SINGAPORE: A new S$500,000 programme has been launched to help three targeted groups of Malays gain employment.

For single moms, they will go through skill-upgrading courses so that they stand a better chance in getting full or part-time jobs.

As for those who find it hard to get a job, even after half a year, this new initiative will guide them for three months while they adjust to their new work.

The new programme also caters to another disadvantaged group – those who are unemployed because of old age and those in poor health.

For the latter group, the programme will focus on empowering their grown-up children with relevant skills.

All courses will be made affordable through government subsidies.

The new programmes will be implemented through the Social Enterprise Network Singapore (SENSE), which is the training arm of self-help group, MENDAKI.

Halimah Yacob, MP for Jurong GRC, Co-Chairman of Employability Network, said: "In Singapore, there's a high profile in terms of opportunities and training programme, but it's not possible for us to reach out to 100 percent (of the population) so this is where the grassroots network is important. We have MPs. When cases come to them, they make the referrals."


- CNA/so