Singapore’s labor movement is sharpening its focus on younger workers and those in professional, managerial, executive and technical (PMET) roles as entry-level jobs begin to feel the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), according to Ng Chee Meng, Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). While the overall job market remains robust, with 57,300 jobs created in 2025 – exceeding the previous year’s figures – anxieties are surfacing among certain segments of the workforce.
The shift comes as Singapore navigates the initial phases of job disruption from generative AI. Mr. Ng emphasized that widespread job displacement hasn’t yet materialized, but the potential for change is prompting NTUC to proactively adapt its strategies. Instead of simply trying to preserve existing roles, the focus is shifting towards equipping workers with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving landscape. This includes leveraging AI to redesign jobs and boost productivity, benefiting both businesses and employees. “I feel these are all big future positives for Singapore’s economy and for our workers – so long as we are able to embrace these technologies, take action pre-emptively, so that we can embark on the positive sides and not get left behind,” Mr. Ng stated.
A Changing Definition of Worker Protection
Traditionally focused on blue-collar workers, NTUC is broadening its scope to encompass the growing proportion of PMETs in Singapore’s workforce. These professionals currently comprise 64.2 percent of all employed residents in 2025, leading Mr. Ng to suggest that “the new working class in Singapore is no longer the blue-collar workers but PMEs.” This demographic shift necessitates a recalibration of the union’s approach to worker protection and advocacy.
Mr. Ng was firm in stating that NTUC’s core mission is to protect workers, not necessarily individual jobs, particularly those becoming obsolete. “We protect workers, and in our deepest philosophy, we don’t really want to just protect jobs, especially if (the) jobs are becoming less relevant or even obsolete,” he explained. The emphasis is now on upskilling and reskilling initiatives, coupled with improved job-matching services, to facilitate transitions into more secure and rewarding employment opportunities. This proactive stance reflects a recognition that the nature of work is fundamentally changing, and that adapting to these changes is crucial for long-term economic stability and worker well-being.
Navigating AI and Industry 4.0
The impact of AI isn’t occurring in isolation, Mr. Ng pointed out. It’s layered on top of existing technological advancements like Industry 4.0 and robotic process automation, all of which contribute to increased productivity. This convergence of technologies presents both challenges and opportunities. While some jobs may be automated or redefined, new roles will emerge requiring different skill sets. NTUC aims to position its members to capitalize on these emerging opportunities.
The union is actively innovating to meet these evolving needs, moving beyond traditional protection and welfare benefits to focus on worker progression and placement. This includes developing new training programs, forging partnerships with employers, and leveraging technology to connect workers with suitable job openings. Mr. Ng expressed confidence in NTUC’s ability to represent workers’ interests in the age of AI, acknowledging that “there’s work to be done” but emphasizing the union’s continued relevance and value.
Addressing Anxieties in a Robust Market
Despite the positive employment figures, Mr. Ng acknowledged that anxieties persist among some workers. While statistics indicate a “reasonable” job market, with business restructuring accounting for the slight increase in retrenchments, anecdotal evidence suggests uneven growth across different sectors. This disparity creates uncertainty for workers in industries facing disruption or slower growth. NTUC is responding by intensifying its outreach efforts and providing targeted support to those most affected.
The union’s commitment extends to all segments of the workforce, from young people entering the job market to seasoned professionals seeking to adapt to new technologies. “NTUC will do our best to add value to all the different sectors of workers – young to old, blue- or white-collar,” Mr. Ng affirmed. This inclusive approach underscores NTUC’s dedication to ensuring that all Singaporean workers have the opportunity to thrive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
The next key indicator to watch will be the release of the full labor market report for 2025 by the Ministry of Manpower, expected in the coming months. This report will provide a more detailed analysis of employment trends, retrenchment figures, and the impact of AI on various industries.
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