Singapore is not waiting for the AI-driven job disruption to arrive. The Ministry of Manpower, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), and the Singapore National Employers Federation have announced plans to form the Tripartite Jobs Council that will focus on job redesign, workforce training, and support for workers most vulnerable to AI-driven layoff.
The numbers tell a different story. A 2024 International Monetary Fund (IMF) report found that 77% of Singaporean workers are in high AI-exposure occupations – above the 60% average across advanced economies. Singapore has less room to delay than most economies.
The ministry said AI is expected to reshape industries, realign business operations, and redefine job roles.
“AI is changing the way we work, and it is critical that our workers are not left behind,” said NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng, flagging professionals, managers, executives, and younger workers as those most at risk.
In his May Day message, Manpower Minister Dr Tan See Leng described AI as “transforming the way we work” and confirmed the government would use the new council to strengthen readiness among workers and businesses.
The council is the latest in a series of moves. In March, Singapore announced plans to train over 100,000 workers to become AI bilingual by 2029, starting with accountancy, legal, and HR sectors. Since February, over 4,000 workers have already enrolled in AI training courses under the NTUC AI-Ready SG initiative to prepare workers and businesses in Singapore for an AI-driven economy.
From May 1, NTUC members can use their UTAP benefits to cover 50% of AI tool subscription costs, up to $250 per year for members below 40 and up to $500 for those aged 40 and above.
Globally, AI-related job losses are mounting. In Singapore, large-scale layoffs directly attributed to AI remain limited for now but the trend is visible enough that officials are not willing to wait.
The council has no announced budget, no named members, and no operational timeline. Details, the tripartite partners said, will follow.
Also Read: Singapore Tops Global AI Adoption as U.S. Ranks 20th, a16z Analysis Finds
