Singapore rolls out initiatives, including orientation programme, to better integrate new foreign professionals

Over the past few years, concerns about the sustainability of the legal profession in Singapore have grown louder, with many professionals questioning whether it remains a desirable career path. A recent study, the Legal Profession Sustainability Study, published on June 23, has brought these anxieties to the forefront. According to the findings, a significant number of lawyers are leaving the profession due to factors such as toxic leadership, rigid court schedules, relentless deadlines, and the expectation of being constantly available. These challenges, which have persisted for decades, continue to affect both junior and senior practitioners alike. The study, which includes 31 in-depth interviews with former judges, legal academics, and lawyers from various types of law firms, as well as a survey involving 855 current and former legal professionals, highlights a growing discontent among those working within the sector. Many respondents expressed frustration with the lack of work-life balance and the high pressure associated with maintaining a successful practice. This sentiment is echoed by Zhang Yu Fu, a junior lawyer at Dentons Rodyk, who recently joined the bar in April 2026 and participated in the study. He described the experience of navigating the legal field as akin to being a "strawberry"—a term used metaphorically to convey the idea of being constantly exposed to stress without much reward. The issue of workplace culture within the legal profession is further complicated by generational differences. Older lawyers, who often came into the field during a time when long hours and minimal personal time were considered the norm, tend to view the current complaints as exaggerated. In contrast, younger lawyers, particularly those who have entered the profession in recent years, are more likely to seek a better quality of life and greater flexibility. Wong Yi, a former member of the Young Lawyers Committee for The Law Society of Singapore, notes that while the profession has evolved, the underlying problems remain largely unchanged. He emphasizes that the system is still heavily influenced by hierarchical structures and outdated traditions that prioritize obedience over innovation and well-being. The legal profession in Singapore is not alone in facing these challenges. Across the city-state, efforts are being made to improve the integration of foreign professionals into the workforce. One notable initiative is the EP Journey orientation programme, launched by the Alliance for Action on Integration of Foreign Professionals (AfA-IFP). This program, which began in May 2026, aims to provide new Employment Pass holders with a baseline understanding of Singapore's norms, values, and practical expectations. Participants engage in activities that foster cross-cultural interaction and mutual respect, reflecting the broader goal of creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment. The AfA-IFP, formed by the Ministry of Community, Culture and Youth (MCCY), the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), and the Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), has outlined several key recommendations aimed at enhancing workplace integration. These include the introduction of cultural sensitivity training, the creation of an integration playbook, and the establishment of a central repository of resources for both employers and foreign professionals. The initiative has seen participation from over 70 Employment Pass holders, who have engaged in activities ranging from guided tours of historical sites to discussions on traditional customs and celebrations. Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth Dinesh Vasu Dash emphasized the importance of deliberate efforts in promoting integration, noting that the process does not occur naturally. He highlighted the significance of celebrating cultural diversity and fostering an environment where both locals and foreigners can thrive. As the number of Employment Pass holders continues to grow—from 177,100 in December 2020 to 203,300 in December 2025—these initiatives are increasingly vital in ensuring that Singapore remains an attractive destination for international talent. While the legal profession faces its own set of challenges, the broader trend of improving workplace conditions and inclusivity reflects a shift in societal attitudes towards work-life balance and cultural integration. As both sectors continue to evolve, the hope is that these changes will lead to more sustainable and fulfilling careers for those entering the workforce, whether they are practicing law or contributing to Singapore's dynamic economy.