By Kay del Rosario
NTUC and the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) presented the annual NTUC May Day Domestic Employees Celebration virtually on 13 June 2021.
The celebratory show was live-streamed on the NTUC May Day Domestic Employees Celebration’s and CDE’s Facebook pages from 12 pm to 3 pm.
The event was held to recognise our domestic employees’ contributions to the country, especially during the challenging COVID-19 Pandemic, which has affected Singapore and the rest of the world for more than a year.
In her speech, Guest-of-Honour, Minister of State (MOS) for Manpower Gan Siow Huang said: “Amid the challenges, migrant domestic workers have been a pillar of support for many families here. You work tirelessly to care for our loved ones, and keep our households running smoothly.”
The show featured pre-recorded and live performances by domestic employees in Singapore and regional artistes from the Philippines, Indonesia and Myanmar. There were also interactive games and a lucky draw for domestic employees.
Many domestic employees have been unable to return to their home countries due to tightened border controls brought about by the pandemic.
Recently, stricter Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) Safe Management Measures (SMM) meant that domestic employees had to limit their outings during their rest days.
The virtual show aimed to spread some cheer to domestic employees and provide them with a platform to showcase their talent, said NTUC.
NTUC Central Committee Members Ken Tan and Raymond Chin also thanked domestic employees through pre-recorded speeches.
“We really appreciate you for all that you have done for Singapore as you continue to take care of our families.
“If you ever need help regarding your work or need someone to talk to, remember that the CDE and NTUC are always here for you,” said Mr Tan.
Mr Chin shared: “We also have other ways to showcase our appreciation to all migrant workers. For example, we have prepared specially designed mask lanyards, which will be distributed later, when conditions allow.”
The lanyards have CDE’s dedicated 24-hour helpline number 1800 CALL CDE (1800 2255 233) printed on them as a reminder for our domestic employees if they need any assistance.
