Advisory on Myanmar Workers' Participation in the Referendum Vote

 

Background

 

Voting for the Myanmar referendum in Singapore will be held at the Myanmar Embassy from 25 April 2008 (Friday) to 29 April 2008 (Tuesday), between 0900hrs to 1700hrs. Myanmar nationals in Singapore, including workers, are expected to turn up at the Myanmar Embassy to vote.

 

While Myanmar workers are free to participate in the voting, we are concerned that the congregation of a large number of Myanmar nationals could result in high emotions and lead to a security or public order situation. The involvement of Myanmar workers in any protests, demonstrations or other illegal activities may also adversely affect their employment status in Singapore and result in their Work Passes being revoked. Normal business operations may also be disrupted.

 

Key Messages

 

2. Accordingly, the Ministry of Manpower would like to seek the assistance of employers and union leaders in advising their Myanmar workers who may be participating in the referendum voting:

 

a. To cast their votes on different days and timings to avoid congestion;

 

b. To move off quickly after casting their votes;

 

c. To behave in an orderly manner and to cooperate with the police officers on duty;

 

d. To refrain from participating in any form of protest or demonstration;

 

e. To abide by the laws of Singapore as the police will not hesitate to take enforcement action against persons who breach our laws; and

 

f. That their employment in Singapore may be affected should they take part in any form of illegal activity.

 

Contact Details

 

3. Should you require further information/assistance, or would like to provide feedback, please contact Ms Karen Ng from the Ministry of Manpower's Community Engagement Programme Secretariat at DID: 63171387 / 97539588, or email at mom_cep@mom.gov.sg