SBF Dialogue Tackles Geopolitical Storms for Businesses

Over 100 senior business leaders gathered on 30 April for SBF's first-ever Future-Ready Businesses Dialogue with Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean as our Guest-of-Honour.

Here are the three key takeaways:

Peace, Security, Harmony: Singapore's Precious Assets - Singapore's stability is a precious gift. Let's cherish the harmony we've built and work together to keep it strong.

Homegrown Strength: Unity Fuels Foreign Policy - Strong political and business consensus pave the way for effective international relations.

Principles First: Navigating a Changing World - As the world evolves, so should our approach. We must make decisions based on clear principles while realistically considering our national interests and vulnerabilities.

SBF Company Video Series: Future of the FoodTech Industry

During a Chinese radio interview at UFM 100.3 on 7 May, SBF Council Member and Chair of SBF Jobs and Skills Advisory Committee Mark Lee, along with Senior Minister of State for Manpower and Sustainability and the Environment Dr Koh Poh Koon, discussed the Progressive Wage Mark (PW Mark) and its benefits for businesses.

Mr Lee emphasised the importance of collaboration between labour, management, and government for fair wages and worker skills via the Progressive Wage Model. He cited benefits like differentiation, better employer image, access to government contracts, and funding/cost-cutting support for employers who adopt the model.

The PW Mark, administered by SBF on behalf of the Tripartite Partners, recognises firms that pay progressive wages, spotlighting these firms as Progressive Employers. For accreditation enquiries, contact us at [email protected].

Why Flexible Work Arrangements Are Not So Straightforward For Some Businesses

Singapore's Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) are sparking a win-win conversation, according to SBF Chief Policy Officer Musa Fazal in a recent Straits Times opinion piece. These guidelines, far from being a rigid mandate, are actually a key tool to boost communication and collaboration between employers and employees. FWAs are becoming crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. However, Mr Fazal acknowledges the challenges faced by SMEs due to their size and established industry practices. The future of work is flexible, but getting SMEs there requires clear-eyed support, not hasty labels. As Mr Fazal emphasises, let's empower businesses, not burden them. Together, we can build a future of work that benefits everyone.

SBF Hosts Business Leaders to Discuss Manpower Competitiveness Strategies

SBF recently hosted two focus group sessions with over 20 business leaders. The discussions centred on enhancing business competitiveness, particularly in manpower. Participants openly shared challenges and ideas on how Singapore businesses and the government can collaborate to leverage local talent and a complementary foreign workforce for a manpower-lean future transition.

We welcome you to contribute solutions on how Singapore can address challenges in manpower, land, and regulations amidst global uncertainties and rising business costs. Click here to share your ideas by 23 May 2024.

Surfing the Digital Wave? We've Got Your Back

Is your business ready to take the digital plunge? IMDA's CTO-as-a-Service is your lifeguard on the digital transformation journey!

Since 2021, this free service for eligible SMEs has helped over 1,400 businesses like yours:

• Uncover your digital strengths and weaknesses with a quick checkup.
• Learn from inspiring SME success stories to chart your course.
• Discover cost-effective digital solutions that are perfect for you.
• Compare features and costs to make the smartest choices.

Register with SBF today! We'll check your eligibility and get you a personalised consultation with IMDA's digital experts. Together, let's turn your business into a digital powerhouse!

Procurement Can Catalyse Sustainable Growth For Businesses

In this dynamic business landscape, sustainability will be a key driver of long-term success. In this commentary, DBS Bank's Group Head of Procurement, Phui Kai Ling, highlights the pivotal role of sustainable procurement for organisations. Moving beyond traditional cost considerations, sustainable procurement integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into purchasing decisions, offering companies a competitive edge.

As a co-founding member of the National Sustainable Procurement Roundtable (NSPR), DBS and the NSPR have just launched a free e-book for suppliers, providing SMEs with a roadmap to embrace sustainable practices, mitigate risks, enhance brand value, and drive innovation. This is especially timely, as Singapore-listed companies have to report climate disclosures in FY2025.

Shaping the Future of Liveable Cities at World Cities Summit 2024

Join the global conversation on building liveable and sustainable cities at the prestigious 9^th World Cities Summit (WCS) in Singapore! Since 2008, WCS has united over 250 cities worldwide to tackle urban challenges and foster innovative solutions. Government leaders, industry experts, and academics will converge to exchange ideas on building smart, resilient, and regenerative cities. Be part of the solution - register now! SBF members get to enjoy the special 40% discounted rate of SGD1,500 (Subject to 9% GST) by using the promo code WCS_SBF.

[16 May 2024]

Eyeing Asia : Employment Law In Vietnam

[20 May 2024]

HR Management In China

[21 May 2024]

Corporate Tax Planning

[21 - 23 May 2024]

Implement Skills Framework In Organisational Human Resource Programmes And Activities

[23 - 24 May 2024]

Evaluate The Preparation Of Shipping Documents Associated With the Import And Export Of Goods

[27 May 2024]

Masterclass on Payroll & HR Administration