Starting from October 2024, most civil servants in Singapore will be entitled to an annual benefit of S$500, known as FlexiGrow, to enhance their health, well-being, and personal development. This initiative was announced on July 10, 2024, by Minister Chan Chun Sing at the opening of the Public Service Week at ITE College Central.

In addition to the FlexiGrow benefit, the Public Service Division (PSD) plans to increase medical and dental subsidies for public officers, effective January 1, 2025. Medical subsidies for visits to private clinics will rise from S$20 to S$50, while dental subsidies will increase from S$120 to S$250 per year.

Minister Chan emphasized the importance of supporting public officers as they navigate a rapidly changing work environment. He remarked, “We have a saying in the public service: All of you pour your hearts out to serve, but you cannot keep pouring your hearts out to serve if you are not growing, if you’re not being taken care of.”

The PSD aims for the FlexiGrow benefit to cater to the diverse needs of public officers, allowing them to invest in personal development courses and fitness programs. The initiative aligns with the national emphasis on preventive health care.

With approximately 152,000 public officers across 16 ministries and more than 50 statutory boards, the initiative signifies a commitment to enhancing their work-life balance. Minister Chan stated that these benefits are essential for empowering officers to proactively manage their health.

The new benefits are part of a broader strategy that also includes raising the retirement age for public officers to 64 and re-employment to 69, set to take effect from July 1, 2025. This is aimed at acknowledging the longer life expectancy and the desire of many older officers to remain engaged and active in the workforce.

The feedback from civil servants has been positive, with many expressing appreciation for the updated benefits package. Aaron Ong, a manager in workforce development, highlighted his intention to use the FlexiGrow benefit for wellness programs and professional development resources.

Overall, these changes reflect a responsive approach by the public service to ensure that its officers are supported both personally and professionally.