Close to 500 union leaders and NTUC staff convened in Bangkok on Oct 1 for the NTUC Pre-Ordinary Delegates’ Conference (Pre-ODC) 2025.
SOS was represented by eight Executive Committee members, including President Kam Soon Huat and General Secretary Daniel Tan. The conference examined how unions can remain agile in a rapidly evolving workforce by broadening representation among professionals, managers and executives (PMEs) and younger workers. It also highlighted the importance of cultivating emerging leaders who can represent the diverse sectors of Singapore’s workforce, including the maritime community that continues to play a vital role in the nation’s economy.
Delegates discussed how technology and innovation, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), are reshaping jobs and productivity. They emphasised the collective responsibility of unions and employers to equip workers through upskilling, reskilling and guided career transitions, creating pathways that balance progress with inclusion.
A summary of key recommendations was presented to the union leaders, followed by a panel discussion with NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng and NTUC President K Thanaletchimi.
Outcomes from the workshop will be refined and presented for adoption at the NTUC Ordinary Delegates’ Conference (ODC) later this year.
