Baggage handling jobs draw local applicants, but recruitment remains a challenge
Migrant worker advocacy groups HOME and TWC2 urge MOM to tighten scrutiny of work pass applications.
Singapore's airport jobs, including baggage handling, are attracting local job seekers, but hiring remains a challenge. According to FastJobs, around 600 applicants applied for baggage handling roles, mostly Singaporeans and permanent residents. However, these roles often involve shift work, long commutes, security clearance, and physical demands, causing many applicants to drop out before starting work.
Recently, a Ministry of Manpower (MOM) investigation has been launched into suspected work pass infringements involving around 45 companies and about 270 workers. Some were employed on Employment Passes meant for professionals but working in lower-paid jobs like baggage handling. This has raised questions on whether restrictions on hiring foreign workers for service jobs are contributing to irregular work pass arrangements.
Baggage handling is not among the occupations that can be filled by Work Permit holders, MOM said. Migrant worker advocacy groups have criticized the misuse of Employment Passes, stating that the work pass system does not reflect labor market demand. They say many workers are "genuine victims of employment scams" trapped in illegal work, fearful of reporting their employers due to power imbalances. Advocacy groups urge MOM to strengthen checks on work pass applications to protect migrant workers.
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