Singapore

Singapore boosts global workforce with overseas immersion funding

Image Credits: UnsplashImage Credits: Unsplash
  • The Overseas Markets Immersion Programme offers up to S$72,000 in funding per eligible employee for overseas postings.
  • The programme aims to build a globally competitive workforce and support companies' internationalisation efforts.
  • It addresses the need for Singaporean workers with international experience in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

[SINGAPORE] Companies wanting to send employees overseas for experience will be able to access government assistance through a newly established Workforce Singapore (WSG) scheme.

On Friday (November 15), Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng announced the commencement of the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme. The plan was first announced in March during the Ministry of Manpower's Committee of Supply deliberations, with the promise that specifics will be published later in the year.

The launch of this programme comes at a crucial time for Singapore's economy, as businesses seek to expand their global footprint and remain competitive in an increasingly interconnected world. Dr. Tan emphasized the importance of international exposure, stating, "In today's global economy, having employees with firsthand experience in overseas markets is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for many Singapore-based companies."

Firms can collect 70% of a deployed employee's salary and 70% of their foreign allowance through the initiative for up to nine months. This will be capped at S$5,000 (US$3,700) and S$3,000, respectively.

"In total, companies can receive up to S$72,000 for each eligible individual that they send for an overseas posting," WSG and the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) stated in a news release on Friday.

To be eligible for the initiative, companies must be registered or incorporated in Singapore. They must also pay a fixed monthly salary of at least S$4,000 to individuals they transfer outside.

A complete professional development plan defining growth over 24 months, as well as quantifiable short-term key performance indicators to be met following training, must also be created.

This structured approach to employee development has been praised by industry experts. Ms. Sarah Tan, a human resources consultant, commented, "The requirement for a comprehensive development plan ensures that both the company and the employee have clear objectives for the overseas posting. This alignment is crucial for maximizing the benefits of international exposure."

SBF, which was named the program's inaugural partner, will collaborate with participating firms to establish training plans. According to the statement, WSG has put aside S$16 million for the programme's inaugural run.

"This will enable local companies to send up to 250 local employees to participate in (the programme) over a period of two years, where they will take on overseas (postings) for at least six months," said WSG and SBF.

The program ensures that "companies will receive generous support to send their Singaporean employees with little or no overseas market experience abroad to gain such exposure and experience" , Dr. Tan added.

The initiative has been met with enthusiasm from various sectors of the Singapore business community. Mr. John Lim, CEO of a local tech startup, shared his perspective: "For smaller companies like ours, this programme opens up opportunities we couldn't have afforded otherwise. It allows us to invest in our talent and explore new markets simultaneously, which is invaluable for our growth strategy."

On Friday, WSG and SBF announced that seventeen trade groups and chambers, including the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, had signed agreements in support of the plan.

"With the support of these partners, more than 100 companies with internationalisation plans, and their local employees, will stand to benefit from (the) Overseas Markets Immersion Programme," added the spokespersons.

As the programme rolls out, there is growing anticipation about its potential long-term impact on Singapore's workforce and economy. Economic analysts predict that this initiative could significantly enhance Singapore's competitiveness in the global market. Dr. Lisa Wong, an economist at the National University of Singapore, noted, "By cultivating a pool of internationally experienced professionals, Singapore is positioning itself as a hub for global talent. This could attract more multinational corporations and strengthen our position as a key player in the international business landscape."


Read More

Economy Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyJuly 18, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

Trump Fed rate pressure exposes deep policy rift

Donald Trump has never shied away from criticizing the Federal Reserve. But in 2025, the stakes are different—and so is the context. In...

Marketing Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
MarketingJuly 18, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

Why representation in marketing matters to your customers

We had just wrapped our biggest campaign of the year. The product was solid, the execution smooth, and the visuals—at least in our...

Loans Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Can you include personal loans in bankruptcy?

Filing for bankruptcy is basically financial rock bottom, right? Not necessarily. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Can personal loans be included in bankruptcy?”...

Health & Wellness Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Why salmon and sardines deserve a spot on your plate

A tin of sardines. A fillet of salmon pulled from the freezer. A faint scent of brine in the air. These might not...

Credit Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
CreditJuly 18, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Should you get a credit card? Here's how to decide

Credit cards are often seen as a rite of passage into adulthood. But for many Singaporeans, the decision to get one is wrapped...

Business Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
BusinessJuly 18, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM

Why networking wins the job—not your résumé

In a world saturated with polished résumés, templated cover letters, and algorithm-filtered job boards, the most effective job seekers are no longer relying...

Mortgages Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
MortgagesJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

The secret behind all those all-cash offers in today’s housing market

The property market has always rewarded those who move quickly. But with mortgage rates high and inventory tight, buyers are increasingly expected to...

Culture Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
CultureJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Why your company isn’t a family—and shouldn’t be

From the first team standup to the final investor pitch, many startups cling to a single line of cultural shorthand: “We’re like a...

Relationships Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
RelationshipsJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Study finds introducing peanut to babies reduces allergy risk

There’s a moment many parents pause before handing over a spoon of peanut butter. Will it trigger something? Is this too soon? But...

Marketing Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
MarketingJuly 18, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

How to boost customer referrals without gimmicks

Everyone wants referrals. The reality? Most startups build systems that quietly discourage them. They think delight leads to virality. They assume satisfaction drives...

Health & Wellness Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
Health & WellnessJuly 18, 2025 at 4:00:00 PM

Why toothpaste is almost always mint—and why that won’t change

No one gets excited about brushing their teeth. It’s not trending. It’s not romantic. It’s not even a habit you can flex on...

Financial Planning Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
Financial PlanningJuly 18, 2025 at 3:30:00 PM

One in three Singaporeans cuts spending on US products over Trump tariffs

Between July 1 and 8, 2025, over 1,500 Singaporeans and permanent residents were asked about their views on US goods and services. The...

Load More