Changi Airport in Singapore. Photo: Shutterstock An unusual case has been uncovered at one of the world's major airports. Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) announced yesterday (Monday, November 2) that it is investigating about 45 companies operating at Changi Airport for suspected violations of foreign worker employment laws, including making false declarations and placing workers in positions that do not comply with the terms of their work permits.
According to the official announcement, the investigation has already raised suspicions regarding the employment of approximately 270 employees, who are employed through contractors and subcontractors of SATS, one of the main ground services companies at the airport.
During a recent inspection conducted by authorities at Changi Airport, workers holding Employment Pass work visas, intended for professional foreign workers, were discovered to be actually employed in baggage handling services.
The initial investigation findings raise suspicions that the salary and occupation details declared to the authorities to obtain work visas did not reflect the actual terms of employment.
In addition, workers holding other types of work visas were identified who were placed in baggage handling positions even though these positions did not match the occupations declared by their employers.
According to the Ministry of Manpower, it has identified approximately 270 workers so far whose placement may not comply with foreign worker employment regulations. The investigation continues to examine the circumstances of their employment and the responsibility of the companies involved.
Following the audit findings, the Ministry of Manpower ordered SATS to strengthen supervision and control mechanisms over the companies it contracts with.
Among other things, the company is required to ensure that foreign workers employed through contractors and subcontractors perform duties that are consistent with the work visas they were granted, and to act to correct deficiencies in compliance with legal requirements.
The authorities also warned other companies involved in SATS activities that employers are also responsible for complying with regulations on the employment of foreign workers.
Under Singaporean law, making a false statement in a work visa application can result in a fine of up to 20,000 Singapore dollars, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
Employers found responsible for placing foreign workers in violation of their terms of employment could face a fine of up to S$10,000 and even be banned from employing foreign workers holding work permits. The Ministry of Manpower stressed that investigations are still ongoing and that enforcement action will be taken if violations of the law are found.
Singapore's Changi Airport is one of Asia's and the world's main airport hubs and serves as an important international gateway for passengers and connecting flights.
The current investigation shines a spotlight on the complex employment system behind large airport operations, particularly the use of contracting companies that provide ground handling and baggage handling services. The case is only in the investigation phase, and the suspicions against the companies and parties involved have not yet been proven.