Singapore-led Asean network aims to spot emerging labour market trends

Singapore has launched a new Asean network called the Asean Labour Statisticians Network (ALSN) to aid member states in identifying emerging labour market trends and enhancing workforce planning across the region. The initiative, unveiled at its inaugural three-day Expert Forum, will see Singapore serving as the network's convenor for five years, from 2026 to 2030.

This makes it the first of its kind dedicated to labour statistics in the region. MRSD director and MOM's chief artificial intelligence and data officer, Ang Boon Heng, will chair the network, with the ALSN office set to be based in Singapore to coordinate programs and facilitate cooperation among member states. The network will host an Asean Green Jobs Report, providing a regional view of green jobs and skills in all 11 member states.

During the forum, which included over 150 delegates from Asean member states and international organizations like the ILO and OECD, MOM's data chief Ang shared that the network aims to draw on the various strengths of its members, acknowledging that while Singapore may lack certain areas of expertise, it can benefit from the experiences and expertise of other Asean countries.

One immediate priority is for member states to nominate representatives to coordinate their participation and potentially take on leadership roles in specific areas of research. The network also plans to launch joint research through ALSN Co-Creation Incubator Projects, inviting interested countries to develop, adapt, and test statistical tools and methodologies, including Singapore's AI Exposure Index.