Singapore Introduces Unemployment Support Scheme in Major Policy Shift
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announces financial aid for involuntarily unemployed workers during his first National Day Rally speech.
Overview
- The new SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme offers up to S$6,000 for six months to laid-off workers.
- Recipients must engage in training, career coaching, and job-matching services to qualify for the aid.
- This marks a departure from Singapore's long-standing resistance to unemployment benefits.
- The policy aims to help lower- and middle-income workers affected by technological changes and economic disruptions.
- Additional initiatives include increased parental leave and training allowances for older workers.