3 complaints of workplace discrimination due to NS obligations lodged from 2024 to 2025
To date, MINDEF has not had to pursue formal enforcement action against employers regarding NS obligations.
From September 9, 2024 to September 9, 2025, three complaints of workplace discrimination due to National Service obligations were lodged, according to Minister of State for Manpower Foo Cexiang in Parliament. Foo advised NSmen who feel unfairly treated because of their NS obligations to seek assistance from MINDEF, MOM, or TAFEP.
Employers are required by the Enlistment Act to reinstate employees after NS, grant leave for NS obligations, and refrain from dismissing employees due to NS obligations. To date, MINDEF has not pursued formal enforcement action under these provisions; instead, they engage employers directly to clarify their obligations, with this approach effectively resolving issues.
Foo responded to a question from Workers' Party MP Kenneth Tiong regarding the figures for such complaints and why NS liability is not protected under the Workplace Fairness Act (WFA), as well as the protection servicemen have against being overlooked for promotion due to in-camp training. Foo explained that the WFA, set to take effect at the end of 2027, has a calibrated approach, with protected characteristics making up about 95% of discrimination complaints received by TAFEP and MOM.
MOM may expand the WFA's scope if other forms of discrimination complaints persist or increase significantly. Additionally, NSmen are protected under the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices, which prohibit all forms of workplace discrimination, including those based on NS obligations. Employers found breaching the guidelines face corrective measures, and in severe cases, MOM may suspend their work pass privileges.
Written by urgent.news from Mothership's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
