In view of Malaysia’s announcement to implement a Movement Control Order, Singapore is working with public and private sectors to provide a range of lower-cost, short-term housing options for affected workers.
In a press statement, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said, "Companies can encourage affected workers to stay with their relatives, friends or colleagues, who may be willing to accommodate them for a short period."
This may be the option most amenable to some workers, the ministry added.
For workers who cannot stay with relatives, friends or colleagues, Singapore has made available a range of hotel and dormitory options.
MOM also advised employers to "assess their manpower needs carefully and make a considered decision as to whether they need their affected workers to remain in Singapore". In providing assistance, firms that offer essential services – such as healthcare, security, cleaning, waste management, facilities management, logistics and transport – will be prioritised.
Singapore will also provide financial support for companies that need to urgently accommodate their affected workers.
"For every affected worker, we will provide the firms with the support of SGD 50 a night for 14 nights," said Manpower Minister Josephine Teo on Tuesday, March 17.
"I’m confident that by the end of the day, any one of the affected workers that need to stay in Singapore will be able to find suitable accommodation," she added.