AI replacing certain tasks, but not entire jobs: Ong Ye Kung

During a discussion at the Kent Ridge Ministerial Forum, Singapore's Minister for Health, Ong Ye Kung, addressed the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the job market. He stated that while AI is replacing certain tasks, it is not causing entire jobs to disappear. Ong emphasized that AI is being utilized as a tool to redesign jobs, rather than replacing them entirely.

He noted that the graduate employment survey data shows a decline in the proportion of graduates securing employment within six months, which reflects a more competitive job market. Factors contributing to this include a larger number of graduates entering the job market, employers needing to differentiate job applicants, and higher expectations from new hires.

While some specific roles, such as programmers, editors, and translators, might be replaced by AI, the majority of jobs remain relevant, Ong said. He provided examples of healthcare workers using AI to reduce tedious tasks, and interior designers using it to enhance their work. Ong urged graduates to leverage available resources like free access to AI tools and career guidance to navigate the tightened job market.

He also called on employers to consider hiring candidates holistically, beyond just grades and internships, to encourage a more balanced approach to recruitment.