Dexter2020
Humble Servant of All
I am writing to express growing concern regarding the increasing number of unfair dismissals of Singaporean workers, which appear to be linked to companies prioritising the hiring of foreigners over local talent. There is a disturbing trend where Singaporeans are either let go or replaced under questionable circumstances, often with foreign hires being brought in for similar roles—sometimes at lower costs or on more flexible contracts. This not only undermines the principles of fair employment but also erodes the job security and morale of our local workforce, especially those in their mid-career stages who are already facing challenges re-entering the job market. Several affected individuals have voiced that the reasons for termination are often vague, and when scrutinised, it becomes apparent that cost-saving or outsourcing motives are involved—frequently to the benefit of non-citizen workers. While businesses naturally aim to optimise operations, this should not come at the expense of Singaporeans who have served loyally and competently. I urge the government to:
- Strengthen enforcement and investigation of unfair dismissal cases, especially those where a foreign hire replaces a Singaporean shortly after dismissal.
- Mandate greater transparency from companies in workforce changes, including a justification report when local staff are replaced by foreign workers.
- Review and tighten Employment Pass and S Pass issuance criteria, ensuring that locals are genuinely considered first for all roles.
- Introduce a whistleblowing channel for Singaporeans to safely report instances of discriminatory hiring or unfair dismissal.
Singaporeans must not be sidelined in their own country. We understand the need for foreign talent in specialised roles, but this cannot become a justification for the systematic displacement of locals. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I hope to see more robust and protective measures to safeguard Singaporean employment and dignity.
- Strengthen enforcement and investigation of unfair dismissal cases, especially those where a foreign hire replaces a Singaporean shortly after dismissal.
- Mandate greater transparency from companies in workforce changes, including a justification report when local staff are replaced by foreign workers.
- Review and tighten Employment Pass and S Pass issuance criteria, ensuring that locals are genuinely considered first for all roles.
- Introduce a whistleblowing channel for Singaporeans to safely report instances of discriminatory hiring or unfair dismissal.
Singaporeans must not be sidelined in their own country. We understand the need for foreign talent in specialised roles, but this cannot become a justification for the systematic displacement of locals. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I hope to see more robust and protective measures to safeguard Singaporean employment and dignity.