Overview

As conversations around diversity, equity and inclusion evolve and become more sophisticated in Asia and we start to dig into the importance of an intersectional lens when promoting equality, the need for a deeper understanding of social mobility and particularly its role in driving progress in organisations has become more poignant. Social mobility is a necessary and timely theme to investigate as global and regional conversations have increasingly picked up on the topic, with power, privilege and access to opportunity being explored and crucially, given due recognition for their role in one’s advancement both in the workplace and in wider society. 

The investigation of social mobility provides an important springboard to progress work in many facets of DE&I and wellbeing. In fact, it could be argued that social mobility and access to opportunities underpin all the work that we do, given the personal and intrinsic nature of the topic. Social mobility affects everyone to a certain degree and often the impacts can go unacknowledged, meaning that it is vital to shine a light on the central nature of its theme and its implications for driving progress in Asia and beyond.

The publication covers: 

• Economic Inequality and Challenges: The report highlights growing concerns about income disparity in Singapore, with 3.74% of Singaporeans among the global top 1% in wealth while the bottom 10% struggle with basic needs. Rising tuition costs, low birth rates, and an aging population further strain social mobility.
• Competency-Based Culture & Barriers to Inclusion: Singapore's meritocratic system emphasizes skills and competency, but systemic biases still limit opportunities for lower-income groups. Language proficiency, educational background, and intergenerational wealth play significant roles in career advancement.
• Recommendations for Improving Social Mobility: The report suggests addressing educational inequality by reducing reliance on private tuition, strengthening community networks, promoting competency-based learning, and fostering inclusive leadership to create equitable career opportunities.