Focus on mastering a craft to stand out in a tighter job market: Minister Ong Ye Kung

In a tighter graduate job market, developing mastery of one’s craft — rather than simply accumulating internships and credentials — can help young people stand out, said Mr Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Health and Coordinating Minister for Social Policies. Speaking at the Kent Ridge Ministerial Forum (KRMF) 2026, Mr Ong urged young people to remain confident about Singapore’s economic prospects, tap on the support available to them and focus on building expertise for the long term. He also called on employers to help cool an escalating hiring “arms race” by looking beyond grades and internship cou