Migrant Worker's Wage Plea Sparks Debate Over Pay Inequality in Singapore

A migrant worker has sparked debate after questioning Singapore's wage disparities and calling for a $2,000 monthly minimum wage for all workers.

a post from migrant_workers_singapore: For decades, migrant worker

basic pay hasn't moved, while the cost of daily essentials like groceries and public transport has skyrocketed. Migrant workers build and sustain our city every day. Migrant workers work is essential, and their pay should reflect that. All workers deserve dignity, housing, and food security. Our demand: A $2,000/month minimum wage for every worker in Singapore.

In a video posted by Migrant Workers Singapore, he said newly arrived Bangladeshi construction workers may earn basic wages of $16 to $18 a day, or about $400 a month, while the prices of food, transport and other necessities continue to rise.

He also highlighted migrant workers' contributions to construction, cleaning and landscaping.

Migrant workers' salaries vary by occupation, experience, employer and overtime.

However, Singapore does not set a minimum qualifying salary for Work Permit holders, while the Progressive Wage Model's wage requirements cover only citizens and permanent residents.

Employers must still pay the salary declared to the Ministry of Manpower, provide proper accommodation and medical insurance, and comply with applicable overtime and rest-day protections.

The video emerged amid debate over political salaries, with office-holders receiving an initial adjustment of up to 9 per cent.

The Prime Minister's benchmark annual package will rise from $2.2 million to $3.6 million, although Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said he would donate his increase to charity for five years.