EVEN as the Government tackles the on-going economic crisis, Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong has urged Singaporeans to stay united and focus on the 'longer term vision' of building a globally competitive workforce.

This is 'so that we can seize new opportunities when the economy recovers', he said in a message released on Monday ahead of the commemoration of May Day on Friday.

As this year's celebration of workers' contributions comes amid a global recession, Mr Gan called on the tripartite partners - unions, employers and the Government - to stay united and work as a team to cope with the crisis.

Collaboration, not conflict, among the three groups is the key to Singapore's continued success, he said.

'Everyone has a part to play. Employers must...do their best to look at ways to stay viable and preserve jobs. They should also be responsible and fair to workers,' he said.

'Workers, on the other hand, must be flexible and ready to make adjustments.'

The call for unity was also made on Monday by Singapore National Employers' Federation (Snef) president Stephen Lee in a separate statement on Monday.

Mr Gan, in his message, outlined why there was reason to be confident despite the bleak outlook of a contracting economy, and a weak job market with higher unemployment and layoffs:

'We are entering this crisis from a position of strength. We have strong economic fundamentals and our economy remains competitive.'

There were also good jobs available, with over 45,000 vacancies expected to be created over the next two years.

Read the full report in Tuesday's edition of The Straits Times.