Tripartism remains bedrock of SG’s progress: Manpower minister

From 2019 to 2024, real wages at the 20th percentile grew 5.8%, outpacing median wage growth.

Singapore’s resilience through global challenges hinges on its strong tripartite partnership, said Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng in his May Day Message 2025.

Marking the nation’s 60th year, Dr Tan stressed that collaboration between the Government, unions, and employers remains the "bedrock" of Singapore’s economic and social progress.

Despite rising global trade tensions and economic disruptions, Dr Tan highlighted steady gains for workers, particularly those with lower incomes.

From 2019 to 2024, real wages at the 20th percentile grew 5.8%, outpacing median wage growth. Enhanced support through Workfare, CPF reforms for platform and senior workers, and new retirement security schemes aim to ensure that no Singaporean is left behind.

On the business front, the Government announced over $600m in new initiatives, including the Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package and a boost to NTUC’s training grant, to help companies innovate while uplifting workers.

Dr Tan also underscored efforts to build safer, fairer, and more inclusive workplaces. Singapore recorded one of the world’s lowest workplace fatality rates, introduced clearer guidelines for flexible work arrangements, and passed the landmark Workplace Fairness Act to tackle discrimination.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Manpower’s new vision — "Empowered Workforce, Thriving Workplaces" — sets the course for the future. Dr Tan called for a renewed commitment to unity, emphasising that sustaining tripartism through more complex times will be critical to building a sustainable and inclusive Singapore.