From the first quarter of 2025, migrant workers in Singapore will have access to free legal assistance and representation. This support will be provided at the Migrant Workers’ Law Centre, located at the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) in Serangoon. The centre will address various employment-related challenges, including unpaid salaries and work injury disputes.
Staffed by a full-time community lawyer and programme coordinator, the law centre will also involve volunteers from Pro Bono SG, SG Cares Volunteer Centres, and other organisations dedicated to migrant worker welfare. This initiative stems from a partnership agreement signed on December 15, 2024, between NTUC and Pro Bono SG during International Migrants Day celebrations at Jurong Lake Gardens.
The collaboration is designed to enhance legal awareness and advocacy while bridging gaps in social and legal support for migrant workers. MWC Executive Director Michael Lim emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that many workers face barriers such as language difficulties and limited resources. Volunteer Kyaw Myo Naing highlighted the struggles of workers dealing with salary disputes and stressed the need for awareness about available support.
The International Migrants Day celebrations also featured cultural performances, sports tournaments, and activities to strengthen ties between local and migrant communities. Over 10,000 attendees participated in events at Jurong Lake Gardens, with Manpower Minister Tan See Leng acknowledging the significant contributions of migrant workers to Singapore’s development.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) announced plans to revamp recreation centres for migrant workers, including the Kaki Bukit and Woodlands centres, with new features like training spaces and expanded services. The Soon Lee centre, operated by MWC, will be transformed into a recreation hub offering diverse amenities and services. The redevelopment of these centres is expected to be completed by the early 2030s.