Singapore works to bring back foreign workers, but won't scrap manpower-lean goal

SINGAPORE is likely to see more foreign workers in the next few years, as the authorities tackle a labour crunch in the construction, marine shipyard and process (CMP) sectors amid Covid-19 border closures.

But the recruitment and retention of these work permit holders are not expected to detract from the longer-term goal of a more manpower-lean workforce in these sectors.

That's even as Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng on Friday unveiled temporary measures, such as a waiver of some employment conditions, to support employers.