MOM outlines three shifts to future-proof Singapore’s workforce

Initiatives include empowering workers, promoting flexible work, and boosting tripartism.

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will make three strategic shifts to support Singapore’s workforce amidst technological disruption, demographic changes, and global uncertainty, the ministry announced as part of its 70th-anniversary milestone.

Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower, said the first shift aims to empower all Singaporeans to access quality job opportunities, with expanded support for reskilling and career transitions. Programmes under Workforce Singapore (WSG), such as Career Conversion Programmes, offer salary and training support to employers. The Overseas Markets Immersion Programme will continue to help Singaporeans gain international exposure to enhance career mobility.

Additionally, the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support Scheme, designed for individuals affected by employment disruptions, will be rolled out by mid-April.

The second strategic shift focuses on building inclusive workplaces to reflect changing demographics. With one in four Singaporeans expected to be aged 65 and above by 2030, MOM is working with employers to adopt Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) and is progressively raising the retirement and re-employment ages to 65 and 70, respectively.

The third shift involves strengthening engagement and trust amongst workers, businesses, and the government through tripartite cooperation. The ministry said this model has been critical to Singapore’s resilience and competitiveness. Initiatives such as the Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package and the enhanced Company Training Committee Grant will provide direct support to businesses.

MOM said it will continue working with tripartite partners through platforms like the Tripartite Workgroup on Lower-Wage Workers and the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices to ensure policies remain relevant and effective.