Lawrence Wong Assures: AI Will Not Lead to Jobless Growth in Singapore
May 7, 2026 - 6:56 am
Singapore's parliament has pledged that the country will not experience jobless growth as artificial intelligence (AI) transforms its economy, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday, citing Channel NewsAsia. This reaffirms Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's position stated in February during the parliamentary debate on the 2026 Budget.
Wong had expressed his commitment to harnessing AI for economic growth while ensuring that this growth translates into good jobs and higher wages. He addressed specific concerns raised by MPs:
- Reduced employer investment in worker training due to increased AI use.
- Older workers facing disproportionate barriers to reentering the workforce.
- Hollowing out of entry-level professional and technical jobs before structural responses can be implemented.
The Prime Minister assured that the government would take proactive measures to prevent these outcomes.
Current labour market trends in Singapore are positive: The proportion of permanent employees has reached a record high of nearly 91%, with gains across most sectors. Job vacancies outnumber job seekers, and entry-level positions remain abundant. These figures provide a solid foundation for the government's no-jobless-growth pledge.
Wong has complemented this rhetorical commitment with concrete actions:
- The Champions of AI program will offer tailored support to companies aiming for comprehensive AI-driven business transformation, including enterprise transformation and workforce training.
- Four national AI missions have been identified in advanced manufacturing, connectivity and logistics, finance, and healthcare, overseen by a National AI Council at the national level.
The labour movement has also put forward its policy demands, advocating for:
- AI-ready career pathways.
- Stronger support for job transition for displaced workers.
- Ensuring inclusive workplaces that accommodate older and lower-skilled employees.
These proposals reflect a collaborative approach to navigating the challenges posed by AI, with the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) aligning with the ruling People's Action Party. The NTUC's support reinforces Wong's position on AI and job growth.
The broader economic context is also significant, as Wong's February budget was centered around ensuring sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.