Flexible work arrangements gain ground in Singapore but stigma remains: PAP Women’s Wing survey

A recent survey reveals flexible work arrangements are gaining traction, but stigma still prevents some employees from using them. Read more at straitstimes.com.

SINGAPORE – As flexible work arrangements (FWAs) gain wider adoption and acceptance, the focus is now shifting to how these practices can be taken to the next level, said PAP Women’s Wing chairwoman Sim Ann. 

She was discussing the results of a survey by the Women’s Wing, the women’s advocacy arm of the PAP, and the National Trades Union Congress, which found that nine in 10 respondents who applied for FWAs had them fully approved or approved with some modifications.

The survey of 1,500 men and women showed that three in four respondents said their workplaces offered such arrangements.

But one-third of this group said stigma remains a primary concern preventing them from asking for FWAs.

Presenting the survey’s findings at an event marking International Women’s Day organised by the group at One Farrer Hotel on March 7, the Women’s Wing’s head of research Yeo Wan Ling said that, despite the high approval rate, there are still “rumblings” that people are not asking for FWAs.  

“We have passed the necessary legislation and necessary guidelines for protecting people, but a culture of safety has yet to be developed,” said Ms Yeo, who is also assistant secretary-general of NTUC and an MP for Punggol GRC. She co-chaired the work group on guidelines governing these arrangements.