Security firm employs 66 people with disabilities, trains 47 for BPO
SINGAPORE — Certis, a Singapore-based security company, has made a notable advancement in inclusive employment by hiring 66 individuals with disabilities.
This effort supports Singapore’s Enabling Masterplan 2030, which seeks to increase the employment rate of people with disabilities from 30.1% to 40% by 2030.
Certis has significantly grown its workforce of employees with disabilities from just two in 2020 to 66 today.
Business process outsourcing and training initiatives
Among the new hires, 47 individuals have joined Certis’ business process outsourcing (BPO) services. These employees have received specialized training and have been successfully deployed in various roles.
The remaining 19 are employed in the company’s secure logistics services and integrated facilities management units, contributing to tasks such as IT helpdesk support and cash processing center operations.
Strategic collaborations enhance community impact
In August, Certis partnered with the Autism Resource Center Singapore (ARCS) to hire 29 individuals with autism. These recruits have been placed in roles where their unique skills can be fully utilized, such as at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library and the Enabling Village.
The library environment, characterized by dimmer lighting and a quiet atmosphere, is particularly suitable for employees with autism, enabling them to thrive.
Yeo Hui Qing and K. R. Teh, both on the autism spectrum, work as library service assistants at the Lee Kong Chian Reference Library. They perform tasks such as shelving books and assisting patrons. Teh appreciates his role for the opportunity to explore new and old books, while Yeo values the supportive work environment.
Leadership commitment to inclusive culture
Certis’ leadership emphasizes fostering a culture of empathy and understanding within the workplace.
Deputy Chief Executive Lee Hock Heng stated, “Everyone deserves the chance to thrive, and we are committed to providing these opportunities.” This sentiment is echoed by Robin Goh, Senior Vice-President at Certis, who highlighted the company’s evolution beyond traditional security services to include diverse solutions like AI-powered operations technology.
Muhammad Iqbal Buang, an on-site supervisor at Certis, expressed his pride in witnessing interactions between staff and the public, noting that such inclusivity can significantly impact societal perceptions of disability.
“It warms my heart when I see the interactions between the staff and members of the public, and I believe that seeing more people with disabilities taking on regular jobs in the workplace will make a big impact on improving inclusivity in our society,” he stated.
Jacelyn Lim, Executive Director of ARCS, praised Certis for embracing inclusive employment and demonstrating how organizations can leverage the strengths of individuals with disabilities.
“Successful job placements are a win-win for both the employer and the employees. We hope more organizations can come forward to partner [with] us and provide opportunities to enable those with disabilities to become contributing members of our society,” she noted.
Certis plans to continue expanding its partnerships and creating more opportunities for people with disabilities, ensuring that their employment journey is seamless and rewarding for both employees and clients.
