Singapore expands workforce support with new initiatives

Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will broaden its support for employees beyond vulnerable groups, according to Dr Tan See Leng, Minister of Manpower of Singapore. Speaking at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Dr Tan outlined the ministry’s new approach, which aims to uplift a wider segment of the workforce while continuing to promote progressive workplaces and drive productivity.

One of the key changes outlined by Dr Tan involves expanding government assistance to support the broader middle class of employees in Singapore and nurture top talent. He pointed to tools like the AI-powered CareersFinder and personalised career coaching services from Workforce Singapore (WSG) as resources available to help individuals advance in their careers.

Additionally, Dr Tan announced the launch of the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme, designed to provide employees with overseas experience, which can be pivotal for career progression. “We want Singaporeans to achieve their career aspirations, even as our local population ages and the workforce profile changes,” he said.

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To address concerns about rapid technological disruption, the government will encourage organisations to adopt a skills-first hiring approach. To support this, MOM will invest in workforce skills development and enhance career conversion programmes, increasing salary support and training allowances to help organisations manage the costs of upskilling employees.

Dr Tan also emphasised the need to build progressive workplaces that go beyond productivity. The government’s efforts include raising the retirement and re-employment ages, introducing the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangements Requests, and providing statutory protections for platform employees.

Furthermore, MOM will take on a more proactive role as a growth enabler for both organisations and employees, transcending its traditional regulatory function. Dr Tan stressed the importance of Singapore’s tripartite partnership between the government, labour movement, and employers in maintaining a stable industrial climate that fosters long-term investment and safeguards employees’ interests, reported The Straits Times.