The maritime industry in Singapore faces significant challenges in attracting local talent, as employers report a preference for foreign workers. Many companies claim that foreign applicants often outperform Singaporeans due to their willingness to endure the tough conditions inherent in maritime jobs. A recent incident involving Prime Gold International, which laid off 13 Singaporean employees and replaced them with foreigners, highlighted this issue. The company was subsequently barred from hiring foreign workers for two years after being found discriminatory against local hires.
Despite Singapore housing over 5,000 maritime companies employing approximately 170,000 people, seafaring positions are predominantly occupied by foreigners, especially from Indonesia and the Philippines. The maritime sector is crucial to Singapore’s economy, contributing 7% to the GDP. However, companies tend to favor experienced foreign seafarers who require less training compared to freshly graduated Singaporeans. A maritime company boss noted that training a ship captain can take seven to eight years, making the hiring of ready-trained foreigners more appealing in terms of time and cost.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) recognizes that young Singaporeans are often reluctant to pursue seafaring jobs, which are perceived as arduous. This has created a pattern where employers turn to the readily available pool of regional seafarers. To combat this, the MPA is working with industry stakeholders to design training programs and career fairs aimed at promoting these jobs to locals.
Compensation levels reflect the nature of the work: while entry-level local blue-collar seamen earn approximately $1,200 a month, higher positions like ship officers and captains can command salaries exceeding $3,000 and $8,000, respectively. However, recruitment experts express concerns about the commitment levels of Singaporean workers, noting that many enter maritime training programs but do not continue in the field. Adaptability is cited as an advantage of foreign workers.
Labour MP Zainal Sapari advocates for maritime companies to improve employment terms for Singaporeans to retain talent. He emphasizes the importance of offering better salaries and work-life balance. There is a consensus among industry players and human resource experts that attracting locals requires companies to craft more appealing job offerings.
An industry report released last year indicated a global shortage of trained maritime officers, with a gap of around 13,000. This presents a particularly difficult challenge for Singaporean companies, given the general unfamiliarity of locals with the maritime profession. Richard Yeo from Towers Watson Singapore suggests that companies should communicate the potential career paths available after seafaring roles, such as positions in fleet management or superintendence, to further entice local candidates.
In summary, the Singapore maritime sector grapples with recruitment challenges, stemming from a lack of interest among its youth and a reliance on foreign labor. Addressing these obstacles may involve better compensation, clearer career trajectories, and enhanced training initiatives to engage the local workforce.
Source link
