Supporting a migrant domestic worker’s health is important
We refer to Mr Shen Wen Feng’s letter “Migrant domestic workers’ health conditions must be strictly monitored” (28 Jul).
Mr Shen suggested that the pre-employment medical screening for migrant domestic workers (MDWs) be done at a government hospital for more thorough and reliable health checks before work commences. We would like to clarify that the pre-employment medical examinations which MDWs undergo are done by Singapore-registered doctors within 2 weeks from their arrival in Singapore, before their work permits can be issued. These medical examinations aim to give a level of assurance, at acceptable cost to employers, that their MDWs are generally fit for work and have not contracted infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV and malaria.
For a greater peace of mind, employers can choose to send their MDWs for more comprehensive health screenings and regular health checks, and purchase insurance plans with broader and higher coverage if they wish.
We also agree with Mr Shen’s observation that poor dietary habits could contribute to health issues such as high blood pressure, and that employers have a role in the nutrition and health of their MDWs. Employers are hence encouraged to have open conversations with their MDWs on their dietary preferences and support healthier eating habits.
Doris Kuek
Director, Foreign Manpower Management Policy
Workplace Policy and Strategy Division
Ministry of Manpower
MDWs' health conditions must be strictly monitored, 28 Jul 2025, Lianhe Zaobao
In an ageing society, hiring an MDW to assist with household chores and to care for the elderly and children has become increasingly common. However, finding a competent MDW is not easy. The greatest concern is hiring one with poor health.
After all, they are foreigners, and once they fall ill, the medical costs can be shockingly high. Although employers are required to purchase insurance for them, the expenses can still be astronomical, especially if they suffer from a serious illness.
I believe that the health reports of MDWs are not always reliable, some are even questionable. Therefore, when an MDW arrives in Singapore, the agency should arrange for her to undergo a more thorough medical check-up at a government hospital. Only after confirming that she is in good health should she be introduced to an employer.
Some MDWs have diets that are overly salty, sweet, or oily, habits that can easily lead to high blood pressure. We all know that untreated high blood pressure carries serious risks; one could suddenly collapse or suffer a stroke, which has serious consequences. As employers, we can help conduct basic health checks. If there’s a blood pressure monitor at home, we can measure their blood pressure when checking on elderly family members.
Employers already juggle work and caring for the young and elderly at home, having to worry about the MDW’s health adds to the burden. Hiring an MDW is meant to lighten household responsibilities, not create more problems, which not only increases expenses, but also adds stress. That is why I strongly believe that an MDW’s health must be strictly screened and cannot be taken lightly.
Shen Wen Feng