Speech at JobsCentral Career & Learning Fair 2008
Mr Hawazi Daipi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary (Manpower , Health), Suntec International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 404
Mr Lim Dershing,
Director, JobsCentral Pte Ltd
Mr Philip Koh,
Managing Director, MediaCorp Press Ltd
Mr Thambyrajah T,
Deputy Registrar, Nanyang Polytechnic
Mrs Seow-Chng Cheng Nai,
Director, Student Services Office, Ngee Ann Polytechnic
Mr Ang Keng Loo,
Senior Director (Student Affairs), Principal's Office, Republic Polytechnic
Mr Lim Ee Tat,
Student Counsellor, Department of Student & Alumni Affairs, Singapore Polytechnic
Ms Evelyn Chong,
Deputy Director, International Relations & Industrial Services Department, Temasek Polytechnic
Distinguished guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
Introduction
1. Good morning. I am delighted to join you this morning at the launch of the JobsCentral Career and Learning Fair 2008.
Opportunities amidst economic uncertainty
2. The economic outlook continues to be uncertain, with concerns over the impact of the US credit crisis, rising inflation, and weaker demand from our external markets. Some employers have become more selective and cautious in hiring. As a result, some jobseekers might find it more challenging to land their dream jobs. However, while the labour market outlook is not as rosy as before, our fundamentals remain strong.
3. The Ministry of Trade and Industry released its revised economic forecast earlier this week. Our economy is still expected to grow by 4 – 5% this year, supported by our skilled, flexible and resilient workforce. We will continue to create many good jobs in sectors such as finance, aerospace, logistics, interactive digital media and tourism. Many employers are still actively looking to hire and invest in new talents.
4. Indeed, some 60 employers from these sectors are present today to offer exciting career opportunities. Regardless of whether you are a fresh graduate or a working professional, this would be an excellent opportunity to explore new job options with the prospective employers.
5. Jobseekers who need more information on the opportunities in the wider economy can refer to the Career Compass and Labour Market Highlights. These are online guides launched by the Ministry of Manpower earlier this year. They provide a comprehensive overview of the developments in the current and future job market, including information on upcoming manpower demand and occupational requirements.
6. For those interested in learning new skills, you will be able to find out more about upgrading opportunities at this fair. The five polytechnics, the Singapore Workforce Development Agency, as well as other higher education training providers will be able to advise you on skills upgrading choices. Learning is a lifelong journey, and all workers need to keep their skills relevant in this competitive economic landscape.
Fair Employment Practices
7. Years of education and training have equipped us with skills to fulfil our career aspirations. However, we must bear in mind that the final leap to secure our desired job is possible only because there is fair employment practices. We are fortunate that in Singapore, we do not have a serious problem with workplace discrimination. This is the result of our firm belief in meritocracy, which extends into fair employment practices. We must not take this for granted.
8. While discrimination might be low, small pockets of our workforce could be facing challenges in employment search because of their age, gender, marital status, etc. Both workers and employers lose when there is workplace discrimination. While the worker is denied a fair opportunity, the employer limits his pool of possible talent and the chance of recruiting the best person for the job. More importantly, treating employees fairly and with respect creates a harmonious environment that better motivates and retains valued employees. This is critical for any business that seeks continuity and growth. For the betterment of everyone, I would like to remind employers to hire on merit and to be fair employers.
Conclusion
9. While these are challenging times, I am confident that as our economy continues to diversify and grow, there will be many good job opportunities and challenging careers across the different sectors of the economy that await you.
10. I would like to wish the organiser – JobsCentral – a successful JobsCentral Career & Learning Fair 2008. And to all exhibitors and visitors, I wish you an exciting and rewarding experience.
11. Thank you.