CDEConnect Centre Opens at Tampines to Bolster Support for Migrant Domestic Workers

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower (MOM) and Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) formally opened the CDEConnect centre at Tampines on July 24, according to a press release by the MOM on the same day.

The new centre, along with CDEConnect at Pasir Panjang, shall provide support and assistance for migrant domestic workers (MDWs) and their respective employers to foster amiable working relationships with each other.

At these centres, the CDE will meet with first-time MDWs within the first six months after they have begun working to evaluate how they are adjusting to life and work in Singapore. According to the MOM, these interviews are carried out face to face and in the MDWs' native language

The MOM said the CDE has administered more than 60,000 interviews with MDWs.

On weekdays, MDWs and employers may head to CDEConnect for employment counselling and advice. During the weekends, the CDEConnect centres serve as a space for MDWs to rest, relax, and participate in recreational activities.

Minister of State for Manpower Ms. Gan Siow Huang said in the release that there are plans to establish a third CDEConnect centre.

CDE Chairman Mr. Yeo Guat Kwang, on the other hand, shared that the government must ensure the well-being of MDWs for the support they give to Singaporean families.

"MDWs have been providing support to many of our families so that employers are able to work with a peace of mind," he said. "We should ensure that our MDWs are well taken care of as they adjust to life and work in Singapore."