Written Answer to PQ on English Proficiency Requirements for Work Pass Holders in Customer-Facing Roles

NOTICE PAPER NO. 837 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 6 MAY 2026
QUESTION NO. 2224 FOR ORAL ANSWER

MP: Mr Fadli Fawzi

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Government will consider implementing rules to ensure that holders of work passes in customer-facing roles are equipped with a basic level of proficiency in the English language; and (b) if not, why not.

Answer:

The Government does not impose English language proficiency requirements for work pass holders. It is more appropriate for employers to determine the level of language proficiency required, which is no different from other job requirements, based on their business needs.