Amid Economic Uncertainty, Calls Grow for Job Security and Flexible Work Policies
The National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is advocating for increased government support for displaced workers and caregivers in Singapore’s Budget 2024, as economic headwinds intensify concerns over job security.
NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng highlighted rising retrenchment figures and stagnant wage growth, warning that 2024 could be a difficult year for workers. A recent NTUC survey found that nearly 40% of respondents feared job losses within the next three months, almost double the previous year’s figure.
To mitigate these challenges, NTUC is pushing for a re-employment support scheme, flexible work arrangements, and statutory paid caregiving leave. The labour movement also hopes for additional SkillsFuture Credit top-ups to help workers reskill and adapt to evolving job demands.
Meanwhile, the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) has urged the government to share costs and risks with employers, particularly in workforce transformation efforts. As Budget 2024 approaches, both labour and business leaders are looking for measures to ensure economic resilience while supporting workers in the changing job landscape.
