Measures to Tackle Increased Numbers of Long-term Unemployed Resident PMETs above 50
Ministry of ManpowerSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns plans to address the increasing absolute number of long-term unemployed resident professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) aged 50 and above, as raised by Mr Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari. Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng explained that while absolute numbers reflect an ageing workforce, the long-term unemployment rate for this group actually declined to 1.1% in 2025, remaining below pre-pandemic levels. To support these workers, the Government has invested in reskilling initiatives such as the Mid-Career Pathways Programme, Career Conversion Programmes, and the SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme. Jobseekers can also access employment facilitation services provided by Workforce Singapore and the National Trades Union Congress' Employment and Employability Institute. Additionally, the Ministry of Manpower has convened a tripartite workgroup to refresh senior employment policies, with recommendations expected in the second half of 2026.
Transcript
58 Mr Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari asked the Minister for Manpower what are the Ministry's plans to tackle the issue of increasing numbers of long-term unemployed resident professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) aged 50 and above, notwithstanding that their overall unemployment and long-term unemployment rates remain low.
Dr Tan See Leng: The increase in the absolute number of resident PMETs aged 50 or older who are long-term unemployed reflects the ageing of our labour force and the growing number of mature workers. In proportional terms, the long-term unemployment rate of resident PMETs aged 50 and above has declined slightly from 1.2% in 2024 to 1.1% in 2025. It remains below the pre-COVID-19 average of 1.3% from 2015 to 2019.
The Government remains committed to supporting every worker in their job search. We have invested strongly in reskilling and career conversion programmes, several of which offer a higher level of support for mature workers. This includes programmes such as Workforce Singapore's (WSG's) Mid-Career Pathways Programme and Career Conversion Programmes, as well as SkillsFuture Singapore's SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme and SkillsFuture Level-Up Programme. Jobseekers can also tap on employment facilitation services offered by WSG and the National Trades Union Congress' Employment and Employability Institute.
The Ministry of Manpower and our tripartite partners have convened the Tripartite Workgroup on Senior Employment to refresh our senior employment policies as our population continues to age. Its recommendations are slated for release in 2H 2026.