I WELCOME the announcement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Tuesday that the Jobs Credit scheme would be extended by six months, but with smaller payouts.

This would be beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises struggling with overheads. Companies facing stiff competition and high labour-related expenses include security agencies, cleaning companies, retail set-ups and manufacturing firms.

I hope employers would not retrench workers, but instead come up with innovative ways to cut down expenses, boost productivity and business opportunities, as well as to ensure flexible working times and wages for their employees.

I would also like to urge workers, especially blue-collar ones and those with low qualifications, to work hard for their companies and not demand unreasonable salaries or fat bonuses.

Fresh graduates and school leavers should take job interviews seriously and refrain from extravagant spending. All workers should also take the initiative to upgrade their skills, qualifications and knowledge.

Mr Muhammad Dzul Azhan Haji Sahban

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