Singapore is making it tougher for Bangladeshi migrant workers to secure jobs, citing a decline in construction projects and trust issues. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Singapore has cut the number of Bangladeshi workers it’s willing to hire. Recruiters blame this on a drop in construction projects and concerns over alleged worker misconduct, including fraudulent insurance claims. Singapore is looking towards Myanmar and India to fill its labor needs.
This could be due to a perceived skills gap among Bangladeshi workers, who are said to lag behind in obtaining certifications for in-demand skills.
The cost of migrating to Singapore for work is a major concern, especially for unskilled workers who may need to be tested in Singapore after training. This can lead to financial hardship if they fail the test. While there are still construction projects on the horizon, some workers worry the demand is shrinking.
However, there are also some counterpoints to consider. Despite the quota cuts, Singapore expects to award billions of dollars in construction contracts this year, suggesting there will still be opportunities. Many Bangladeshi workers continue to find success in Singapore, with good salaries and working conditions.
Overall, the situation for Bangladeshi migrant workers in Singapore is becoming more competitive and expensive. While there are still opportunities, competition from other countries and a changing job market pose challenges.