SINGAPORE: A lack of a good work-life balance was
common gripe shared by over 50 participants, aged between 25 and 79
years old, at a national conversation session for
ladies.
The session took place on Saturday morning, led by
grassroots adviser Jessica Tan. The Our Singapore Conversation
session by Changi Simei Grassroots Organisations is the second to
target all-female participants.
The women felt having a good work-life balance was
essential as it would help them juggle their work and family
commitments more effectively.
They also felt if more companies adopt flexi-work schemes, it will
encourage stay-home mums and even retirees to continue
working.
Christie Khoo, an entrepreneur who was at the session, said: "As we
are facing globalisation, how are women able to handle their
workload? They have to juggle so many responsibilities (of) being a
mother, as well as a career woman wanting to contribute back to
society."
Ms Tan commented: "We all seem to be running ahead of ourselves too
much and that's why the theme of work-life balance came up, and the
need for us to really emphasise work-life balance, because it
allows us to build relationships, have time for each other and be
more considerate."
With a fast-ageing population, the elderly also raised their
concerns.
"More should be done for the elderly, like providing them with
facilities where they can get together and interact," suggested
Hwee Yan, a retiree.
A recurring theme during the conversation was bringing back the
kampung spirit and fostering closer ties within the
community.
The women also raised issues on housing affordability, rising
healthcare costs and the emphasis on values taught in
schools.
Other suggestions put forward during the session included reducing
the COEs of cars and working towards a more gracious society.
- CNA/xq
