New HR course unveiled to improve integration of foreigners in Singapore's workplaces
The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) is launching a new Cultural Sensitivity Training Course for human resources professionals as part of a joint effort between employers and the government to improve the integration of foreign workers in local workplaces.
The course, which will be delivered by the SBF's Business Institute, will equip HR practitioners and team leaders with the skills to navigate diverse workplaces and foster inclusive leadership, according to the Alliance for Action on Integration of Foreign Professionals (AfA-IFP).
The alliance said the course includes experiential learning on unconscious bias, managing cultural differences, and applying inclusive leadership frameworks.
It is expected to launch in the second quarter of the year, with further plans to carry out more runs over the next three years, after a successful pilot in February with HR practitioners and team managers.
Alliance for better foreign integration at work
The AfA-IFP is an alliance convened by the SBF, Singapore National Employers Federation, and the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth (MCCY).
The SBF's course is part of the alliance's five-point initiative to support firms in effectively implementing inclusive local-foreigner integration practices in the workplace.
The effort comes as the alliance recognised the need to scale and systematise inclusive workplace practices across Singapore's corporate landscape, after hearing from employers their varying levels of readiness and capability when it comes to inclusion.
Another major initiative from the alliance is the rollout of an Integration Playbook that outlines practical resources for implementing workplace integration practices.
The SNEF, which developed the playbook, piloted workshops for HR professionals and team leaders to equip them with the skills needed to use the material effectively.
Following well-received pilot sessions, the SNEF said it will launch the playbook and workshops starting July 2026 to support employers in applying the recommended practices in their own workplace settings.
Other efforts to boost foreigners' integration
Meanwhile, another initiative rolled out by the AfA-IFP is the EP Journey, an orientation programme for Employment Pass (EP) holders where they can understand Singapore's norms, values, and practical day-to-day expectations.
The programme was introduced in a six-month pilot by the MCCY that started in May, with the ministry aiming to reach 600 EP holder participants within that timeframe.
Another initiative from the alliance is an Orientation Day led by Trade Associations and Chambers (TAC).
Under the initiative, the MCCY and SBF will partner TACs to organise programmes where foreign professionals across firms within the same sector can meet and connect.
For the fifth initiative, the SBF has published an online repository of resources on inclusive workplace practices which can be accessed by firms and foreign professionals.
The AfA-IFP arrived at the five initiatives after hearing from employers and employees across different firms and industries.
"Our engagements highlighted that deliberate efforts by employers, local employees, and foreign professionals were needed to create an enabling environment where people from different backgrounds can connect and thrive together," said AfA-IFP co-chair Marcus Lam, who is also Honorary Treasurer of SNEF and Deputy Honorary Treasurer of SBF.
"Done well, these efforts can contribute to more productive workplaces, a more harmonious community, and a more competitive economy."
