A group of 300 former employees from Yang Kee Logistics has launched a petition urging the Singapore Parliament to investigate circumstances that led to their sudden unemployment. The petition, addressed to Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, NTUC Secretary General Ng Chee Meng, and Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh, highlights the devastating impact on workers who depended on the company for their livelihoods.
According to petitioners, many of whom had worked at Yang Kee for over 20 years, the company’s abrupt downfall has left them struggling to pay for essentials like housing, children’s education, and daily necessities. They expressed deep concern over a perceived lack of accountability and transparency surrounding the events leading up to their job losses.
The petition states that the situation has already pushed many into financial distress, forcing some to turn to gig work such as driving private-hire vehicles, while others remain unemployed months after the company’s closure. They argue this has broader implications on Singapore’s social and economic stability.
Petition Calls for Committee of Inquiry
In their plea to national leaders, the affected workers call for the formation of a Committee of Inquiry (COI) in Parliament to investigate the events that led to the loss of their jobs. They believe only a thorough, open investigation will uncover whether any failures in corporate governance, financial management, or other factors contributed to the company’s collapse.
Petitioners argue that a COI would have the power to summon witnesses from relevant industries, enabling a transparent process and allowing those with information to testify in a safe and accountable environment. They stress that an inquiry is crucial to restoring trust among workers in Singapore’s business and regulatory systems.
The group also hopes a COI could help secure fair compensation for affected employees who are facing significant hardship. Many shared that they had been loyal staff members, dedicated to building a reputable logistics company contributing to Singapore’s standing in the global supply chain industry.
Workers Seek Accountability, Urge Swift Action
The petition emphasises that months have passed since their appeals for help were first sent to government leaders and relevant agencies, yet they have received no response. This silence has deepened feelings of frustration and uncertainty among former employees, who say they simply want accountability and answers about how things went so wrong.
Without clear action, the petition warns, Singaporeans may lose confidence in the country’s ability to safeguard workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in corporate disputes. The former staff are urging Parliament to demonstrate its commitment to protecting ordinary Singaporeans by supporting their call for a formal investigation.
Their petition continues to gain support online, as more people rally behind their call for justice for the 300 Singaporeans left jobless by the sudden closure of Yang Kee Logistics.
Petition link here: https://chng.it/62N5rzX9ny
Image Source: Change.org