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APAC Edition
26th May 2025
 
THE HOT STORY
Solar trade war hits Thai workers
Thailand's solar industry is facing significant challenges due to escalating trade tensions between the US and China, impacting thousands of workers. Major Chinese manufacturers have suspended operations, leading to nearly 8,000 workers being dismissed in 2024 alone. The US International Trade Commission is expected to approve tariffs exceeding 375%, which could make exports from Southeast Asia "untenable," according to Grant Hauber from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis. The situation poses a risk to Thailand's manufacturing sector and could hinder the country's renewable energy goals, as the government aims for 51% of electricity to come from renewables by 2037.
WORKFORCE
Quiet quitting: Japan's new work trend
In Japan, a notable shift is occurring among workers, especially those in their 20s, who are increasingly adopting the concept of "quiet quitting." This trend prioritises personal time and work-life balance over traditional corporate loyalty. A study by the Mynavi Career Research Lab revealed that approximately 45% of workers aged 20 to 59 are merely doing the bare minimum at work. The change in attitude is partly attributed to the sacrifices made by previous generations, with many young people now seeking a better balance between work and personal life. Sumie Kawakami, a social sciences lecturer, noted that this shift is a positive development, as it allows individuals to avoid the detrimental effects of overwork, or "karoshi."
China's new plan for elderly empowerment
China is enhancing support for its elderly population, encouraging them to utilise their knowledge and skills for societal development. A guideline issued by 19 central departments, including the Ministry of Civil Affairs, aims to foster greater social engagement among seniors by 2029. The plan includes removing barriers to participation and improving public services in education, culture, and sports. By 2035, authorities aspire to establish a comprehensive service system that offers diverse job opportunities for older adults. The guideline promotes measures such as increasing legal literacy, encouraging volunteerism, and expanding access to lifelong education. It also highlights the importance of protecting elderly workers' rights, mandating clear employment terms.
Job creation soars under ESIC
In March, employment under India's Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) experienced a notable increase, with new job creation rising by 5.79% to 1.63m, up from 1.54m in February. The Ministry of Labour and Employment reported a 33.9% rise in establishments joining ESIC, with 31,514 new units enrolled. Youth employment was a significant contributor, with 0.79m (49%) of new registrations from individuals aged 25 or younger. Female participation also improved, with 0.36m women registering. Additionally, 100 transgender employees were registered, showcasing ESIC's commitment to inclusivity. The ESIC, established under the ESI Act of 1948, provides essential social security benefits to employees earning up to Rs 21,000 a month, funded by contributions from both employees and employers.
Punjab farmers gear up for paddy season
As paddy transplantation approaches in Punjab, farmers are eagerly anticipating the arrival of migrant labourers from states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. With the first phase starting on June 1, farmers are taking proactive measures, including sending advance payments via Google Pay to ensure timely arrivals. The state expects to plant paddy across 32 lakh hectares, with a cash incentive of Rs 1,500 per acre for adopting the direct seeding of rice technique, which is more water-efficient.
LEGAL
Protecting China's state secrets
China's Ministry of State Security has issued a warning to former state employees regarding the importance of safeguarding sensitive information. The ministry stated that managing these individuals post-employment is "not a private affair but a vital component of national security." It highlighted the case of Feng, who was sentenced to six years in prison for leaking state secrets after being lured by a foreign espionage agency. The ministry emphasised the need for vigilance, stating, "Some individuals... disregard national security and interests." This call for awareness aims to prevent potential leaks and ensure the integrity of national security.
Pension delays spark court reprimand
The Calcutta High Court has asserted that pension is a legal right, not "an act of charity," in response to the Hooghly Chinsurah municipality's excuses for delaying pensions for 148 retired Group D workers. Justice Gaurang Kanth emphasised that "pension and other retiral benefits... ought not be delayed even by a single day," highlighting the undue hardship caused to retirees reliant on these payments. The municipality's failure to update the e-pension portal, which was adapted in 2021, led to the oversight. The court has mandated the municipality to submit necessary documents to the directorate within a week, ensuring that the employees are redesignated within two weeks. Justice Kanth condemned any delays due to technological or administrative issues as "impermissible and contrary to the principles of equity, justice, and good governance."
HEALTH & SAFETY
Workers protest against compensation cuts
Workers across New South Wales have protested against the Minns government's proposed changes to workers compensation laws, claiming they would leave injured employees without sufficient support. The rally, organised by Unions NSW, included members from various unions, including the NSW Nurses and Midwives Association. Protesters are particularly concerned about the Exposure Workers Compensation Bill, which they argue would restrict access to compensation for psychological injuries. Unions NSW secretary Mark Morey expressed that the frustration among workers is escalating into anger, undermining the government's credibility.
HIRING
Punjab's doctor shortage crisis deepens
The Punjab government is set to recruit 1,000 medical officers to combat a severe doctor shortage in government hospitals. However, previous recruitment efforts have seen a lacklustre response, raising concerns about the state's ability to attract and retain medical talent. Currently, 51% of general medical officer posts and 47% of specialist posts remain vacant, with a total of 2,952 out of 5,945 sanctioned posts unfilled. The state has introduced measures such as revising the postgraduate policy and reinstating the Modified Assured Career Progression scheme to improve conditions for doctors. However, experts warn that without addressing pay disparities and working conditions, the recruitment drive may not yield the desired results.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI boosts IBMs workforce, says CEO
IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has stated that the company's use of artificial intelligence (AI) has led to an increase in employment rather than a reduction. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, he noted: “While we have done a huge amount of work inside IBM on leveraging AI and automation... our total employment has actually gone up.” Krishna explained that AI investments allow IBM to focus on critical areas such as software engineering and sales, which require human interaction rather than rote tasks. He did not specify the timeline for workforce reductions related to AI implementation.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
Fewer graduates find jobs in 2024
Fewer than 75% of fresh graduates from private education institutions secured employment within six months of graduation, according to the Private Education Institution (PEI) Graduate Employment Survey 2023/2024 released by SkillsFuture Singapore. The survey, conducted between November 2024 and March 2025, revealed that only 74.8% of the 2,300 graduates in the labour force found jobs, a decline from 83.2% in the previous year. Notably, 46.4% obtained full-time permanent positions, while the median gross monthly salary for these graduates rose to S$3,500. Graduates from engineering, sciences, and business courses had the highest employment rates, with the information and digital technologies cluster reporting the highest median salary. The Budget 2025 introduced workforce support measures to assist fresh graduates in navigating the challenging job market.
TECHNOLOGY
Chips and challenges: Singapore's semiconductor future
Singapore's semiconductor industry is poised for growth, yet faces significant challenges, particularly in talent acquisition and innovation amidst global economic uncertainties. The industry anticipates global chip sales to exceed US$1trn by the early 2030s, driven by the demand for advanced AI applications. Companies like Lam Research are enhancing partnerships to tackle supply chain and technological challenges, while also focusing on workforce development. The need for a sustainable talent pipeline is critical, as highlighted by Kenneth Lee, CEO of Global Tech Solutions, who noted that graduates often overlook chip manufacturing as a career. The industry is actively collaborating with educational institutions to attract more talent.
SUSTAINABILITY
Shein enlists political allies amid scrutiny
Shein has appointed former French Interior Minister Christophe Castaner, ex-Secretary of State Nicole Guedj, and former European Commissioner Günther Oettinger to its new regional advisory committee for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This move aims to bolster Shein's image and influence amid increasing regulatory scrutiny over its environmental impact, labour practices, and product safety standards. Castaner stated his role is to help Shein "go further in its strategic orientations in terms of social and environmental impact." However, the French Federation of Women's Ready-to-Wear expressed "deep indignation," accusing Shein of attempting greenwashing and lobbying to hinder legislative efforts aimed at reducing the textile industry's environmental footprint.
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Burnout: the great escape plan
As burnout rates soar in Australia, many millennials are opting for career breaks to reclaim their mental health. Comedian Annie Louey shares her experience of moving to Hong Kong, where she found relief from the pressures of the entertainment industry. “I felt a huge sense of relief,” she reflects, highlighting the importance of stepping back from work. Research from the University of Melbourne indicates that burnout is particularly severe among young people, with 65% of women with disabilities reporting high levels of stress. Louey's journey reveals a growing trend of individuals prioritising self-care over traditional career paths, as they seek to redefine success and well-being.
 


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