I do not agree with the letter writer on adjusting the foreign workers' quota to accommodate business needs.

It is also unfair to portray Singaporeans as the characters Robert and Mary in the Chinese sitcom, Just In Singapore, who live by the precept, 'Why work when the Government will take care of us?'

Take the case of a woman in her 50s I had met as a volunteer. She was retrenched after working her whole life as a clerk.

She applied to a community development council (CDC) for a job placement and was given a cleaner's job. She rejected it three times and was dubbed as one with an 'attitude problem'.

I can understand her anxiety and fear to switch from a white-collar to a blue-collar job. It is not that she does not want a job but she is hoping to get one she is familiar with.

We should empathise with such people, especially those in their 40s and 50s. Not everyone is brave enough to switch to an unfamiliar job.

Increasing the foreign workers' quota is not the solution.

I urge CDCs and employers to continue to help Singaporeans and be supportive of them. Through our support, we can help such people conquer their fear and change their mindset.

Ivy Heng Chai Hong (Ms)