Assistance from Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau in Cases Involving Employment Kickbacks

17 Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry obtains assistance from the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau when investigating cases involving kickbacks from workers for employment; (b) if not, why not; and (c) whether the Ministry intends to do so in the future.

Dr Tan See Leng: MOM investigates offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA) such as employment kickbacks and takes appropriate enforcement action against errant parties. Enhancements to the EFMA in 2012 (for instance the establishment of employment kickbacks as a standalone contravention) allow MOM to more effectively enforce against such offences.

There are existing processes for MOM to work with other agencies or to obtain necessary information if required during investigation into employment kickbacks offences. Should offences under the purview of other agencies be uncovered during MOM’s investigations, MOM will alert the relevant law enforcement agency, including CPIB, so that it can be looked into.