Condo by-laws should not discriminate against work pass holders

We refer to the report, “Geylang condo owners, management at odds over foreign worker housing ban” (June 17).

Condominium management corporations have legitimate responsibilities to maintain order and the proper use of common property. By-laws can reasonably regulate issues such as overcrowding, noise, cleanliness, fire safety, short-term stays and the use of shared facilities.

However, these concerns should be addressed through rules that apply fairly to all residents. They should not be addressed through blanket bans on work pass holders, or specific groups of migrant workers, from living in a condominium. Such rules are discriminatory. 

If a unit is overcrowded, the issue is overcrowding. If there are fire hazards, littering or misuse of common areas, the issue is safety and conduct. These should be dealt with directly, regardless of the occupants’ residency status.

The Ministry of Manpower states that private residential properties, including condominiums, are allowed to house all foreign employees, subject to occupancy limits. These safeguards already provide a framework to address legitimate concerns about overcrowding and living conditions.

Condominium by-laws should not create a parallel system that treats lower-wage migrant workers as inherently unsuitable neighbours.

This principle should also apply to migrant domestic workers who live in condominium units. They are members of the household in which they live and should be regarded as residents of the condominium. They should not be barred from using facilities simply because they are domestic workers.

Where there are concerns about the use of facilities, management corporations should regulate behaviour, booking rules and safety requirements. These rules should apply equally to everyone.

Singapore depends on migrant workers, including domestic workers, in our homes, families and economy. They should not be excluded from residential spaces simply because of the nature of their work passes, or the work they do.

This statement was sent to Straits Times from HOME, but remains unpublished in their newspaper.

Published 29 June 2026