Malaysia launches digital initiative to strengthen digital capabilities
Among other objectives, the new scheme will aim to develop more talents to support the country’s digital workforce.
Employees in the Philippines to receive upskilling opportunities
Firms are encouraged to tap into Philippine Skills Framework to help their employees improve their hard and soft skills.
South Korea trials sickness benefits for workers
The programme entails providing sick pay to workers who need to go on unpaid leave for injuries that occurred outside the workplace.
Indonesian ministry backs maternity leave provision of six months
Sufficient leave would help mothers spend more time to stimulate their children, which can support the child’s growth and development, says Kemenko PMK.
Malaysia studies feasibility of four-day work week
More thought must go into how this working arrangement can work, says the country’s Public Service Department.
Singapore’s unemployment rate close to pre-COVID levels
Employment in the city-state expanded by 42,000 in Q1’2022, with 85% of that coming from non-residents, reported the Manpower Minister.
Australia mulls increasing parental leave for working fathers
Currently, the primary caregiver in a relationship receives 18 weeks of paid leave at the minimum wage, while fathers receive just two weeks of paid leave.
Companies in South Korea urged to refrain from wage hikes
Increasing wages would add to the woes of small business owners during the economic downturn, cautioned a major business lobby group.
Gen Z workers in Singapore most likely to switch jobs
While renumeration is still important to retain talent, employees are increasingly looking at other factors, including transparency and flexible work.
Jobseekers in Australia with accrued demerits offered clean slate
Under the new Workforce Australia scheme, new criteria have been set for jobseekers to continue receiving government support.
Tech workers in India continue with WFH practice
With most companies adopting hybrid work, employers fear that ordering employees back to the office may trigger a wave of resignations.
Top business leaders believe ESG is a necessity
Despite the higher initial costs required, many top executives expect more organsiations to adopt more ESG practices.
Australia’s Queensland state scraps “maternity leave” term
The government hopes that the change in terms would promote gender inclusivity and encourage gender-neutral language.
Japan encourages firms to let workers take up side gigs
The government hopes that the move will help foster greater diversity in the country’s work practices and encourage talent to move into growth areas.
Employees in Malaysia offered flexible work options
From September 1, employees can submit written applications that can cover changes in working hours, working days and also the place of work.
Thailand provides SMEs with streamlined access to public services
A new platform aimed at streamlining procedures is expected to benefit over three million SMEs in the country.
Hunan province in China extends maternity leave
Working mothers who have used up their maternity leave can now apply for an extension of more days up until the child is one year old.
Thailand increases efforts to raise employment
A new US$100 budget will finance job creation projects within the BCG (bio-, circular and green) space and will last for three months.
China ramps up efforts to boost employment for fresh graduates
Initiatives include a series of pro-employment campaigns to move job interviews online and incentivising firms to increase their employee count.
Malaysia debates Bill that would ease trade union formation
Too many unions at the workplace will deter international investment, said the Malaysian Employers Federation.
Singapore increases wage subsidies for selected employees
The government will increase its funding from 50% to 75% for resident employees with gross monthly wages up to S$2,500.
SMEs in China urged to accelerate digital transformation
Only 25% of companies in China have carried out digital transformation, while the proportion of SMEs that have done so is even smaller.
India considers paternity leave extension
The National Commission for Women has reviewed and analysed legislation affecting women, and recommended amendments to meet shortcomings.
Job vacancies in Singapore hit record high in Q1’2022
Resident employment rose in growth industries like financial and professional services, but fell in consumer-facing sectors.
Firms in Japan can use internship evaluations in recruiting
The move, expected to speed up the recruitment process, comes as the government has designated June 1 as the start of the job hunting season.
Australia ready to implement minimum wage hike
The increase to A$40 a week will take effect on July 1, although this would be delayed for selected sectors and industries.
Malaysia makes amendments to Employment Act
Taking effect on September 1, these include the extension of maternity leave and readjusting the maximum weekly hours of work.
South Australia increases compensation for workplace injury
This comes after the state government reached a compromise with business unions, and increased the injury impairment threshold to 35% from 30%.
Cambodia moves to create more employment opportunities
Covering a diverse range of sectors, Cambodia has approved four investment projects slated to bring in over 2,000 jobs.
Vietnam to implement regional minimum wage hike
Taking effect on July 1, the wage adjustments will be determined by the region in which companies operate in.