Malaysia’s Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan met with Singapore’s Acting Minister for Manpower Jasmin Lau on August 7, 2026, in Singapore to discuss deepening cooperation in the labour sector and improving protections for gig workers [1, 2, 3, 4].
The two sides exchanged views on labour market developments and the challenges in preparing their workforce for future demands. Discussions focused on talent development, upskilling initiatives, and equipping workers for technological changes including artificial intelligence (AI) [1, 2, 3, 4].
Ramanan said, "Malaysia and Singapore are facing rapid changes in the employment landscape. We therefore need to ensure that labour policies and worker protection continue to evolve in tandem with changing work arrangements and the needs of the economy" [1].
The ministers emphasized sharing experiences and best practices to build a progressive and inclusive employment ecosystem without compromising workers’ interests and welfare [1, 2, 3, 4]. The labour relationship between Malaysia and Singapore is unique, featuring strong labour mobility, economic ties, and people-to-people connections [1, 2, 3, 4]. Ramanan noted, "The relationship between Malaysia and Singapore extends beyond that of two neighbouring countries...We see significant opportunities to strengthen cooperation, share expertise and jointly address the workforce challenges that lie ahead" [1].
The Singapore delegation included officials Pung Wan Qing, Gan Su Yi, Kevin Lee, and Lock Hong Quan from the Ministry of Manpower and SkillsFuture Singapore Agency [1, 2, 3, 4].
As part of his official visit, Ramanan also toured Grab’s headquarters in Singapore on the same day [2, 3, 4].
