‘Volunteers’ seeking profit are against the law, say DSAL and PSP

Undated image shows PSP and DSAL officers conducting an operation against illegal workers

The Labour Affairs Bureau (DSAL) and the Public Security Police Force (PSP) have issued a joint statement refuting online rumors that non-resident “volunteers” working at the recent K-pop singer G-Dragon’s concert at Galaxy Arena were exempt from legal regulations.

Emphasizing the need to combat illegal employment and maintain order in Macau’s job market, the two authorities issued the statement late Sunday night, “solemnly clarifying in accordance with current legal provisions” that all non-local residents must obtain the necessary work permits before working or participating in activities in Macau.

On the sidelines of G-Dragon’s three-day concert series from June 6 to 8 in Macau, the DSAL and PSP conducted a joint inspection on Saturday, verifying the identities of 96 non-local staff members at the venue and taking two individuals responsible for the event to a police station for further investigation.

Following this, a netizen claimed to be one of the 98 individuals involved, stating that all were fans of the singer and “volunteers” for the concert, receiving no compensation.

Such remarks sparked heated discussions on social media, with many netizens, believed to be Macau residents, questioning the use of the term “volunteer” as a means to evade local laws.

Additionally, numerous netizens criticized the term “volunteer” in response to several advertisements for “illegal labor” recruitment shared on a mainland social media platform.

In response to online rumors suggesting that non-resident “volunteers” participating in the concert event are not in violation of the law, the authorities clarified in their statement that any attempt to circumvent the work permit system under the guise of “volunteers” is illegal.

According to the statement, during a joint inspection operation on June 7, Saturday, the Labor Affairs Bureau, in conjunction with the Public Security Police Force, intercepted 107 staff members and conducted identity checks, revealing that 68 non-local residents required further verification of their work permit status.

It added that relevant cases are currently under investigation, stating, “If violations are confirmed, the authorities will take strict legal action and will not tolerate any leniency.”

The DSAL specifically emphasized in the statement that volunteer work can only be done for non-profit activities that benefit the public, and individuals participating in such volunteer work should not receive any payment or compensation for their efforts.

Referencing Macau’s legal system, the bureau warned the public that employers who do not adhere to the rule about volunteer work could be prosecuted for “unlawful employment,” which could result in a maximum prison sentence of two years.

Additionally, non-residents who engage in illegal employment may be subject to fines of up to MOP10,000.

The two authorities further stated that, in addition to enhancing inspections and enforcement within their respective areas, they will maintain close communication, conduct regular joint operations, and share information to effectively combat illegal employment practices and ensure order in Macau’s labor market.

While pledging that enforcement actions against illegal work activities are ongoing and will not be relaxed, the two entities urged the public to report any suspected illegal work activities by calling the PSP Hotline at 2857 3333 or the DSAL Hotline at 2833 8808.