Singapore Opens First MOM-Owned Dormitory for Migrant Workers

The first migrant worker dormitory owned and constructed by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) officially opened in Jurong on January 17, 2024. Named NESST Tukang, this facility accommodates up to 2,400 workers across 210 rooms, adhering to the elevated standards established by MOM during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. As of January, nearly all beds in the dormitory have been filled, with full occupancy anticipated by May 2024.

At the launch event, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng emphasized the importance of providing quality housing for migrant workers. He stated, “For many, many years, our approach towards housing migrant workers was focused on meeting basic accommodation needs. However, the pandemic reminded us of the importance of strengthening our dormitory ecosystem.” He noted that improving worker living conditions ultimately benefits society as a whole.

New Grant for Upgrading Dormitory Facilities

Alongside the opening of NESST Tukang, MOM announced a new grant under the Dormitory Transition Scheme aimed at assisting existing dormitories in upgrading their facilities to meet the required standards. This initiative follows the heightened scrutiny of dormitory conditions during the pandemic, when cramped living situations contributed to the rapid spread of COVID-19 among migrant workers. The new standards mandate that each room accommodates a maximum of 12 residents, with a minimum of 1 meter of space between beds and at least one ensuite toilet, shower, and wash basin for every six residents.

Under the Dormitory Transition Scheme, funding for upgrades will vary based on the retrofitting needs. From 2026 to 2028, grants will provide S$4,200 (approximately US$3,300) for constructing new rooms and S$9,800 for building ensuite toilets. These amounts will decrease from 2029 to 2030 to manage the potential disruption in bed supply caused by simultaneous retrofitting projects.

Approximately 900 dormitories housing around 200,000 beds are expected to qualify for this grant. Operators must submit their intended retrofitting schedules to MOM for approval and commit to completing the work within agreed timelines.

Innovative Design and Pandemic Preparedness

Minister Tan highlighted that the NESST Tukang dormitory was designed to exceed the required standards, serving as a model for future developments. The design process involved consultations with a specialist advisory panel, migrant workers, and industry representatives. Each room features six single beds, with loft beds designed to minimize disturbances. The facility also includes communal dining areas, social spaces, green areas, and recreational facilities such as cricket practice lanes and a gym.

Migrant worker Kalai Bilavebdran, who has lived in Singapore for a decade, praised the improved facilities at NESST Tukang compared to previous accommodations. He noted that the dormitory’s location offers a more convenient commute to Little India, taking only 30 to 40 minutes via public transport.

In addition to its living arrangements, NESST Tukang incorporates public health measures for pandemic readiness. This includes automated thermal scanners and wastewater surveillance to monitor health conditions. Recreational spaces can be repurposed as isolation areas during health crises, enhancing the facility’s capacity to respond to emergencies.

Furthermore, the dormitory features a digital management system called i-SMART, which integrates temperature scanning and facial recognition at entry points to identify unwell residents. This technology aims to enhance health and safety measures while allowing residents to provide feedback and book amenities through the app.

Recognizing that well-being extends beyond physical infrastructure, MOM has partnered with the non-governmental organization HealthServe to promote mental health awareness among residents. This includes initiatives to encourage health-seeking behaviors and peer leadership programs.

Despite the advanced features and stringent standards, Minister Tan reported that NESST Tukang offers competitive pricing, with bed rates below those of comparable facilities meeting the upgraded standards. In 2023, the median monthly rate for beds was approximately S$450. “This has been achieved through careful planning and a clear focus on ensuring that the designs and innovative features are scalable at a sustainable cost,” he explained.

The opening of NESST Tukang marks a significant step in addressing the housing needs of Singapore’s migrant workforce, reflecting a commitment to enhance living conditions while maintaining affordability. With ongoing developments, including the construction of a second dormitory in Sengkang West that will provide 7,200 additional beds by the end of 2028, MOM aims to continue improving the standards and quality of migrant worker accommodations in Singapore.