The Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) launched its first mobile office amidst a joyous Lunar New Year celebration at the Penjuru Migrant Workers’ Recreation Centre this evening. Known as the ‘Forward Response, Engagement & Intel Deployment Asset’ (FREIDA), the multi-purpose mobile office helps MWC extend its outreach and engagement with migrant workers staying in smaller dormitories located at more remote industrial, housing and congregation areas here.
With FREIDA, MWC can move beyond its traditional areas of migrant workers outreach for maximum catchment and impact. Currently, it focuses its outreach at purpose-built dormitories and migrant worker recreation centres. Based on its 24-Hour Helpline service experience, migrant workers housed outside the standard housing settings tend to be less aware of their employment rights and require more assistance. Thus, it hopes to bring its services to a new level especially for workers who require its help most.
Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, Chairman of MWC said, “With the mobile office, MWC can operate in more than just two physical locations. MWC will now be able to reach out to migrant workers who are housed in smaller housing arrangements in previously less accessible locations. The mobile facility will allow us to go to almost anywhere we are needed and offer timely assistance upon reaching the migrant workers in distress.”
FREIDA will also enhance MWC’s surveillance capabilities and allow early detection and intervention of unfair treatment faced by migrant workers. As FREIDA gains greater recognition among workers and employers, MWC wants the mobile office to serve as a deterrent, reminding employers to always ensure fair treatment and care for their migrant workers as required under our laws.
In large scale grievance cases, the mobile office can be converted into a forward centre of operations for MWC effortlessly and with immediacy.
Mr Yeo added that in some of the past cases handled by MWC, the ability of the MWC officer to quickly engage colleagues or dormitory mates of a complainant has been useful. “With FREIDA, we will be able to set up a temporary presence at the workers’ doorstep, where they can come to us voluntarily with their side of the story without fear or apprehension. We believe most workers know who we are, what we do – and more importantly, identify the MWC as the NGO that genuinely care for and want to help them,” said Mr Yeo.
At the launch ceremony, invited guests and migrant workers were entertained with a festive variety show comprising multi-ethnic song and dance performances and games. Mr Yeo and trustees of the Migrant Workers’ Assistance Fund also greeted guests with festive wishes while handling out mandarin oranges at the event.
Yeo Guat Kwang
Chairman
Migrant Workers’ Centre
**************
