Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has launched an investigation into software company Napier Healthcare Solutions following multiple complaints from employees about unpaid salaries.
Former employees have reported delayed payments dating back to November 2023, with some claiming that they have not received a full month’s salary in several months. MOM, in collaboration with the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM), is assisting at least 12 affected employees.
Employee Complaints and Salary Disputes
Napier Healthcare Solutions, founded in 2008, specializes in artificial intelligence-based healthcare solutions for hospitals and nursing homes. Although the company is headquartered in Singapore, the majority of its workforce operates from its Global Development Centre in Hyderabad, India.
Despite the company’s claims that it has no outstanding salary disputes, former employees have shared different accounts. A spokesperson for Napier Healthcare Solutions admitted that the company has been facing a “cash flow challenge,” leading to salary delays.
The company has made repeated assurances that outstanding salaries would be cleared “next week,” but as of February 19, 2025, employees have yet to receive full payments.
Employee Testimonies: Months Without Pay
Several former employees, speaking anonymously, have shared their struggles due to delayed salaries:
- Employee A: Hired in October 2023 and resigned in July 2024, this employee claims he was only paid on time for his first month. Despite multiple follow-ups, he received sporadic lump sum payments but was still owed approximately $90,000 upon leaving. Legal action has been taken to recover the amount, but no resolution has been reached.
- Employee B: Last received full salary in October 2023. In February 2024, he received a partial payment but remains owed several months’ worth of wages.
- Employee C: Describes the company’s repeated promises of payment that were never fulfilled, leading to frustration and resignation.
Legal Implications and MOM’s Investigation
MOM and TADM are investigating whether Napier Healthcare Solutions has violated the Employment Act by failing to pay employees their due salaries. The Act mandates timely payment of wages and provides legal avenues for employees to seek redress.
Singapore’s labor laws ensure that workers have the right to file claims for unpaid wages. Employees affected by this dispute may seek assistance through MOM’s official channels or the TADM for mediation and possible legal action.
Company’s Response and Future Actions
A company spokesperson has stated that Napier Healthcare Solutions is working towards resolving the issue and aims to pay all outstanding salaries soon. However, with continued delays and unfulfilled commitments, employees remain skeptical.
For now, MOM’s investigation will determine the next steps, and affected employees are encouraged to file formal complaints if they have not done so already.
What’s Next for Employees?
Affected employees can take the following steps:
- File a Salary Claim: Employees who have not yet received their dues should file a claim with MOM or TADM.
- Seek Legal Assistance: Engaging a lawyer can help employees navigate the legal process to recover unpaid wages.
- Monitor MOM’s Investigation: Stay updated on the progress of MOM’s inquiry into Napier Healthcare Solutions.
- Look for Alternative Employment: Employees struggling financially due to unpaid wages should explore other job opportunities while awaiting resolution.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation into Napier Healthcare Solutions highlights the importance of enforcing labor laws and protecting employee rights. MOM and TADM’s intervention is crucial in ensuring fair treatment for workers affected by delayed payments.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
