Claire Chiang: ‘Formalise' part-time employment

Marry earlier, have more children, ensure more family time and less work responsibilities – these important issues which affect our birthrates were hot topics in the recent National Day Rally speech. Ms Claire Chiang, who is the chairperson of the Employer Alliance, feels that a mindset change is imperative if we want to progress in our journey towards creating a more family-friendly environment. Ms Chiang shared that the Employer Alliance will announce a report this month which will ‘formalise' part-time employment, so that it becomes a viable option for those who wish to have a better balance between career and family, especially women. Ms Chiang, who is also the chairperson of the Shirin Fozdar Programme, hosted a roundtable discussion entitled ‘Women on the Move' last Saturday at SMU. She pointed out that as women increasingly take on more important roles in society, the men also need to adapt and catch-up. This is, therefore, the best time to discuss the issue of paid paternity leave; this is also a strong call for future couples to take on shared responsibilities in the management of their families, as well as equal roles in the handling of housework as well as their careers.