PW Mark & PW Model
A Path Towards Fair Wages and Skill Enhancement
Written by: Hafiz Asri
14 March 2024
In recent years, Singapore has been at the forefront of innovative labour policies aimed at addressing income inequality and enhancing the livelihoods of low-wage workers. The Progressive Wage Mark (PW Mark), is a scheme to recognise firms that pay progressive wages to lower-wage workers.
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What is the differences between PW Mark and PW Model (PWM)?
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While both have a shortened term of PWM, PW Mark is what it is mostly referred to while Progressive Wage Model is referred to as PWM.
While Progressive Wage Mark is a designation or certification granted to companies that comply with the principles of the Progressive Wage Model (PWM), PWM itself refers to the comprehensive wage structure and policy framework aimed at enhancing the wages and skills of low-wage workers.
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Why is Progressive Wage important?
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By prioritizing fair wages, skills upgrading, and career advancement, PWM not only benefits individual workers but also strengthens the overall economy. As Singapore continues to evolve, PWM will play a crucial role in shaping the future of its workforce and ensuring shared prosperity for all.
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Reducing Income Inequality
One of the primary objectives of PWM is to address income inequality by raising the wages of low-income workers. By ensuring that wages increase with skills and productivity, PWM helps narrow the gap between high and low earners, promoting a more equitable society.
Enhancing Workforce Productivity
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PW Model incentivizes workers and employers to invest in skills upgrading and productivity improvements. A more skilled workforce is not only more productive but also more adaptable to technological advancements and industry changes. This, in turn, contributes to the overall economic growth and competitiveness of Singapore.
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Improving Quality of Life
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By providing workers with fair wages and opportunities for advancement, PW Model contributes to improving the quality of life for low-wage workers and their families. With higher incomes, workers can better afford essential goods and services, access healthcare, and invest in their children's education.
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Building a Sustainable Economy
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PW Model fosters a sustainable economy by promoting long-term investments in human capital. By investing in skills development and career progression, Singapore ensures that its workforce remains competitive and resilient in the face of global challenges.
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Progressive Wage Mark (PW Mark) is a vital competent of Singapore's efforts to build a fairer, more inclusive society.
Why get PW Mark?
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The benefits of being accredited with a PW Mark will increase your visibility and credibility from your consumers.
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From 1 March 2024, PW Mark is a requirement for new government quotations and suppliers must be accredited with the PW Mark for the contract period.
Who is eligible for PW Mark?
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To be eligible for the PW Mark, you must:
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Hire at least 1 Singaporean or Permanent Resident worker covered by the Sectoral PWs or Occupational PWs.
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Pay the relevant workers according to PW requirements:
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Sectoral PWs​
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Occupational PWs
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AND pay all other local workers at least the Local Qualifying Salary (LQS)
Hafiz Asri
Programme Development Manager
Disapproving headshakes accompanied by a disappointing sigh is how Hafiz spends his time during the weekends whenever his wife suggests watching cartoons (yeah, yeah, anime, same thing).