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AWARE co-produces a series of policy wishlists spurring policy-makers to reimagine gender equality in Singapore

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3 years ago

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Women’s rights and gender-equality advocacy group AWARE has co-produced a series of policy wishlists coinciding with the government’s 2021 White Paper on improving gender equality.

The wishlists were produced following in-depth discussions by the group with 191 members of the public on the changes they most wanted to see policy-makers in Singapore enact on the subject of gender equality.

The effort, titled “Reimagining Equality” includes challenges and recommendations in several areas from sex education to workplace discrimination.

The 191 participants attended 29 virtual community discussions held by AWARE between March and May 2021, each falling into one of the following groups: single parents; migrant spouses; students, parents and teachers who had opinions on sexuality education; individuals who had experienced workplace discrimination, harassment and/or bullying; students at Institutes of Higher Learning who were concerned about campus sexual harassment; and men who were interested in advocating for gender equality.

This made for “an opportunity to collaborate with people of all ages calling for us to do better for our future generations,” said Daryl Yang, who led discussions on sexuality education.

“Drawing on participants’ diverse experiences, the discussions allowed us to brainstorm creative and important recommendations, and build consensus across generational and ideological differences on the changes we need to see.”

As Mr Yang noted, discussions were frequently “difficult and painful, as participants bravely shared stories of abuse and discrimination”. Yet this “open and rewarding” quality enabled a rich sharing of ideas.

AWARE will submit a comprehensive “omnibus report” of gender equality recommendations, based on its own research and advocacy positions, to the government in late July, said the group.

Among the concerns set out by the group of single parents includes limited housing options impacted by finances, and needs assessments that underestimate household expenditure.

Divorced parents reported having to apply many times over for maintenance to be enforced, whereas unwed parents worried that their “illegitimate” children were not eligible for intestate inheritance.

Policy changes suggested by this group included allowing single parents the same housing and grant options as married applicants; establishing a governmental Child Support Agency to manage maintenance payments; abolishing the concept of “illegitimacy” under inheritance law; and making financial aid criteria more inclusive.

The group of migrant spouses, on the other hand, noted concerns of the prospect of being separated from their Singaporean children, their inability to co-own homes, and their limited work options.

Some policy changes proposed by this group include simplifying access to Permanent Residence which would help facilitate homeownership; and granting the automatic right to work without Letters of Consent.

As for victims of workplace harassment and bullying, the concerns cited were a general lack of understanding of workplace bullying and a lack of options for recourse; the absence of an anti-harassment training program for employers, employees and interns, TAFEP’s insufficient powers to assist complainants; and the prospect of retaliation from workplace harassers, among others.

Some policy changes that were suggested include introducing national legislation on workplace harassment, mandating relevant training, updating TAFEP and TADM websites to clarify recourse available against bullying, and establishing an external regulatory body to investigate harassment. Also suggested was for audits of companies’ HR policies and processes.

Moving on, the group of victims of workplace discrimination cited concerns regarding the lack of comprehensive legal protections for employees who experience discrimination as well as the lack of awareness of internal reporting processes. Again, TAFEP’s insufficient enforcement powers were brought up as well.

Here, policy changes suggested include much of the same i.e introducing comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, mandating relevant training, and establishing an external regulatory body to investigate cases and complaints of discrimination.

In terms of students at institutes of higher learning (IHLs), the group noted that they were concerned about the lack of standardised protocol for dealing with campus sexual harassment as well as policies and processes that were not victim-centric, including the behaviours of staff handling such cases. Also noted was the re-traumatising effect of institutions making police reports without the victim’s consent.

On this front, suggestions include introducing a National Code of Conduct across all IHLs, implementing a clear protocol of support and resources for victims, mandating relevant training for both student and staff, and as well as clarifying “reasonable grounds” for exemption from the legal obligation to report cases.

Beyond that, the group of students, parents and teachers of sexuality education in Singapore noted concerns on the mainstream curriculum’s default sex-negative approach to the subject as well as inadequate focus on consent and gender-based violence.

Also cited as a concern were teachers perpetuating problematic ideas such as victim-blaming, LGBTQ students feeling excluded during sex ed classes, and an overall lack of engagement from students.

The group suggested that the curriculum be updated and that a more facts-based approach be adopted instead. They also stressed the need to foster respect for different sexual orientations, gender identities and family structures.

Finally, the group of men who are advocates of gender inequality in Singapore voices concerns about the reproduction of rigid ideas of masculinity during National Service (NS). They also highlighted the perpetuation of stereotypes and stigma products in media portrayals of gender and diverse sexual orientations as well as laws pertaining to paternity leave.

The group suggested a review on the approach to teaching gender, sex and sexuality issues in school. As for NS, the group suggested mandating diversity and inclusion training for instructors and educators so that they might better support people with different gender identities and expressions.

Beyond that, the group suggested codifying the prohibition of negative gender- and sexuality-related stereotypes in the media and increasing paternity leave.

“These policy wishlists are truly by the community, for the community. We are glad that AWARE could serve as a vessel for these individuals, amplifying their concerns to the national stage,” said AWARE President Margaret Thomas.

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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

15 hours ago

on

3 October 2024

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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

2 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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