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NTUC and SISEU have criticised Agoda’s retrenchment of 50 staff in Singapore, raising concerns over workers’ rights. MOM has confirmed it is looking into the matter.
On 17 September 2025, NTUC and Singapore Industrial and Services Employees’ Union (SISEU) issued a joint statement expressing disappointment at how online travel agency Agoda carried out the reported retrenchment of 50 local employees. They said they were “appalled” that affected staff were allegedly warned, in their severance letters, not to report the matter to the authorities or unions.
The statement added that workers were also told not to pursue mediation requests, claims, or proceedings against Agoda, with the warning that doing so would result in the loss of severance benefits and potential legal claims.
According to NTUC and SISEU, Agoda has allegedly denied workers access to dispute resolution processes at a time when they most needed support. They called on Agoda to clarify its position and urged MOM to investigate.
Ng Chee Meng, NTUC Secretary-General also shared his disappointment on Facebook, stating that retrenchment practices must go beyond compliance, and should be carried out with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Retrenchment carried out virtually
The retrenchment was first reported by Business Times, which cited a closed-door virtual town hall held on 4 August for Agoda’s Customer Experience Group (CEG) staff in Singapore, Shanghai, and Budapest.
At the meeting, management announced that all CEG roles across the three locations would be cut, citing cost pressures and recruitment challenges. Staff affected included customer service specialists and regional managers.
MOM: “We take a serious view”
Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has confirmed in a statement provided to Human Resources Online that it is working with the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) to review the matter.
MOM said: “It is inappropriate for employers to include provisions that discourage or inhibit employees from approaching the authorities for all situations and this runs counter to the spirit of fair and responsible employment practices.”
The ministry added that such conduct undermines trust in the employment framework and the channels available for workers to seek support, and that they will not hesitate to take action if necessary.
Assistance for affected staff
Although Agoda is not a unionised company, NTUC and SISEU said they are prepared to assist affected employees. This includes helping workers access the Labour Movement’s network of resources for career transitions or, if needed, financial support.
Singaporeans and permanent residents can also tap NTUC’s e2i services for further support.
Reminder on responsible retrenchment
MOM’s guidelines require companies with at least 10 staff to notify the ministry within five working days of any retrenchment exercise. Employers are also expected to follow the tripartite advisory on managing excess manpower and responsible retrenchment.
NTUC reiterated that all companies should comply with employment laws, guidelines, and treat employees with fairness during workforce changes.
Human Resources Online has reached out to Agoda and will provide updates if responses are received.
Lead image / Agoda
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