The Chamber was honoured to host Mr. Lawrence Wong, Minister for Finance on 24 May 2022 as its Distinguished Speaker. More than 100 Chamber members, guests and business leaders attended the event. So many people said how good it was to be able to meet in person.

The topic was the continual restructuring and transformation of Singapore’s economy. The Minister’s opening remarks covered the uncertain state of the world in public health, geo-political and economic terms. But he also emphasized the positive. Singapore’s fundamentals remain strong for the economy notwithstanding all the geo-political and economic headwinds. Minister Wong reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with trade associations, chambers, unions and businesses for our collective, sustained success.

Thanks to a very engaged audience, the dialogue following the Minister’s opening remarks, moderated by Mr. Per Magnusson, Chairman of SICC, was lively. There was a wide range of questions all relating to the economy, creativity, what needs to change, social cohesion and equality, employment, education, talent acquisition and geopolitical issues.  You had to be there! The Minister was candid, clear and engaging. He demonstrated a command of the subjects that was pro-business, fair and insightful. Everyone enjoyed the event and we would like to thank Minister Lawrence Wong for spending the afternoon with us and also thank the many people in the audience who contributed to a constructive dialogue.

We look forward to seeing everyone again at our next Distinguished Speaker Series event on 26 July 2022 when we will host Ms. Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director, Economic Development Board.