Budget 2024 debate: Heng Chee How on building a more caring Singapore for workers

The Government should announce the next step in the increase in the retirement and re-employment ages soon to give reasonable notice to businesses and workers so that both sides can get ready in good time, said Senior Minister of State Heng Chee How. Mr Heng, who is also Deputy Secretary-General of NTUC, stressed the need to act promptly to be able to implement the next increase by 2026. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Feb 27), he said NTUC and its unions will work closely with employers to advance the interests of workers and companies. He said beyond workplaces, there is also a growing need to expand and scale up viable and accessible care services to cater to a rapidly ageing population. He also called on employers to quickly work with NTUC to form Company Training Committees to transform faster and train workers of all ages. Mr Heng also urged the Government to work closely and intensively with its trusted partners to further develop an ecosystem for workplace fairness. He told the House that NTUC’s approach is forward-looking, inclusive, action-oriented and practical - just like that of the People’s Action Party Government. He added that the labour movement will work closely with the Government and tripartite partners to build a better and more caring Singapore for workers of all ages.