The First Word: When layoffs hit, more than jobs are lost
In 2025 it appears there’s been no shortage of listicles and human interest pieces detailing the hundreds of thousands whose careers have been impacted by the rise of AI (which saw 4,0000 roles cut at DBS earlier this year) and slowing economic growth. Most recently, Agoda laid off 50 employees in Singapore, citing “enhancing operational […]
The First Word: Protecting employees when borders close
In June 2025, escalating conflict and airstrikes between Israel and Iran triggered widespread airspace closures across the Middle East, grounding thousands of flights and severely disrupting global travel. Over 2,000 flights were cancelled or diverted within 10 days, stranding an estimated 50,000 travellers, including 30,000 Israelis unable to return home as Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion […]
Five strategies for attracting Gen Z talent in Asia
The landscape of workforce recruitment is rapidly evolving, with Generation Z emerging as a critical demographic transforming organisational talent strategies across Southeast Asia. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation brings unique expectations, digital fluency, and distinct workplace values that challenge traditional recruitment approaches. As organisations in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines […]
Five approaches to sustainable workplace design
The concept of sustainable workplace design has emerged as a critical strategy for organisations across Southeast Asia, reflecting both environmental imperatives and evolving workforce expectations. As the region continues to experience rapid economic growth and technological transformation, HR professionals are increasingly recognising the importance of creating work environments that balance ecological responsibility with employee well-being […]
Five employee experience trends reshaping Asian workplaces
The landscape of work in Southeast Asia is undergoing a transformative evolution, driven by rapid technological advancements, changing workforce demographics, and the lasting impacts of global workplace disruptions. HR professionals across the region are witnessing an unprecedented shift in how organisations approach employee experience, moving beyond traditional management models to more holistic, human-centric strategies. As […]
Five strategies for cross-border talent management
The dynamic landscape of Southeast Asian business demands innovative approaches to talent management that transcend national boundaries. As organisations in the region continue to expand and integrate across markets, the ability to effectively manage and mobilise talent becomes a critical competitive advantage. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economic community has significantly reduced barriers […]
The First Word: How pet ownership is shaping workplace policies
Singapore has witnessed a steady rise in pet ownership over the years. According to a survey on pet ownership conducted by Rakuten Insight in early 2022, 33 percent of respondents in Singapore stated that they owned at least one pet. With the dog and cat populations growing at Compound Annual Growth Rates (CAGRs) of 1.9% […]
Five employee wellness programmes that drive ROI
Employee wellness has evolved from a nice-to-have perk to a strategic imperative for organisations across Southeast Asia. As the region experiences rapid economic growth alongside increasing workplace pressures, forward-thinking companies are recognising that investing in employee wellbeing directly impacts their bottom line. For HR professionals in Southeast Asia, implementing effective wellness programmes presents unique challenges […]
Fostering a winning workplace culture at Razer Inc.
Razer Inc. has won the Best Workplace Culture and Environment award at the 2024 HR Stars Awards, highlighting its commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic work environment. Defined by core values like ‘Be Phenomenal’, ‘One Team Razer’, and ‘Play Hard. Play Fair’, the company fosters a unified culture under its distinctive ‘Play to […]
Five strategies for managing workplace stress
Workplace stress is a growing concern for organisations across Southeast Asia, impacting both employee wellbeing and business performance. With economic pressures and competitive markets shaping industries in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, HR professionals are under increasing pressure to implement effective stress management strategies. The unique cultural and workplace dynamics in Southeast Asia present both […]
