Link by pens: Migrant poets in Singapore

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Low-skilled migrant workers are among the engines of Singapore's economy, many of them enduring life away from home and working at jobs that locals do not want.

Even though many find themselves marginalized and voiceless in the bustling city-state, some have found a platform to make their voices heard.

27-year-old Deni Apriyani has been writing poems and short stories since she was 15. She had many aspirations – to be a teacher, librarian, or news reporter. But when Deni found out how much senior high school would cost, she didn't dare raise it to her parents.

At 23, she left her hometown in Indramayu, Indonesia, and came to Singapore for the first time. To cope with her fear and loneliness, Deni turned to writing poems and humorous stories.

Deni Apriyani writes a poem based on a story she heard about domestic violence. /CGTN Photo

Migrant workers make up almost a quarter of Singapore's population, but their voices are often drowned in the bustling lion city.

The Migrant Worker Poetry Competition is a platform for them to tell their stories, and have Singaporeans listen. Thanks to the competition, many migrant workers have found a second family away from home.

It has also created a community where they can look to for advice, support, and feedback on their writing.

Lion dance troupe on float perform on the street during a National Education Show to show the importance of multi-cultural unity and the Singapore Spirit of We Are One. /VCG Photo

This year, Deni won the competition. Besides being overjoyed with her win, Deni hoped that more Singaporeans can come to know migrant workers beyond the work that they do.

She said they were just the same as natives, adding that they are human beings; they have feelings, and they have jokes.

"I hope Singaporeans understand that we are here to work. Some of us might be leaving for good one day. I just hope everyone can be friendly towards migrant workers,” said Deni.

Assignment Asia is CGTN's award-winning current affairs program featuring long-form stories and documentaries on some of the most pressing issues in the region. The show airs Saturdays at 1330 and 2130 GMT, with replays every Sunday at 0630, Monday at 0130, and Tuesday at 0530.

(Cover Photo: Contestants taking a group picture after the competition /CGTN Photo)