Launched in 2004, the Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) is a national initiative under Yellow Ribbon Singapore—formerly SCORE—dedicated to helping ex-offenders reintegrate into society by mobilising employers, volunteers, and community partners. On 1 July 2024, YRP honoured 186 individuals and organisations, including ex-offenders, employers, volunteers, and community groups, for their efforts in supporting reformed inmates and enabling a culture of acceptance. This recognition marks another milestone in Singapore’s ongoing mission to make second chances truly meaningful.
Career Advancement and Community Engagement
Yellow Ribbon career coaches have achieved a remarkable 94% job-placement rate for inmates referred in 2021, with 6,516 employers hiring ex-offenders in 2023—up from 3,876 in 2013. These employers extend support beyond hiring: chains like Nando’s, Marina Bay Sands, and RE&S offer training, mentorship, and workplace mentorship systems tailored to aid sustained reintegration. This structured community embrace bolsters career resilience and job retention among ex-offenders.
Life-Changing Stories of Transformation
Personal journeys highlight the impact of this movement:
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Sophia, a 35-year-old former money launderer, regained employment within a month of her release, working again as a writer—with an understanding employer and YRP support.
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Naresh Kumar, once involved in violent crime and drugs, now serves as an equestrian assistant at the Riding for the Disabled Association, training for a Diploma in Veterinary Technology under the STAR bursary provided through YRP.
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Thomas Koh, after hitting rock bottom, turned his life around to become an addiction counsellor, and now mentors others overcoming adversity.
These stories illustrate how employment, education, and sustained support can foster meaningful contributions post-release.
Impact on Recidivism and Social Perception
Two-year recidivism rates have fallen from 26.5% (2014 cohort) to 22% (2021 cohort), thanks in large part to systemic support and community reintegration. Surveys by Yellow Ribbon Singapore reveal that over 90% of respondents believe ex-offenders are employable, and around 83% trust in their work ethic . However, long-term retention remains a challenge—only 66% of placements extend beyond six months, signalling areas for future support strategies.
A More Inclusive Nation
As Singapore celebrates six decades, the Yellow Ribbon movement reflects core national values: resilience, redemption, and community unity. Recognising ex-offenders and their supporters through YRP awards transforms public perspectives, changing not just lives—but narratives.
By embedding social inclusion and forgiveness into our national ethos, we reaffirm that mistakes do not define futures. SG60 invites us to continue building a society where every individual—regardless of the past—has the opportunity to contribute and belong.
