August 13, 2025

At the height of the global COVID-19 pandemic, when wide-scale measures such as social distancing, lockdowns, and home quarantine orders were implemented, migrant workers (MW) were seemingly sidelined, with many lacking access to the robust national healthcare system or medical assistance. The arrival of the second wave of COVID-19 transmissions in 2020 cast a spotlight on the plight of the MW population, drawing criticism from both the media and the public. 

In “Restoration of positive self-image: Ideological circles in the mediatization of government-migrant worker relations during Covid 19” (Discourse & Communication, 2023), Associate Professor Michelle M. Lazar (NUS English Language & Linguistics), Dr Aaron Tham (University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia), and Wesley Wang (Oxford University, UK) examines how The Straits Times (ST), the national newspaper known for its pro-government stance, framed government-MW relations during the second wave of COVID-19 transmission to reconstruct a positive self-image amid widespread negative publicity. 

Using van Dijk’s (2011) ideological square framework, which emphasises ‘positive self-representation’ and ‘negative other-presentation,’ the authors found that ST selectively highlighted news stories showcasing the Singapore government’s attentiveness to the vulnerable migrant worker (MW) community during the COVID-19 outbreak in their dormitories. The coverage focused on the Singapore government’s responsive actions, while regional governments were portrayed negatively as failing to manage the crisis and protect their migrant populations.  

The Singapore government was shown explaining policy decisions transparently, emphasising their operational efficiency in containing the virus, and demonstrating care for MWs’ wellbeing. A slew of efforts like inter-agency coordination and ministerial visits on the ground were also highlighted. In contrast, regional governments were criticised for their lack of foresight and responsibility, their inadequate handling of the health crisis, and the irresponsibility and noncompliance of their MWs compared to the cooperative MWs in Singapore interviewed by ST. 

As the pandemic continues to impact vulnerable populations worldwide, greater attention must be paid to the welfare and equitable treatment of MWs. It remains imperative to include them in policy responses and to ensure their voices are heard in public discourse. Going forward, maintaining transparency while mitigating reputational risks will be an ongoing challenge for governments. Additionally, fostering trust with MW communities requires recognising their humanity beyond economic contributions. This research highlights the need for critical examination of how news media constructs different realities through subtle strategic framing decisions.  

Read the full article here.