Tag Archive for: Poverty in Singapore

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Innovations in Poverty Eradication in Singapore

Poverty Eradication in SingaporeWhile Singapore is considered one of the wealthiest nations in the world, high living costs cause financial pressure on lower-income families. Housing costs are one of the main reasons for financial strain, especially for families, who must also balance needs such as food, healthcare and education. Currently, innovations in poverty eradication in Singapore are being developed to support lower-income residents.

Poverty in Singapore

Singapore currently has a population of 6,036,860. Out of this number, around 3% of Singaporeans are in absolute poverty, or unable to meet a minimum standard of living requirement, and 25% experience relative poverty, meaning they may struggle to access the same opportunities and services as the average resident. Poverty in Singapore does not necessarily mean the lack of financial well-being, but rather a lack of access to opportunities such as proper housing, education and good health.

Singapore’s Public Housing System 

One of the major innovations in poverty eradication in Singapore is its public housing system through the Housing & Development Board (HDB). Singapore established the HDB in 1960 to address housing shortages and improve living conditions for residents. Over the decades, the program expanded into one of the world’s largest public housing systems, helping millions of Singaporeans access affordable housing, with close to 80% of Singaporeans living in public housing today.

Affordable housing plays an important role in reducing poverty by lifting financial pressure on low-income families. Singapore’s emphasis on providing affordable public housing supports long-term financial stability. Stable housing helps families access schools, public transportation and employment opportunities more easily, without the stress of unstable housing. Lower housing costs allow families to prioritize necessities such as food, healthcare and education, supporting economic security and reducing poverty.

Government Support for Low-Income Families

Recent developments in public housing policies have increased housing grants for both singles and families. These grants are financial assistance programs that help residents reduce the cost of purchasing homes. Through the HBD, the total grants for new flats for families have increased from S$80,000 to S$120,000. For low-income families, housing grants improve access to stable living. By focusing these grants on groups of need, such as families with young children, the elderly and widows, Singapore’s housing system aims to make housing more accessible for those who need it.

The Future of Affordable Housing in Singapore in 2026

Singapore continues to expand public housing. In February 2026, HDB launched more than 9,000 flats through new and resale housing programs, aiming to increase housing availability.

The program will also continue its mission of providing affordable housing for low-income families by expanding into new areas. In March, Minister for National Development, Mr. Chee Hong Tat, announced plans to develop public housing projects in areas such as Pearl’s Hill and Toa Payoh West, helping to improve access for Singaporeans. Expanding these projects will increase housing options for Singaporeans and ensure the inclusivity of all citizens. 

Singapore’s government also plans to improve the conditions of public flats. For example, newer rental flats include improved natural lighting and ventilation, while older rental blocks undergo regular maintenance and upgrades. Singapore also aims to support elderly residents by building more Community Care Apartments.

By focusing on vulnerable residents, Singapore’s housing system prioritizes long-term stability and overall quality of life. As one of the leading innovations for poverty eradication in Singapore, the HDB continues to help provide housing for low-income families in line with these future goals.

Conclusion

While housing affordability challenges persist, Singapore’s public housing system continues to support low-income families through housing grants, expansion projects, and an inclusive program. Through these investments, the country emphasizes how access to stable housing improves economic stability and aims to reduce poverty through one of its most successful innovations in poverty eradication in Singapore.

– Michelle Kurniali

Michelle is based in Dallas, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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5 Charities Operating in Singapore

Charities Operating in Singapore

Singapore is one of the world’s wealthiest and most developed nations. However, despite Singapore’s economic success, income inequality and food insecurity continue to affect vulnerable populations across the country. According to local reports, some individuals struggle to meet basic necessities, such as a comfortable shelter and food.

In addition to financial limitations and the high cost of living, food insecurity remains an issue for many individuals, particularly low-income families, seniors living alone and migrant workers. The streets in Singapore are sometimes seen with people considered homeless, as they can’t afford housing, highlighting the need for charitable organizations.

While the government has contributed significantly to reducing poverty and improving the lives of the poor, gaps remain for individuals who fall below eligibility criteria or require additional assistance. As a result, charities play a vital role in supporting vulnerable communities by offering food assistance, shelter and housing, health care, counselling services and other forms of aid. The following are five charities operating in Singapore that are making a meaningful impact.

1. Willing Hearts

The first of the charities operating in Singapore is Willing Hearts. Since 2003, Willing Hearts has been supporting and improving the lives of the underprivileged and impoverished through volunteerism and teamwork. Willing Hearts has also relocated five times over the past 21 years to better reach the lives of the underprivileged and marginalized.

Established by Tony Tay and his friends, Willing Hearts is one of Singapore’s leading soup kitchens with more than 10,000 meals distributed per day to more than 70 locations in Singapore through volunteer-led kitchens. In addition to food distribution, Willing Hearts also offers a variety of services such as dental care, legal aid, bereavement and healing services.

2. Food From the Heart

Food from the Heart is an independent nonprofit food charity in Singapore that focuses on 10 initiatives that alleviate food insecurity, educate and raise funds. The community food pack program is one of the initiatives from Food from the Heart that provides seniors, low-income individuals and families with fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs and bread through a monthly distribution. Through this program, the organization supports more than 10,113 families each month.

In addition to all of the programs combined, Food from the Heart has assisted and supported more than 129,877 families and individuals, distributed 143,825 food packs and supported 63,831 beneficiaries in total as of the end of 2024.

3. HealthServe 

According to HealthServe, a large number of migrant workers holding work permits in Singapore face conflict regarding emotional distress, workplace peer pressure and injuries. While employers are legally required to pay for medical treatment, such as medical services, dental treatment and insurance, some individuals feel discouraged from seeking the help they need due to cultural and language barriers and peer pressure. HealthServe has helped and supported these workers by positively impacting more than 18,000 migrant workers by the end of 2024, which includes more than 5,300 medical and dental services, 6,000 casework and social services, 8,000 mental health and counselling services and 14,200 community services related to health education and outreach.

In 2024, HealthServe’s objective was to extend mental health support and awareness. Ever since the program started in 2022, HealthServe has trained more than 1,630 migrant workers with knowledge and skills to support overall well-being.

Looking ahead to 2025, HealthServe aims to expand dental sessions, strengthen support for chronic diseases among migrant domestic workers, enhance psychotherapy and counselling services and extend GP services to more sectors.

4. Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2)

Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2), a charity in Singapore, provides direct assistance by supporting and protecting low-wage, foreign and migrant workers through food programs, medical emergency funds, social work and shelter.

One of its initiatives, The Cuff Road Project, supports workers in need by providing a free breakfast and a fulfilling dinner every weekday for each worker. On Saturdays, TWC2 provides lunch.

One of TWC2’s services is casework, which provides support and assistance to individuals to help them navigate complex social, legal and government systems. Caseworkers in TWC2 assess and evaluate the client’s needs while ensuring a suitable solution and support. TWC2 has logged about 13,630 conversations of support in 2024, including 100,887 inbound and 68,329 outbound messages.

Beyond direct assistance, TWC2 engages with policymakers, like the Ministry of Manpower. They also propose solutions, conduct research on migrant worker issues and engage with employers and businesses.

5. SPD (Society for the Physically Disabled)

Set up in 1964, SPD is a nonprofit charity that focuses on helping individuals with disabilities and those with developing disabilities. SPD provides 20 programs, offering therapy, community rehabilitation, early intervention, job placement and support.

In 2024-2025, SPD assisted more than 13,200 people with disabilities. This included 1,659 children who received early intervention, 7,940 individuals who received support with rehabilitation community programs, and 3,900 individuals who gained awareness and education from talks, events and training.

Looking Ahead

Although Singapore is widely recognized for its economic success and high standard of living, vulnerable communities continue to face social and economic challenges. These five charities operating in Singapore, play a crucial role in addressing these issues by providing food security, health care, advocacy and rehabilitation support. Together, these organizations demonstrate the importance of compassion, volunteerism and community support in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society in Singapore.

– Bianca P. Gunawan

Bianca is based in Jakarta, Indonesia and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Vocational Education Training Centers in Singapore 

Vocational Education Training Centers in SingaporeSingapore, a country that claimed independence from its colonial origins in 1965, is a budding country that has an extraordinary amount of economic and educational opportunities. Just decades after its independence, the country has begun its rapid development, topping the charts as one of the world’s highest GDP growth in recent times. From face value, it seems that Singapore’s growth was almost magical. However, many scholars and experts attribute vocational education training centers in Singapore with its growth, and this article takes a closer look at these institutions.

History of Singapore

Singapore’s growth does not come without issues. Before its independence, the British ruled Singapore, who saw the country as a trading center and did not have any interest in improving the region itself. During independence, Singapore’s citizens had an average income of $500. More than 70% of the citizens lived in poor conditions, and Singapore faced double digit rates of unemployment. During this time, Singapore wanted to design a formalized form of education in order to begin its industrialization and growth. Vocational education, which is a form of education that teaches individuals practical skills for the workforce, was an opportunity to swiftly equip Singapore’s population with the skills necessary for economic growth, and vocational training centers in Singapore were perfect for this task.

A New Future

In 2015, Singapore launched the SkillsFuture Initiative, a national movement that emphasized the need for skills relevance and paved the way for more vocational education. From there, vocational education training centers in Singapore began to form in all regions of Singapore in order to serve all demographics.

Singapore’s most major vocational education center is the Institute for Technical Education. This institution reformed curricula, created new initiatives and created a closer tie with the workforce and education. These institutions, alongside others, are responsible for the massive growth that Singapore’s economy has been going through because it teaches its citizens technical skills that can help benefit themselves and the country.

The Impact

The impact of Singapore’s vocational education training centers has been profound. Once vocational education began to improve with the newly elected government, benefits began to appear. Indeed, by 2005, graduates of vocational education centers had an employment rate of 90%, marking it one of the highest in the world.

The impact goes beyond individuals. By creating an educated population that understands the workforce and economy, Singapore has effectively created a workforce that wants to improve its own country. Technological innovation, medicine breakthroughs and manufacturing booms were the result of a workforce that is quickly growing in quantity and quality. 

The Next Steps

The impact of vocational education training centers in Singapore has only just begun. Indeed, considering the short history of Singapore, experts project that the economy will only improve. Furthermore, as it is looking more towards expanding into the global market through its highly qualified workforce, more and more major companies are considering doing business in this small yet mighty country.

This will result in more economic growth and opportunities for the people of Singapore, and it is through that, the lives of the people in Singapore will continue to improve at impressive rates. What was once a region mistreated by its colonial owner has transformed into a hub of technological growth and global leadership. On top of topping the charts for impressive GDP growth, Singapore is a country that has improved each of its citizens’ lives through a transformed economy. 

Due to a national movement that involved teaching Singaporeans technical skills, the vocational education centers have effectively transformed the area into the bustling region it is today.

– Kallen Zhou

Kallen is based in Hattiesburg, MS, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Invisible Inequality: Disability and Poverty in Singapore 

Disability and Poverty in SingaporeSingapore is home to one of the world’s most affluent and exhilarating economic markets, a world-class healthcare system and an exquisite cuisine. Yet, beneath this polished image, lies concerns that receive far less attention: the invisible inequality around disability and poverty in Singapore. These matters continually involve barriers and challenges that the Singapore government is helping to eradicate.

SG Enable is an agency that centers around disability and poverty in Singapore, aiding anyone from different underprivileged backgrounds. It also aims to make Singapore a more inclusive society by helping to advocate and raise awareness.

About Disability and Poverty in Singapore

According to the Singapore government data, around 3.1% of Singapore’s adult population lives with some form of disability, the rate rising to 13.3% among those aged 50 and above, the biggest percentage seen. Students in Singapore cover the smallest percentage at 2.1%.

While the numbers may seem modest, households and communities deeply feel the effects. People with disabilities (PWDs) in Singapore are significantly less likely to be employed: only 32.7% of working-age PWDs held jobs as of 2023, compared to more than 80% in the general population. 

Saltandlight, a foundation that provides a digital gathering space for Christians globally, interviewed Aaron Wong, who has a type of muscle dystrophy called charcot-marie-tooth disease and decided to return to Singapore in 2025, where he grew up. Upon returning, Mr. Wong detailed his tough transition into Cheshire House, a nonprofit care home: “I had to be assisted by hired help whom I barely knew with dressing up and toileting. It was humbling and humiliating.” He described Cheshire House as a “godsend” and said that he “started to see that [he] was not in Cheshire Home as a means to an end, but there was meaning and purpose in me being here within its walls with 110 other people.” 

Those living with a disability can contact SG Enable for further help. Otherwise, there are other ways to seek help through the specific organization such as The Singapore Association for the Deaf (SA Deaf) or the Singapore Association of the Visually Handicapped (SAVH).

Addressing Disability and Poverty in Singapore

Through multiple initiatives, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) announced many ways to help those most affected. The Enabling Masterplan of 2030 was announced on October 11, 2022, which outlines the plan for Singapore as a society that is inclusive for all in 2030, as it was created by, for and alongside persons with disabilities and their caregivers. Along the way, the government has also announced new measures in place to help such as flexible work schedules, and building disability-friendly buildings and sites.

The high cost of living exacerbates this inequality around poverty too. In 2021, The National Institute of Health surveyed the possible correlation between disability and poverty in Singapore. The study’s analysis further revealed that individuals with lower levels of education and those who were unemployed or economically inactive were significantly more likely to have disabilities. This association indicates that individuals facing economic hardship might be at a higher risk of disability, or conversely, that the presence of a disability could lead to reduced educational and employment opportunities, thereby increasing the likelihood of experiencing poverty. 

However, the government is taking several measures to help bridge the gap between disability and poverty in Singapore. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCYS) introduced subsidized health care, housing and education, and a Ministry spokesperson told the BBC that “Singapore has an extensive social safety net.” 

The ComCare Endowment Fund

The ComCare Endowment Fund also emerged in June 2005, which financially aids low income people and families through support programs to the public. To qualify, those applying must have a total income for the household of $1,900 or less, or a per capita household earnings of $650 or less. The Straits Time reported that ComCare had distributed more than $236 million to those in need, a Singapore record since the Fund’s creation. 

One can define a developed nation by the dignity and opportunity it provides to its most vulnerable citizens, not by GDP or worldwide rankings. Singapore’s next frontier of prosperity may not be innovation or money, but rather deepening its social contract.

– Sumayyah Karim

Sumayyah is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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3 Nonprofits Improving Education in Singapore

3 Nonprofits Improving Education in SingaporeSingapore, one of the wealthiest countries in the world, is often recognized for its top-tier education systems. High test scores, prestigious schools and rigorous math programs are all thoughts that come to mind when thinking about the Singapore education system. However, not everyone is privileged enough to receive this top-notch education in Singapore. About 12% of Singaporean families are low-income families, barely earning enough money to support their families. With this comes the inability to provide high-quality education for children. To help combat this issue, these three organizations are all working to make sure people in poverty are also receiving a good education. 

Project Dignity

Established in 2010, Project Dignity has a mission of giving back “dignity” to lower-class individuals through education and specialized training. The organization provides skills training and employment opportunities for people who are living in poverty. It also welcomes people with learning or physical disabilities. Project Dignity’s Kitchen teaches people the skills needed to work in the food and beverage industry. In addition, other projects focus on educating people and giving unemployed people skills that can potentially help them get employed. Through this service initiative, the organization helps people get employable skills and also gives them confidence in their work and education, helping them escape poverty. 

ReadAble

This organization was founded in 2014 and is focused on literacy and education for children living in poverty. It offers reading and language programs for these children. The organization has volunteer tutors who work with children and develop their reading and writing skills. It aims to encourage children to love learning and have a desire to learn more. This organization helps children with less resources and privilege build the confidence and skills needed to do well academically, giving them a better chance at a brighter future. Essentially, this organization works to provide quality education and assistance with education in Singapore for lower-class children.

South Central Community Family Service Centre

Established in 2013, the South Central Community Family Service Centre helps lower-class families that are struggling to make ends meet. It focuses on assisting adults and children in an educational aspect. It provides many services, including financial aid for school fees, tuition programs and educational workshops for children and even their parents. Its approach ensures that families receive not only the financial support they need but also the mentorship and resources to help their children do well in school. This organization does significant work to help lower-income children receive equal education as all other Singaporean children. Ultimately, this organization strives to make quality education in Singapore accessible to all. 

Looking Forward

While Singapore is often regarded as a country with the best education, not everyone is living this reality. However, Project Dignity, ReadAble and the South Central Community Family Service Centre are all nonprofit organizations working to make every child employable and have a proper education for a job in the future. These organizations all recognize that education is a key variable in helping children escape the poverty cycle. Disparity in education in Singapore is still a critical issue that has very little awareness. 

– Poppy Duggal

Poppy is based in Munich, Germany and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Singapore’s Social Safety Net: A Blueprint for Reducing Poverty

Singapore’s Social Safety NetSingapore, often hailed as an economic miracle, boasts a diverse economy that has propelled the nation to high-income status. Additionally, the country’s financial landscape is distinguished by a blend of globally leading industries, including manufacturing, services and emerging sectors. Manufacturing, a cornerstone of Singapore’s economy, spans electronics, chemicals and biomedical sciences. Furthermore, it contributes significantly to gross domestic product (GDP) and employment.

Meanwhile, the services sector encompasses finance, insurance, tourism and, more recently, data hosting and digital services. The sector has made Singapore a hub for innovation and business. This diversity is a critical factor in Singapore’s resilience. Additionally, it has enabled the country to weather global economic fluctuations and adapt to new trends, such as digital transformation and green technologies. The government’s strategic investments in education, research and infrastructure have further bolstered the economy’s adaptability, ensuring sustainable growth and job creation.

Singapore’s Social Safety Net

Singapore’s approach to social welfare is built on a unique social compact designed to provide opportunities for all citizens, regardless of background. This compact is underpinned by five pillars: asset building, education, health care, housing and employment. These pillars form a robust safety net that protects vulnerable groups, promoting social mobility and financial security.

  • Education: Education is a cornerstone of Singapore’s social policy. Indeed, it reflects the belief that education is a key driver of economic mobility. The government invests heavily in education at all levels, ensuring access to quality schooling and lifelong learning opportunities. Initiatives like SkillsFuture encourage citizens to upgrade their skills continuously, keeping pace with the evolving job market. This emphasis on education equips Singaporeans with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in a competitive global economy.
  • Health Care: Singapore’s health care system is renowned for its efficiency and accessibility. The government employs a multi-tiered approach to health care financing, combining personal responsibility with state support. This approach ensures all citizens have access to basic health care services. Programs like MediShield Life and the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) help alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses, particularly for the elderly and lower-income groups. Furthermore, this guarantees that no Singaporean is denied health care due to monetary constraints, contributing to a healthy and productive population.
  • Housing: Homeownership is another key pillar of Singapore’s social safety net. The government’s public housing program, managed by the Housing & Development Board (HDB), provides affordable residences for most Singaporeans. Subsidies and grants allow lower- and middle-income families to own homes. This policy improves living standards and serves as asset-building, helping citizens accumulate wealth over time.
  • Employment: The government has implemented various programs to support lower-wage workers, ensuring they can achieve a decent standard of living. The Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme, introduced in 2007, provides cash and Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions to supplement the incomes of lower-wage workers. The Progressive Wage Model (PWM), launched in 2012, sets minimum wage levels for specific industries and outlines career progression pathways. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to reduce income inequality and promote social inclusion.

The Many Helping Hands Approach

In addition to government-led initiatives, the Many Helping Hands (MHH) approach supports Singapore’s social safety net. This community-based framework involves government bodies, donors, grantmakers, enablers, volunteers and Voluntary Welfare Organizations (VWOs).

The MHH system ensures that social assistance reaches the most vulnerable members of society, providing comprehensive support beyond just financial aid. One notable program under this framework is ComCare, which was launched in 2005. ComCare consolidates various welfare projects to offer more streamlined and effective support for those in need. It provides financial assistance, medical support and social services, catering to the diverse needs of low-income families, elderly citizens and individuals facing health care challenges.

Looking Forward

Singapore’s success in achieving a high-income and financially secure population is largely due to its diverse economy and comprehensive social safety net. Additionally, the government’s forward-looking policies in education, health care, housing and employment, combined with community-based support through the MHH approach, have created a resilient and inclusive society. This model aims for all citizens to lead fulfilling lives, regardless of socioeconomic background. As Singapore continues to evolve alongside global challenges, its commitment to social equity remains a guiding principle for sustained prosperity and social harmony.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya  is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Nonprofits Addressing Food Insecurity in Singapore

3 Nonprofits Addressing Food Insecurity in SingaporeLocated off the southern tip of Malaysia, Singapore, one of Asia’s wealthiest nations, boasts a thriving economy and impressive infrastructure. Despite this, the perception that all of its 5 million citizens live above the poverty line is misleading. In reality, numerous Singaporeans struggle to meet basic needs, with many earning insufficient incomes to secure stable food supplies. Consequently, food insecurity remains a significant concern within the country. As of 2023, more than 10.4% of Singaporean households have experienced food insecurity. Elderly residents, single-parent households and others with limited financial resources are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity.

3 Nonprofits Fighting Food Insecurity

With one in 10 households facing food insecurity, several nonprofits are stepping up to address this pressing issue.

  1. Willing Hearts. Founded in 2003, Willing Hearts began by distributing food to homeless individuals in Singapore. Now, the organization mobilizes volunteers who dedicate four hours per session to prepare meals, including tasks like cutting vegetables, washing dishes and packaging food boxes for distribution daily. In addition to kitchen work, Willing Hearts recruits volunteer drivers to deliver these meals across various neighborhoods. This nonprofit is committed to reducing food insecurity, making it easier for anyone interested to sign up and contribute to their cause.
  2. Food from the Heart. Founded in 2003, the nonprofit Food from the Heart focuses on food distribution in Singapore. In 2021, it positively impacted 59,500 individuals by redistributing surplus bread from restaurants and food vendors. This initiative, known as “bread runs,” has provided more than 14,000 people in need with fresh bread. Additionally, the organization supports children from low-income families by distributing “goodie bags” containing food items. These bags have reached children in more than 40 schools, with more than 16,000 bags distributed. Food from the Heart’s efforts significantly alleviate food insecurity among both adults and children in Singapore.
  3. The Food Bank Singapore. Founded in 2012, The Food Bank Singapore aims to eradicate food insecurity across the nation. This nonprofit gathers surplus food from restaurants, grocery stores, farms and various other sources, distributing these resources to more than 300 soup kitchens and other organizations focused on combating food insecurity. By repurposing surplus food, the organization not only addresses hunger but also reduces food waste significantly. The Food Bank Singapore welcomes food donations and offers volunteer opportunities for individuals to help sort and organize food items in their warehouse.

Looking Ahead

Tackling food insecurity in Singapore continues to be a pressing issue despite the country’s overall affluence. Organizations like Willing Hearts, Food from the Heart and The Food Bank Singapore are vital in mitigating this problem by providing meals and redistributing surplus food to those in need. Their efforts support vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and single-parent families, underscoring the importance of community-driven initiatives to ensure everyone has access to sufficient and nutritious food.

– Poppy Duggal

Poppy is based in Singapore, and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty among Migrant Workers in Singapore

Migrant Workers in SingaporeFor many people, dorm rooms evoke memories of sharing close quarters in college or the halcyon days of summer camp. However, in Singapore, dorm rooms mean something very different: the cramped and inhumane living conditions of the migrant workers who form the backbone of Singapore’s economy.

About Migrant Workers in Singapore

Migrant workers, primarily from China, Indonesia, the Philippines, India and Bangladesh, compose 38% of Singapore’s labor force and play a particularly crucial role in the construction, manufacturing, maritime and service industries. A particularly large contingent of these foreign workers are classified as migrant domestic workers (MDWs). These workers, who are predominantly female and make up 4.4% of Singapore’s population and 7.3% of its labor force, are particularly vulnerable to domestic abuse and overworking.

Unhealthy Living Conditions

Human Rights Watch has reported that up to 20 workers are packed into the same room and forced to share a single bathroom. These cramped living conditions are often unsanitary and proved particularly hazardous during COVID-19 when strict government lockdowns forced workers to remain in hot, crowded dorms that lacked proper ventilation. In the early days of the pandemic, 90% of Singapore’s COVID-19 cases were among migrant workers.

Migrant workers in Singapore often find themselves in precarious positions because their work permits and legal status in the country are tied to their employers. Foreign domestic workers are especially vulnerable to exploitation because they are excluded from many labor protections, including paid days off and limits on working hours. In addition, foreign workers are barred from organizing and taking part in labor unions.

The International Labor Organization (ILO) has also found a concerning decline in positive attitudes toward migrants, even toward the foreign domestic workers that many Singaporeans come into personal contact with every day.

Solutions

Despite the many challenges facing migrant workers in Singapore, various nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are working to address these issues. Its Raining Raincoats is a charity focused on providing services for migrant workers in need, with the broader goal of ensuring that they are welcomed and integrated into Singaporean society. The charity runs various welfare programs that ensure migrants have access to dental and vision care and assist them with salary and employment issues. It also provides English language, financial literacy and first aid classes. In 2023, the charity raised more than $1.2 million for migrant workers and distributed more than 650,000 essential items, including meals, bikes, phones and glasses.

Additionally, the Migrant Workers’ Center, established in 2009 as a collaboration between the National Trades Union Congress and the Singapore National Employers Federation, is an NGO that advocates for the uniform application of fair employment practices. It provides free legal advice, humanitarian assistance and peer support networks, among other services. It also offers an associate membership for just $6 a year, which allows migrants to access critical health and disability insurance in addition to benefits.

Despite public opinion and the dearth of substantive government action, these NGOs are working to improve the lives of migrant workers in Singapore.

– Josephine Koch

Josephine is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS in Singapore

HIV/AIDS in SingaporeSingapore is a country at the tip of the Malaysian peninsula in Southeast Asia. The country gained independence from Malaysia in 1965 and has a population of around 5 million. While Singapore is an extremely wealthy country with a thriving economy and a world-class health care system, the nation still faces public health challenges. HIV/AIDS continues to cause significant harm and impact in Singapore.

A Recent Spike in HIV Cases

Between 2007 and 2017, the average number of HIV diagnoses remained around 400 to 500 cases per year. In the years following 2017, the number of cases decreased to around 300 per year. More than 50% of diagnosed cases were late-stage HIV, and 93% of cases resulted from sexual intercourse.

In 2023, after a few years of significantly low numbers of cases, the number of cases spiked again. In the first 10 months of 2023, there were 10% more HIV detections than last year.

Although the number of cases in Singapore is relatively low, the Singapore government has responded to the slight spike in cases. In a public advisory report, a representative from the Ministry of Health stated that every adult should do HIV testing at least once in their life. In addition, sexually active adults should get regular testing once every six months and wear protection during sexual activities, according to Channel News Asia (CNA).

Promoting Testing by Reducing Fears

Due to the rise in cases, the Singapore government is placing a large emphasis on HIV testing. With more people testing, the government hopes to make more diagnoses, resulting in more people getting the proper treatment. To encourage more testing, the Singapore government has changed a law, making it no longer necessary for individuals to disclose their HIV status to their sexual partners. This law, however, only applies to individuals with an “undetectable viral load.”

This law change will reduce the fear many Singapore residents face when deciding whether or not to get tested, according to The Straits Times. Individuals will no longer have to worry about telling their partners if their HIV test comes back positive. They will be able to treat it or reduce symptoms and then return to their regular sexual behaviours if they are no longer contagious. The government recognized that high-risk individuals feared getting tested because they would be obligated to inform their partners of their potential positive HIV status.

Action for AIDS

In addition to government support, Action for AIDS, an active nonprofit organization since 1988, has been working to mitigate the issue of HIV/AIDS in Singapore. Many Singaporeans have not received proper HIV/AIDS prevention education, so Action for AIDS fundraises to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can get education and testing. Individuals in poverty or with lower incomes are less likely to be properly educated about HIV/AIDS and less likely to know when to get tested.

So far, Action for AIDS has brought sex education to a wider audience and encouraged many Singaporeans to undergo more frequent testing. Through increased education and promoting more testing for all, this organization aims to end HIV/AIDS in Singapore.

Conclusion

While the slight spike in HIV cases in Singapore is concerning, the government’s proactive measures demonstrate a commitment to tackling this public health issue. By reducing the common fear that arises when individuals make a decision about testing, Singapore is revising legislation to promote more frequent testing. The goal of increased testing is that everyone who needs treatment will receive it. This approach reflects the Singapore government’s dedication to maintaining the health of its population, ensuring that the country continues to thrive even in the face of public health challenges.

– Poppy Duggal

Poppy is based in Concord, NH, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Gender Wage Gap in Singapore

Gender Wage Gap in SingaporeThe latest updates showed that the unadjusted gender wage gap between male and female full-time employees aged 25 to 54 in Singapore has been narrowed down from 16.3% in 2018 to 14.3% in 2023, according to the released infographic figures from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). According to United Nations data, Singapore ranks as “the second-most unequal developed economy in the world.” “Singapore does not have an official poverty line … Most Singaporeans are not aware of the scale and depth of poverty in Singapore,” stated a report from the Singapore Management University’s Lien Center for Social Innovation.

Unequal Earnings

The gender dimension is one of the most significant contributors to economic disparity and poverty in Singapore. Recent data from MOM highlights that women, despite having equivalent working hours and qualifications, earn less than men. These unequal earnings impact women’s financial stability, limiting their access to essential services such as health care and hindering their ability to save adequately in the Central Provident Fund (CPF). Women have about 40% less CPF savings compared to men, which underscores why 64% of women, versus 38% of men, depend on immediate family members for assistance with medical expenses, according to a 2010 health-care financing study by the National University of Singapore and Singapore Health Services.

The adjusted gender gap involving human capital and the labor market is 6.0% in 2023, lower than 6.7% in 2018. According to MOM’s report, the adjusted gap “is the unexplained component from the decomposition, which is the remaining gender pay gap between men and women employees after adjusting for both human capital and labor market factors where data was available.” The report considered, particularly, the occupational segregation of male and female employees as the main driver behind the gender wage gap in Singapore.

The report concluded three factors that could impact women’s choice of occupations: personality and skills; psychological traits; social norms and values. “These factors would continue to influence one’s choice of occupation, their career progression and earnings,” according to the report.

Unfair Treatment

A recent survey implied that in 2023, female employees still think they are not treated fairly regarding job compensation. In Singapore, 59% of investigated women employees said that they had an unfair base salary, and only 33% of them felt they were satisfied with the payment. Although the job market enhanced advocacy for diversity and encouraged women to have career paths in STEM, the fight against gender wage bias still has a long journey. 

The gender pay gap is a concerned issue for the government and society in Singapore. In 2022, the White Paper on Singapore Women’s Development aimed to support female employees in acquiring equal wages and flexibility in the workplace. In a total of 115 pages, the White Paper gave a call to all Singaporeans to equal job opportunities, caregiver support, mindset shifts in the workplace, etc. 

Minister Tan See Leng said that a closure in the gender wage gap in Singapore might need a “multi-pronged approach.” Fortunately, the Singapore government is striving for more equality in the job market by partnering with schools, industry, and the community to implement the SG Women in Tech movement, aiming to train and involve more talented female employees in the tech industry. 

Tan also mentioned that the government has been advocating for equal sharing of caregiving responsibilities in families by “increasing Government-paid paternity leave from two weeks to four weeks.” MOM has introduced a guideline on Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) to assist employee’s requests for FWA. The government will also introduce the Workplace Fairness Legislation that sets goals to protect employees from discrimination in the workplace, according to the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).

Increase in PMET Occupations

By 2018, the number of women who have at least a diploma qualification rose to 71%, which is almost double higher than that in 2002, according to a 2020 report. While traditional occupations such as nurse and accountant still significantly represent women’s labor market in Singapore, there is a large increase in women’s share among professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs). From 2018 to 2023, the percentage increase in female PMET occupations is 2.5% more than that in males, according to MOM.

With the aid of Flexible Work Arrangements, women now have increasing participation in economic activity by enjoying equal educational and workplace opportunities. In the past decade, female employment for ages 25-64 increased from 69.2% to 76.6%, and the employment gap with men has decreased from 20.1 to 12.4 percentage points.

The Singapore government also works with the Council for Board Diversity to improve women’s share on the boards of the top 100 companies listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). The percentage of women on boards increased from 7.5% in 2013 to 22.7% in 2023. Statutory Boards also had a nearly 10% increase in women’s representation, according to a 2024 report.

– Cindy Hong

Cindy is based in Milpitas, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

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