Dormitory operator faces 50 charges for poor living conditions of foreign workers dorm

For housing 50 foreign workers in quarters that had poor living conditions, Singaporean dormitory operator Yeo's Brother Management faces a total of 50 charges under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).

According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the company operates Ama Keng Hostel, a purpose-built dormitory located at 25 Ama Keng Road. 

Investigations revealed that there were 50 foreign workers living in quarters that had unsanitary toilet conditions, with signs of cockroach infestation and breeding of mosquitoes and flies. There were also fire hazards in the workers' quarters. 

Such unsafe and unhygienic living conditions severely undermined the safety and well-being of the foreign workers, said MOM, who immediately ordered the dormitory operator to relocate the affected foreign workers to other approved accommodation.

The dormitory has since ceased operations and Yeo's Brother Management has also been denied a licence under the Foreign Employee Dormitories Act.

If convicted, the company can be fined up to $10,000 for each charge.

MOM said it will not hesitate to take strong enforcement actions against dormitory operators, who provide poor accommodation to their resident workers. Similarly, employers who contravene any of the conditions of the work pass will also be guilty of an offence under the EFMA. 

On top of the penalties imposed by the Courts, MOM said it will also debar employers from hiring foreign workers.

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