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Four months after arriving here with a glowing reputation, Sri Lankan construction workers are struggling to maintain their brand name.
Despite their supposed experience in the sector and their relatively good command of English, the new hires are disappointing their bosses.
Employers complained their work is not up to the mark and they struggle to adapt to Singapore's fast pace.
"We set a deadline of a day for three workers to hack a 1.2m- by-3m wall in a hawker centre. But the Sri Lankan workers were not able to finish in time," said Yang Seng Engineering operations manager Chang Chee Kit.
Background story
SRI LANKAN WORKERS
Why we want them
They're seen as a good substitute for Chinese and Indian workers who are returning to their countries due to economic booms there, also valued for their good command of English and good work ethic.
What's wrong
•Some unable to keep up with Singapore's fast work pace and high standards
•Bosses say they are set in their ways and unreceptive to feedback
•Culture shock
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TRYING TO DO BETTER
I tell myself I have to improve. I am here to work and earn money for my family.
- Sri Lankan worker Chaminda Senarath Wijerathna
