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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.
Herald Malaysia
04-07-2025
- General
- Herald Malaysia
Tribunal roadshow on marriage, annulment and Church teachings
he Peninsular Malaysia Ecclesiastical Tribunal (PMET), in collaboration with the Catholic Lawyers' Society, the Archdiocesan Mental Health Ministry, and the Emmaus Counselling Centre, has embarked on a tribunal roadshow to provide the faithful with a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church's tea Jul 04, 2025 KUALA LUMPUR: The Peninsular Malaysia Ecclesiastical Tribunal (PMET), in collaboration with the Catholic Lawyers' Society, the Archdiocesan Mental Health Ministry, and the Emmaus Counselling Centre, has embarked on a tribunal roadshow to provide the faithful with a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church's teachings on marriage, annulment, and pastoral care. This initiative aims to shed light on the Church's teachings on marriage, dispel common misconceptions, and offer pastoral and psychological support to those facing marital challenges. As an outreach effort, the roadshow seeks to engage with individuals who may have questions about the validity of their marriage, those struggling with marital difficulties, and even those who have undergone civil divorce and are uncertain about their standing in the Church. The roadshow includes informative sessions led by Fr William Michael, the Judicial Vicar of PMET, civil lawyers, and mental health professionals, covering topics such as: • The Sacrament of Marriage: Understanding the Church's vision of marriage as a lifelong covenant. • Procedural laws governing civil divorce: Outlining the legal grounds and conditions under which a marriage may be terminated through civil proceedings. • Healing and Reconciliation: Addressing emotional and psychological aspects with professional support. The collaboration with the Catholic Lawyers' Society ensures that attendees receive accurate legal perspectives, while the Archdiocesan Mental Health Ministry and Emmaus Counselling Centre offer professional counselling and emotional support. Together, these parties are committed to accompanying individuals with compassion and understanding, recognising the sensitive nature of marital struggles and the healing journey that follows. The tribunal roadshow has already been well-received in its initial sessions, with many participants expressing gratitude for the opportunity to seek guidance in a supportive environment. Due to the positive response, we are pleased to announce that in the second half of the year, we will continue the roadshow to more churches across the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. We invite all members of the faithful — whether married, divorced, or simply seeking knowledge about Church teachings on marriage — to attend these sessions. The roadshow is an opportunity for the Catholic community to come together in faith, learn about the annulment process, and find pastoral care in their journey towards healing and reconciliation.
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
YAHOO POLL: Do you think CCP is a good option to help you land a high-paying job?
Andrew Seow's career switch has sparked curiosity about Workforce Singapore's Career Conversion Programme (CCP). The former actor joined Aetos Security Management as an auxiliary police officer at 55, proving it's never too late to start fresh. CCP is designed to help mid-career individuals transition into new roles or industries. With 45,300 PMET vacancies and jobs paying up to $7,300 a month, the programme offers a structured pathway to reskill and succeed in high-growth sectors. Other polls YAHOO POLL: Are $7.3k jobs in Singapore too good to be true? YAHOO POLL: Are you happy with the new utility rates? YAHOO POLL: Do you usually drink water when you're thirsty? The programme covers over 30 industries, from healthcare to precision engineering. Whether you're switching fields or upskilling for a redesigned role, CCP provides on-the-job training, external courses, and salary support to ease the transition. Employers also benefit from CCP, receiving up to 90 per cent salary support for trainees. This makes it easier for companies to hire and train mid-career professionals, creating opportunities for jobseekers to thrive. What do you think? Could CCP be your gateway to a new career? Have your say and take the poll. Related 'Growing Up' actor Andrew Seow's career pivot stuns fans 45,300 jobs in Singapore pay $7,300 monthly, but is the market cooling? Skilled talent in high demand in Singapore despite slowdown
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
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
