~ CDE signs new Memorandum of Understanding with Silver Ribbon (Singapore) (SRS) to
strengthen mental wellbeing for migrant domestic workers ~
Today, the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) celebrates International Migrants’ Day 2024 with a focus on empowering Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs). This year’s theme, “Empowering Me,” underscores CDE’s commitment to recognise MDWs’ invaluable contributions and support their personal growth and self-care. The event held at the Resorts World Convention Centre was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Minister of State (MOS) for Manpower and Education Gan Siow Huang, who was welcomed by Advisor to National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Migrant Workers Segment (MWS), Mr Yeo Guat Kwang; and NTUC MWS Director, Mr Michael Lim. Close to 1000 MDWs attended the event and were entertained with exciting performances, stage games, and lucky draws, including 800 early bird participants who received tickets to the S.E.A. Aquarium.
On the “Empowering Me” theme, Mr Michael Lim, MWS Director said, "The celebration highlights the crucial role that Migrant Domestic Workers play in our community. The “Empowering Me” theme reflects CDE’s recognition of MDWs’ invaluable contributions and equipping them with resources and support they need to thrive. By offering MDWs opportunities for self-care and upskilling, we aim to empower them to lead more fulfilling lives, both professionally and personally. CDE remains dedicated to fostering better harmonious relationships and a more inclusive environment that values and uplifts MDWs."
More mental wellbeing support for MDWs through CDE’s MOU with SRS
This year’s celebration includes a signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between CDE and Silver Ribbon (Singapore) (SRS) which formalises the commitment from both partners to strengthen mental wellbeing support for MDWs. Through this partnership, MDWs will have access to more wellbeing support such as free counselling services and mental wellbeing workshops. Employers will also be able to attend free workshops and provide support for their MDWs.
To better understand and address the needs of MDWs, an online survey will be conducted by CDE and SRS from today until March 2025. The feedback collected will help shape more targeted programmes and services, ensuring they align with the well-being needs of MDWs. This initiative aims to foster a supportive work environment by focusing on their mental health challenges and promoting effective solutions. SRS and CDE remain committed to collaborating closely to develop these enhanced offerings based on the insights gathered.
On the partnership with CDE and SRS, Executive Director, Silver Ribbon (Singapore) and Temporary Adviser on Technical Consultation on Loneliness within Western Pacific Region, World Health Organization (WHO), Ms Porsche Poh, said, “Earlier studies1 reported high levels of stress and loneliness among domestic employees. This partnership creates a safe space for migrant domestic workers to learn about the importance of their mental wellbeing and provides an avenue for them to share their thoughts and how to cope with situations. This is in line with global efforts and WHO’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013–2030, which prioritises mental health and promotes social cohesion and reduces social isolation.”
Continued efforts to upskill MDWs through CDE’s programme
In the lead-up to the grand International Migrants’ Day 2024 celebrations today, CDE hosted a series of workshops, aligned with the theme and aimed to boost the confidence, resilience, and workplace skills among MDWs. These include Yoga by Yoga for a Change; Responders Plus Programme by Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF); Mandarin lessons by the students from Hwa Chong Institution (HCI); Cooking lessons with by SSA Culinary Institute (SSA); Digital Literacy class by Singtel; and Gardening workshop by Edible Garden City.
To enhance MDWs’ versatility in caregiving, CDE partnered with Healthcare Academy (HCA) to launch the Eldercare and Caregiver’s Selfcare course in September 2024. This two-day programme, offered in English, Burmese, Bahasa Indonesia, and Tagalog, saw more than 120 MDWs participating and the MDWs have shared positive feedback over 12 sessions, with more planned.
In 2025, CDE aims to expand its caregiving training to meet the growing needs of households in Singapore. New courses will include learning conversational dialects such as Teochew, Hokkien, and Cantonese, as well as specialised training in dementia care and infant care. These programs will help MDWs better support their employers and communicate effectively as caregivers.
Highlights of the International Migrant’s Day celebration
During the International Migrants’ Day 2024 celebrations today, CDE also recognised the top contributors to its Domestic Employees Welfare Fund (DEWF), which supports distressed MDWs in Singapore through financial aid, temporary shelter, medical and legal support, and cultural integration. In appreciation of the donors’ generosity, DEWF Chairman Mr Desmond Chin presented commemorative plaques and a crochet tree crafted by a MDW, to donors and witnessed by MOS for Manpower and Education Gan Siow Huang.
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0147176722000955
