Another labour MP, Mr Melvin Yong (PAP-Radin Mas), said NTUC will seek to expand the progressive wage model into more sectors, such as pest management, which he described as an essential service plagued by low wages and high attrition.
The model would create structured career and wage ladders, strengthening livelihoods and the resilience of the sector as a whole, he said.
Several MPs also brought up the issue of supporting seniors as Singapore becomes a super-aged society.
MP Fadli Fawzi (WP-Aljunied) said it is “unconscionable” that some seniors remain classed among the working poor, and make a living through menial jobs even in their 60s and 70s.
He said seniors should not have to worry about their next meal, medical bill or bus ride.
“Such a life of dignity is surely what we owe to our Pioneer and Merdeka generations after they have devoted their prime years to Singapore,” said the first-term MP.
He noted that the Workers’ Party had proposed free off-peak travel on public transport for the elderly, and said this would encourage their participation in social activities.
SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS
Several MPs also spoke up about supporting caregivers. Mr Sharael Taha (PAP-Pasir Ris-Changi) said technology such as sensors, telehealth and robotic aids can lighten the load on caregivers.
If technology is used in community care settings, caregivers can also have peace of mind, he said.
Mr Ng said the government should help caregivers stay at work by expanding flexible work arrangements, but also support those who have left and are transitioning back into the workforce.
“Many of us are caregivers currently, or will be at some point. Let us take bold steps to ensure that Singaporeans have the support they need to care for their loved ones while staying resilient at work and at home,” he said.
Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash (PAP-East Coast), a former chief executive officer of the Agency for Integrated Care, also said more support can be provided to caregivers.
He pointed to a new Enabling Services Hub on New Upper Changi Road that aims to provide services for those with intellectual and physical disabilities, so that their caregivers can “have a reprieve from their daily responsibilities”.
GLOBAL ORDER
MPs such as Ms Tin Pei Ling (PAP-Marine Parade-Braddell Heights) also discussed the global challenges affecting Singapore.
“The global order is shifting, major powers are contesting influence, and the economic climate is more uncertain than ever,” said Ms Tin.
She pointed out that recent trends, such as abrupt policy shifts, the perceived abandonment of allies, sudden tariff escalations and the weakening of multilateral and international bodies, have heightened geopolitical uncertainty.
In the face of all these challenges, Singapore must remain a “stable node in an unstable world”, she added.
“As others build walls, Singapore will build bridges,” Ms Tin said.
Despite the challenges ahead, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong said there are still opportunities for Singapore to grow its economy.
He noted that other small, advanced economies grow around 2 per cent to 3 per cent per annum, which is what Singapore expects to achieve over the next decade.
“But we should not take that as a given. Instead, we should try to aim higher, take advantage of the window of opportunities over the next few years to achieve a faster rate of growth, if we can, before we settle down to (a) 2 to 3 per cent trend over the long term,” he said.
