Oral Answer to PQ on Middle East Crisis and Trade Fragmentation
NOTICE PAPER NO. 811, 837, 838 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 7 MAY 2026
QUESTIONS NO. 2111, 2228 FOR ORAL ANSWER AND 1527 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER
*2111. Mr Yip Hon Weng [7 May]: To ask the Minister for Manpower in light of reports of energy and business costs leading firms to defer hiring and trim benefits (a) what is the Government’s assessment of the impact on hiring prospects for job seekers, including graduates and mid-career entrants; (b) whether there are signs of slower entry-level job creation or longer job searches; and (c) what further measures are being considered to support employment opportunities.
*2228. Mr Liang Eng Hwa [7 May]: To ask the Minister for Manpower in view of the energy crisis triggered by the Middle East conflict and its economic impact (a) whether the Government sees hiring by businesses to be more subdued; (b) what sectors are most affected; and (c) what further measures are being taken to support employment growth.
1527. Dr Choo Pei Ling [7 May]: To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry has studied which groups of workers are most exposed to longer-term global trade fragmentation; and (b) how reskilling and job transition support are being designed to support these workers.
Answer:
Mr Speaker, with your permission, I would like to address Mr Yip Hon Weng and Mr Liang Eng Hwa’s oral questions together, as well as Dr Choo Pei Ling’s written question. I invite all Members to seek clarifications after and consider withdrawing the questions filed for future sittings if they have been addressed.
2. Members may refer to DPM’s Ministerial Statement on 7 April which described the economic impact of the Middle East crisis. Energy-intensive industries and outward-oriented sectors saw the most impact from increased energy costs. The crisis has also increased domestic operating costs and compounded challenges for export-oriented sectors already impacted by global trade fragmentation. While the labour market remains resilient for now, businesses have become more cautious in their hiring plans amid the heightened uncertainty.
3. Based on MOM’s survey, the proportion of firms intending to hire in the next three months fell from 54.6% in February 2026 to 44.6% in March 2026. Although expectations remain below February’s levels, there were early signs of stabilisation in April. This was supported by data from the Economic Development Board and Department of Statistics, which suggest that hiring sentiments are likely to further stabilise and improve over the longer term.
4. Jobseekers who need assistance can tap on Workforce Singapore’s (WSG) and SkillsFuture Singapore’s (SSG)’s suite of career matching services and programmes. Depending on the economic and job market conditions, MOM stands ready to provide further support to job seekers, if necessary.