SINGAPORE: Higher skills, employability and safety - these are the three main challenges spelt out in the Manpower Minister's May Day message to Singapore workers.

Mr Ng Eng Hen said government-led initiatives, like the Workfare Income Supplement together with CPF changes, can only go so far in helping low-income earners.

Workers need to upgrade their skills either on their own or through Workforce Development Agency initiatives.

Older workers are not exempt from this - they need to update themselves with up-to-date and relevant skills.

There are today about 150,000 residents between 55 and 64, who are not in the workforce.

And while employees better themselves, Mr Ng said employers need to be impartial in all their recruitment and day-to-day practices.

No form of discrimination ought to be practised.

Mr Ng also stressed the importance of being safe in the workplace.

He said that only if occupational safety standards are improved will Singapore be able to achieve the standards set by developed countries for Occupational Safety & Health. - CNA/yy