Two million dollars has been put aside for the next two years to address one worrying trend: the lack of respect for workers who do not earn much.
This lack of appreciation has led the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) to launch a campaign yesterday to change public attitudes towards low-wage workers in the cleaning, landscape and security sectors. The Singapore Labour Foundation has committed $2 million over two years to support this.
NTUC said it had received feedback about the lack of respect for low-wage workers during several focus group discussions last year.
Speaking at the launch at a roadshow in Pasir Ris, NTUC assistant secretary-general Zainal Sapari noted that the labour movement has been working to improve the welfare of low-wage workers through schemes such as the Progressive Wage Model.
However, he added: "It is also important for us to remember that the basic element of respect for fellow workers is just as important in creating an inclusive society where everyone is valued and appreciated for their contributions to society."
The "U Appreciate" campaign aims to benefit 30,000 low-wage workers in the cleaning, security and landscape industries.
Under this, a series of activities and initiatives for low-wage workers will be planned, though no details were given.
Last year, a similar campaign gave recognition to more than 7,000 cleaners for their efforts.
Some companies held appreciation lunches, presented gifts such as vouchers and organised special outings for their cleaners.
Organisations that wish to organise appreciation events for their low-wage workers can approach the NTUC U Care Centre for logistical support.
This article was published on April 20 in The Straits Times.
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