IT IS good news for those over 62 years old that some 'Singapore
firms are keeping workers beyond age 62' (April 27) for their
expertise, experience, character and attitude. This is the right
thing to do instead of rushing to employ foreigners on low
wages.
At least one firm has stated that employing older people is not
much more expensive than employing foreigners. The latter also
bring with them social problems.
Other employers should take their cue from Han's, the bakery
chain where 40 per cent of the workforce is aged between 40 and
82.
I presume all these elderly people are Singaporeans. This is
good. Then we will not have a situation where many unskilled or
low-skilled foreign workers take jobs from Singaporeans and send
the money home. Singaporeans will also make a living and spend here
to support sections of the economy.
If employers must pay more for Singaporeans, at least the money
is spent here. If costs go up, it is a natural process and does not
bleed the country as when low-skilled foreigners send money
home.
A Singaporean does not have to be broken in. He does not have to
be integrated, saving the country millions.
There is need to ensure that foreigners are employed only in
jobs which need their skills. I believe in Australia, one cannot
get a visa unless one's skill is required.
Also high-skilled foreigners will create fewer problems and
improve the local scene, socially, culturally and in other
ways.
The recent cascade of unskilled foreigners working as cleaners,
shop assistants, coffee shop assistants, hawker stall assistants
and so on has produced much disquiet. Besides their productivity is
poor.
One thing worries me though, about older Singaporeans working in
low-skilled jobs like those I have described. I wonder if they have
annual leave, medical leave and medical insurance cover. They
should also have some security of tenure, that is, they should not
be sacked if they report sick occasionally.
Murali Sharma