The Ministry of Manpower is investigating roughly 45 companies operating at Changi Airport for suspected work pass offences, including false declarations and the illegal deployment of foreign workers, The Straits Times reported. Investigators have identified about 270 workers whose deployment may not comply with prevailing regulations.
Inspectors found Employment Pass holders performing baggage handling
The probe stems from recent inspections conducted at Changi Airport by the Ministry of Manpower, according to Mothership. During these checks, inspectors found Employment Pass holders performing baggage handling services. Preliminary findings indicate that the salaries and occupations declared for these pass holders were false, Mothership reported. Additional work pass holders were discovered handling baggage despite holding different declared occupations.
The affected workers were employed by contractors and subcontractors of airport ground services provider SATS, UA.News reported. Channel NewsAsia reported that investigations remain ongoing and enforcement actions will follow if legal breaches are established.
Ministry directed SATS to strengthen contractor oversight
In response to the findings, the Ministry of Manpower directed SATS to strengthen its oversight of contracted companies, ensuring that foreign workers are deployed in accordance with their passes and rectifying compliance deficiencies, according to The Straits Times. The ministry also issued an advisory to other firms involved in SATS operations regarding their obligations under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act, Mothership reported.
The ground handler subsequently completed a comprehensive audit of its Changi Airport contractor workforce and shared its findings with the ministry. SATS also enhanced internal verification process controls and engaged the SATS Workers’ Union to maintain fair treatment and workplace trust, according to The Straits Times.
Employment Pass holders cannot legally perform operational roles
Members of the public with knowledge of infringements can submit reports through the Report an Infringement eService, with all information kept strictly confidential.
Did you know?
The Employment Pass is strictly intended for foreign professionals, managers, executives, and technicians, meaning its holders cannot legally be deployed for operational roles like baggage handling.
Report suspected violations confidentially through portal
What penalties do employers face for illegal deployment?
Employers who illegally deploy foreign workers may face financial penalties of up to S$10,000 and can be barred from hiring work pass holders, according to Ministry of Manpower guidelines.
How can the public report suspected work pass infringements?
Individuals can report suspected violations confidentially through the Ministry of Manpower’s Report an Infringement eService portal.
Which airport operations are affected by the investigation?
The current investigations focus on contractors and subcontractors providing ground handling services, specifically baggage handling operations at Changi Airport.