MOM takes collaborative tack with dorm operators, residents

Its officers are now organised into districts, enabling them to foster close working ties

Mr Andrew Seah conducting an inspection at Homestay Lodge dormitory in Kaki Bukit last month.
Mr Andrew Seah conducting an inspection at Homestay Lodge dormitory in Kaki Bukit last month. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
Mr Seah talking to a resident of Homestay Lodge dormitory during an inspection last month. Besides playing the role of regulator, he has also mediated salary disputes and put together bazaars for workers staying at construction sites.
Mr Seah talking to a resident of Homestay Lodge dormitory during an inspection last month. Besides playing the role of regulator, he has also mediated salary disputes and put together bazaars for workers staying at construction sites. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
New: Gift this subscriber-only story to your friends and family

Inspectors from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) used to visit the dormitories for foreign workers managed by Mr Eugene Aw only once or twice a year.

Such visits tended to be officious affairs, with MOM inspectors checking if the dorms complied with occupancy limits and had adequate facilities such as the regulated number of urinals and stoves.

Already a subscriber? 

Read the full story and more at $9.90/month

Get exclusive reports and insights with more than 500 subscriber-only articles every month

Unlock these benefits

  • All subscriber-only content on ST app and straitstimes.com

  • Easy access any time via ST app on 1 mobile device

  • E-paper with 2-week archive so you won't miss out on content that matters to you

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 06, 2021, with the headline MOM takes collaborative tack with dorm operators, residents. Subscribe