7.2
Workforce issues
There is a consensus among the shipyards interviewed that the SBSR sector is facing a labour
shortage since the recent decline in market demand. In particular, low-skilled workers such as
painters, carpenters and cleaners are currently in high demand.
The shipyards believe that the harsh working environment such as long exposure to sun and
high heat is the main factor that is negatively affecting worker recruitment and retention efforts.
In addition, due to low orders (and the resulting low profit levels), the shipyards are not able to
meet local workers’ salary expectations. Hence, foreign workers are preferred as they generally
demand lower pay and are perceived to have more positive attitudes, such as willingness to
learn new skills and work longer hours.
However, the process of recruiting foreign workers is becoming more difficult in recent years.
Several shipyards interviewed have reported that some workers are now required to return to
their home country for 6 months after 5 years of service. This had resulted in severe workforce
shortage as some workers would often proceed to seek other jobs within that 6 months.
Environmental Scan – Maritime (Shipbuilding and Ship Repair -SBSR) Sector
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