Singaporean professionals are refuting the stereotype of lacking ambition, citing difficulties in securing full-time roles due to companies favoring cheaper contract positions. Many face job insecurity and longer searches for permanent employment.

Azizul Kamal has spent a decade building his legal career in Singapore, but half of the time, he was hopping from one contract role to another in the industry. “Every company seems to only want to hire contractors, because we’re cheaper for balance books. It’s very hard to find a full-time role,” the 38-year-old Singaporean said. Azizul did not secure a third extension as a lawyer at his previous firm, after it found a permanent replacement based in Kuala Lumpur, he said. With bills to pay, he.....