Union push leads Certis to end controversial sick leave monitoring of front-line officers
Certis has officially withdrawn its controversial practice of tracking the live locations of front-line officers on medical leave, following intervention from the Union of Security Employees (USE). The move came after strong public backlash and concerns over employee privacy and mental well-being.
Union Steps In to Protect Workers
The issue came to light when an anonymous officer revealed he had been pressured to share his live location via WhatsApp while on sick leave — not at home but at his parents’ residence. The incident sparked debate over workplace surveillance and privacy violations. In response, USE, affiliated with the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), intervened and held discussions with Certis to review the company’s internal policies.
USE Executive Secretary Shirley Loo confirmed that Certis has agreed to halt the practice. “There will be no location tracking of officers on medical leave,” she stated, reaffirming the union’s stance against the misuse of sick leave but insisting that investigations must be handled fairly and respectfully.
Company Justifies Original Policy
Certis initially defended the policy, citing challenges with manpower planning and operational readiness, especially in Singapore’s tight labour market. According to a company spokesperson, the location requests were used only in rare cases, such as when employees were on frequent or extended leave, and were meant to ensure staff well-being — not to penalize them.
Two officers were terminated in April 2025 for “malingering” — a term used to describe falsifying illness — after they were found overseas during surprise house visits. However, Certis later clarified that termination decisions were based on misconduct severity and not solely for being away from home.
MOM Weighs In On Sick Leave Rights
On June 30, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) weighed in, stressing that there can be legitimate reasons for an employee to be away from home while unwell. “Employers must not discourage staff from taking sick leave,” MOM stated, underlining that medical leave is a statutory right and should be exercised responsibly and without intimidation.
MOM also encouraged firms to improve internal communication and trust with employees, advocating for policy clarity and transparency in the workplace.
Certis and Union Commit to Dialogue
Acknowledging the backlash and importance of staff welfare, Certis committed to working closely with USE to review and revise current practices. Both parties agreed to co-organise monthly engagement sessions, creating an open platform for ongoing staff feedback and policy education.
“We deeply value the efforts of our officers and recognise the importance of supporting their health and well-being,” said a Certis spokesperson, adding that internal communication channels will be strengthened to prevent future misunderstandings.
Culture Shift in Security Industry
The incident reflects a broader shift in Singapore’s security and employment sectors, where privacy, mental health, and fair workplace treatment are becoming critical points of discussion. While employers face real operational challenges, unions and government bodies are stepping up to ensure employee rights are not compromised in the name of efficiency.
The Certis case serves as a timely reminder of the need for balance between operational control and employee dignity. For both Singaporeans and Indonesians working in high-demand front-line roles, the resolution underscores the growing importance of union advocacy and proper employer-employee dialogue in ensuring ethical workplace practices.
Sources: Straits Times (2025) , CNA (2025)
Keywords: Certis, Medical Leave, Employee Privacy, Union of Security Employees, Singapore Labour Policy
