Efforts made to protect older workers from discrimination

We refer to Mr Edmund Khoo’s letter “Specific anti-discrimination laws needed to ensure fair rehiring of older PMETs” (Dec 1).

The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) takes a serious view of age discrimination in the workplace. Under the Retirement and Re-employment Act, it is unlawful for employers to dismiss employees who are below 62 years old on grounds of age.

Employees who feel that they have been so dismissed should approach the MOM for advice and assistance as soon as possible.

That said, the key to eliminating discrimination is to root out biased mindsets, and effective tools for achieving this go beyond legislation.

To this end, the MOM works with employers and unions through the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (Tafep), which promotes the employability of older workers and raises awareness of the value that older workers bring to the workplace.

Implementing such practices widens the pool of candidates that employers can recruit from, increasing their chances of finding the best person for the job.

Our approach goes beyond a promotional one. We expect all employers to abide by the principles of fair and merit-based employment outlined in the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices.

Tafep plays an active role in looking into discrimination complaints and refers cases to the MOM for investigation where warranted. In deserving cases, the MOM would curb the work pass privileges of the offending company.

Employees who feel that they have been unfairly treated in the workplace can approach Tafep for advice and assistance.