MOM requires accommodation proof for non-Malaysian work permit holders in CMP sectors

The ministry will implement the rule on 19 September.

Starting 19 September, non-Malaysian work permit holders (WPHs) in the construction, marine shipyard and process (CMP) sectors will not be able to enter Singapore if their employers fail to provide proof of acceptable accommodation.

According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the documentary proof should be in the form of “tenancy or rental agreements, or contracts with accommodation providers.”

"Once the necessary checks are done, we will provide employers the approval to proceed. Onboard Centre bookings will also be checked to ensure that the workers registered have had their accommodation details verified,” the MOM said.

MOM said approval can take a week for employers housing their workers in Purpose-Built Dormitories, Construction Temporary Quarters (CTQs), Temporary Occupation Licence Quarters (TOLQs), or their dormitories. 

Employers housing their workers in private residential properties, hotels or hostels can expect the approval process to take around six weeks or longer due to additional checks.

“Employers who bring their workers into Singapore without the required proof of accommodation may face suspension of their work pass privileges,” MOM said.

MOM said the number of WPHs in the CMP sectors as of July was already 19% higher than pre-COVID levels.

Whilst the government has been working with the industry to increase dormitory bed supply, the ministry said the increased number of WPHs has “led to near full occupancy at dormitories and more migrant workers are being housed in non-dormitory accommodation.”

“There is a need to moderate the demand for non-dormitory accommodation, and to ensure that workers have acceptable accommodation,” MOM added.