Gender Discrimination in Singapore: Women Face the Brunt – Men Stand Back
In a recent survey carried out by the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI), 4 out of every 10 women reported glancing eye‑rolls, whispered reproaches, and outright discrimination at work. That’s compared to just 1 out of 10 men who had a similar run‑through.
Only a tiny 12% of the folks who faced such biases filed an official complaint, and shockingly, every one of those who reported was female. It seems men are either less likely to notice or less likely to call out bad vibes.
Those brave enough to speak up found that only just under half of them felt their complaints were handled properly—so the ‘satisfactory’ action rate was oddly low.
Key Takeaways from the 384‑Respondent Survey
- Two‑thirds of respondents were women.
- Majority were aged 41–60, married, university‑educated, and full‑time workers.
- Professionals, managers, executives, and tech specialists made up most of the sample.
- About 40% work in SMEs; 35% in multinational corporations. The rest dash around government and nonprofit gigs.
Why It Matters
After the Government announced a sweeping review of women’s issues in 2020 (leading to the upcoming White Paper), this study gives us a snapshot of how gender bias still lingers in the workplace. It’s a reminder that the fight for equal treatment isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a human one, and it affects us all differently.
So whether you’re an office hero, a startup founder, or just commuting to your 9‑to‑5, remember: a whopping 40% of women report being discriminated against, and almost all of the reports come from the ladies themselves. Time to break the silence—problems solved are a win for everyone.
Gender bias poses a barrier in career advancement
What the Numbers Really Tell About Dream Jobs and Workplace Realities
Money Matters for Both Genders
- About 68.5% of men and 71.2% of women want jobs that pay well.
- Both genders are keen to use their skills to the max and climb the ladder: 59.8% of men versus 65.8% of women say they’re ready to go full tilt.
Gender Stereotypes—A Sticky Roadblock
- Women face a tougher wall: 45% report culture that favors one gender and stereotypes about who’s more competent.
- Men hear it a bit less often—about 30% of them say this is a barrier.
- Female survey workers hit the headlines with stories of gender bias in customer interactions, supplier hangs, and networking gigs.
- They also spot gender-driven promotion decisions and a pay gap for the same role.
Do Employers Finally Come Out with the Right Tools?
- Six in ten women feel their office gives them the support needed to hit career goals. Men are almost as satisfied—3 out of 4.
Parenting, Caregiving, and Career Choices
- More than half of the female respondents (about 50%) weigh family and child‑care demands when looking for a job.
- Only 34% of the male group consider those factors.
Life‑Work Balance: More Women Want It
- Nearly 59% of women actively chase a career that balances hot‑pot and birthday parties.
- Men lag slightly behind, with 49% leaning toward the same goal.
Leadership: Where Men Have the Edge
- More men aim for leadership or managerial gigs—51% versus only 40% of women.
Deciding How Important is Diversity?
- 37% believe that their workplace truly values gender diversity.
- Meanwhile, 45% remain neutral and 18% think diversity isn’t a top priority.
So, while the dream of high pay and a booming career feels like a common thread for both genders, women face a few more hurdles and keep a stronger focus on balance. And when it comes to climbing the ladder, the gender gap is still evident—though workplaces are slowly catching up.
Raise awareness of gender bias, equalise remuneration
Singapore’s Path to Gender Equality—What the Survey Tells Us
According to a recent survey, raising awareness about gender‑biased behavior and equalising pay stand out as the most effective steps to level the playing field at work.
Key Findings
- Participants highlighted that remuneration gaps and promotion prospects should be tackled more aggressively within local employment laws and guidelines.
- They pointed out that gender discrimination still sneaks into society and workplaces, urging for a stronger reporting system and streamlined procedures to address it.
- Additional solutions such as mentorship programmes and flexible work arrangements were seen as essential to help women reach their career ambitions.
Leadership Voices
Roland Ng, President of SCCCI, said, “Singapore has made great strides, but gender equality is still a work in progress.” He encouraged women to push boundaries and urged society to continue offering robust support.
Meanwhile, Ms Sun noted that the survey echoes feedback from ongoing discussions on women’s issues in the country. She expressed excitement about SCCCI’s new recommendations to back women, highlighting the crucial role of forward‑thinking organizations in fostering empowerment.
“We need your backing to create a workplace that truly supports women,” Ms Sun added, “and to inspire colleagues and partners to do the same.”
About the Source
This piece was originally published in The Straits Times. Permission is required for reproduction.
