Raffles Hospital sets new training standards
Raffles Hospital has earned recognition for its exceptional contributions to healthcare education, winning the 2024 HR Star Award for Best Training Interventions. As Singapore’s only private healthcare institution with a fully integrated healthcare system, it sets new standards for professional development across its operations in Singapore, China, Japan, Vietnam, and Cambodia. “We are truly grateful […]
Razer’s winning formula: ‘People-centric’ culture
When global lifestyle and gaming brand Razer Inc. was crowned Employer of Choice at the 2024 HR Stars Awards, it validated years of intentional culture-building and people-first initiatives. At the heart of Razer’s success lies an unwavering commitment to fostering an environment where innovation meets belonging. The company’s core values of “Be Phenomenal” and “One […]
The First Word: Silent epidemic of mental health in the workplace
Strengthening mental health has climbed to the forefront of business agendas, with an estimated 15% of the global workforce struggling with a disorder (WHO, 2024). This is spurring organisations to take proactive steps to support emotional wellbeing in the workplace – from flexible work arrangements to enhanced healthcare benefits. Yet, mental health challenges quietly persist: […]
The First Word: How to support mobile workforces with diabetes
Diabetes has become more than a personal health concern—it is both a workforce issue in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region and one of the fastest-growing public health challenges globally. With projections showing a nearly 70 per cent increase in diabetes cases by 2045, this chronic illness affects not only individuals but entire organisations. When employees […]
The First Word: HR’s role in the AI-driven workplace
This year marks my 18th in HR—and it has been a journey through varied organisations, cultures, and industries. Over this time, I’ve seen immense transformation in the workplace over the years, especially with the rise of remote and hybrid work and advancements like Generative AI (GAI). These shifts have fundamentally reshaped the skills many of […]
The First Word: Embracing the value of older workers
In 2026, Singapore’s retirement age will increase to 64 and the re-employment age to 69, with plans to raise these further by 2030. This shift reflects the nation’s commitment to addressing its ageing population while highlighting the vital role older workers play in a multigenerational workforce. It’s also a chance for employers to rethink human […]
The First Word: Cultivating a modern, connected workplace with technology
Our workplaces are no longer defined by walls or office hours. Flexibility – in location, time, and structure – has become essential in today’s dynamic work environment. Technology has long been an enabler of flexible work models, and the urgency has grown, especially with Singapore’s pending Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) Requests that will […]
The First Word: Bridging the sustainability skills gap in Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is at a pivotal moment in the fight against climate change. With the region particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather, the need for sustainable practices is more pressing than ever. Sectors like energy are at the forefront of this transition, where decarbonisation is key. In Singapore, 86% of business leaders […]
The First Word: Protecting HR mental wellness in a complex world
Human resources (HR) professionals often face the challenging task of balancing the needs of different internal stakeholders, which can be emotionally taxing, especially when dealing with difficult issues like handling conflicts, layoffs, or organisational changes. HR is also often the first line of support for employees during personal crises like health problems or bereavement. The […]
The First Word: Embracing flexibility and redefining the modern employee
In recent years, the workplace has experienced a significant transformation, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. The traditional image of an “ideal employee”—working long hours, physically present in the office, and being constantly available—no longer fits today’s work environment. Hybrid work models, including remote work and Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA), have become essential for managing talent, […]
