Launch of CDEConnect at Tampines to boost support for migrant domestic workers and their employers

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM), in partnership with the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE), officially opened the CDEConnect centre at Tampines today. Together with CDEConnect at Pasir Panjang¹, the centres will provide support for MDWs and their employers to develop harmonious working relationships. This is part of MOM’s and CDE’s ongoing efforts to expand our touchpoints and strengthen support for both MDWs and their employers.

2 At CDEConnect, CDE will check in with all first-time MDWs to assess how they are adjusting to living and working in Singapore. These interviews are conducted in-person, in their native language and within the first six months after an MDW has started work. CDE and MOM will engage MDWs and their employers to resolve the issues raised, as well as educate both parties of their rights and responsibilities. Since 2017, CDE has conducted over 60,000 such interviews with MDWs.

3 CDEConnect will also serve as touchpoints on weekdays for employers and MDWs who can visit the centres to seek assistance or employment advice. On weekends, the centres will serve as a dedicated space where MDWs can rest and recharge through various recreational activities and workshops.

4 Due to COVID-19 safe management measures, MDW interviews had been conducted virtually since April 2020. From July 2022, in-person interviews at both CDEConnect centres have resumed, and are held on weekdays.

5 “The opening of CDEConnect at Tampines demonstrates MOM’s commitment to strengthening support for MDWs and their employers. We are working with CDE on a third centre, and will share more details in due course,” said Minister of State for Manpower, Ms Gan Siow Huang. “For first-time MDWs, we know there will always be a period of transition and adjustment – not just for them, but for their employers too. That’s why we are heartened by recent study findings that there are high satisfaction levels amongst MDWs and their employers. By building an ecosystem of support, we hope MDWs and their employers can further deepen their harmonious relationships.”

6 Mr Yeo Guat Kwang, Chairman of the Centre for Domestic Employees, added: “CDEConnect will also serve as a touchpoint for engagement activities with the MDWs during the weekends. For employers, we encourage them to come to us and seek advice on employment-related matters. MDWs have been providing support to many of our families so that employers are able to work with a peace of mind. We should ensure that our MDWs are well taken care of as they adjust to life and work in Singapore”.