In recent years, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has taken a strong stance against errant employers and agencies who exploit foreign workers through excessive placement fees or illegal kickbacks. These actions not only harm workers but also erode trust in Singapore’s manpower ecosystem.
Unfortunately, cases of misconduct are still making headlines:
- Kickbacks from migrant workers: In July 2025, a director at WIS Holdings, Loo Kim Huat, was convicted for collecting a staggering $112,400 in kickbacks from 18 workers. He was fined $90,000 and ordered to repay the affected workers MOM press release.
- Employment agency overcharging: In an earlier case, Career Central Pte Ltd was fined $6,000 for charging foreign employees more than the legal fee cap, including improper “administrative” and “resume marketing” fees MOM report and Straits Times coverage.
- Double misconduct: overcharging and kickbacks: In 2019, the owner of IBS Consulting Services, Gulab Singh, was fined $17,300 and had his license revoked for overcharging fees and taking thousands as a so-called “financial guarantee” Straits Times.
- Agencies collecting fees before placement: As recently as 2024, Global Recruiters and SDI Global had their licenses suspended for illegally collecting fees upfront from jobseekers, even before placements were secured Straits Times.
These cases are a sobering reminder: while opportunities in Singapore can transform lives, unethical practices can just as easily destroy trust, harm livelihoods, and damage reputations.
Where We Stand
At Kingsforce Management Services, we have always believed that recruitment must be built on integrity, transparency, and respect—not exploitation.
- No hidden costs: We strictly follow MOM’s regulations. Agency fees are never more than two months’ salary and are only collected after placement is confirmed.
- No kickbacks or “guarantees”: We do not, and will never, demand money from workers to keep or renew their jobs.
- Transparency first: Every transaction is supported with clear, itemized receipts, and our team explains fees upfront—no surprises, no grey areas.
- Fairness for all: Employers can trust that they are partnering with an agency that protects both their interests and the dignity of workers.
For us, this isn’t just about compliance. It’s about doing the right thing—for the people who entrust us with their future, and for the employers who depend on us to build their workforce.
Why This Matters to Employers
When you work with an ethical manpower partner, you’re not just avoiding legal risks. You’re building a stronger employer brand. Workers who feel respected and treated fairly are more loyal, motivated, and productive. That translates into higher retention, lower turnover costs, and a more stable workforce.
Partnering with an ethical agency also protects your business reputation. In today’s world, where every case of exploitation can quickly surface online, aligning with trusted manpower services safeguards your company from unwanted headlines.
A Call to Employers Who Share Our Values
If you’re an employer who believes in building success through fairness and integrity, we’d love to work with you. Let us help you find the right people—while giving you the peace of mind that every placement has been done the right way.
📩 Contact us today at santoshkumar@kingsforce.com.sg to discuss your manpower needs.
