MOM to do more to empower workers to access good jobs

Minister Tan See Leng says this is part of 3 strategic shifts to better serve Singaporeans

- Sharon Salim

The rise of artificial intelligence, rapid technological advancements and global uncertainty will reshape jobs, skills and business operations, said Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.

To prepare for these trends and better serve Singapore and Singaporeans, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) will be making three strategic shifts, he said.

The ministry will do more to empower the workforce to access good job opportunities, while building thriving and inclusive workplaces that reflect the changing demographics and strengthening the trust with both workers and businesses, said Dr Tan on April 5 at a dinner to celebrate the ministry's 70th anniversary.

As the Singapore workforce became more educated, he acknowledged that technological disruptions and global competition have "created new anxieties".

To alleviate these concerns, Workforce Singapore's Career Conversion Programmes and the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme are examples of the ministry's proactive approach in supporting and empowering workers even before they run into employment difficulties.

"And for those who are thrown curveballs in their employment journey through no fault of their own, we introduced the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme to encourage and motivate them to find a well-fitting job," he added. "And as we speak, preparations are under way. We will roll it out by the middle of this month."

Speaking to guests of the dinner at Shangri-La Singapore, Dr Tan said: "We are constantly thinking ahead because a decade from now, I truly believe the world of work will be very different."

In a global economy where there is intense competition for talent, he stressed that manpower must be an "offensive strategy".

"Where talent goes, businesses follow. Where talent thrives, investments flow. And where there is growth, talent is not just seeded but sowed," he said.