BIZSpoke | Empowering Singapores Workforce for Future Challenges

27 JUNE 2025

Empowering Singapore’s Workforce for Future Challenges

As part of the Future-Ready Businesses Dialogue series conducted by SBF, business leaders came together on 24 June to discuss how Singapore can stay competitive amid global uncertainty.

Under the theme "Empowering Singapore’s Workforce for Future Challenges," Minister for Manpower Dr Tan See Leng shared strategic perspectives on navigating the evolving U.S. tariff landscape. He emphasised the need for resilience through innovation, sustainability, and strong public–private collaboration. The dialogue was moderated by SBF Vice Chairman Ms Chong Ee Rong.

Here are three key takeaways from the session:

Drive demand-led, sustainable transformation – Growth strategies must go beyond funding injections. They should be aligned with actual market demand and designed to deliver long-term, inclusive value — benefiting businesses, workers, and future generations.
Shape sharper policies through public–private collaboration – Closer engagement between businesses and government will enable the co-creation of more targeted, responsive policies that meet real-world needs.
Think long-term and act collectively to stay competitive – Sustained competitiveness requires a unified, forward-looking approach — not short-term fixes — to keep Singapore ahead of global competitors.

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WHAT'S NEW

Singapore Ranks Second Globally in Competitiveness

Singapore ranks 2^nd in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2025, topping the Economic Performance pillar and retaining 1^st place for Technological Infrastructure. While challenges remain amid global uncertainty and resource constraints, Singapore’s continued focus on transformation and upskilling will be key to sustaining competitiveness and driving future growth.

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Want to Future-proof your Workforce?

In today’s fast-changing business landscape, a healthy workforce isn’t just a nice to have — it’s essential. The Career Health Playbook makes implementation simple with ready-to-use strategies and practical methods. See how industry leaders like Micron and DLE M&E strengthened their teams through structured career planning and skills development in the CNA-produced video alongside inspiring local case studies.

LEARN MORE

SCALED INTERNATIONALLY

Seizing the JS-SEZ Advantage

At a Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) Forum organised by The Edge and HSBC, SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon shared that while businesses are cautiously optimistic, political will and effective execution will determine success. Singapore businesses have also called for deeper talent development, smoother flows of people and goods, and reduced red tape.

The JS-SEZ holds strong economic potential. If you are interested to join the next business mission to JS-SEZ or wish to learn more, reach out to [email protected].

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SOCIALLY IMPACTFUL

SBF Foundation Community Marketplace Returns

Community Marketplace returns on 15 July 2025 with refined focus areas and a dynamic format to deepen the partnership between businesses with social impact partners.

Discover volunteering and inclusive hiring opportunities across key communities and get matched for 1-to-1 consultations tailored to your CSR goals.

BE PART OF THE MOVEMENT

POLICE ADVISORY

The Singapore Police Force urges businesses to Stay alert against Business Email Compromise scams

In 2024, over S$88.5 million was lost to Business Email Compromise scams, with a single case involving S$57.2 million. Scammers impersonate suppliers or senior staff, tricking victims into changing payment details or buying gift cards. Always verify such requests via trusted channels, consult supervisors, and question unusual instructions. If in doubt, call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799. Safeguard your business today.

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