1. What inspired you to join the public sector?

After my National Service, I was seeking a career that would be both rewarding and at the same time could pave my career path for bigger and better opportunities. I was driven to contribute to society instead of merely meeting deadlines and bottom-line’s.
That was when taking up a career in the public sector came to mind. As opposed to the private sector, the contributions and success of the public sector cannot be defined by mere sales figures or net profits but also by the success of making a difference to the lives of everyday people. I joined the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in 2008 and have enjoyed the ride so far.

2. Why MOM in particular?

I was impressed by MOM’s mission in achieving a competitive workforce and workplace so as to safeguard our country’s economic future. It is the Ministry’s goals and the fact that the work contributed by MOMers is gratifying and rewarding that attracted me to become a MOMer.

3. Describe your job scope.

I am currently a Senior Housing Enforcement Investigator under the Management Support Scheme in MOM. My primary portfolio focuses on safeguarding the interest and well-being of foreign workers working in Singapore, by ensuring that their accommodation and welfare is taken care of by their employers.

The nature of the job is interesting and fast paced. I not only get to meet people from all walks of life but also travel as part of my inspections to various landscapes such as industrial estates, residential districts, construction sites and dormitories. It is through my engagement and conversations that I enjoy my job and work towards driving MOM’s objective to ensure the welfare and safety of foreign workers during their stay in Singapore.

4. What challenges and opportunities have you been exposed to at MOM?

Just like any other job, in my current portfolio and given the nature of the job, one has to adapt to working beyond official working hours. At times, we might be called up for unexpected and urgent visits based on feedback from the public. We will of course be compensated for the number of additional hours clocked in. It is the passion and commitment to my job, which keeps me driven and focused for this job. I believe that these challenges are valuable learning points in my career and they have also provided me with the opportunity to build a strong relationship and rapport with my team.

5. What is most rewarding and interesting about your job?

It is rewarding to know that the effort that you put into your job amounts to better living conditions and standards for workers here in Singapore. It feels good to know that I am making a direct impact to enhance the lives of people. I see the appreciation in the workers’ faces when we help them out of a troubled situation.

6. How have you grown (personally, mentally, emotionally, etc) since joining the organisation? I am often exposed to assignments that are situational and unexpected. I have also developed my interpersonal skills having worked with people from all walks of life including my own team mates. Such working experience has taught me to make decisions quickly and on a strategic level. I have also grown to appreciate the value of team work and great work that can result from a closely knit team. The management in MOM has also inspired me. Our management plays an important role in fostering the professional and personal growth of staff. Our immediate supervisors are also very supportive to new initiatives and ideas proposed on a staff level.

7. Describe the culture and work environment here.

MOM has a very nurturing and enabling culture and environment. It is MOM’s shared values that guide the behavior and actions of all MOMers towards building a Great Workforce and a Great Workplace for Singapore.

8. How has your career advanced since you joined MOM? What career progression can you look forward to?

In terms of career progression, I am considering the option of applying for a direct transfer to the higher Management Executive Scheme to become an Assistant Manager now that I have completed my part-time degree and if I meet the eligibility criteria. This direct conversion is one of the routes available for such career progression in addition to the normal progression via promotion based on merit. The conversion would give me a chance to take on greater responsibilities and enhance my contribution to the Ministry.

9. What are some benefits of working at MOM?

MOM demonstrates strong support towards MOMers training and individual development. We are encouraged by our management and supervisors to go for 80 hours of training annually and to upgrade our skills through work related courses or fun courses like yoga.

MOM also provides various sponsorship opportunities via the MOM Sponsorship Programme that encourages a culture of continuous upgrading and learning within the Ministry. The programme recognises that lifelong learning is essential for public officers to upgrade their stock of knowledge and to take up further studies. This programme also allows staff to have flexibility to apply for alternative work arrangements to accommodate their training or family needs.

10. You would recommend others a career in MOM because...

For young minds who are seeking a career in a conducive and nurturing environment, MOM is definitely one of the organisations that you should consider. MOM is a people centric organisation that values its employees and has a supportive management. It is fast paced and there are plenty of opportunities to try your hand at new projects and meet MOMers. I have grown both personally and professionally with MOM over the past three years and I hope to inspire young minds who join MOM to do the same.

MOM’s management is a great believer in Work-Life Harmony and as a result MOMers enjoy flexible work arrangements as and when required. I am thankful to my encouraging supervisor and team mates for supporting me through my part-time degree while working in MOM.