The engagement focused on workforce cooperation, foreign worker welfare and technological adaptation in Singapore鈥檚 labour sector
On 11 May 2026, Mrs. Chonlatee Chanrachakul, Charg茅 d鈥橝ffaires a.i. of the Royal Thai Embassy in Singapore, joined ASEAN ambassadors, high commissioners and officials at a working lunch hosted by Mr. Stanley Loh, Permanent Secretary of Singapore鈥檚 Ministry of Manpower (MOM). The luncheon was organised as an official introductory engagement following Mr. Loh鈥檚 assumption of duty as Permanent Secretary.
The meeting served as a platform for dialogue between Singapore officials and ASEAN diplomatic representatives on labour, workforce and socio-economic issues affecting the region. The engagement reflected Singapore鈥檚 continued cooperation with ASEAN member states on manpower development and foreign workforce management.
During the luncheon, Permanent Secretary Loh expressed appreciation to ASEAN countries for their longstanding friendship and contributions to Singapore鈥檚 socio-economic growth through workforce participation. He noted that foreign workers currently account for approximately 40 per cent of Singapore鈥檚 total workforce. He also highlighted Singapore鈥檚 ongoing efforts to address labour shortages arising from an ageing population through the accelerated adoption of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) across various industries.
On the occasion, Mrs. Chonlatee underscored the contributions of Thai workers to Singapore鈥檚 economic development and reaffirmed the Royal Thai Embassy鈥檚 cooperation with the Ministry of Manpower on a range of initiatives. She particularly referenced collaboration through the Assurance, Care and Engagement (ACE) Group, which focuses on supporting and engaging migrant worker communities.
Mrs. Chonlatee also commended the Ministry of Manpower鈥檚 policies aimed at improving the welfare and living conditions of foreign workers. She highlighted infrastructure initiatives, including the development of modern worker dormitories designed to reduce overcrowding and promote improved living standards.
The luncheon concluded with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation between Singapore and ASEAN member states on workforce development, labour welfare and future-ready employment policies.
Source: Royal Thai Embassy, Singapore
