Flexible Work Arrangements to Become Standardized in New Tripartite Guidelines: Gan Siow Huang

SINGAPORE — Flexible work arrangements (FWAs) are set to become normalized under upcoming tripartite guidelines, announced Minister of State for Manpower Gan Siow Huang during a media visit to AsiaOne’s office on Wednesday (Jan 31). The guidelines, developed by a workgroup formed last year, aim to help employees feel more comfortable requesting FWAs and will be rolled out later this year.

The 11-member workgroup, co-chaired by Gan, NTUC’s Yeo Wan Ling, and SNEF’s Edwin Ng, is addressing challenges both employees and employers face with FWAs. Gan noted that some employees may worry about appearing less dedicated when requesting FWAs, while employers may have concerns over potential productivity dips. However, she emphasized that FWAs offer opportunities for creativity in talent retention and recruitment.

The guidelines will introduce structured processes and templates for managing FWA requests. The workgroup is also exploring potential grants to help companies acquire resources, such as IT or HR solutions, to support FWA implementation. Gan highlighted that future FWAs could involve flexible hours or workloads, benefiting caregivers, frontline, and shift workers alike.

NTUC’s Yeo Wan Ling echoed this sentiment, pointing out that a recent NTUC survey showed nearly 90% of workers with caregiving responsibilities prefer FWAs as a way to remain in their roles.

AsiaOne, for instance, has implemented FWAs since 2022, allowing employees at least six flexible workdays per month. AsiaOne CEO Sean Ler shared that the initiative helps employees manage personal challenges without compromising productivity. “People are the heartbeat of our company,” he said, adding that FWAs enable talent retention and work-life balance.