Workers can check PWM, LQS for accuracy
Singapore has launched a Progressive Wage Portal (PW Portal) on January 26, offering lower-wage workers a tool to ensure fair compensation and clarity on their job levels.
The online service enables workers to check if their pay aligns with the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) or Local Qualifying Salary (LQS) criteria and view the assigned PWM job levels by their employers, according to the Straits Times.
The PWM, a wage ladder tied to training and productivity, and the LQS, a wage threshold for companies hiring foreign workers, collectively cover 234,000 full-time employees on lower wages in Singapore.
Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad emphasized the significance of this portal for these workers, stating, “The portal will apply to workers covered under the PWM and LQS schemes, ensuring transparency and fairness in wage-related matters,” according to the Straits Times.
Zaqy anticipates substantial wage increases in the coming years, citing an example: “For general cleaners, the basic wage requirements will surge by 85% over six years, from $1,312 in 2022 to $2,420 in 2028.” This move aims to bridge the income gap between lower-wage workers and the median worker, said the report.
Co-funded wage increases
The government, through the Progressive Wage Credit Scheme, allocated approximately $1 billion to co-fund wage increases in 2022, benefiting around 70,000 employers and 345,000 employees. The scheme supported a median monthly wage increase of about $300.
The newly launched portal also provides detailed wage requirements based on their specific job roles. Employees can cross-reference their tagged job roles with actual responsibilities, ensuring accurate pay, according to the Straits Times.
Workers discovering discrepancies in their pay or job roles are encouraged to engage with their employers to address the inaccuracies. If further assistance is needed, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is available for support.
Reminders will be sent to workers when annual PWM wage increases take effect for their sector and occupation. The portal serves as a valuable resource for workers to stay informed about new wage requirements and verify their correct compensation, according to the Straits Times.
