Singapore’s approach to achieving job resilience must protect workers, not jobs: DPM Wong

Singapore – The SkillsFuture ecosystem has been strengthened, especially in the areas of training and placement, to better protect workers in dynamic economic changes such as Singapore, where some jobs have become obsolete.

speak at Saturday’s closing ceremony Citizen Panel on Job Resilience, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said the state’s approach would not protect jobs. This will only hinder the creation of new and better jobs.

“Our approach in Singapore is to redouble our efforts, not to protect jobs, but to protect workers. So that all Singaporeans can find new job opportunities more easily. , reskilling, upskilling, transit,” he told the Career Service Center audience.

To do this, Wong, who is also the finance minister, said employers need to be involved because they are the ones who create jobs.

“So employers need to know how they want to grow and transform their business, how they can redesign jobs to meet those goals, and what kind of skill sets they will need for future jobs. ‘ he said.

Training providers work closely with employers and industry to design effective courses, close skills gaps, and ensure that those who complete courses have the required certifiable skills. is also required.

Workers will also need to be involved through unions and directly, Mr Wong said.

He acknowledged that some employees need little outside help.

“Some people have a clear idea of ​​what they want to do based on their skills and aptitudes.

“Unfortunately for now, I think this group reflects a very small fraction of our workforce,” Wong said.

Some may just follow the latest trends. Go to training in a field that you read and think is popular today, without considering whether it suits you or not.

Due to various restrictions, some people cannot attend training at all.

“There may be people who are in need of money. And for this group, if they are forced out of their jobs or fired for whatever reason, they often accept the first job offered. said Mr. Wong.