I received a job (better) offer from a company. But my current employer does not let me leave. Is the employer even allowed to do that?

Congrats on getting the better job offer! 👍🏻👏

What do you mean by they do not let you leave? Could you be more specific?

As long as you have documented your resignation (eg send an email), and not just a verbal expression, you should be able to leave once you serve your notice period. Make sure you document everything in case you need it.

All the best!

Hey,

Do report to MOM if they insist on detaining you.

No they are not. As long as you tendered your official resignation, and serve the notice period, your employed has no right to not let you leave. If it is your direct supervisor who is stopping you from leaving, you may want to go to his/her supervisor or HR directly.

Do also note that the notice period starts from the day you tendered your letter, not from a date decided by your employer.

Hi anon,

That's illegal and an offence.

https://www.mom.gov.sg/faq/termination/can-an-e...

I believe you can quote Part XIV, section 108 of the Employement Act under "Wrongful Detention of Employee". (Hopefully I'm not wrong about this)