Singaporeans Shocked by Migrant Workers' Catered Meals

A video shared on Migrant Workers Singapore's (MWS) Facebook page has sparked discussion about the standard of catered meals given to migrant workers in Singapore. Members of the public were asked to try meals served to migrant workers and share their honest opinions.

In the video, participants said the rice was cold and hard, while some felt the curry was too oily and watery. One also pointed out that the meat seemed to have broken apart in the curry. Overall, most participants described the food as bland and poor in quality. The video also noted that many workers pay around $130 to $150 a month for catered meals.

MWS said the exercise showed what it called a serious gap in nutrition, hygiene, and food quality, which could impact the health and well-being of workers. The group added that the video shows why broader changes are needed to raise meal standards.

Some suggested improvements include giving workers more choice over catering providers, making the catering supply chain more transparent, and improving dining and storage facilities to reduce the risk of contamination.

In April this year, Dr Hamid Razak, MP for West Coast-Jurong West GRC, asked in Parliament if MOM would consider setting nutritional standards or dietary guidelines for catered meals served to migrant workers in dormitories or at worksites. MOM said it does not plan to do so for migrant workers, as only 13% of workers receive meals catered by their employers.