Large firms must hire certified HR professionals by July 2028

Organisations employing more than 200 staff will be required to have at least one certified human resources professional on their payroll from July 2028, according to recommendations released by a manpower workgroup. The mandate forms part of a broader push to elevate HR standards and workforce management practices across major employers in the region. The certification requirement is intended to ensure that larger firms maintain professional HR practices and compliance with labour regulations. The move reflects growing recognition of the strategic importance of human resources in organisational development and employee welfare. Smaller companies with fewer than 200 employees are not subject to the mandatory requirement, though the recommendations are expected to encourage voluntary adoption of certified HR professionals across all firm sizes. The five recommendations collectively aim to strengthen HR capacity among enterprises and establish clearer professional standards for HR practitioners. Industry observers note the measures could drive demand for HR certification programmes and professional development courses throughout the region. Implementation of the certified HR professional requirement is scheduled to commence in the latter half of 2028, allowing organisations time to identify and recruit suitable candidates or support existing staff through certification pathways.