Latest news with #MinistryOfManpower
Independent Singapore
08-07-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
AI and the rise of Singapore's grey-collar workforce
SINGAPORE : A quiet transformation is underway in Singapore's evolving economy. A new segment of the workforce is slowly gaining prominence in the form of grey-collar workers, nestled between traditional blue- and white-collar workers. Taking on roles as technicians, IT support specialists, nurses, paramedics, firefighters, and biomedical operatives, they blend technical skills with practical know-how. As artificial intelligence (AI) and automation reshape the economy, grey-collar jobs now play a crucial role in Singapore's economic machinery. Occupying the middle ground between blue-collar and white-collar work, they demand more than simple manual skills but less than a tertiary education. Roles such as robotics technician, managing complex machinery, or a healthcare assistant using AI to aid in diagnostics are examples of blending hands-on execution with specialist technical knowledge. In Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) doesn't recognise grey-collar workers as a distinct category. Many fall under 'technicians and associate professionals' within the larger PMET group (Professionals, Managers, Executives, Technicians) category. 2024 saw PMETs make up 33% of Singapore's resident workforce. This is predicted to reach 65% by 2030. Meanwhile, blue-collar workers in sectors like retail and construction reportedly made up 20% of the labour force in 2023. Why grey-collar workers are rising Different factors drive the growth of grey-collar roles: the impact of AI on various jobs, Singapore's economic direction, and changing skill requirements from employers. With one-the-job learning disrupted by AI and hybrid work and the emergence of 'dark factories' — fully autonomous manufacturing plans with negligible human involvement beyond technicians — traditional white- and blue-collar work is being dislocated. Firstly, AI is becoming prevalent in many workplaces. The effects are mostly noticeable in Singapore's white-collar sectors. Jobs in law, finance, and administration, where managing information is fundamental, are at risk. Now, AI systems draft legal documents, analyse financial data, or respond to customer inquiries. A 2023 Pew Research Centre study revealed that nearly a fifth of U.S. workers held jobs that AI could take over. Given the dominance of PMET roles in Singapore, similar concerns exist. Blue-collar workers face different challenges. While roles in cleaning or construction aren't easily automated, they may not align with Singapore's long-term economic goals in high-tech industries. Grey-collar roles, however, occupy a favourable niche. Often, they involve hands-on precision and contextual decision-making AI tools cannot replicate. For instance, a biomedical technician may use AI to assist in diagnostics but still needs to operate, adjust, and maintain the machines. According to a report by Pearson, it's the jobs requiring situational awareness, manual skills, or troubleshooting that are automation-resistant. They are all traits common in many grey-collar positions. Secondly, Singapore's economic strategies encourage the growth of grey-collar jobs. The Smart Nation initiative and the Industry 4.0 roadmap focus on advanced manufacturing, biomedical sciences, and digital infrastructure. All these sectors rely heavily on technicians, machine operators, and IT support specialists. All are individuals who build, operate, and maintain complex systems. The MOM's 'Labour Force in Singapore 2024' report highlights steady growth in technical jobs, especially those related to automation and digitalisation. Technicians in smart factories who ensure the functioning of robotic systems and clinical technicians who deploy AI tools to enhance patient care? These are no longer support functions but foundational roles. Unlike PMETs whose tasks are increasingly automated or blue-collar workers whose roles don't fit high-tech growth ambitions, grey-collar workers connect both worlds. This adaptability makes them vital to Singapore's long-term goals. The third factor driving the rise of grey-collar work is the changing nature of skills and training. Programmes like SkillsFuture promote continuous skill development, especially in technical and digital fields. Many grey-collar positions require certifications or vocational training instead of degrees. This makes them more flexible and open to quick industrial shifts. Opportunities and gaps Grey-collar work offers benefits, but structural gaps persist. Singapore's labour statistics don't offer a clear definition or breakdown of grey-collar jobs, so assessing their impact and contributions, as well as tailoring support to this segment, is challenging See also Progress with digital technology worries Singapore businesses AI will enhance many grey-collar roles, but those roles with repetitive tasks will still get automated. For instance, quality control processes in factories are set to be increasingly handled by AI. This means workers will still need to continue learning and adapting. However, the positive impact is evident. Grey-collar jobs offer stable, well-paid careers without the need for a university degree. This is very relevant for Singapore's ageing workforce; older workers, particularly those shifting from manual labour, can transition into technical roles through focused skill development. As AI technology matures, grey-collar workers will gain importance. The ability to blend hands-on tasks with technical expertise positions them for the industries shaping Singapore's future. While not officially categorised, their influence is increasing and becoming harder to overlook. Recognising this shift requires more than just updating job categories. It's also about tailored training programs. It'll require heightened awareness of grey-collar career options and workforce planning to reflect an evolving employment landscape. As technology drives automation with smart factories that require fewer people to manage and healthcare operations become more digital in nature, grey-collar workers will increasingly take centre stage in driving and shaping the socioeconomic transformation Singapore is experiencing.
Independent Singapore
07-07-2025
- Independent Singapore
"So scary" - Netizens fear for woman seen cleaning high-rise windows without safety gear
SINGAPORE: A video of a woman cleaning the exterior windows of a high-rise apartment in Marina Bay has gone viral, raising serious concerns about safety. The clip, shared on Facebook by the page 'Singapore Incidents' on 30 June, shows a woman precariously perched on a ladder on the balcony of what is believed to be a unit in V on Shenton, a luxury condominium in the city centre. She appears to be cleaning the windows with her body positioned above the balcony railing — with no visible safety harness or protective measures in place. The video, which seems to have been filmed by a neighbour from a nearby building, has since garnered oover 10,000 likes and sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms. Many netizens expressed alarm at the obvious risks involved, calling the act 'so scary' and 'dangerously irresponsible'. Several others speculated that the woman could be a domestic helper hired by the household. This has intensified public concern, especially given existing regulations that strictly govern such activities. Under guidelines set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), domestic helpers arevnot allowed to clean the exterior of windows unless strict conditions are met: they must be closely supervised by the employer or an adult household member, not stand on window ledges, and the windows must be fitted with grilles or protective features, which must be locked during cleaning.
CNA
04-07-2025
- Business
- CNA
Trilateral workgroup to address issue of foreigners illegally doing delivery jobs
SINGAPORE: A trilateral workgroup is being formed to address the issue of foreigners performing delivery jobs illegally, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) said on Friday (Jul 4). "Urgent action" is needed as this creates unfair competition for delivery workers, and it has a direct impact on their earnings, NTUC said. The workgroup will involve Grab Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Transport, who will work with NTUC and its affiliated associations. Following the Platform Workers Act being passed in September 2024, NTUC and its affiliated platform work associations have continued to advocate for platform workers on a variety of platforms, the union said. Issues raised include concerns about certainty in platform workers' earnings, safety concerns, as well as competition from illegal hitch service providers, NTUC said. It noted that it has received feedback that some delivery jobs are being performed by foreigners illegally. 'Some of these foreigners illegally take on delivery jobs directly on platforms by misusing accounts,' NTUC said. It also noted reports of some foreigners performing delivery jobs illegally without work permits. 'This creates illegal or unfair competition for our delivery workers, and it has a direct impact on their earnings.' Concerns about the illegal use of delivery accounts have been raised previously. In 2023, CNA found multiple listings on online marketplace Carousell advertising Deliveroo and foodpanda rider accounts for sale. Platform work can only be undertaken by Singaporeans, the union said on Friday. Platform operators can outsource delivery jobs to companies who hire foreigners, but these foreign workers will need have work permits. The issue of illegal competition comes on top of other challenges that platform workers already face, NTUC said. For example, platform workers may face issues related to income stability and assurance. These platform workers can be subjected to incentive schemes that encourage longer working hours, which can lead to safety issues, NTUC said. The type of jobs allocated to them on platform apps is also uncertain, which lead to a lack of clarity on their earnings. This can cause them to grapple with a lack of income security, the union said. It also noted the issue of illegal hitch services, such as unauthorised ride-hailing services operating through messaging apps like Telegram which directly impact workers' earnings. 'These illegal services undercut legitimate platform workers' job opportunities, creating unfair competition that affects workers' ability to earn sustainable earnings,' NTUC said. NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng said that platform workers are vulnerable as they face a variety of challenges in making a living. 'It is not right that they suffer from reduced earnings due to competition from illegal workers,' Mr Ng said. 'That is why I am calling for a trilateral workgroup to address this issue and other challenges that our platform workers face. Our platform workers must be treated fairly as they make an honest living.'
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
YAHOO POLL: Are $7.3k jobs in Singapore too good to be true?
Singapore's job market boasts 45,300 PMET vacancies, offering median salaries of $7,300 monthly. But slowing hiring rates hint at potential trouble ahead. The Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) Q1 2025 report highlights strong demand, with PMET roles dominating sectors like IT, finance and healthcare. Yet, hiring dipped to 1.8 per cent, and resignation fell to 1.2 per cent. Economists warn this 'low hiring, low quitting' trend could signal caution among employers and workers, mirroring patterns seen before past downturns. Other polls YAHOO POLL: Are you happy with the new utility rates? YAHOO POLL: Do you usually drink water when you're thirsty? YAHOO POLL: Is air-conditioning a necessity in Singapore? Some Yahoo Singapore Facebook users are skeptical about the accessibility of these high-paying roles, while others shared their struggles finding jobs. What's do you think? Are $7.3k PMET jobs a reality, or just hype? Have your say and take the poll. Related 45,300 jobs in Singapore pay $7,300 monthly, but is the market cooling? Skilled talent in high demand in Singapore despite slowdown Job growth continues, unemployment hits new lows in Singapore
Independent Singapore
21-06-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Enjoy 6 long weekends next year! Singapore public holiday dates for 2026
Depositphotos/ChinaImages SINGAPORE: Singaporeans can enjoy six long weekends next year, as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on Monday (June 16) announced the dates of public holidays for 2026. The six long weekends include: Good Friday: Friday, April 3 Labour Day: Friday, May 1 Vesak Day: Sunday, May 31 (with Monday, June 1, as a public holiday) National Day: Sunday, Aug 9 (with Monday, Aug 10, as a public holiday) Deepavali: Sunday, Nov 8 (with Monday, Nov 9, as a public holiday) Christmas Day: Friday, Dec 25 The other public holidays are: New Year's Day – Thursday, Jan 1 Chinese New Year – Tuesday and Wednesday, Feb 17 and 18 Hari Raya Puasa – Saturday, March 21 (subject to confirmation) Hari Raya Haji – Wednesday, May 27 (subject to confirmation) Employees who are required to work on a public holiday are entitled to an extra day's basic salary on top of their gross rate of pay for that day, according to MOM. See also Pokemon Center opens at Jewel Changi Airport Still, employers and employees may mutually agree to substitute the public holiday with another working day. Employers can also choose to grant time-off-in-lieu, based on a mutually agreed number of hours, to employees who work on a public holiday. For more information on public holiday provisions under the Employment Act, visit here . /TISG Read also: Non-life-threatening 995 calls to be redirected to medical triage helpline from June 1
