Singapore to introduce more workplace anti-discrimination rules

The new guidelines will enhance the existing Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices (TGFEP) in setting up and maintaining a harmonious workplace, according to a joint statement by the Tripartite Alliance. Singapore’s workplace tripartite partners are the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) and Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF).

Mayumi Soh of Pinsent Masons MPillay, the Singapore joint law venture between MPillay and Pinsent Masons, said: “As the workforce grows increasingly diverse in Singapore, it is crucial that workplace relations continue to grow harmoniously, where individuals are respectful and sensitive towards different personal beliefs and values.”

Under the new guidelines, workers supporting causes outside the workplace should not face any kind of bullying or harassment at the workplace.

According to the guidelines, employers should be sensitive to employees’ diverse cultures, values and beliefs when implementing events and policies; assess employees for performance based solely on work-related requirements; provide employees with a safe forum in which to raise their concerns via appropriate complaint handling procedures; and continue to showcase the importance of an inclusive and harmonious workplace. Employees should not be required to attend events or comply with policies which are not related to work.

“It is important that employers in Singapore engage in fair practices and remain respectful of the personal values and beliefs of their employees in order to create a conducive work environment,” Soh said.

The TGFEP was published in 2007 by the Tripartite Alliance Limited and sets out fair employment practices to employers should adopt, such as making employment decisions based on merit and job-related factors.