Stories from Singapore · Singapore

A Ministry of Manpower survey conducted between January and March found that 71.5% of firms in Singapore are not using AI technology. The survey included more than 2,500 firms employing nearly 500,000 workers. The Singapore Employers Federation is reportedly stepping up support for the technology as activity improves in some firms. Singapore currently trails other economies including China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Finland, and Sweden in adoption rates. Usage among firms that do use the technology remains uneven, with larger firms showing higher adoption levels. The technology is described as augmenting existing jobs.

The transport and storage industry in Singapore is expecting challenging conditions due to rising prices and geopolitical tensions. Group Chief Economist Barnabas Gan expects a less promising period with fewer upcoming festive events. Analysts suggest customers may cut back on spending as a result of these economic pressures. Rising energy and higher jet fuel costs are also impacting market confidence. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stated that Singapore must prepare for a difficult period ahead due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. Wong made these remarks during his second address at the May Day Rally. The Prime Minister said the need for national readiness amid escalating regional tensions.

The Communicable Diseases Agency will conduct mandatory screening for approximately 700 tenants and workers at Bedok Food Centre and Market, specifically Block 216, and the Singapore Pools Bedok Betting Centre. Voluntary screening is also being offered to members of the public who visited these locations for an extended period. Member of Parliament Dan Ket Hao stated that authorities will monitor the situation and provide support to those affected. Member of Parliament Tan Kiat-Hau stated authorities would monitor the situation. The specific nature of the health concern was not detailed in the report. The agency noted that the risk from casual contact remains low.

A Singapore court fined three women more than $2,000 each for organizing a walk to show support for the Palestinian cause. Kee Un ruled that the original judge erred in law regarding their knowledge of a prohibited route under the Public Order Act. The trio could have faced up to six months in jail and fines of up to 10,000 Singapore dollars. The court stated the women should have reasonably made inquiries to inform themselves of the relevant prohibition order. Public demonstrations are noted as being rare within Singapore. Justice Sikhi Un ruled that District Judge John Ung erred in law regarding the case. The women had previously attempted to hand-deliver letters regarding the Palestinian cause to the Prime Minister's office at Astana's rear gate.

Following a US inquiry based on outbound investment security review rules regarding Branchmark, Manus has adjusted its corporate layout.

The Ministry of Manpower reported that the Singapore labor market remained broadly stable in March 2026 compared to December 2025. A Ministry of Manpower survey conducted between January and March found that 71.5% of firms in Singapore are not using AI technology. The survey polled more than 2,500 firms employing approximately 500,000 workers. Singapore currently trails other economies including China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Finland, and Sweden in AI adoption. Among the firms that do use AI, adoption levels remain uneven. This follows an earlier warning from the Prime Minister regarding stagflation risks if slowing growth is coupled with low employment figures. Singapore is seeing early signs of cautious demand in certain sectors. Demand declined from 54.6% in February 2026 to 44.6% in March 2026, representing a 10 percentage point drop.

Total employment in Singapore grew by 5,000 residents and non-residents during the first quarter. NTUC President K. Tanalechmi and Secretary General Ng Chi Minh issued a joint message stating more will be done to build fair and inclusive workplaces. The initiative includes stronger support for persons with disabilities through improved workplace accommodations and pathways back to work. Singaporean Minister Dr. Tan is conducting reviews of the Employment Act to better protect workers and support flexible work arrangements. The move follows a May Day message said the need for employment standards to keep pace with global challenges, including the Middle East conflict. The Singapore National Federation of Industries (SNF) stated it is committed to helping businesses seize AI opportunities while building an AI-ready workforce.

Health authorities identified 13 tuberculosis cases at Bedok Central in Singapore. Mandatory medical screenings have been ordered for workers and tenants at three specific locations to contain the spread. Hawkers and merchants at Bedok's Block 216 are receiving half a month of rental and other charges waived this month. The decision follows reports of tuberculosis cases in the area which led customers to avoid the location. The waiver aims to support businesses facing reduced foot traffic. An additional day of testing is being planned for Friday to address community concerns. The move follows a month of residents avoiding the area due to the outbreak. Ong stated during a media visit to the hawker centre and a screening centre at Heartbeat at Bedok that the disease does not spread easily through casual contact. Kang, a cardiologist, noted that dining at the location remains safe.

A 21-year-old Malaysian woman has been arrested in Singapore for allegedly facilitating a scam syndicate. However, pickups in the foreign country are restricted to designated points via ride-hailing or e-hailing bookings. Specified Singapore pickup points include areas near Vivo City and Jurong. Designated Malaysian pickup points include Mid-Valley, Southkey Mall, and Toppen Shopping Centre. The move aims to provide greater flexibility for travelers moving between the two nations. The scheme now includes specific pickup points near Vivo City and Jukun in Singapore for ride-hailing and e-hailing bookings. The Transport Ministries of Singapore and Malaysia announced enhancements to their cross-border taxi scheme today. Licensed cross-border taxis will be permitted to drop passengers off anywhere in Singapore and across various parts of Johor, including Johor Bahru, Forest City, and Senai.

A new tripartite council on jobs has been established to assist workers and businesses in integrating AI skills. The initiative is intended to prevent benefits from being left solely to market forces. Ng stated the council is an example of collective action to help workers seize new opportunities. Labour Chief Ng Chi-Ming announced the launch of the Tripartite Jobs Council to address the upcoming AI revolution. The festival features over 100 programs across the country. The event includes stories, trades, and communities related to Singapore's waterways. CNS Nicholas Ng stated that AI will disrupt and reshape entire industries by using agents that do not require human intervention. The council aims to prepare the nation to succeed in an environment where AI improves productivity.