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Singapore: Many unhappy with work and social realities

Published

10 years ago

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By Think Centre
Mon 14 July 2014 (Singapore) – A lot of media attention has been focused on the low wages of Singaporeans recently and how many are finding it hard to keep up with the cost of living.
A recent survey by JobStreet.com found that only 31% of Singaporeans said their salary can cover only their basic needs and some non-essential luxuries while 42% said it is only sufficient to meet their basic needs. A shocking 23% said they were still struggling to make ends meet and from this last group, 70% earn less than $3000/month. Only 4% were comfortable with their salaries.
A similar survey by CIMB revealed “about 43% reckon thatthe dollar amount they spend on groceries and utilities has increased by25-50% while 42% estimate that their bills have gone up by 1-25%.”
The latest figures from the Central Provident Fund also showed that more than half of active CPF members who turn 55 have less than the Minimum Sum in their accounts. The newly retired have insufficient CPF for retirement and struggle daily for their survival.
It is even more troubling to learn that many elderly citizens, people who have worked all their lives to contribute to the wealth of our country, are still eking out a living working as cleaners of toilets and hawker centres and doing other menial tasks. What is worse, is that they are paid very little wages.
Local economists have also warned that the widening gap between the haves and have-nots has reached alarming proportions. Singapore suffers from one of the world’s highest Gini coefficients, which measures income inequality. Although the co-efficient have decreased from 0.463 to 0.412 from 2012 to 2013, it still remains amongst the highest in the world. We urge the government to institute a minimum wage system for workers across all sectors so that would allow the bottom twenty percent to catch up with the rest of the country. We also support the chairman of the National Wage Council Professor Lim Chong Yah’s proposal to include a compulsory element in future NWC recommendations that would raise the wages of the low and very low-income earners.
But the government continues to reject calls for a minimum wage and when most of the less skilled local have inadequate wages to provide decent living conditions for their families. It is not just the breadwinner who suffers in such cases, it is also the children and aged who bear the burden of poverty. These burdens mark children at a very young age, depriving them of the resources to help them compete in school and prevent them from breaking out of the poverty trap.
Such lack of social mobility in turn exacerbates the problem of income inequality, as subsequent generations from poorer backgrounds will find it increasingly harder to break away from the clutches of poverty. What is even more inexcusable is the reluctance of the government to even draw a poverty line so that the problem can be measured and managed. Denying the problems will not make it go away, it just gives an impression that they are shirking from responsibility. Without acknowledging that there is a problem, no national resources will be channeled to solving it.
It is shocking that Singaporean workers in the 20th percentile have experienced no increase in real income from 2001 to 2010. This is happening in a nation that boasts one of the highest percentages of millionaires in the world.
More must be done by the government in the redistribution of the country’s wealth to ameliorate the widening income gap of its citizens. Although it tried to reduce personal income tax from 28% in 2002 to 20% 2007, the Goods and Service Tax has increased from the initial 3% to 7% today. This form of taxation is regressive in nature as it affects the poor more than the rich. Whatever temporary offset the government gave are not sufficient to overcome the permanent burden of such a tax on the low wage earners.
Many Singaporean workers have little bargaining power and do not have the capacity to deal with unreasonable employers. There are still many who continue to seek help from the Ministry of Manpower about their poor working conditions and non-contribution of CPF by errant employers even today. Irresponsible employers exploit them through depressed wages, unreasonable work hours, discrimination and unfair dismissals oppress them.
The brazenness of the authorities is so stark that they disregard international standards and insists on going it on their own. The country has only ratified 5 out of the 8 core conventions enumerated in the 1998 ILO declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. The government continues to resist ratifying conventions 87, 105 and 111, depriving workers in Singapore the protection they deserve and exposing them to exploitations from unscrupulous employers.
It is a prerequisite for the Employers to ensure that the “Term of Employment” offered to all workers is respectful of the Employment Act that must include decent working standards, fair living wages, and the ILO Declarations on fundamental principles and rights at work. The ILO International Core Labour Standards (CLS) are put in place for the very purpose of protecting all workers must be incorporated into national laws like the Employment Act of Singapore.
Without such a comprehensive and coherent labour framework, local and migrant workers will continue to be pitted against each other benefiting only the employers as they languish without adequate social and labour rights protections.
Lastly, we urge the government to sign the forthcoming ASEAN instrument on the promotion and protection of the rights of migrant workers. This would help raise the level of protection and promotion of migrant worker’s rights to international standards in 2015.
Singapore needs to harmonize its labour, environmental laws and human right’s standards to internationally acceptable legal standards to practically actualize the sustainable development agenda of ASEAN.
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Civil Society

29 organisations demand criminal prosecution of law-breaking police in Malaysia

A coalition of 29 organisations is demanding that Malaysia end the perception of shielding law enforcement officers from prosecution when involved in serious violations like torture and killings. Highlighting cases such as the disappearances of Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat, they call for accountability through criminal charges.

Published

2 days ago

on

3 October 2024

By

Activist Amri Che Mat and Pastor Raymond Koh

A coalition of 29 organisations is calling for an end to what they describe as a “policy” or perception in Malaysia that shields police and law enforcement officers from criminal prosecution, even when they are involved in serious violations such as death, torture, or human rights abuses.

These groups argue that law enforcement officers who break the law should be subject to the same criminal prosecution and sentencing as ordinary citizens.

The coalition points to several high-profile cases where police officers allegedly committed serious crimes, yet no action was taken to prosecute those responsible.

They argue that merely subjecting officers to internal disciplinary actions does not fulfil the public’s demand for justice. Instead, such officers must be charged and tried in open courts, allowing for transparency in the administration of justice.

Enforced Disappearance of Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat

One prominent case cited is the enforced disappearance of Pastor Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat. In 2019, the Malaysian Human Rights Commission (SUHAKAM) concluded, following a public inquiry, that both men were likely victims of enforced disappearance carried out by police officers from the Special Branch.

The government formed a Special Task Force to investigate SUHAKAM’s findings, but when the report was completed, it was classified as an “Official Secret” and was not disclosed to the public.

Recently, during a civil trial initiated by the families of the victims, parts of the report were revealed.

These findings supported SUHAKAM’s conclusions, asserting that the officers involved were rogue individuals acting independently. However, despite this revelation, no criminal charges have been filed against the responsible officers.

The delay in prosecuting these officers, even after clear findings, further bolsters the perception that Malaysia protects its law enforcement officers from the full extent of the law.

Assault on Ong Ing Keong

In another case, Ong Ing Keong, a deaf and mute e-hailing driver, was allegedly assaulted on 28 May 2024 by a police officer escorting a VIP.

Despite video evidence supporting Ong’s claims, no charges have been brought against the officer involved. This case has raised further questions about the government’s willingness to hold law enforcement accountable.

Failures in Investigating Police-Related Deaths

The coalition also highlights multiple cases involving deaths caused by police officers, where no significant legal action has been taken.

A coroner’s court ruling on 31 May 2023 determined that the fatal shooting of three men by police officers was not justified as an act of self-defence. Despite this finding, the officers involved have not been charged.

Similarly, in a separate incident, the High Court ruled on 1 February 2024 that the death of a man in Sitiawan, Perak, at the hands of police was homicide, yet no charges have been filed.

The coalition argues that these incidents contribute to a widespread loss of public confidence in Malaysia’s criminal justice system, particularly when it comes to cases involving law enforcement officers.

They stress that the government must act decisively to ensure that justice is seen to be done, by investigating, charging, and prosecuting officers found responsible for these crimes.

Concerns About Torture and Deaths in Custody

There are growing concerns over allegations of torture and deaths in police custody, with many cases seemingly underreported due to victims’ fear or lack of faith in the system.

The groups worry that if the public continues to perceive that justice is inaccessible, it may lead to increased incidents of violence or retaliation against police officers.

The Need for Clearer Laws and Specific Offences

The coalition believes that existing Malaysian laws, such as the Federal Constitution and the Criminal Procedure Code, clearly outline the legal obligations of police officers.

However, they argue that there is a need for additional specific laws to address violations committed by law enforcement officers, particularly in cases involving torture, illegal searches, or denial of legal rights.

They propose enacting special criminal offences targeting police misconduct to ensure greater accountability.

They further highlight the challenge posed by the fact that police misconduct often occurs in the presence of fellow officers, who may be reluctant to report their colleagues. This creates a culture of impunity within the force, making it difficult for victims to seek justice.

Recommendations for Reform

The coalition’s demands include the immediate investigation, charging, and trial of the officers responsible for the enforced disappearance of Raymond Koh and Amri Che Mat, as well as the disclosure of their whereabouts.

They also call for the prosecution of officers involved in the disappearance of Joshua Hilmy and Ruth Sitepu, based on findings from SUHAKAM’s public inquiry.

Moreover, the group advocates for the prosecution of the officers involved in the assault of Ong Ing Keong and those found guilty of homicide in recent court decisions.

They also call for the implementation of new laws to address police misconduct and for the government to take active steps to discard the perception that law enforcement officers are immune from prosecution.

The coalition urges the Malaysian government to demonstrate its commitment to justice by ensuring that all law enforcement officers who break the law are charged and tried in open courts.

This transparency, they argue, is critical to restoring public faith in the country’s criminal justice system.

The list of the 29 organisations in the coalition

  1. ALIRAN
  2. MADPET (Malaysians Against Death Penalty and Torture)
  3. Teoh Beng Hock Association for Democratic Advancement
  4. Association of Home and Maquila Workers (ATRAHDOM), Guatemala
  5. Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha (MASUM), India
  6. Center for Orang Asli Concerns (COAC)
  7. Greenpeace Malaysia
  8. Global Women’s Strike, UK
  9. Haiti Action Committee
  10. KLSCAH Civil Rights Committee (KLSCAH CRC)
  11. Legal Action for Women, UK
  12. Migrant Care, Indonesia
  13. National Garment Workers Federation, Bangladesh
  14. North South Initiative, Malaysia
  15. National Union of Transport Equipment & Allied Industries Workers (NUTEAIW), West Malaysia
  16. Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM)
  17. PAYDAY Men’s Network (UK/US)
  18. Persatuan Amal Progresif Malaysia
  19. Persatuan Sahabat Wanita Selangor (PSWS)
  20. Programme Against Custodial Torture & Impunity (PACTI), India
  21. Sabah Timber Industry Employees Union (STIEU)
  22. Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (SADIA)
  23. Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia (SABM)
  24. Singapore Anti Death Penalty Campaign (SADPC)
  25. The Workers’ Assistance Center, Inc. (WAC), Philippines
  26. Union of Domestic, Maquila, Nexas and Related Workers (SITRADOM), Guatemala
  27. WH4C (Workers Hub for Change)
  28. Black Women for Wages for Housework, US
  29. Women of Color/Global Women’s Strike, US/UK
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Civil Society

WMP: The Dyson lay-offs is a test of how useful PAP’s relationship with unions is for workers

In response to Dyson’s recent layoffs, Workers Make Possible (WMP) questioned whether The United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries (UWEEI), an NTUC affiliate, will fight for workers’ livelihoods or accept defeat. WMP highlighted that many PAP leaders, including SM Teo Chee Hean and MP Patrick Tay, lead UWEEI’s Council of Advisors, raising concerns about its effectiveness.

Published

3 days ago

on

2 October 2024

By

The recent lay-off decision by UK-based tech giant Dyson in Singapore has raised significant questions about the effectiveness of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP)’s relationship with unions, according to local civil society group Workers Make Possible (WMP).

In an Instagram post, WMP shared two screenshots of news articles, highlighting the irony of British billionaire James Dyson receiving the Public Service Star (Distinguished Friends of Singapore) award in July 2023 for his contributions to the Singaporean economy.

However, fast forward to recently, Dyson’s unexpected round of layoffs left many employees in shock and morale at an all-time low, with only a day’s notice given to The United Workers of Electronics and Electrical Industries (UWEEI), an affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).

 

According to Channel News Asia, the layoffs come just three months after Dyson had assured staff that its Singapore operations, which serve as its global headquarters, would be unaffected by a global restructuring that had cut 1,000 jobs in Britain.

Employees reported that the retrenchment process was conducted discreetly, with affected workers receiving email notifications for private “one-on-one” meetings.

During these meetings, attended by human resources representatives, employees were informed that their roles had been rendered redundant.

A Dyson spokesperson responded to media inquiries by stating that the company was adjusting its team composition to ensure it had the right skills in place for future growth.

“Our ambitions in Singapore remain unchanged, and we expect to continue growing here in the medium term,” the spokesperson said.

Dyson did not, however, disclose the number of employees laid off or provide specifics on how the company plans to support the affected staff.

UWEEI expressed disappointment over the layoffs, revealing that it was informed only a day before the retrenchment, which left little room for meaningful discussions.

The union has since escalated the matter to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) for further review.

While the union acknowledged that the affected employees fell outside its scope of representation under its agreement with Dyson, it pledged to support the laid-off workers in collaboration with NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i).

UWEEI and e2i will assist with job searches, career coaching, and retraining. The union also called on companies to adhere to NTUC’s Fair Retrenchment Framework, emphasizing the need to protect local workers and ensure that adequate support is given during layoffs.

WMP Calls on UWEEI to Act Decisively Amidst Dyson Layoffs, Questioning PAP’s Commitment to Worker Advocacy

Commenting on UWEEI’s response to the recent Dyson layoffs, WMP noted that many PAP members are part of its Council of Advisors, with Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean serving as Chairman and PAP MP Patrick Tay as secretary.

WMP also pointed out that during a parliamentary sitting last month, PAP MPs fervently defended the importance of involvement in trade unions to protect workers.

“Critics should pause their judgement and see what the UWEEI can do in this moment of crisis for the laid-off workers,” WMP remarked.

The group questioned the effectiveness of UWEEI’s actions, suggesting that if PAP MPs are correct in their assertions, then UWEEI should not remain passive.

“It surely cannot be the case that all the UWEEI is able to advertise up-skilling programs to laid-off workers?”

WMP questioned what UWEEI’s next steps will be and whether they will accept defeat or fight for workers’ livelihoods.

 

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