Oral Answer to PQ on Employment Pathways Amid AI and Automation
NOTICE PAPER NO. 1240 OF 2026 FOR THE SITTING ON OR AFTER 9 SEPTEMBER 2026
QUESTION NO. 2810 FOR ORAL ANSWER
MP: Ms Denise Phua Lay Peng
To ask the Acting Minister for Manpower in view of the accelerating adoption of AI and deployment of humanoid robots in workplaces, what new jobs and employment pathways are being developed for Singaporeans who, despite training and reskilling, may be unable to transition readily into new occupations, particularly older workers, lower-wage workers and persons with disabilities.
Answer:
1. The Government is committed to supporting workers as AI and automation transform jobs and businesses. So far, our surveys show that most firms that adopt AI are redesigning jobs or creating new roles rather than reducing headcount. Such roles may build on workers’ existing skills and experience, rather than requiring them to move to completely new occupations.
2. For workers who may need to move into different roles, we are developing practical employment pathways into jobs with strong demand and good longer-term prospects. This includes opportunities in the essential and skilled trades, such as electrical work, or in the social and community care sector where demand is expected to remain strong even as technology adoption accelerates.
a. These pathways are supported through career transition programmes such as Career Conversion Programmes and the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme. They allow workers to move into new roles while receiving structured training and career matching services. Older workers receive enhanced support under these programmes to facilitate their transition. Over the past five years, close to 9 in 10 Career Conversion Programme participants aged 51 and above remain employed 24 months after embarking on the programme.
b. For lower-wage workers, the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) provides clear career pathways with wage growth, supported by industry-relevant training requirements. They can also tap on Workfare Skills Support to acquire skills that support their career progression.
c. For persons with disabilities, the challenge is often about securing workplace support. Programmes such as the Open Door Programme support employers with job redesign, workplace adaptations and inclusive hiring practices, while providing persons with disabilities with stronger employment support. The Taskforce on Assurance for Families with Persons with Disabilities is also reviewing how to strengthen support for employers to hire and retain persons with disabilities.
3. As AI and automation efforts evolve, we will continue to monitor their impact on jobs, and work with employers, unions and training partners to develop practical pathways that help workers adapt, remain employable and access good jobs.