The Singapore government is exploring ways to encourage employers to offer flexible, fractional work arrangements, Acting Manpower Minister Jasmin Lau said on October 14. Such arrangements allow employees to work part-time or fractional hours, providing greater flexibility to those who need it.

Speaking at the Young Singaporeans Conference 2026: Future Makers, held at Temasek Shophouse, Lau outlined plans to introduce grants and incentives to help employers redesign jobs into bundles of tasks. This approach would enable employees to work at different paces and focus on specific duties within a role. The government is currently identifying industries and job functions most suitable for these flexible-load positions, with the intention to pilot initiatives before expanding them nationwide.

Lau emphasized that fractional work is not solely aimed at accommodating parents or caregivers but is intended to support anyone requiring work flexibility. She also noted that such arrangements do not have to be permanent, allowing employees to adjust their work commitments as their personal circumstances change. For example, individuals caring for young children or elderly family members might choose fractional roles temporarily and transition back to full-time positions later.

This push toward flexible working models follows the recent conclusion of discussions by a tripartite workgroup focused on enhancing employability and productivity among senior workers. The group, formed under Budget 2025, convened employers and organizations to explore multi-stage careers, including piloting fractional work for older employees. Minister of State for Manpower Denise Phua Dashi an indicated that the group’s recommendations would be released soon.

The idea of fractional work as a government-supported model has been discussed earlier this year, with proposals from the Singapore Business Federation and inquiries by Members of Parliament. The Ministry of Manpower confirmed in September that trials of fractional work arrangements would conclude later this year and that the government was considering expanding these options to younger caregivers and parents.

During the dialogue, participants also raised questions about work-life balance and the public sector’s role in setting standards. Lau acknowledged the public service’s potential as a role model but cautioned against overly rigid work hours, suggesting that flexibility must accommodate diverse lifestyle needs.

Lau is also a member of the Marriage and Parenthood Reset Workgroup, established in April to address Singapore’s declining fertility rate. The group is expected to publish its full report in early 2027. The government views flexible work arrangements as part of a broader effort to support family formation as well as the changing needs of the workforce at large.