Labour Day in Singapore
Singapore marks Labour Day on 1 May as a public holiday and a day to recognise workers. The date also carries a local history shaped by May Day rallies and cooperation between unions, employers and the Government.[1][2]
A public holiday with a Singapore history
Labour Day was gazetted as a public holiday in Singapore in 1960. At the inaugural May Day Rally, then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew spoke about workers’ welfare, industrial development and the importance of unions, employers and the state working together. This tripartite approach remains a central part of how Singapore presents the holiday’s meaning.[1]
May Day activities have included formal rallies as well as celebrations that recognise a wider group of workers. For example, an NTUC programme included a rally, events for migrant workers and a fiesta for union members and their families. That account shows the range of activities held in one year; programmes can vary, so it should not be taken as a standing annual schedule.[3]
What the holiday means for workers
Labour Day is one of Singapore’s 11 gazetted public holidays. Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to paid public holidays. If Labour Day falls on an employee’s rest day, the next working day is a paid holiday. If it falls on a non-working day, such as Saturday for an employee on a five-day work week, the entitlement is another day off or one extra day’s salary in lieu. Employees not covered by the Act follow their employment contract.[2]
Some employees may be required to work on the holiday, subject to the employment contract or mutual agreement. The Ministry of Manpower says they must receive an extra day’s salary at the basic rate of pay; employers and employees may also agree to a public holiday in lieu under the applicable rules.[2][4]
Planning for the day
Labour Day is a public holiday in Singapore, but opening hours can vary between offices, banks, shops, attractions and transport services. Check with the organisation or service you plan to use, particularly if you need to make an appointment or travel to a specific event.
Labour Day in Singapore: frequently asked questions
When is Labour Day in Singapore?
It is observed on 1 May each year.[1]
Is Labour Day a paid day off?
Employees covered by the Employment Act are entitled to paid public holidays. Employees outside its coverage follow their employment contract.[2]
What if 1 May falls on a rest day or non-working day?
If it falls on a rest day, the next working day is a paid holiday. If it falls on a non-working day, covered employees are entitled to another day off or one extra day’s salary in lieu.[2]
Can an employee be asked to work on Labour Day?
Yes. Work on a public holiday is subject to the employment contract or mutual agreement. Employees required to work must receive an extra day’s salary at the basic rate of pay.[4]
Are shops and public transport open?
Opening hours vary. Check directly with the shop, attraction or transport operator you plan to use.
Sources and references
Sources used for Labour Day in Singapore:
- Labour Day and Tripartism in Singapore- SG101, Government of Singapore
- Public holidays: entitlement and pay- Ministry of Manpower, Singapore
- An All-Inclusive May Day Celebration as One Labour Movement- National Trades Union Congress
- Can an employee be required to work on a public holiday?- Ministry of Manpower, Singapore