SINGAPORE: Home Affairs and Coordinating Minister for National Security K Shanmugam said that Singapore’s population increase to 6.11 million in June 2025 is largely driven by foreign workers, stressing that they are essential to sustaining the nation’s economic growth.
His remarks sparked strong reactions online. While many netizens agreed that Singapore needs foreign workers, they called for balance and limits, citing concerns about overpopulation, higher living costs, and job competition.
Foreign Workers Behind Population Rise
Speaking at the Asia Future Summit on 9 October, Shanmugam addressed public concerns about overcrowding, infrastructure strain, and national identity following the latest population figures.
According to the Population in Brief 2025 report released on 29 September, Singapore’s total population rose by 1.2 per cent from the previous year, reflecting both immigration inflows and the return of foreign labour after pandemic disruptions.
The non-resident population — which includes foreign workers, dependants, domestic helpers, and international students — grew by 2.7 per cent, from 1.86 million in 2024 to 1.91 million in 2025.
Work Permit holders in the construction sector were the largest contributors, followed by migrant domestic workers.
Shanmugam said these workers form the backbone of Singapore’s key industries, including construction, manufacturing, shipping, and food and beverage.
“We will collapse without them. The more of them, the more the economy grows,” he said, urging Singaporeans to interpret the figures with nuance.
He added that most citizens are more concerned about resident numbers — citizens and permanent residents — rather than the total population.
The minister also pointed to ongoing demand for foreign labour, citing major projects such as Changi Airport Terminal 5, PSA’s expansions, and large-scale housing and transport developments.
He noted that although many small and medium enterprises report manpower shortages, the Ministry of Manpower has recorded the highest-ever number of Work Permit holders.
Call for Clearer Presentation of Population Data
Shanmugam suggested that the government could present population data more clearly by distinguishing between residents and foreign workers.
“I suggested we should say our population is 5.8 million, and the rest are foreign workers. But my Cabinet insists on total numbers,” he said.
He stressed that while the 6.11 million figure is accurate, public understanding would improve if data highlighted what citizens care about most.
The Population in Brief 2025 report showed that while total numbers have risen, Singapore’s resident population (citizens and PRs) increased only slightly, from 4.18 million in 2024 to 4.20 million in 2025.
In 2024, 22,766 individuals were granted Singapore citizenship — the highest number on record — while 35,264 new permanent residencies were issued, the highest since 2010.
Merit-Based Immigration Policy
In a separate part of the dialogue, Shanmugam shared his views on immigration, emphasising that while empathy for global suffering is important, countries must remain practical in managing inflows.
He warned that excessive generosity without regard for local resources could fuel public resentment, noting that some European governments had “lost the debate on immigration because the far left has taken over.”
Contrasting Singapore’s approach with Europe’s, Shanmugam said the Republic admits newcomers based on their potential to contribute to society, stressing that taxpayers bear the cost of housing and integration.
He added that every country must remain sensible, as cultural and social contexts differ.
Netizens Call for Balance and Tighter Limits on Foreign Workforce
Shanmugam’s remarks drew wide discussion on social media platforms such as CNA’s Facebook page and Mothership’s Facebook and Instagram posts.
Many netizens said they welcomed foreign workers but urged the government to strike a balance, citing concerns about overpopulation, rising living costs, and job competition.
One user said that while Singaporeans are not against having foreigners, the current ratio of 40 per cent foreigners to 60 per cent citizens suggests an underlying productivity problem.
Another commented, “Nobody’s saying no to them. But an over-influx will lead to all sorts of issues and such.”
One user echoed the same sentiment, saying that while most people agree on the need for foreign manpower, there should be stricter checks, as the current influx of foreigners appears to be turning almost every entry into a pathway to Singapore citizenship.
Another commenter noted that most Singaporeans welcome foreign workers but are worried about overpopulation, which drives up demand for essentials and raises living costs.
Others questioned the readiness of Singapore’s infrastructure, with one asking, “Is our infrastructure ready to meet this growth?”
Singaporeans Should Be Prioritised for Jobs
Some expressed concern about job competition, arguing that Singaporeans should be prioritised for certain roles.
One user said Singaporeans generally do not complain about foreign workers unless qualified locals are overlooked for the same roles, adding that some companies exploit the system and put Singaporeans at a disadvantage.
Another commented, “Singaporeans would be happy with foreign workers here if the economy’s growth translates to more spending power for the average citizen.”
Need for Cultural Awareness
Several commenters also raised concerns about cultural integration, saying that respect for local norms and values was essential.
One user said, “These people have to learn and understand how Singapore’s culture works, as well as respect our laws. If they do that, the bridge between Singaporeans and foreigners will strengthen.”
Another user added that Singapore must also consider whether the values of foreign workers are compatible with local ones, especially if they are to take up important jobs, permanent residency, or citizenship.
The user emphasised that newcomers should share a vision of the world that does not compromise Singapore’s own.
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