SINGAPORE — A former site manager employed by 800 Super Waste Management was sentenced to 49 days’ jail after he demanded payments from five migrant workers as a condition of their continued employment, the Ministry of Manpower said on Wednesday (Nov 11).
The ministry said in a news release that Koh Kim Sia pleaded guilty to five charges under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act involving the five workers, with 19 other charges taken into consideration for sentencing.
Kickbacks totalling S$18,000
Koh’s duties included recruiting and managing conservancy workers who provided estate cleaning and maintenance services for town councils. He also handled their work permit applications and renewals.
He admitted to receiving kickbacks — payments made in exchange for employment — ranging from S$2,000 (US$1,560) to S$4,000 from the five migrant workers, for a total of S$18,000. The payments were made between June and July 2021.
Enforcement and reporting channels
The ministry said that demanding or receiving employment kickbacks from migrant workers is a serious offence and that it will take enforcement action against individuals who exploit migrant workers for monetary gain.
Under the law, each charge of demanding or receiving kickbacks carries a maximum fine of S$30,000 or a jail term of up to two years, or both.
Migrant workers who suspect they are being asked to pay kickbacks can contact the Ministry of Manpower on 6438 5122 or the Migrant Workers’ Centre on 6536 2692 for help. Members of the public who are aware of suspicious employment activities, or who know of people or employers who contravene the law, should also report the matter to the ministry. The ministry said all information provided will be kept strictly confidential.