A Groundbreaking Job Matching Initiative Launches

SINGAPORE – Say goodbye to traditional job fairs! A revolutionary new initiative called Jobs Nearby @ CDC is now making waves in the South West District. Designed to connect job seekers with opportunities right in their neighborhoods, this program is set to roll out across other Community Development Councils (CDC) by October.

Community-Focused Support for Job Seekers

This initiative goes beyond mere job posts. It features dedicated jobs ambassadors stationed at community clubs, who actively engage with individuals seeking employment, helping to bridge the 'last-mile' gaps that can prevent promising job matches. Mayor Low Yen Ling expressed her enthusiasm, stating that these ambassadors will provide tailored support, ensuring that job seekers receive the assistance they need.

Meet the Jobs Ambassadors

At the recent job fair held at Hillview Community Club, five jobs ambassadors were present to offer hands-on help for the first time in this new program. Each ambassador will take charge of a community club in the South West District, providing services such as arranging meetings with potential employers, connecting job seekers to upskilling resources, and even negotiating job requirement adjustments to accommodate individual needs.

Targeting Key Groups for Success

The initiative aims to assist several key demographics beyond just traditional job seekers. This includes caregivers needing flexible hours, residents struggling with digital tools to access online job boards, individuals with special needs, and long-serving employees who have been retrenched and lack recent interview experience.

Expanding Job Opportunities Through Local Connections

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted this localized matching initiative during the 2025 National Day Rally, emphasizing how the CDCs will leverage their strong ties with local businesses to benefit the community. Job openings will encompass a wide range of professional, managerial, executive, and technical roles, particularly in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and multinational corporations.

Exciting Opportunities Await Job Seekers

Among the employers participating in the job fair was Lonza Biologics, a prominent Swiss biotech company aiming to hire more than 100 new employees by 2026. Positions available included biotechnologists, finance managers, and trainees for various engineering roles. Another notable participant, GKE, a local logistics firm, is also on the lookout for talent, seeking around 10 new hires for positions such as management associates.

Community Connections Driving Employment

The local Bukit Gombak Traders’ Association expressed its commitment to connect job seekers with its member businesses, representing over 150 shops in the area. Mr. Chee Chin Young, the association's chairman, believes this initiative will greatly enhance job visibility within the community, helping applicants find opportunities they might have otherwise overlooked.

Positive Reactions and Real Stories From Job Seekers

The turnout at the job fair was impressive, with about 100 registered residents and numerous walk-ins. One attendee, Mr. Mustafa, traveled from Simei, hoping to secure a position in supply chain management after facing a retrenchment. He praised the face-to-face interaction with recruiters, stating that such job fairs offer a unique chance to present oneself directly, especially for seasoned professionals.

Navigating Challenges with Optimism

Despite some initial challenges—like issues accessing CVs from the system—Mr. Mustafa remains optimistic about the initiative's potential. "The employers must also have an open mindset. Skills should prevail over age," he added, highlighting the need for inclusivity in hiring practices.

A New Era in Job Matching

With this innovative initiative, South West District is set to become a model of localized job support. As the program expands, it may reshape the way job seekers connect with opportunities in their communities, fostering a more inclusive and responsive job market.