“When mature workers lose their jobs, what options do they have?”
- Khai Asyraf
- Mar 5
- 3 min read
Recently, together with The Golden Nuggets Podcast, I organised an event called The Big Pivot at 27 Ann Siang.
The objective was simple and clear: to bring together Muslim professionals who have spent many years in the workforce but are now searching for a new direction through entrepreneurship.
The response exceeded expectations, with tickets sold out early.
More than 50 individuals attended to listen, participate, and share their stories and hopes. It was clear that this topic resonates deeply with many in our community.
A Difficult Reality
In recent years, we have increasingly come across news about layoffs.
Among the well-known companies affected are Ninja Van, Meta, and Microsoft.
When companies reduce their workforce, those most impacted are often employees who have served the longest.
Many have 10 to 20 years of experience. Quite a number are also the main breadwinners for their families. When they lose their jobs and their income, their financial responsibilities remain—housing loans, children’s school fees, and daily living expenses.
Yet at that stage of life, applying for a new job is not easy.
They are often seen as too expensive in terms of salary, or no longer considered relevant due to their age.
This is the group that easily finds itself squeezed—no longer suitable for the job market, yet still too young to retire.
A Space to Share
The The Big Pivot event aimed to create a safe space for them to share their experiences.
The evening began with a live podcast session featuring two guests, Ms Fariza Salleh and Ms Hidayah Selamat, both former corporate professionals with over 10 years of experience.
Ms Fariza shared her experience managing several rounds of layoffs before eventually choosing the path of entrepreneurship.
Ms Hidayah spoke about the challenge of weighing her next steps while continuing to serve as the primary caregiver for her elderly parents.
Both stories reminded us that before someone moves on to the next phase of life, they need space and time to process difficult circumstances.
Community support, no matter how small, can help individuals recover from feelings of self-doubt and isolation.
That evening, we also featured books published by Nusantara Books, including How To Avoid Hardships In Life, which sold out quickly. It was a clear sign that our community is hungry for knowledge, inspiration, and guidance to navigate life’s challenges.
Why We Should Care
The conversation did not end with the event.
After the session, we created a WhatsApp channel with more than 50 participants.
There, they shared quick guides on the differences between sole proprietorships, LLPs, and private limited companies.
The guide was prepared by Mr Hanafi Mohd Sam, Founder of REKA Studio. Participants also discussed the values that should guide business practices, and some have already begun planning collaborations and future events.
When discussions about employment arise, the focus is often on young graduates.
But what about mid-career workers who suddenly lose their livelihood?
These are individuals who once led teams, trained new employees, and contributed to their companies for years.
When the economy shifts, they are often the most vulnerable.
The question is whether they should search for a new career that matches their experience, accept any job simply to survive, or carve out a new path through entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurship is not an easy path, and it is not for everyone.
However, it remains a viable option worth considering—especially given the experience, skills, and networks they already possess. What often holds them back is a lack of confidence and consistent support.
Moving Forward
This issue is rarely discussed openly.
Yet it is extremely important. Many people are struggling quietly, too embarrassed to admit it or unsure of where to begin.
The Big Pivot is only the first step.
We will continue organising sessions like this so that more people can benefit.
To stay updated on future events, visit thebigpivot.peatix.com.
Because ultimately, this is not just about finding a new job or starting a business.
It is about giving a second chance to those who have already contributed so much to our society and economy.
The writer is a board member of the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI) and founder of the Gulf–ASEAN Exchange.
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Disclaimer: This article was originally published in Berita Harian. It has been reproduced here on my personal website as part of my personal archive and portfolio of published work.
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