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In contrast to the low-skill workers who are given

ordinary but strict “Work Permits”, highly-skilled workers are
given “personalized employment permits” (EPs) for they are
seen as drivers of innovation and continuing economic vitality.

The EPs are given a variety of benefits such as monthly income
of at least S$3,000.00, housing privilege and permit to bring

in their families. Singapore also set up “Contact Singapore”,
jointly managed by the Ministry of Manpower and Economic
Development Board, for the purpose of attracting the best

talents outside the country. Contact Singapore advertises
vacancies in Singapore firms and the benefits that await

qualified talents outside Singapore.

The truth is that industries from Singapore, Malaysia
and other countries have been waging a war for talents. John

Clements, Manpower of Milwaukee, Monster Inc. and other
global executive head hunters have found a home in the

ASEAN. They have joined Jobstreet in the hunt for the best
and brightest, usually poaching or pirating talents and skills
from established firms in the different ASEAN countries. This is

generally beneficial for the recruited individuals. The problem
is that the industries and countries which nurtured their talents

become losers in terms of human resources they helped
develop. The brain drain has serious implications for developing
ASEAN countries which are trying to catch up with the more

advanced ASEAN countries.

Policy Forum 85

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