In Singapore, minister says AI replaces tasks, not entire jobs
In Singapore, Minister for Health and Coordinating Minister for Social Policies Ong Ye Kung said that artificial intelligence mainly replaces individual work tasks rather than entire jobs. He said this on September 7, 2026, at the annual Kent Ridge Ministerial Forum at the National University of Singapore, Channel NewsAsia reports.
According to the minister, AI is not leading to the mass displacement of workers, but is being used as a tool that can change the nature of work. In some organizations, the technology automates routine tasks that were previously often performed by new employees. In Ong Ye Kung's view, this may have raised employers' baseline expectations of young professionals.
Competition among graduates
The minister cited Graduate Employment Survey data showing that the share of graduates who found work within six months of completing their studies fell from 92.9% in 2023 to 88.9% in 2025. He described the labor market as more competitive.
Ong Ye Kung linked the increased competition to a growing number of graduates, employers' need to distinguish between candidates, and higher requirements for newcomers. At the same time, he stressed that Singapore's economy is growing, attracting investment and creating jobs.
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He said that certain types of work, including the work of programmers, editors and translators, may be replaced by AI. However, a significant number of jobs will remain relevant. As an example, he cited healthcare workers, whom technology can help by automating note-taking during consultations, planning work schedules and providing additional support in the analysis of diagnostic images.
Advice for employers and students
The minister urged employers to assess young candidates more broadly than by grade point average and the number of internships. In his view, sports experience, engagement in the arts, volunteering, travel or caring for loved ones can demonstrate a person's discipline, initiative, empathy, character and resilience.
Ong Ye Kung advised students to develop professional skills and use AI tools available at universities, career counseling and job fairs. He also recommended seriously considering job offers even if they are not ideal, as a first job can become a foundation for further professional development.
