Parliament closed its five-day debate on the President’s Address on 26 Sep, with artificial intelligence, job support, and housing among the key issues raised. Thirteen Members of Parliament, including four political office holders, spoke over five hours on the final day.
Adoption of AI and workforce transformation dominated the discussion. MP Poh Li San highlighted that many small and medium enterprises want to use AI but lack knowledge and resources. She proposed government-backed training for young people to serve as AI ‘change agents’, helping SMEs automate processes and cut costs. She suggested an AI traineeship, starting with 1,000 jobseekers, with wage subsidies to encourage permanent hiring.
Other MPs stressed inclusion. They further urged employers to invest in older workers alongside AI adoption, while some called for stronger protections for professionals, managers and executives. Desmond Tan (PAP-Pasir Ris–Changi) urged employers to invest in older workers alongside technology adoption. NTUC’s Patrick Tay (PAP-Pioneer) called for expanding the Employment Act to cover more professionals, managers and executives, and for clearer rules on termination and transfers. He also pushed for refreshing Singapore’s training framework to prioritise skills over paper qualifications.
Beyond jobs, Senior Minister of State Sun Xueling spoke on housing accessibility, noting improvements under review for large Build-to-Order estates, including childcare services and food options. Senior Minister of State Murali Pillai outlined plans for a resilient, tech-enabled transport system supported by a skilled workforce.
The closing session underscored Parliament’s focus on preparing Singapore’s economy and workforce for an AI-driven future, while ensuring housing, infrastructure, and regional partnerships remain strong pillars of national growth.
