NTUC commits $2.5m to boost migrant workers’ welfare and training

NTUC has committed $2.5 million to support migrant workers’ welfare and training.

The Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) will use the fund to upskill migrant workers, allow migrant worker to organise their own recreation-centre activities and, through gift bags, help defray the workers’ living costs.

NTUC announced the fund at the Migrant Workers’ Segment (MWS) Partners’ Appreciation event on 18 September 2024.

NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng said that the $2.5 million commitment underscores NTUC’s dedication to enhancing the welfare and skills of migrant workers.

“At NTUC, we believe that every worker deserves the opportunity to grow, thrive, and be appreciated, regardless of where they come from,” said Mr Ng.

NTUC Migrant Workers Segment Director Michael Lim said that the $2.5 million fund would not only enhance the welfare and training opportunities available to migrant workers but also create more touchpoints for meaningful engagement and support.

“By providing more avenues for skill development and community activities, we are committed to empowering our migrant workers to achieve their career aspirations and fostering a stronger sense of belonging within our community," added Mr Lim.

Career advancement for MWC’s ambassadors

MWC will allocate funds from the $2.5 million to subsidise courses for up to 1,500 MWC ambassadors over 18 months from 1 July 2024.

MWC will collaborate with partners such as NTUC LearningHub to provide relevant courses such as Technology Application in Workplace Safety & Health, Operating Forklift, and Supervise Construction Work for Workplace Safety & Health.

Mr Ng said that help from the fund will help provide MWC ambassadors with the tools and support for career advancements and a better quality of life.

He added: “Through this initiative, we are not just investing in their future but also strengthening the foundation of our inclusive workforce. Beyond these initiatives, our social enterprises are also committed to positively impacting the lives of migrant workers.”

MWC’s initiative to help its ambassadors in their career advancements comes after feedback through dialogues and engagements via the MWC Ambassador network.

Engagements with 6,600 ambassadors show that many are keen to upskill themselves.

Providing resources to organise activities

Through MWC’s dialogues with migrant workers, many have expressed their desire to contribute positively to their community.

In response, MWC will provide resources for migrant workers to organise activities within the four recreation centres operated by MWC and NTUC Club.

MWC said that the ground-up initiatives, including sports activities and training workshops will foster a sense of ownership and encourage greater participation amongst migrant workers.

MWC will also subsidise the activities conducted at the four recreation centres.

Defraying the cost of living

MWC associate members can also look forward to receiving appreciation gift bags.

The gift bags will include a curated selection of essential items to support migrant workers’ well-being and defray the costs of living.

MWC will distribute the bags through their MWC’s various touchpoints, such as recreation centres, onboarding centres and events.