For ex-offenders working at the YR Industries laundry plant in Loyang, the job isn’t just a chance at meaningful employment. It’s also about embracing positive influences and learning discipline. 

Ahmad (not his real name), 54, shows up for work early every morning, even though his shift only starts at 8.30am. “I quit smoking, stopped drinking alcohol and stayed away from drugs,” he explained. “I wake up early and try reach the plant by 7.30am to start servicing the machines. This helps me to discipline myself, and strengthen my resolve to change.”


YR Industries is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Singapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprises (SCORE). Operationalised in November 2016, the Loyang plant complements services offered by the SCORE laundry plant in Changi Prison Complex while providing an effective aftercare environment for ex-offenders.

Ahmad joined the Loyang plant in July 2016 after completing a prison sentence for drug-related offences. As part of his work programme, he'd also previously worked in the laundry plant in Changi Prison Complex during his incarceration.


At the plant, used garments are sorted according to their type and size before being sent for washing. “When I was attached to this part of the laundry plant, I was trained to operate computerised laundry washing systems,” said Ahmad. “I often shared pointers with my colleagues and we made it a point to try to improve our processes.” 



YR Industries employs approximately 35% of ex-offenders in their laundry workforce. After eight months, Ahmad was transferred to the Clean Bay where garments and linen are washed, dried, folded and processed for delivery. 



Ahmad is very thankful for the support of his colleagues. “The staff here are very nice to me,” he said. “They’ve embraced me with open arms, and even celebrated my birthday with me. They’re the nicest people to have around, and I treasure all of them.”



Ahmad has also been offered numerous opportunities to upgrade himself. “SCORE sent me for courses about four months after I joined,” he said. “I have certificates in subjects such as Logistics, but I chose to work at the laundry plant because I love the environment here.” 



Ahmad was promoted to Team Leader in 2017 and now oversees operations at the Clean Bay and other related areas. It was a challenge, he admits, but one that he rose up to. “I embraced the difficulties because they help me to grow,” said Ahmad. “I struggled during the first few months, but am doing my job much better now!”

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SCORE Initiatives
Find out how else SCORE helps in the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders:
Lifting the Lid: Mastering a Sweet Craft, for a Second Chance