Nearly one in five Singapore workers is overqualified for their jobs, but most aren’t stuck there by accident.

New data from MOM shows 19.4% of resident workers in 2025 hold qualifications above job requirements, up from a decade ago. But the surprising part? Most say it’s by choice.

Other findings from NTUC and SUTD echo the same trend, pointing to a growing group of workers deliberately taking on roles below their qualifications.

So what’s behind this shift and what does it say about how Singaporeans view work today?

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks with Professor Lawrence Loh, Department of Strategy and Policy, National University of Singapore, to unpack what this means for Singapore’s evolving labour landscape.

Nearly one in five Singapore workers is overqualified for their jobs, but most aren&rsquo;t stuck there by accident.
New data from MOM shows 19.4% of resident workers in 2025 hold qualifications above job requirements, up from a decade ago. But the surprising part? Most say it&rsquo;s by choice.
Other findings from NTUC and SUTD echo the same trend, pointing to a growing group of workers deliberately taking on roles below their qualifications.
So what&rsquo;s behind this shift and what does it say about how Singaporeans view work today?
On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks with Professor Lawrence Loh, Department of Strategy and Policy, National University of Singapore, to unpack what this means for Singapore&rsquo;s evolving labour landscape.

Your evening guide to the day's most important topics — navigate the key events in politics, business, markets, wealth management, and top investment opportunities. Keeps you informed and ahead of the curve, daily.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.