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Introduction
The reasons for migration are often numerous and complex ([10] Kam, 1999). One of the most touted reasons for migration is the prospects and promise of improving one's family well being ([9] Jatrana et al. , 2005). Most of the unskilled or semi-skilled foreign workers do not bring their families with them when they travel overseas to work. These workers are often unskilled or semi-skilled who need to leave home to embark on a journey of necessity ([24] Yeoh and Huang, 2000). The lure for leaving behind their families and countries for a foreign place is the relatively high pay that they can expect to get in the country they are moving to work in as well as the lack of employment opportunities in their own countries that would pay them wages sufficient enough for them to support their families ([24] Yeoh and Huang, 2000). Hence, trans-national migration by this group of workers to work overseas is seen as more than a job opportunity for the individual; it is instead a chance to lift family circumstances from beyond the pale, a bid to reverse family fortunes and take the upward spiral, either for the present generation or the next ([24] Yeoh and Huang, 2000; [11] Lee and Yeoh, 2006).
[24] Yeoh and Huang (2000) noted that much is also invested in the idea that the journey is transitory, to be endured because there is an end in sight and because it serves as an economic passport to better things. This belief acts as a form of motivation and goal for foreign workers, who will return home to a better life after their overseas contracts expire.
Another reason for wanting to work overseas may be due to the desire to gain more experience or to pursue personal freedom and adventure. Some workers also leave home to escape unhappy family relationships.
Foreign workers are admitted into Singapore to supplement the voids not filled by the locals. They also take up less attractive jobs that Singaporeans tend to shun, such as those in the construction industry. Although, foreign workers are doing what most locals would not do, they are often treated shabbily. Most locals do not want to be associated with them ([19] Suhaimi and Sudderudin,...