Singapore is set to extend parental leave to 30 weeks by 2026, offering more support for working parents.
This initiative aims to provide greater support to working parents, helping them balance their careers with the demands of raising a family. The expanded leave includes not only increased paternity leave but also a new Shared Parental Leave (SPL) scheme, designed to offer more flexibility and time for parents during the crucial early stages of their child’s life.
PM Wong Announces Expansion of Parental Leave in Singapore
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong revealed the details of the expanded parental leave in Singapore during his recent National Day Rally speech. This move signals the government’s commitment to strengthening family support systems in the country.
PM Wong highlighted that the new policy is designed to address the growing need for work-life balance, particularly for young families. He emphasised that the government will fully fund the additional leave to ensure that this change benefits parents without imposing additional financial burdens on employers.
Addressing Dropping Fertility Rates in Singapore
The expansion of parental leave in Singapore is also part of a broader strategy to combat the nation’s declining fertility rates. Singapore has faced steadily decreasing birth rates over the past decades, which poses long-term challenges to the country’s economic growth and social fabric.
By enhancing parental leave policies, the government aims to create a more family-friendly environment, encouraging young couples to have more children. PM Wong noted that extended parental leave could alleviate some pressures associated with raising a family, making it easier for parents to consider having more children.
Psychological Benefits of Extended Parental Leave in Singapore
Extending parental leave in Singapore will bring significant psychological benefits to both parents and children. Research shows that when both parents take parental leave, it reduces stress and improves mental well-being. Longer maternity leave also lowers the risk of postpartum depression for mothers.
Fathers who take paternity leave are more likely to develop strong bonds with their children and contribute more to household duties, which can reduce the burden on mothers and promote a more equitable sharing of parenting responsibilities.
In addition, children benefit from having both parents at home during their early months. Early parental involvement is linked to better cognitive and emotional development, setting a strong foundation for the child’s future. The new Shared Parental Leave scheme in Singapore allows parents to make the most of these critical early stages, fostering a healthier family dynamic and contributing to the overall well-being of the family.
Expanding Parental Leave to Strengthen Family Support
The expansion of parental leave in Singapore is part of a broader effort to support families and address key social challenges. By 2026, parents will have access to 30 weeks of paid leave, allowing them to spend crucial time with their newborns. This policy aims to improve birth rates while enhancing the overall well-being of families.
The government’s commitment to fully fund the additional leave reflects a balanced approach, supporting both families and employers. As Singapore develops into a more family-friendly nation, these changes will play a vital role in encouraging young couples to start and grow their families.
Reference
- Esther_Bai. (n.d.). National Day Rally 2024. Prime Minister’s Office Singapore. https://www.pmo.gov.sg/Newsroom/National-Day-Rally-2024
