Singapore aims to improve job retention for workers with disabilities
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In Singapore, while hiring of people with disabilities (PWDs) is increasing, a new analysis reveals that retention rates remain low. As of 2025, only about one in four employed residents with disabilities stay with the same employer for at least a year.
This challenges Singapore’s goal of employing 40% of residents with disabilities by 2030, as employment numbers alone don’t guarantee long-term career stability.
Muhammad Nafiz Sulaiman, a 19-year-old with autism, experienced this firsthand after completing an internship without receiving a full-time offer, highlighting communication gaps and a lack of workplace understanding as potential barriers. To address this, SG Enable, Singapore’s national disability agency, is introducing new measures. These include the Employment Support Office, job redesign initiatives, and expanded employer grants to help sustain employment. Experts emphasize the need for comprehensive training for all staff to foster genuine inclusion, moving beyond superficial hiring practices.
The issue extends beyond initial placement. Concerns have been raised that temporary wage support programs may encourage short-term hiring rather than lasting employment. Organizations like SPD, a local charity, have shown success with longer-term support, achieving retention rates of 60 to 70% for clients in their employment programs through workplace accommodations and open communication. Ultimately, experts say, success depends on employers viewing PWDs as valuable contributors and fostering a workplace where all employees understand and support one another.
