EXPECT to see a new NTUC this May Day, as the labour movement refreshes its logo and image.

The new look will better reflect the intent of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) to be all inclusive, said labour chief Lim Swee Say on Wednesday.

Mr Lim was giving the media a preview of this year's May Day celebrations, which includes the unveiling of NTUC's new look on Sunday.

The makeover stems from its five-year plan that was hatched in 2006. Then, the call was to be a labour movement that reaches out to workers of all ages, jobs and nationalities.

Since then, the economy has done well, with a bumper crop of new jobs created and unemployment dipping to a 10-year low of 2.1 per cent last year.

'I see no reason why Singapore cannot continue to do as well,' said Mr Lim, who is also Minister in the Prime Minister's Office.

But he envisages three potential faultlines that could tear society apart.

They are: a widening income gap, an ageing society and the tension between locals and foreigners.

The haves and have-nots, the young and old, must feel that they have a place in the workforce and a stake in the country, said Mr Lim.

If not, he cautioned that it will affect how local workers look at foreigners.

The key, he added, is to ensure that all Singaporeans and foreigners living here can 'work, live and play together' so as to build up a competitive and vibrant economy.

This year's May Day celebrations will reflect this theme.

Next Tuesday, May Day awards will be presented to a record high of 78 individuals and companies.

The annual May Day rally next Thursday will also be a time for union leaders and workers to reaffirm the NTUC's vision for Singapore to achieve high growth rates and high employment rates for all workers.

Awards will also be given to 208 model workers from 15 sectors on May 10. They include women who returned to the workforce, contract and casual workers, and re-employed older workers.

A May Day Carnival and U Festival, where people will be entertained by games, street buskers and live bands, will wrap up the May Day celebrations this year.