There was an increase of 4,300 jobs in the manufacturing sector as against a reduction of 7,700 jobs in 1996. The other sectors created 26,700 jobs. The Employment Act governs the terms and conditions of employment and stipulates the rights and obligations of employers and employees. It covers every employee, except persons employed in managerial, executive or confidential positions, seamen, domestic workers and persons employed by the Government or a statutory board. Generally, Singaporeans work eight hours a day, or 44 hours a week.
Employees earn seven days of annual leave for the first year of service.
Thereafter, they gain an extra day ofannual leave for every subsequent 12 months' continuous service up to a maximum of 14 days. There are 11 paid public holidays a year. Regulations 1996 provide for the employment terms and conditions for part-time employees. It advises the Government on wage policies and also issues wage guidelines in line with long-term economic objectives. NWC's recommendations, when accepted by the Government, serve as a basis for wage negotiations between employers and unions.