What started off as a symbiotic relationship between the NTUC and the government has developed into a tripartite alliance after the labour movement chose, in 1969, to adopt a cooperative, rather than a confrontational policy towards employers. Indeed, tripartism is the driving force behind Singapore's economic and social development.

Union leaders and employers serve on key institutions such as the National Wages Council, the Economic Development Board, the Central Provident Fund and the Singapore Productivity and Standards Board.

Government and employer representatives also give the benefit of their experience to the labour movement, by serving on the boards of our cooperatives, business ventures and other organisations in the NTUC family.