Lee’s Early Involvement with Unions:
Lee Hsien Loong highlights Mr Lee’s early involvement with unions, beginning as a young lawyer fighting for workers’ rights. Lee successfully represented the Postal and Telecommunications Uniform Staff Union during a strike in 1952, securing higher wages and better employment terms for the postmen.

Unions’ Role in the Formation of the PAP:
During the establishment of the People’s Action Party (PAP) in 1954, unionists played a significant role, with many conveners being union members. Key union figures like Devan Nair and Fong Swee Swan were instrumental in the party’s formation.

Lee’s Legal Advisory Role:
Mr Lee served as a legal advisor to nearly 100 unions, including left-wing pro-communist unions. These unions initially collaborated with the PAP in the fight against colonialism and the pursuit of self-government and independence.

The Split Between the PAP and Left-Wing Unions:
After the PAP gained power, a split occurred, leading to the formation of the Barisan Sosialis and SATU (Singapore Association of Trade Unions) by left-wing unions. The left-wing unions aimed for a communist Malaya, including Singapore, and engaged in strikes and unrest to destabilize the government.

NTUC’s Formation and Rivalry with SATU:
To counter the pro-communists, Devan Nair and Ho See Beng established the NTUC to rally pro-PAP unions. Initially, NTUC faced challenges due to its smaller size compared to SATU, with only 12 affiliated unions compared to SATU’s 82.

NTUC’s Eventual Dominance:
Over time, the NTUC and the PAP gained support, becoming dominant forces in the labor movement and Singapore’s political landscape.

Historical Roots of PAP-NTUC Symbiosis:
The PAP and NTUC emerged from struggles and crises, refusing to give in to challenges. PAP’s survival through infernos of political opposition and NTUC’s role in supporting workers during economic downturns forged a strong bond.

Industrial Relations Amendment Act and Economic Crisis Aversion:
The Industrial Relations Amendment Act in 1968 structured collective bargaining and dispute resolution, attracting investments. NTUC’s support for the act boosted confidence, leading to economic recovery and averting a crisis.

Modernisation Seminar and Tripartism:
The 1969 Modernisation Seminar emphasized collaboration over adversarial labor-management relations. Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s vision of unions as equal partners in nation-building and his belief in workers’ dignity shaped Singapore’s labor relations.

Tripartism as a National Treasure:
Singapore’s unique model of tripartism fosters industrial peace, collaboration, and compromise. Tripartism has facilitated Singapore’s industrialization, economic development, and workforce resilience.

National Wages Council and Wage Adjustments:
The National Wages Council provided a framework for wage adjustments, ensuring fairness and consensus. Unions, workers, and the government worked together to balance wage growth and economic stability.

Tripartism’s Role in Structural Issues:
Tripartism extended beyond wage adjustments to address structural issues like flexible wages, lower-income workers’ support, and worker retraining.

PSA as an Example of Tripartism’s Success:
PSA’s modernization and automation efforts required difficult decisions, including job losses. Tripartite collaboration ensured affected workers were taken care of and helped in finding new jobs.

Conclusion:
Singapore’s tripartism model is a national treasure, fostering mutual trust, respect, and economic success. It has enabled the country to overcome challenges, restructure its economy, and maintain a harmonious labor landscape.

Tripartism in Singapore:
Tripartism is a model of cooperation between the government, employers, and unions that has been instrumental in Singapore’s economic and social development. The tripartite model allows for the resolution of disputes and the development of policies that benefit all parties involved.

PSA’s Transformation:
The Port of Singapore Authority (PSA) was transformed from a labor-intensive operation to a world-class port through tripartite cooperation. The government, PSA, and unions worked together to automate operations, redesign jobs, and retrain workers, resulting in increased productivity and efficiency.

Tripartism during COVID-19:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, tripartite partners worked swiftly to implement safe management measures, provide financial assistance to workers and businesses, and redeploy workers from pandemic-hit sectors to essential sectors. The Job Security Council, established by the NTUC, played a crucial role in helping 70,000 workers find new employment during the pandemic.

NTUC’s Role in Supporting Self-Employed Workers:
The NTUC implemented the Self-Employed Person Income Relief Scheme (SERS) and the NTUC Training Fund for Self-Employed Persons to provide financial relief to 200,000 self-employed workers during the pandemic. The NTUC’s efforts in reaching out to self-employed workers and delivering assistance demonstrated the organization’s commitment to supporting all workers in Singapore.

Conclusion:
Tripartism has been a key factor in Singapore’s economic success and social harmony. The PAP government’s pro-growth and pro-worker policies have fostered a conducive environment for tripartism to thrive. The tripartite model has enabled Singapore to navigate challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and emerge stronger.

PAP’s Focus on Economic Growth and Workers’ Benefits:
The PAP government prioritizes economic growth and ensuring that workers benefit fully from this growth. It aims to create a situation where all Singaporeans can enjoy good housing, healthcare, and education, heavily subsidized by the state. The government educates and trains workers to perform better jobs, leading to higher wages and improved living standards.

Forward SG and the Singapore Premium:
Forward SG is a government initiative to uplift workers, particularly those at the lower end, and help them catch up. The stable and harmonious industrial relations in Singapore attract companies and investors, leading to a “Singapore Premium.” This premium enables workers in Singapore to earn significantly more than their counterparts in the region.

Government Efficiency and Low Costs:
The PAP government strives to keep the costs of government as low as possible, minimizing the burden on taxpayers. Singapore’s government revenues from fees and taxes make up only 15% of the GDP, significantly lower than many developed countries. The government runs a lean and efficient operation, allowing workers to enjoy the fruits of their labor directly.

Essential Public Services and Cost-Effectiveness:
Essential public services like public transport, water, electricity, and healthcare are run efficiently and cost-effectively. Users pay reasonable charges for these services, and the operations are required to break even or earn a profit. This approach reduces the burden on taxpayers and translates to cost savings for Singaporeans.

Profit as an Incentive:
Lee Hsien Loong argues against the notion that public services should not aim to earn any profit. He emphasizes that allowing service providers to earn reasonable profits provides them with the resources and incentive to reinvest, improve services, and work more efficiently.

Comparison to Personal Work:
Lee compares profit as an incentive to bonuses in the workplace. He states that just as individuals are motivated to work harder and perform better when offered bonuses, service providers are motivated to improve services and efficiency when they have the potential to earn more profit.

NTUC Enterprises as an Example:
Lee cites NTUC Enterprises, specifically NTUC Fairprice, as an example of how profit can drive improvement and growth. He explains that the need to break even and make a surplus has led NTUC Fairprice to recruit a good management team, run a successful operation, and provide affordable products and services to its members.

Dr. Goh Keng Swee’s Motivation for Co-ops:
Lee reveals that one of Dr. Goh Keng Swee’s motivations for establishing co-ops was to educate union leaders about how businesses operate. He explains that Dr. Goh wanted union leaders to understand that profit is not inherently negative and that it can be used to benefit workers.

Conclusion:
Lee emphasizes that the approach of allowing public service providers to earn reasonable profits is driven by a desire to protect workers’ interests. He acknowledges that this approach is not always easy to implement, but he believes it is the right way to achieve positive outcomes for workers.

Introduction:
Providing essential services like public transport, electricity, water, and healthcare often incurs increasing costs over time. Adjusting charges, such as fares or tariffs, becomes necessary to maintain the quality and sustainability of these services.

Balancing Cost Containment and Transparency:
Governments and companies must actively seek cost-saving measures to minimize the impact on consumers. Thoughtful consideration is required before implementing fee or fare increases, recognizing their unpopularity.

Improving Productivity Through Innovation:
Productivity enhancements can lead to cost savings and improved service quality. Singapore’s public transportation system transitioned from two-man operation (2MO) to one-man operation (OMO), reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.

Embracing Technological Advancements:
Technological advancements, such as autonomous vehicles, may further optimize public transportation systems. As costs change due to factors like wages, fuel prices, and infrastructure upgrades, fare adjustments may be necessary.

Conclusion:
Striking a balance between cost management, productivity improvements, and transparent communication is vital in maintaining the quality and affordability of public services. Regular engagement with consumers is essential to explain the rationale behind fee or fare increases and gain their understanding.

Singapore’s Public Services: A High Standard at Low Cost:
Singapore has a top-notch public transportation system with low fares, reliable utilities, and clean water. The government prioritizes efficient and affordable services over across-the-board subsidies, ensuring good value for money.

Targeted Assistance for Households in Need:
Targeted assistance in the form of cash or vouchers is provided to low-income households, ensuring those who need help get the most support. Direct assistance can amount to up to $9,000 per household per year, significantly impacting household finances.

Inefficiency of Across-the-Board Subsidies:
Subsidizing electricity and water prices across the board benefits households that use more, which are typically not the poor. Such subsidies discourage conservation efforts and encourage wasteful consumption.

Incentivizing Conservation and Responsible Behavior:
Appropriate pricing of utilities encourages conservation and responsible usage, promoting sustainable practices among households. The government aims to foster a sense of responsibility and ownership among citizens regarding resource consumption.

Balancing Price Adjustments and Household Burden:
During challenging economic times, the government carefully considers price adjustments to minimize the burden on households. Price increases may be delayed or moderated when possible, and targeted support is provided to those in need.

Targeted Support for Public Transport and Water:
Public transport fare increases were partially absorbed by the government this year, demonstrating its commitment to affordability. Water price increases are offset by USAFE, which provides additional assistance to low-income households.

Effective Approach to Supporting Households:
The government’s targeted approach has been successful in providing support to those who need it most without compromising the overall efficiency of public services.

Stable Utilities and Affordable Prices:
Targeted help to families in need has reduced the number of households struggling to pay utility bills. Electricity and water prices have been kept at reasonable levels. Government efforts ensure sustainable public services while providing extra help to households.

Adapting to Technological Changes:
Rapid advancements in AI and robotics will significantly change work and life. Unions should not be sidelined but should adapt to support workers through these changes.

Impact of Technological Changes:
Jobs will change significantly, affecting blue-collar, white-collar, and professional roles. Overall productivity should increase, leading to higher growth. Individual workers and livelihoods may be affected during the transformation.

Unions’ Role in Supporting Workers:
Unions can help workers adapt to changes by providing training and upskilling opportunities. Unions can negotiate for better wages and working conditions to protect workers’ rights. Unions can provide support and guidance to workers displaced from their jobs.

Government’s Commitment to Workers:
The PAP Government believes strong unions are essential for Singapore’s future. Unions help maintain social stability and prevent discontent among workers. Unions promote harmonious labor-management relations and facilitate economic restructuring.

Significance of the Labor Movement in Singapore:
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasizes the enduring importance of the labor movement in Singapore despite rapid global changes. He believes the movement will continue to play a vital role in safeguarding workers’ rights and aiding their employment prospects.

The Need for Reinvention and Reimagination:
PM Lee stresses the significance of reinventing and reimagining the labor movement to guide workers through the changing economy and job market. He emphasizes the importance of upgrading and retraining to maintain employability and staying relevant in various job roles. He also highlights the need to provide reassurance and support to workers during these transitions.

Collaboration with the Government:
The Every Worker Matters conversations (EWMC) undertaken by NTUC align with the Forward Singapore exercise to understand workers’ concerns and aspirations. PM Lee lauds the EWMC’s efforts in gathering feedback from over 42,000 workers. He commends the initiatives planned by NTUC, such as the Learning Hub, E2I, and CTCs, to enhance workers’ skills and employability.

Company Training Committees (CTCs):
PM Lee highlights the success of CTCs as a reflection of tripartism in a new era, where unions and companies work together to drive transformation and equip workers with future-ready skills. He cites the example of Tew’s Agriculture, where CTCs helped implement automation, leading to faster operations, safer working conditions, and higher wages for workers.

Broadening Representation and Support:
PM Lee encourages the labor movement to broaden its representation and care for various workforce segments, including PMETs, youths, mid-career and older workers, SMEs, gig workers, and migrant workers. He emphasizes the need to support the harder-to-reach workers in fragmented sectors through collaboration with the Government, SNEF, and SBF. He stresses the importance of going beyond representation and benefits to focus on training workers for lifelong employability.

Adapting NTUC Enterprises:
PM Lee underscores the significance of refreshing the offerings of NTUC enterprises to remain relevant to today’s and tomorrow’s workers. He believes this will help maintain trust, harmony, and unity as Singapore builds a more inclusive and united society.

The PAP and NTUC’s Symbiotic Relationship:
The PAP and NTUC have maintained a cooperative relationship since the beginning, with the PAP championing workers’ interests and the NTUC providing political support. This partnership has enabled the PAP to win elections and implement policies that have improved workers’ lives and livelihoods.

Maintaining a Strong Political Partnership:
The PAP is committed to strengthening and sustaining this partnership for the foreseeable future, with both parties confident in its continuation. Unionists actively participate in party activities, serving as branch activists and party members, while PAP leaders maintain close communication with labor leaders.

Communication and Understanding:
Union leaders play a crucial role in communicating national perspectives to unions and workers, ensuring that the NTUC aligns with the broader national context. This understanding enables the NTUC to contribute effectively to improving workers’ lives and jobs.

Upcoming General Election and New Party Candidates:
The next General Election will be held within two years, and the PAP seeks to field new party candidates from the labor movement. These candidates are expected to represent workers and constituents effectively and contribute to the political discourse.

NTUC’s Role in Supporting Workers and Businesses:
The labor movement remains a pillar of strength for workers and businesses, safeguarding workers’ welfare and securing their share in Singapore’s economic growth. It provides workers with a stake in the nation’s progress, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Appreciation for Outgoing Central Committee Members:
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the outgoing Central Committee members for their dedication and contributions. Individuals like Sister Mary Liu and Brother Ong Hui Liang were highlighted for their long-standing commitment to workers’ interests and strengthening tripartism.

Importance of Quality Leadership in NTUC:
The success of the NTUC hinges on the quality of its leadership. Leaders with integrity, competence, conviction, and a genuine concern for workers and the country are essential for the NTUC’s continued success.

Encouraging Delegates to Vote Wisely:
The Prime Minister urged delegates to vote wisely and give the new leaders a strong mandate to lead the labor movement effectively. Support for the new leaders’ vision and initiatives will contribute to improving workers’ lives and maintaining Singapore’s competitive advantage.

Creating a Better Future for Workers and Singapore:
By strengthening tripartism and supporting the labor movement, the PAP and NTUC aim to create a better future for workers and Singapore as a whole.