The Covid-19 outbreak in Singapore has disproportionately affected migrant workers.
This can largely be attributed to their cramped living conditions and communal bathroom facilities, which facilitated transmission of the coronavirus.
Out of the 58,386 Covid-19 infections in Singapore, over 54,500 are migrant workers in dormitories.
In fact, it was recently revealed that almost half of migrant workers staying in dormitories have had a Covid-19 infection.
Fortunately, these infections have dramatically dwindled to the point where we now rarely report a new Covid-19 case from a dormitory.
And our Prime Minister believes we couldn’t have done this without the help of these workers.
PM Lee Thanks Migrant Workers For Their Cooperation & Support on International Migrants Day
Yesterday (18 Dec) was International Migrants Day, a day which celebrates the contributions made by the roughly 272 million migrants around the globe, including more than 41 million internally displaced persons.
To commemorate the occasion, PM Lee shared a short speech on Facebook, expressing his gratitude for migrant workers’ cooperation during this tough year.
PM Lee notes how it’s been nearly a year since we detected the first Covid-19 infections among migrant workers in Singapore.
Fortunately, after a “tremendous effort”, the escalating situation has now stabilised, and migrant workers are healthy and safe, he said.
In the video, PM Lee acknowledged how difficult it’s been for migrant workers this year, as many of them have been forced to stay indoors as part of lockdowns for months, without work or the ability to see their families.
Some were even locked in their dorms, and unable to leave.
“I know it’s been a difficult period for all of you”, PM Lee said.
“Thank you for your trust, patience, and support. We could not have done this without your cooperation and sacrifices.”
Promised Continued COVID-19 Medical Care
The Prime Minister also promised migrant workers that the government will continue to care for them, just as they care for Singaporeans.
“You are welcomed members of our society. If you fall ill, we will make sure you get medical care, stay in touch with your families, and can return to work as soon as possible,” he said.
As you know, the cost of testing and treatment for these workers has so far been borne by the government.
Gradual Easing of Rules
PM Lee also touched on the gradual easing of restrictions, in dormitories and the wider communities.
Besides visiting recreational centres, migrant workers can now enjoy some communal activities like cooking and sports, PM Lee noted.
“With some luck, if the number of cases stays very low, we can ease up further,” he said.
While we have made great strides in containing the virus, PM Lee urged us not to become complacent.
“Please stay vigilant and cooperate with the government and your employers to keep everyone safe,” he said.
“On behalf of all Singaporeans, I thank you once again for all your contributions and support and I wish you a very happy International Migrants Day!”
PM Lee added in his post that migrant workers will also be offered a Covid-19 vaccine, with more details to follow.
Featured Image: Asatur Yesayants / Shutterstock.com
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