Singapore firms adopt people initiatives, but depth of commitment remains low

Most companies in Singapore have introduced initiatives to support their workforce, but many are yet to demonstrate deep commitment to these efforts, according to a new report by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC).

The study found that 94% of organisations have adopted measures aimed at employee well-being, professional development, and inclusion. However, only 22% show strong depth of execution—highlighting what the report describes as significant “room for growth” in translating intent into sustained impact.

“Most companies have taken steps to care for their employees—but the depth of execution and level of investment in this impact area still has room for growth,” the report noted.

Well-being support shows progress, with gaps

Encouragingly, more than half of surveyed organisations reported supportive attitudes toward employee well-being and professional development. Many firms also indicated they provide moderate to high levels of funding for training programmes and offer flexible work arrangements.

However, caregiving support remains limited. Only 38% of employers offer leave policies for employees caring for their parents, suggesting that institutionalised support for caregiving responsibilities is still evolving.

Diversity and inclusion lag in hiring practices

The report also flagged persistent gaps in diversity and inclusion (D&I), particularly in recruitment practices. Nearly half of employers (49%) said they are unwilling to hire individuals who commonly face discrimination, including ex-offenders and persons with disabilities. Meanwhile, 42% expressed moderate willingness and just 9% reported high willingness.

Resource allocation for D&I is another concern. About 49% of companies said they are not open to dedicating additional resources to diversity efforts, and 29% do not emphasise respectful treatment across ethnicities and nationalities.

The report concluded that more organisations need to actively build inclusive workplace cultures, noting continued hesitation around inclusive hiring and investment in D&I programmes.

Adoption strong for people initiatives, uneven elsewhere

Based on a survey of 1,100 companies, the NVPC assessed how corporate purpose is being practised across Singapore’s economy. While people-focused initiatives show the highest adoption, other impact areas trail behind:

• Environment: 68%

• Governance: 67%

• Economic: 50%

• Society: 30%

Interestingly, the society pillar—which includes corporate volunteering and donations—recorded the lowest adoption but the highest commitment level at 80%.

“While few companies have launched initiatives focused on corporate volunteering and donations, those that have done so demonstrated a strong level of commitment,” the report added.

The findings suggest that while Singapore organisations are increasingly embracing employee-focused policies, many still need to strengthen execution, investment, and inclusive practices to deliver meaningful workplace impact.