When I Was Young

Letter from Farah Abdul Rahim

Director, Corporate Communications, for

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Manpower

We refer to “English test a major barrier” (April 8), by Ms Padmini Kesavapany.

The entry test was introduced as part of a package of measures by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) to raise the quality of first-time foreign domestic workers (FDWs) working in Singapore.

Contrary to what Ms Padmini had understood, about 95 per cent of first-time FDWs have consistently passed the entry test since it was introduced in 2005.

The test does not assess proficiency in English but gauges the ability of the FDWs to understand simple safety instructions, handle common everyday situations and adapt to life in Singapore.

The test is conducted in English as labels on household items and public signs are generally in English.

Sample questions continue to be available on MOM’s website.

They provide simple illustrations to aid understanding of typical questions asked in the test.

FDWs are given three attempts within three working days after their arrival in Singapore to pass the test.

Most FDWs who have had eight years of basic education would be able to pass the test.

From TODAY, Voices – Friday, 10-April-2009