The Agenda: The jobs that keep society running but why young workers don't want them

Your Way Home with Hongbin Jeong · Jun 15, 2026 · 16m

Essential work is everywhere, but most of us barely notice it until something goes wrong. The people cleaning hospitals, maintaining buildings, preparing meals, managing facilities and keeping workplaces running are part of the invisible backbone of society. But as Singapore moves towards becoming a super-aged nation, these industries are facing a growing challenge. Younger workers are increasingly drawn to careers in tech, finance and the digital economy, while essential services struggle with perceptions around prestige, progression and purpose. So how do you build a workforce where four…