Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is sharpening its focus on younger workers as entry-level positions begin to feel the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), according to comments made by Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng. While the overall job market remains robust, with 57,300 jobs created in 2025 – exceeding the previous year’s figures – anxieties are growing among certain segments of the workforce, particularly those in roles susceptible to automation. This shift necessitates a proactive approach to skills upgrading and job matching, NTUC officials say.
The evolving landscape isn’t about simply “protecting jobs,” Ng emphasized, but rather preparing workers for the future of work. The focus is shifting towards equipping individuals with the skills needed to transition into more relevant and sustainable roles, even as AI reshapes industries. This includes not only blue-collar workers, but increasingly, professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs), who now comprise 64.2% of Singapore’s employed residents as of 2025.
AI’s Layered Impact on Singapore’s Workforce
Singapore is currently in the early stages of disruption from generative AI, and widespread job displacement hasn’t yet materialized. Instead, the initial impact is being seen in opportunities to redesign jobs and boost productivity through AI integration. Ng noted that this isn’t an isolated phenomenon, but rather part of a broader trend encompassing Industry 4.0 technologies and robotic process automation, all contributing to increased efficiency. “These are all big future positives for Singapore’s economy and for our workers – so long as we are able to embrace these technologies, take action pre-emptively,” he stated.
The NTUC’s traditional role of worker protection is evolving to encompass proactive support for skills development and career transitions. Ng firmly stated that the organization’s core philosophy is to “protect workers,” but acknowledged that this now means helping them adapt to a changing job market, rather than simply preserving obsolete positions. This includes facilitating better job matching and providing resources for upskilling.
A Shift in Focus: From Blue-Collar to PMETs
NTUC is actively expanding its services to cater to a broader range of workers, recognizing that the “new working class” in Singapore is increasingly composed of PMETs. The union is innovating beyond traditional protection and welfare benefits, focusing on helping workers progress in their careers and securing placements in quality jobs. This involves a commitment to adding value to all sectors of the workforce, regardless of age or skill level.
The organization’s continued relevance, Ng believes, lies in its ability to navigate this uncertain age and advocate for workers’ interests, even in the face of rapid technological advancements. “Can NTUC protect the workers’ interest? I would say yes, but there’s work to be done,” he said, acknowledging the ongoing need for adaptation and innovation.
While retrenchments have seen a slight increase, these are largely attributed to business restructuring rather than widespread AI-driven layoffs. The official statistics indicate a generally healthy job market, but anecdotal evidence suggests that anxieties are present among workers in specific sectors.
Looking ahead, NTUC’s success will depend on its ability to anticipate future skills needs and provide timely support to workers navigating the evolving job landscape. The organization is committed to playing a central role in ensuring that Singapore’s workforce remains competitive and resilient in the age of AI.
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