Minister assures protections are coming to those who report genuine grievances in the workplace
Singapore's upcoming Workplace Fairness Act will prohibit employers from retaliating against employees and whistleblowers who report harassment and discrimination, according to Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.
Tan said in response to a question in Parliament that the law will also mandate employers to protect employees and whistleblowers who report grievances.
"When the new Workplace Fairness Act comes into force in end 2027, employers will be required to put in place grievance-handling processes for workplace harassment and discrimination, and must protect the confidentiality of employees who report grievances to the extent possible," Tan said.
"Employers will be prohibited from retaliating against employees and whistleblowers with genuine grievances, and financial penalties can be emposed on those who do so."
Tan made the remarks when asked in Parliament on whether the government needs to do more to protect employees and whistleblowers during workplace bullying investigations within organisations.
Employers are already encouraged to implement practices to prevent and deal with harassment cases, including bullying, while ensuring whistleblowers are not penalised, according to the minister.
"Workers who experience retaliation can approach the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) for assistance," he said.
Workplace Fairness Act
Singapore's Workplace Fairness Act is a landmark legislation passed in 2025 that is aimed at protecting employees from discrimination based on protected characteristics when hiring or conducting performance reviews, training, promotions, or dismissals.
TAFEP said the law "strengthens efforts to ensure fair and harmonious workplaces in Singapore." It also sets out the process for individuals to make claims against firms if they experience discrimination.
