Migrant workers contribute far beyond construction and infrastructure. They are integral to the industries that keep Singapore functioning, supporting the services and conveniences that underpin everyday life, notes Michael Lim, executive director of Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC).
When problems arise, migrant workers often don’t know where to turn or how to navigate the systems available to them. Language barriers, unfamiliarity with support options, and fears about speaking up can further complicate matters. Some may fear termination, while others may hesitate to take time off work.
Established in 2009 as a joint initiative of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and the Singapore National Employers Federation, MWC advocates for fair employment practices and migrant workers’ well-being. Its work includes the Settling-in Programme, which introduces newly arrived workers to Singapore’s laws, workplace expectations, and community norms. It also provides dedicated hotlines for employment advice, a recreation club for social and community activities, humanitarian assistance through its charity arm, and legal support via its partnership with Pro Bono SG.
Lim has spent 26 years in the labour movement, starting in NTUC’s Skills Development Department before joining NTUC’s e2i, where he focused on employment placement and upskilling. In 2012, he moved into union work, helping workers negotiate fair wages and benefits and supporting them through employment disputes and retrenchments. He assumed his current role in 2023.
In crises such as sudden company insolvencies that leave hundreds unpaid, MWC’s immediate priority is to safeguard their well-being by reaching out, assessing their immediate needs and providing reassurance during uncertainty and stress.
The team collaborates with the Ministry of Manpower, NTUC, employers, unions, and community partners to coordinate practical support—from food and transport to essential supplies and guidance on employment and claims processes.
“No single organisation can do this alone. Our strength lies in tripartite collaboration and beyond to ensure workers receive timely support and work towards fair and orderly outcomes for all parties.”
Michael Lim on the power of partnerships
A key challenge is supporting workers who suffer major illnesses or serious accidents that prevent them from continuing to work. In the most extreme cases, it can cost them their lives. This prompted MWC to introduce insurance protection through its membership programme, giving migrant workers an added layer of financial protection beyond mandatory coverage.
Another is building trust across a diverse community with varying languages, cultures, and experiences. “Trust isn’t built overnight— it takes time, consistency, and genuine engagement. Staying close to the ground is important because listening helps us better understand the realities workers face and respond in ways that are meaningful.”
Lim wishes businesses would look after these workers out of goodwill, not for the sake of meeting compliance requirements. Those that invest in their workers’ well-being often build stronger teams and more sustainable workplaces, he notes.
With inclusion now a buzzword, he hopes the broader community recognises that true inclusion starts with seeing migrant workers as fellow members of our society. “Respect doesn’t have to come through grand gestures. It can be as simple as acknowledging their contributions, treating them with kindness, and making them feel welcome in the spaces we all share. Creating an inclusive society is something we all have a part to play in.
“Every migrant worker is a brother, father, son or grandson—each with a family, hopes, aspirations, and loved ones counting on them.”
Photography Mun Kong & Hizuan Zailani
Art direction Annalisa Espino Lim
Grooming Keith Bryant Lee using Kevin Murphy & Make Up For Ever
