Minister for Manpower Josephine Teo turned emotional on Sep. 1 in Parliament, as she wrapped up a speech on job anxieties among Singaporeans.
In the conclusion of her speech, Minister Teo cited the stories of three workers whom she had interacted with, who had either received help from various job-related schemes or shared their concerns with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM).
This drew her subsequent statement, delivered in an emotional tone:
However long the storm lasts, MOM will walk this journey with you.
However tough it may be, we will help you bounce back. Our mission is to help each and every one of you emerge stronger by never giving up hope, and by working with employers in Singapore to treat you fairly and to make your hard work bear fruit.
Our work is not done yet. We have taken firm steps forward and we will press on whatever the challenges, with you, for you, for Singapore.
MOM hears the concerns of PMETs in their 40s and 50s
Acknowledged that the Covid-19 pandemic had placed stress on Singapore’s workforce, Minister Teo added that the government understood the anxieties of PMETs in their 40s and 50s, as well as their concerns about fair treatment and opportunities.
She added, “We also appreciate the need to keep supporting workers who earn less to grow their incomes over time and address income inequality.”
“Everyday single day, workers like Ramli, Raymond and Merly remind the MOM team what our work is about,” said Minister Teo.
“We are always here, listening to their struggles, thinking deeply about the support they need, recognising the constraints, adjusting policies in their best interests, finding better ways to protect them against unfair practices and ultimately, helping them get onto the path of growth in their work lives that they so deserve.”
“To all the other Ramlis, Raymonds and Merlys out there, We know that in your hearts, you care most about the well-being of your families and loved ones. You want to do well not just for yourself, but for them”, she added.
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[irp posts=”1305″ name=”Raising wages must include broader movement in entire society, says Josephine Teo”]
