Singapore is planning to expand the flexible work system to four days a week.
According to local media, Singapore’s Ministry of Human Resources Development has established new guidelines that require all employers to fairly review employees’ applications for flexible work.
The guidelines, which will take effect on Dec. 1, have been completed over the past eight months through consultations between the government, the Employers Federation and the National Federation of Trade Unions.
It is a guideline that deals with workers’ official requests and evaluation procedures for the flexible work system, and although it is not legally binding, it is evaluated as the first step toward a four-day work week.
Workers who have completed the probationary period can request the company to work flexibly and intensively through telecommuting, remote working, and adjustment of commuting hours.
When requested, the company must respond within two months. In the event of a refusal, a reasonable reason should be given regarding the cost or validity, and it is encouraged to find a solution different from that of the employee.
If employers do not intentionally follow the guidelines, the government can take warning measures and ensure that they receive relevant training.
The new guidelines aim to introduce a flexible working system for all companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises.
The government cited the rigidity of Singapore’s labor market, the aging of the labor force, and the increase in the number of people who have to serve as caregivers as reasons for the implementation of the new guidelines.
The Ministry of Human Resources Development said the flexible work system will allow more elderly people and people who need to be hospitalized to continue working if they want.
Singapore, where the labor force is decreasing due to a decrease in the fertility rate and an aging population, is on the rise in the employment rate of the elderly population.
By 2030, the elderly aged 65 or older are expected to account for more than a quarter of Singapore’s population.
Last year, Singapore’s employment rate of 65 years and older was 30.6%.
Singapore is also gradually extending its retirement age in line with its aging population. It plans to extend the mandatory retirement age and retirement age to 65 and 70 by 2030, respectively.
While the world is becoming an aging society, Singapore’s flexible work system can be helpful. In addition to preparing for an aging population, it can also increase the efficiency of workers and bring great benefits. However, with only four days of work, the speed of work will be slowed down, and other negative consequences will also appear. The government should draw up guidelines so that workers can use the flexible work system efficiently, not poorly.
SALLY LEE
US ASIA JOURNAL
