The Nationwide Wages Council (NWC) stated right this moment (October 16) that corporations which have already exhausted cost-saving measure ought to implement short-term wage cuts to minimise retrenchments.
The tripartite group stated that pay cuts ought to rely upon the efficiency and outlook for the corporate in addition to the trade it’s in.
Corporations also needs to search staff’ help earlier than implementing the wage cuts and solely make reductions within the occasion they’re obligatory to stop retrenchment.
Staff also needs to be told on how wages will ultimately be restored, and administration ought to lead by instance and take earlier and deeper cuts to their wages.
Sustaining Companies And Saving Jobs

The up to date tips will apply from November 1 to June 30 subsequent yr.
The rules have been up to date to maintain companies afloat and minimise retrenchments.
Although the rules will not be obligatory, they’ve been accepted by the federal government after the council convened for the second time this yr.
NWC is made up of representatives from companies, unions and the Authorities, and normally meets every year. Nonetheless, in gentle of the difficult financial state of affairs, a second assembly was held.
Nationwide Trades Union Congress president Mary Liew stated that there was a necessity for “extra drastic, speedy measures”, after efforts to retain and redeploy present staff have already been exhausted.
Pointers For Wage Cuts
When implementing wage cuts, employers ought to undertake the Versatile Wage System.
A versatile wage is one which has a sizeable variable part that permits corporations to rapidly alter wages within the occasion of extreme financial downturns.
Underneath the system, variable elements ought to make up 30 per cent of the annual wage package deal for rank-and-file staff, 40 per cent for center administration and 50 per cent for senior administration.
Nonetheless, the council didn’t set a quantum for the wage.
Moreover, the council referred to as for particular consideration to be given to low-wage staff. It stated that employers ought to implement a wage freeze for staff who earn a primary month-to-month wage of S$1,400 or under.
“There was plenty of give and take and, very importantly, plenty of belief among the many tripartite companions to provide you with options which are greatest not just for corporations but additionally staff,” stated Council chairman Peter Seah.
Featured Picture Credit score: Investvine
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