The Migrant Workers’ Centre (MWC) was alerted to a fire that occurred in a migrant workers' dormitory in Geylang this morning that claimed the lives of two Bangladeshi migrant workers and seriously injured two other migrant workers. The MWC is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life from this incident and will do our best in the coming days to assist the deceased and their next-of-kin, as well as be readily available to help and care for the injured workers in the event that their employers are for any reason unable.
We wish to emphasise again that we take a very serious view of safe and secure housing for migrant workers and urge the authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly and where appropriate, call those responsible to account.
Since 11 am this morning, the MWC have been in contact with officers from the Ministry of Manpower, the Singapore Police Force and hospital staff where the injured have been warded for treatment to better understand the situation and seek the earliest opportunity to convey our concern for and solidarity with all affected. We have been able to make contact with the employers of the deceased and injured workers and are encouraged by their commitment to do what is necessary to help the workers and their families. As always, the MWC’s foremost objective is to obtain confirmation that the conditions of the injured workers have stabilised, and reassure them as quickly as possible of the MWC’s readiness to assist and care for them should circumstances require.
Yeo Guat Kwang
Chairman
Migrant Workers' Centre.
