Wed Sep 18 01:56:31 UTC 2024: ## Singapore News Roundup: Workers’ Deaths, Job Market Concerns, and Political Disputes

**Two workers tragically died in a heavy machinery accident** at the North-South Corridor construction site on Lentor Avenue on September 17th. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the accident, which involved the slipping of a winch drum, injuring four workers in total. This incident follows a similar fatality at the North-South Corridor site last September.

**Concerns about job transparency and Singaporeans’ access to high-paying roles** emerged after data revealed that foreign-owned firms, comprising 20% of companies in Singapore, employ 60% of residents in high-earning jobs. Despite repeated requests for clarification on the number of Singaporeans in PMET positions, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng declined to provide a breakdown, raising concerns about the government’s transparency in job allocation strategies.

**The Labour Market Report for Q2 2024 highlighted a mixed picture.** While overall employment increased, this growth was solely attributed to non-resident workers, as resident employment declined. Resident workers also faced challenges with re-employment and underemployment, particularly older workers, who often had to accept lower wages in new roles.

**The MOM report also reflects the impact of policies aimed at raising the quality of non-resident workers.** However, the reliance on foreign workers in sectors offering lower wages remains, leading to concerns about the sustainability of this model and the ability of Singaporeans to access better job opportunities.

**The political landscape saw further developments.** Dr Tan Cheng Bock questioned the S$335 million cost of the Founders’ Memorial, citing Lee Kuan Yew’s stance on extravagant spending. Minister Shanmugam transferred Astrid Hill GCB to UBS Trustees for S$88 Million following the Ridout Road controversy.

**These issues highlight the complex interplay between Singapore’s economic growth, job market dynamics, and the government’s policies.** The news roundup underscores the need for further discussion and transparency on these critical issues affecting Singaporeans.

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