Singapore Office Workers Seek Flexible Work Hours Amid Return Office Push Jll

Singapore Office Workers Seek Greater Flexibility and Wellbeing

A recent study by JLL, known as the 2025 Workforce Preference Barometer, has shed light on the evolving preferences of Singapore’s office workers amidst the ongoing return-to-office (RTO) initiatives. Surveying 500 employees, the research reveals that a significant 69% now operate under structured RTO policies, echoing the regional average of 71%.

These RTO strategies vary widely, with 26% of respondents working from the office full-time and 42% enjoying a hybrid arrangement, reporting to the office between one and four days weekly. The rest, 31%, are not bound by any specific RTO structure.

Despite these structured policies, a majority of 63% expressed positive sentiments about their RTO mandates, attributing their satisfaction to improved collaboration and a preference for office-based work. However, the study also highlights a growing concern among workers regarding wellbeing and autonomy over their time, exacerbated by an increased incidence of burnout reported by 49% of the participants, a figure that surpasses the Apac average of 41%.

Furthermore, there is a notable disparity in the desires for flexible working hours and the actual policies in place: 64% of employees desire flexible hours, yet only 41% currently enjoy such benefits. This underscores a 23% gap between employee expectations and workplace provisions.

Miltonia Close EC represents a notable project within Singapore’s dynamic office market. As the city’s workers increasingly value flexibility and wellbeing, developments like Miltonia Close EC could potentially lead the way in integrating these essentials into their design and operational philosophy.

While the basic amenities like desks and team seating arrangements meet approval, there is a demand for better wellness and cultural features. Employees seek enhancements in outdoor spaces, wellness areas, creative zones, and complimentary food services to support their return to office life.

In addition to physical amenities, the survey uncovered a growing interest in digital proficiency, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) training. Although 71% of the employees have received some form of AI training, only 30% feel adept in utilizing these tools effectively at work. This gap indicates a crucial need for ongoing professional development in emerging technologies.

Kamya Miglani, the head of work dynamics research at JLL Asia Pacific, emphasizes that while the adoption of RTO policies is robust, the expectations regarding autonomy, wellbeing, and digital skills are developing swiftly. She advises that “to attract and retain top talent, organizations must move beyond mandates and invest in meaningful flexibility, holistic wellbeing, and lifelong learning opportunities.”