Thailand plans US$7.2 billion stimulus to help low-income group
The Cabinet gave in-principle approval for the fiscal stimulus measures, aimed to help the poor cope with the economic impact from the pandemic.
NTUC LHUB sets SMEs in Singapore on the road to digital success
The SME Digital Reboot programme aims to help 500 companies in Singapore deepen their digital capabilities by the end of 2022.
Vaccinated employees get 2 days off work in Taiwan
Workers who receive the COVID-19 vaccine will be entitled to two days off work, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
New Zealand’s jobless rate falls to 4.7% in Q12021
Over the March quarter, employment rose by 15,000 in New Zealand, as the country continues to recover from the pandemic.
Malaysia imposes MCO with 30% of staff allowed in offices in Selangor
Businesses in six Selangor districts will be allowed to have 30% of staff present in offices from May 6 till May 17 under the latest movement control order.
Dining restrictions in Thai provinces expected to cost 200,000 jobs
The restrictions are now enforced in six provinces — Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chon Buri, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani and Samut Prakan.
Pregnant workers in Cambodia benefit from government subsidies
The government’s subsidy programme has disbursed US$24 million to pregnant workers since its launch in January 2018.
WFH as default to stop COVID-19 in India, says industry body
Firms should review operations and minimise the use of in-person manpower, limiting it to critical operations or activities required by law.
Singapore’s financial sector to create 6,500 jobs in 2021
The financial sector is expected to create 6,500 new jobs this year, building on its net gain of 2,200 positions last year.
Australia sees rise in telework despite easing restrictions
Larger businesses were twice as likely to have introduced remote working arrangements in response to COVID-19 as compared to smaller firms.
Singapore cuts back number of staff allowed in the office
In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, employers need to reduce the number of staff in the office from the current 75% back to 50%.
Malaysian employers group appeals to delay minimum wage review
Now is not the right time to review the minimum wage as this will add to costs of doing business, said the MEF president.
Japan incentivises migration out of Tokyo without staff changing jobs
The government is encouraging workers to relocate to less-populated areas of the country while still employed by businesses based in Tokyo.
Thailand considers new relief packages for workers and businesses
A government spokesperson said that the new relief packages would be decided “carefully” to ensure that those who are impacted by the pandemic are covered.
Hong Kong committed to creating jobs and improving workers’ welfare
Chief Executive Carrie Lam has affirmed her commitment to create jobs, improve employee welfare and boost protection of workers’ interests.
Australia to unveil A$1.7 billion childcare fund in upcoming Budget
The current annual cap of A$10,560 per child will be removed, and instead increased to a maximum of 95% for families with two or more children.
Malaysian unions urge for better employee welfare amid pandemic
Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) has called for the revision of minimum wages and the remuneration system.
Singapore to expand scope of progressive wage model
Tripartite committees comprising unions, employers and the government are working to extend the model to more sectors like food services and retail.
Cambodian government urged to protect workers against COVID-19
Unions and NGOs are calling on the government to tighten safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Building mental resilience critical to tackle WFH-led mental stressors
A campaign will be held in September by healthcare institutions and agencies in Singapore to share best practices on how to build workers’ mental resilience.
COVID-19 now a compensable work-related disease in the Philippines
The Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) has included COVID-19 in its list of occupational and work-related diseases.
Companies in Japan offer vaccination leave for workers to receive jabs
Businesses are hoping to create an environment where workers can make vaccination appointments easily, which will hasten the vaccination process.
Singaporean Chew Shou Zi named as new CEO of TikTok
The appointment of Chew is described as a “strategic reorganisation to optimise TikTok’s global teams and support the company’s unprecedented growth”.
Singapore launches tripartite standard for work-life balance
To help workers achieve a better work-life balance, the Tripartite Standard on Work-Life Harmony (TSWLH) has been launched.
Australians on unemployment benefits fall by 20,000
Since end-2020, the number of Australians relying on unemployment benefits has fallen by 13% as the country continues to recover from the pandemic.
Philippines to give COVID-19 vaccines to minimum wage earners and OFWs
To observe Labour Day, 5,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine will be given to minimum wage earners and overseas Filipino workers.
Malaysian companies urged to lodge concerns on regulatory barriers
The MyMudah platform, launched last July, aims to alleviate the economic impact of COVID-19 on local enterprises and international businesses.
Market-based support benefits MSMEs more than subsidies or loans
To help MSMEs recover from the pandemic, the Asian Development Bank is urging governments to consider more targeted and differentiated assistance.
New Zealand restarts working holiday visa
The decision to restart the working visa programme was welcomed by tourism employers, who would have access to a pool of offshore workers.
Prudential empowers a healthier workforce in Singapore
Launched last April, Pulse by Prudential is an AI-powered app that aims to make healthcare more accessible for all in Singapore.