Better practices at work needed to support women: Indranee

Merit-based appraisals and a culture of meeting work-life needs vital, says minister

- Sue-Ann Tan

More accommodating and flexible workplace practices, as well as a culture of sharing parental responsibilities, will help to support women in the workforce, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Indranee Rajah on March 15.

She added that organisation leaders have to set the tone in establishing a culture of mutual respect and empathy, and where meeting work-life needs is also part of company culture.

"This includes putting in place fair and merit-based appraisals. It is also important to create a supportive workplace environment," she said.

Ms Indranee was speaking at an event to commemorate International Women's Day, organised by DBS Bank and SG Her Empowerment, an independent non-profit organisation that aims to empower girls and women.

In her opening address, she listed some of the measures companies can take to support women in the workplace.

For instance, flexible work arrangements can help support employees in balancing their work and family commitments, she said.

She added that the tripartite guidelines on how to navigate requests for flexible work arrangements, which will be launched in 2024, can help to facilitate such discussions.