PM Wong Emphasises Importance of Economic Resilience

At the Singapore Budget Symposium organised by SBF on 19 March, PM Lawrence Wong stressed the need to preserve economic fundamentals amid global instability, including rising geopolitical tensions. He warned that the US-China rivalry and increased defence focus pose risks for smaller nations. PM Wong outlined key Budget 2025 measures and urged businesses to collaborate with the government for sustainable growth, proposing alternative solutions where needed.

17% of 4,500 Employees Clicked Phishing Links

A two-week exercise part of Exercise SG Ready, found 17% of 4,500 employees clicked phishing links—8 points above the global average. Conducted by MINDEF, SBF, and Nexus, it exposed low reporting rates and high vulnerability to internal emails. SBF CEO Kok Ping Soon urged stronger cybersecurity, especially for SMEs, with plans to enhance training, best practices, and initiatives aligned with the requirements of the Cyber Essentials Framework.

OMIP Helps SMEs Expand Globally with Salary Support

SMEs expanding overseas can leverage Singapore’s Overseas Markets Immersion Programme (OMIP), which subsidises up to 70% of salary and overseas allowances. Setting clear objectives, tracking business leads, and assessing adaptability are key. OMIP helps SMEs build a global-ready workforce while managing financial risks.

Click here to learn more on how SBF can support your company's overseas expansion through OMIP.

Businesses Urged to Act on Climate Transition

At an SBF Dialogue with Minister Grace Fu, Singapore’s Ambassador for Climate Action Ravi Menon urged businesses to act on climate transition despite geopolitical challenges. He warned of supply chain disruptions, rising carbon costs, and regulatory risks. With Singapore targeting net zero by 2050 and increasing carbon taxes, firms—especially high emitters—must invest in green tech.

SBF and Bain & Company are supporting SMEs in this shift. Click here to learn more on the SME Sectoral Net Zero Transition Programme.

Need Help With Government Regulations?

Established under Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), the SME PEO serves as the central coordination unit within the Government to help SMEs with their enquiries and feedback on regulations that span multiple government agencies or relate to emerging sectors where regulations are unclear or still being developed. This will in turn support SMEs to stay competitive and tap business opportunities.

Equip Yourself: Critical AI Skills for the Future

Designed to equip professionals with critical AI skills to stay ahead in an AI-driven world, the Singapore Water Association will be holding its inaugural Generative A.I. Masterclass on 2 April, 9am – 5pm. Led by TeamSolve, a startup backed by SGInnovate, the hands-on session will help participants gain practical experience through live demos and hand-on exercises guided by Dr Mudasser Iqbal, an MIT TR35 Young Innovator awardee.