Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat recognizes the impactful initiatives of Bizlink Centre in empowering vulnerable groups through inclusive employment programs.
Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Heng Swee Keat, delivered a keynote address at the Bizlink Enabling Employment Charity Dinner on 24 November 2023. The event aimed to celebrate the progress made and acknowledge partners contributing to the empowerment of vulnerable groups within the community.
Bizlink Centre, with over three decades of experience, has been a stalwart supporter of individuals facing various challenges, including disabilities, mental health conditions, ex-offenders, and the elderly. The organization’s model focuses on training and enabling employment, providing individuals with the dignity of inclusion and independence through work.
During his speech, DPM Heng Swee Keat emphasized the government’s commitment to creating a caring and inclusive society. He highlighted the Ministry of Social and Family Development’s Enabling Masterplan 2030, which aims to raise the employment rate of persons with disabilities to 40% by 2030. Bizlink Centre’s role becomes crucial in achieving this goal.
The Deputy Prime Minister commended Bizlink Centre for launching new programs, such as the Train and Place initiatives, which equip individuals with the skills needed for employment in growing industries like logistics, e-commerce, graphic design, marketing, and F&B digital ordering. These programs, spanning from pre-employment training to in-employment support, aim to foster mutually beneficial relationships between clients and employers.
One notable program is the Logistics and E-commerce Fulfilment initiative, developed in collaboration with industry partners like Amazon and Republic Polytechnic. Under this program, Bizlink Centre plans to train and place at least 60 persons with disabilities in the fast-growing logistics and e-commerce sector. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader efforts to provide structured lifelong learning opportunities and meaningful career pathways for everyone.
DPM Heng Swee Keat shared success stories of individuals like Muhamad Faris Bin Muhd Rosbaha and Karen, who, through Bizlink Centre’s support, found employment in the e-commerce fulfilment industry and a cloud kitchen, respectively.
In conclusion, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat expressed gratitude to the partners and inclusive employers present, designating 2023 as the Year of Celebrating Social Service Partners. He highlighted the government’s commitment to building a more inclusive society and announced the upcoming launch of the Enabling Business Hub in Jurong, aimed at bringing employment support closer to people with disabilities.
Source – PMO
