EVEN as the job market is expected to get worse before it gets better, employers should not take the easy way out in cost-cutting by laying off workers at the first sign of trouble.

'Employers should think twice before laying off their people, as recruitment and training costs can also be very high,' said Dr Ahmad Magad, MP for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC on Wednesday. He also chairs the Government Parliamentary Committee for Manpower.

'They should take the longer-term view and take advantage of this period help their staff hone their skills and improve themselves,' he added.

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