Food eatery under investigation for possible illegal employment breaches

Investigation comes amid widespread closure of its outlets in Singapore

Food eatery under investigation for possible illegal employment breaches

Singapore's Ministry of Manpower is investigating a popular eatery for potential illegal employment offences as it has been closing down its outlets in the last few months, according to reports.

The Straits Times reported confirmation from MOM that it is probing ABC Nasi Kandar and its personnel for possible offences under the Employment of Foreign Manpower Act (EFMA).

In The Straits Times report, over 10 stalls across Singapore operated by ABC Nasi Kandar were either abandoned, replaced by other businesses, or had "under renovation" signs.

Its outlet on Desker Road had a sign that read: "Thank you for your patience as we revamp this space to serve you better. We look forward to welcoming you through our doors in Q4 2024."

The restaurant chain has yet to issue a response to the media over the allegations.

The director's house, which The Straits Times visited, also had a lot of fliers and a letter from a law firm wedged under the door, with no one answering.

Singapore's EFMA states that individuals caught employing a foreign worker without a valid work pass can be fined between $5,000 and $30,000. They may also be liable to a prison term not exceeding 12 months.

Second or subsequent convictions can be fined between $10,000 and $30,000. They can also be imprisoned for not less than one month and not more than 12 months.