New guidelines simplify flexible work arrangements while maintaining employer discretion
Under new tripartite guidelines launching on December 1, 2024, employers in Singapore will be required to establish formal processes for considering and responding to flexible work arrangement (FWA) requests. These guidelines were introduced by a workgroup consisting of government, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), and Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) representatives.
The guidelines are designed to make it easier for employees to request flexible working arrangements, such as flexi-time, flexi-place, and part-time work, while allowing employers to make decisions based on business needs. Employers must create a formal request process, including the submission of requests through portals or emails, and provide a written response within two months. If a request is denied, employers must explain their reasoning, with business-related factors being the primary consideration for refusal.
The guidelines do not mandate the outcomes of requests but focus on the process of managing such requests. They apply to all employees who have completed their probation period and are intended to support both employees’ needs and business continuity.
Employees are encouraged to consider how their requests may impact their workload and the broader business context, while employers are urged to maintain communication and trust, ensuring requests are handled effectively without disrupting productivity.
The tripartite workgroup emphasized the importance of trust and open dialogue in addressing disagreements, recommending that companies first attempt to resolve issues internally. In cases where employers do not adhere to the guidelines, employees can approach the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment (Tafep) for support.
The new framework, while non-legally binding, aims to foster more widespread adoption of FWAs, which have been shown to attract a larger pool of job applicants, helping businesses retain and attract talent in a competitive labor market.
