Navigating Singapore’s Job Landscape: Insights and Anecdotes from a Local Perspective

Reference from

Understanding the PMET Growth: Who’s Benefiting?

TL;DR

The growth of PMET jobs in Singapore from 2013 to 2023 has raised concerns about job allocation between citizens and permanent residents, particularly as recent statistics show a predominance of foreigners filling new roles. Stories like that of Henry, who faced hiring biases despite qualifications, highlight ongoing challenges for local workers amidst rising living costs and housing pressures. The call for transparency in employment statistics is crucial for addressing discontent and shaping a fair, competitive job market for all.

 

The term PMET, which stands for Professionals, Managers, Engineers, and Technicians, plays a significant role in defining segments of Singapore’s economy. Over the past decade, from 2013 to 2023, there has been a phenomenal increase of 380,000 resident PMETs. This surge not only highlights the growing complexity of our labor market but also raises critical questions about the distribution of these roles among Singaporeans and permanent residents (PRs).

When we discuss “residents,” it’s essential to clarify that this term includes both Singapore citizens and non-citizen PRs. While PRs enjoy certain privileges, they do not hold the same status as citizens whom I, for one, deeply empathize with. Many Singaporeans have expressed concerns regarding job competition, especially given recent statistics that indicate a large portion of newly created PMET jobs may have predominantly gone to non-Singaporeans. This raises a vital question: how equitable is our job market, especially for those who have invested in building careers on our shores?

Examining Employment Growth

In a tangible reflection of this, data from last year indicated that out of the total growth of 88,400 jobs, an astounding 94.5% were filled by foreigners. This statistic is not merely a number; it represents a demand that could easily be met by local talents. However, one must wonder: why are there no clear figures breaking down how many of these roles went to PRs versus citizens? The ambiguity breeds suspicion that the scales may favor those from abroad.

One example that stands out is the story of a Singaporean, Henry, who faced setbacks after being retrenched in 2021. Despite possessing a degree, he found that even his own family member—his Malaysian sister-in-law—obtained a position at a bank with a salary of $6,000. Henry was left disheartened as he encountered biases in hiring practices that seemed to favor foreign applicants. As others may relate, this scenario illustrates the competitive landscape where challenges like nationality bias can undermine the efforts of qualified Singaporeans.

Rising Costs and Housing Pressure

Adding fuel to the fire is the escalating cost of living. Singapore has established itself as one of the most expensive cities globally, with PRs and foreigners contributing to housing demand by being entitled to purchase and rent properties. This influx further drives prices upward, creating a tight squeeze on available resources. Residents, including Henry and many like him, watch in horror as the properties they once hoped to afford become increasingly out of reach.

While the government provides metrics, such as the 21% increase in the median income for residents over the last decade, the figures prompt me to query—how much of this surge actually benefits Singaporeans compared to PRs or non-residents? Alarmingly, reports indicate that there remain around 52,000 Singaporeans still earning less than $1,300 monthly, contributing to a pervasive discontent regarding wage disparities. It appears to me that as the cost of living escalates, so does the divide between earning potentials for citizens and PRs.

The Call for Transparency

As someone who deeply cares about the socio-economic fabric of our nation, I feel compelled to urge the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) to address these pressing issues with transparency. Numbers and data are only as powerful as the honesty behind them. By providing a clear breakdown of PMET employment opportunities, we would be better equipped to understand the dynamics at play and address the growing discord among Singaporeans relative to job opportunities.

“Singaporeans are not xenophobic. We welcome foreigners because they have the potential to uplift our economy and society.”

This statement resonates with me as it encapsulates the market’s need for foreign talent while simultaneously underscoring the importance of fairness in job allocation. The critical dialogue about job opportunities is not about shunning foreigners; instead, it’s about ensuring that local talents can also thrive.

As the general elections approach, there lies an urgency that calls us to action. We must advocate for a future that prioritizes transparency and equity in job opportunities while celebrating the multicultural landscape that makes Singapore vibrant.

To further discuss these pressing issues, I invite everyone to engage with me and share perspectives. Having penned my thoughts in a recent book titled “It Starts with a Dream,” I hope to stimulate further conversations around these subjects. My book is available for purchase at Orange and Teal, and I will also be at the Tampines MRT station on Saturday, April 27, inviting you to enrich discussions around these topics. Let’s work together to shape a future that aligns with our values and aspirations.