FOR 37 years, the visual of eight cogs of a wheel enclosed in a spanner has stood as the symbol of the NTUC's role in looking after the interests of workers in Singapore's industrial economy.

Soon, a new logo will take its place. It will be unveiled by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday.

Spelling out what it represents, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) secretary-general Lim Swee Say said: 'Our new look reflects our aspirations for the future - to be an inclusive and dynamic labour movement for all working people of Singapore.'

Mr Lim, who became the labour chief last year, was speaking to reporters yesterday on the calendar of events to celebrate May Day, an occasion to commemorate the contributions of workers to the country.

The image revamp comes two years after the NTUC rolled out its 'Labour Movement 2011' vision: To be a labour movement for all ages, all jobs and all nationalities.

The NTUC has evolved over the years from settling disputes with employers to setting up cooperatives and, lately, even wine-tasting clubs to meet the changing profile of workers.

It has in its fold 62 unions with 517,000 members, of whom about one-quarter are foreigners working here.

The new, inclusive emphasis reflects its concern over three potential dangers to Singapore society even as the economy booms.

Unemployment fell to a 10-year low of 2.1 per cent last year and latest figures show 900,800 foreigners working here, making up one-third of the working population.

Mr Lim, also Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, is confident the economy will keep growing: 'I see no reason why Singapore cannot continue to do as well.'

But there are three bumps ahead, he added. They are: a widening income gap, an ageing society and the tension between locals and foreigners.

The haves and have-nots, as well as the young and old, must feel they have a place in the workforce and a stake in the country, said Mr Lim. If not, it will affect how local workers view foreigners, he warned.

Hence, the various events over three weeks to celebrate May Day will highlight how Singaporeans and foreigners here can 'work, live and play together' to build a competitive and vibrant economy.

On Tuesday, a record 78 individuals and companies will receive May Day awards. Among them are many who staunchly support the re-employment of older workers.

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

Is this article useful to you?