Mindset change needed towards migrant workers - and manual work

THIS WEEK'S TOPIC: How should Singapore address the issue of foreign workers' housing and living conditions? Can/should the economy reduce its reliance on work permit holders?

Victor Mills Chief Executive Singapore International Chamber of Commerce

SINGAPORE should mandate that all employers of foreign workers house their employees in a manner which always promotes good public health and always respects human dignity. Current practices are not acceptable. Employers should also take full responsibility for feeding their employees at all times and not expect charities to do it for them. All this will cost which will have to be factored into tenders. Once the true cost of treating foreign workers with respect is known, it will force employers to reduce their dependence on foreign workers and increase collaboration and innovation in the construction sector. It is long overdue.