Singapore employers reminded to comply with regulation in using AI for hiring, promotion

Employers across Singapore are reminded to comply with government guidelines when using AI-powered HR tools to make employment decisions in order to avoid discrimination.

"Regardless of the technological tools used to aid employment decisions, such as hiring or promotions, employers must comply with the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices, which promotes fair and merit-based employment practices," Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said on Wednesday.

The minister made the remarks after he was asked in Parliament if the government will introduce guidelines on employers' use of AI tools, such as Automated Employment Decision Tools, which are used to assist in decision-making in hiring or promotions.

"In deploying AI-powered HR tools, organisations should refer to the guidelines introduced by the Government to support responsible development and use of AI," Tan said.

According to the minister, the government will monitor trends in AI adoption to ensure the responsible use by organisations.

"The government will continue to closely monitor the trends in AI adoption and work with our tripartite partners, the Institute for Human Resource Professionals and broader HR community, to regularly assess if existing guidelines and regulations are adequate," he said.

AI discrimination during hiring

MOM previously said it can take action against employers who are using AI to intentionally discriminate against job candidates during hiring.

But so far, Tan said they have not received complaints of discrimination due to the use of AI tools.

However, employees who feel discriminated against during hiring potentially because of the use of AI tools by employers can report to the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) for assistance.

"TAFEP will work with the employer to address the grievances of the workers or job applicants and ensure that the employer's recruitment or performance appraisal processes adhere to the principles of fair employment," Tan said.