Media Coverage
The Straits Times: NUS researchers propose ways to enhance Workfare for low-income Singaporeans and their families
As part of its Singapore Rebalanced Programme, Leap201 commissioned a research study by the National University of Singapore (NUS) to explore ways to enhance the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) scheme in supporting lower-income workers. The study, presented at a roundtable co-organized by Leap201 and NUS, highlighted four key recommendations:
- Expand WIS to support entire households, recognizing the financial responsibilities of low-income earners beyond just individuals.
- Phase out age-differentiated payouts, as older cohorts with fewer educational opportunities will gradually exit the workforce.
- Index WIS to inflation, ensuring payouts keep pace with rising costs and declining purchasing power.
- Increase the cash proportion of WIS, providing workers with greater financial flexibility for immediate needs.
At the discussion, Leap201 Chairman Michael Lien emphasized the need for a simplified, holistic approach to social support schemes, suggesting that existing schemes could be bundled to make access easier for those in need.
Read the full article on the Strait Times: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/nus-researchers-propose-ways-to-enhance-workfare-for-low-income-singaporeans-and-their-families