At least 100 migrant workers in Singapore report unpaid wages at two firms; MWC responds

The Ministry of Manpower is currently investigating the two companies for possible breaches and will take action if necessary.

More than 100 migrant workers sought help at the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Services Centre in Bendemeer on 22 June 2026, saying they were owed wages after their employers, KPA Engineering and SK Industries, became unreachable.

In a statement on the same day, the Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) said it had since responded by providing immediate assistance — including meals, transport and dormitory outreach — and advising workers on how to pursue salary claims.

MWC officers met a group at MOM and later visited multiple dormitories to engage additional affected workers. The centre said many had little or no money for food or transport when they came forward. Workers who could not afford the trip back to their dormitories were provided transportation.

According to the statement, the workers' reported monthly pay varied, with most earning between about S$600 and S$1,300. One supervisor, identified as 36‑year‑old Dinesh from KPA Engineering, told reporters he is owed nearly S$7,000 in unpaid salary since April and had previously tolerated delays because they were eventually settled. Some workers also reported operational problems at their worksites, including a power outage on 18 June that prevented machinery from operating.

Additionally, four KPA Engineering employees who asked to remain anonymous told The Straits Times they have not been paid for at least two months and have been unable to reach their recruiting agent. They said they learned about the company’s closure around four days prior, and found the office doors locked when they went to check.

MWC said it will help affected workers pursue salary claims through the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) and assist with urgent needs such as temporary shelter and help with changing employment if required. The Centre encouraged workers who are owed wages or facing workplace issues to seek help early.

MOM said it is investigating the two companies for possible breaches and will take action if necessary. At the same time, TADM and MOM are reaching out to the employers as part of the claims process.

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Lead image / NTUC