Easing Of Snap WFH Rules A Good Move

SINGAPORE – Employers in the city-state lauded the government’s recent relaxation of the snap work-from-home (WFH) regime, reported The Straits Times, on Tuesday evening (21 September, SGT).

For instance, Karana’s Co-founder Blair Crichton said the amended snap WFH regulations are “a step in the right direction” and any easing of the rules is appreciated.

This is because the maker of plant-based foodstuff has a lean team in Singapore carrying out marketing as well as research and development (R&D), with its technical employees needing to report to their workplace to utilise lab equipment.

Meanwhile, Tan Ping Ping, the Head of corporate affairs of Prudential Singapore, said the updated snap WFH regime is a welcome development for businesses here, even though the insurance provider’s staff can shift to snap WFH arrangements if required as they’ve been provided with the necessary tools.

She disclosed that less than 10 percent on average of their staff work on-site across its 3 corporate offices in Singapore daily.

“As an added precaution, front-line employees such as our receptionists and customer service centre employees do a weekly self-test. Antigen rapid test kits are also available for employees who wish to do self-testing for peace of mind,” added Tan.

As for, Acronis’s human Resources Director for Asia Pacific and Japan, Bessie Kum, she said the revised snap WFH regulations shows Singapore’s determination and overall strategy to treat COVID-19 as endemic.

“The latest updates still provide security to local companies and employees, but also clearly show that potential business interruptions will be minimised.”

At present, the tech firm only permits inoculated employees to work in the office, and on average, under 20 percent of its staff work on-site daily. Notably, Acronis has over 200 staff in Singapore.

Meanwhile, a representative from Lazada revealed that they are giving their employees the flexibility to decide if they want to continue telecommuting or to return to their workplace. However, those who want to work in the office are required to submit an internal daily request to be able to do so.