Projected Number of Professional Engineers Required to Support Upcoming Extensive Development and Infrastructure Activities

Dr Neo Kok Beng asked the Minister for National Development in view of the coming intensive and extensive development activities in the built environment industry, such as land reclamation, coastal protection and housing infrastructure, (a) how many more professional engineers are projected to be required; and (b) what are the Ministry's plans to increase student enrolment in the industry, to meet projected demand.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: Over the next few years, the built environment engineering and architectural services would need to fill over 1,000 job vacancies for professionals, managers, executives, and technicians per annum.

Following the recommendations of the Taskforce for Architectural and Engineering Consultants, we are partnering with industry and institutes of higher learning to improve the attractiveness of built environment careers. Key efforts include earlier and stronger talent outreach efforts, enhanced internship opportunities, such as the INSPIRE programme, and clearer pathways for career progression and professional development.