MOM encourages conversion of contract workers to permanent staff

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is encouraging employers to consider converting contract employees into permanent staff.

Speaking in Parliament on Monday, the ministry’s Senior Parliamentary Secretary Hawazi Daipi said companies should make the conversion if such employees are found to be suitable for the job and if the job is expected to be available on a permanent basis.

Mr Hawazi was responding to a question from labour MP Zainal Sapari who wanted to know if the ministry has plans to give more employment rights to low wage contract workers.

He noted that contract workers may feel that they lack employment certainty and job security due to the short tenure of their contracts.

While they are protected under the Employment Act, they might not be eligible for certain benefits such as annual or sick leave if they do not meet the qualifying period of three months due to breaks in contracts.

Mr Hawazi said: "We are working closely with our tripartite partners and our stakeholders to review the Employment Act. At this stage, we are considering suggestions and feedback on various issues, including the protection of low wage contract workers.

"Ultimately, we wish to ensure that the Act safeguards basic employment standards to those who need it, while still giving employers sufficient flexibility to manage their businesses. We will be sharing more details in due course."

— CNA/al