Why Singaporeans still struggle to speak up at work
In an economy that increasingly rewards initiative, judgment and collaboration, silence carries growing costs.
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According to Gallup’s 2026 survey on workplace engagement, Singapore ranks 109th out of 144 countries for employee engagement.
PHOTO: ADOBE STOCK
Lim Soo Ping
It is no secret that Singaporeans are often seen as a reticent people.
Back in 1997, a writer to The Straits Times asked: “When the simple human act of speaking up or asking questions is such a herculean hurdle for most Singaporeans, would it not be wishful thinking to nurture a nation of thinking adults and students to cope with the many challenges ahead?”
