Singapore is set to introduce legislation this year aimed at supporting gig economy workers in planning for their retirement and ensuring work injury protection. Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng announced this significant development in his May Day message on April 27, emphasizing the government’s commitment to not leaving any Singaporean behind, particularly those in vulnerable positions.

Dr. Tan highlighted that this legislation represents a landmark move in employment law, making Singapore one of the first countries globally to implement such measures for gig workers. These workers, often referred to as platform workers, rely on online services like Grab, Deliveroo, and Lalamove to connect with consumers.

The forthcoming law will encompass several key areas, including:

Work Injury Compensation: Protections will be established for gig workers in the event of job-related injuries.
Retirement Fund Contributions: Gig workers will have mechanisms to contribute to their retirement funds, promoting financial security.
Collective Representation: The law will facilitate collective representation for gig workers, allowing them to have a voice in negotiations regarding their rights and benefits.
The decision to proceed with these protections stems from recommendations made by an advisory panel in 2022, which aimed to address the status and rights of gig workers in Singapore.

In addition to this new legislation, Dr. Tan mentioned that the government plans to announce support measures for unemployed individuals to assist them in re-entering the workforce, furthering the commitment to worker welfare in a rapidly changing economic landscape.