to be placed on another pass while he looks for a new job.
Another worker, Mr Rajendran Brathap, 36, said they had been told their salaries would be paid on Saturday. When no payment came, they decided to go to MOM for help.
Ms Ng said that TADM and MOM are providing workers with the necessary assistance, including reaching out to their employers.
"We understand that the current period is a difficult and uncertain one for the workers," she said, adding that the immediate priority is to support them by ensuring they have access to appropriate housing and meals.
The workers can also look for new employment if they want to do so.
She added: "MOM will take the necessary and appropriate enforcement action against the companies should they be found to have breached any of the employment laws."
CNA called KPA Engineering three times on a mobile number listed online. An automated voice said the number was engaged and asked the caller to try again later.
CNA has also contacted SK Industries for more information.
The Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) said in a statement on Monday evening that it was helping with the workers' immediate needs and was also providing further support, like temporary shelter, if needed.
"When MWC met the migrant workers at the Ministry of Manpower this morning, many had little or no money for food or transportation," said Michael Lim, director of NTUC's migrant workers segment.
The centre arranged for food and transportation assistance for the workers, he said.
MWC will provide further support to the workers if needed, including temporary shelter and a change of employment, Mr Lim said.
The centre will help the affected workers pursue their salary claims through TADM and continue to see that their immediate needs are taken care of while the claims are being worked out, he said.
MWC visited the dormitory of the affected workers and engaged more than 300 workers about their concerns.
"Paying workers their salaries fully and on time is a responsibility of every employer. MWC urges all employers to uphold their obligations to their workers, and MWC will be alongside to support workers whose rights are not respected," said Mr Lim.
Migrant workers are advised to seek help early from MOM or the MWC if they face salary-related issues, employment disputes or other workplace concerns.
