MemberCONNECT E-newsletter

Your Chamber’s e-newsletter, MemberCONNECT, is published every Tuesday and carries thought-leadership content and details of upcoming Chamber events. 

Current Issue

Of all the many anniversaries which will fall next year, the most important one for this Chamber is the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Singapore (SG60). How do we plan to mark the Diamond Jubilee of this unique country?

3 December 2024

Previous Issues

There are some people who think this Chamber is not for social enterprises. That is just not true. We may not have started life as an inclusive Chamber but, long ago, we learned how much better it is to be a silo-free, inclusive platform. Today we are a broad church, so to speak, and welcome all companies which have a business in Singapore irrespective of size, sector or ownership.

26 November 2024

This year’s Apec summit seemed to produce a lot of common sense evidenced by the shared commitments of member countries to multilateralism and the rules-based, multilateral trading system. As usual, Singapore played a constructive role and will continue to do so.

19 November 2024

As we approach the month of December, Giving Week and the Christmas Season, I’d like to showcase a wonderful group of dedicated people who run four schools, a Centre for Adults, a Student Care Centre, a learning hub and a café! These people are APSN, a social service agency that provides special education, vocational training and employment support services for individuals with mild intellectual disability (IQ 50-70) under the patronage of Ms. Jane Ittogi.

12 November 2024

The topic of local versus global talent always seems to be bubbling under the surface and flares up every now and then. It is illogical in our small, manpower-constrained, open economy with one of the world’s lowest total fertility rates. Responses to global talent can be emotive because they are driven by feelings of insecurity and fear of job competition. For the last 13 years the topic has been thoroughly flogged to death. It is now time to bury it.

5 November 2024

This year, Deepavali – the Festival of Lights – falls on 31 October.

Light is important to all of us. Whether from the moon, or from good street illumination, light allows us to see ahead in the dark so we don’t stumble and fall.

29 October 2024

As you know, World Mental Health Day is celebrated every year on 10 October. This year’s theme, “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” underscores the importance of everyone’s mental health at work as well as advocating for workplaces where mental health is prioritized, protected and promoted.

8 October 2024

This is a call to action for submissions for the 2025 SICC Awards. Our wonderful partners EDB, Enterprise SG, ESSEC, IHRP, IPI and SMU have been so supportive in making their networks aware of these meaningful awards. We thank each of them for their commitment and for their support.

1 October 2024

As we come to the end of the 3rd quarter, it is a good time to remind you the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement Requests (TG-FWARs) will come into effect on 1 December 2024. Are you, your people managers, your teams and your organization ready?

24 September 2024

Can we win the race against climate change? Thanks to Singapore’s rather fortunate geographical location, the island city-state is spared from natural disasters. However, this does not mean that we are safe from the impacts of climate change. Such impacts are prevalent globally and the rising rate is a fairly obvious plea for smarter solutions in global climate action efforts.

17 September 2024

Suicide rates in Singapore have surged, reaching a 22-year high in 2022 with 476 recorded cases, up nearly 26% from the previous year. This alarming trend is particularly concerning among youths aged 10-29 and the elderly aged 70-79.

10 September 2024

I am honored to introduce myself as the new Chief Executive. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to Victor Mills for his remarkable leadership and dedication to SICC over the past 11 years. Victor has built a strong foundation, ensuring that SICC remains a trusted voice and valuable partner for businesses in Singapore. It is with great respect and responsibility that I step into this role, committed to carrying forward his legacy.

3 September 2024

In Singapore, the most consequential political speech of each year is that given by the Prime Minister at the National Day Rally (NDR). The speech sets out the government’s key focus areas and plans for policy evolution. It is a marathon undertaking with the Prime Minister making 3 speeches; first in Malay, then in Mandarin and, finally, in English.

20 August 2024

Last Friday’s celebrations of our 59th National Day remind us just how important human resources are to our country and to every business. Last Friday, we saw thousands of Singaporeans come together to stage the National Day Parade 2024. Months of rehearsals culminated in another amazing show of the strength of our diversity because we include everyone.

13 August 2024

On 9 August we will celebrate the 59th year of Singapore’s independence as a sovereign republic. It is so easy for us Singaporeans and residents to take so much of what we all enjoy in this country for granted.

6 August 2024

As many of you know, every year we present you with a comprehensive review of the Chamber and its activities. I invite you to view our Annual Review for the period July 2023 – June 2024 here.

23 July 2024

Cancer impacts all of us: either ourselves, our loved ones, colleagues and friends. Here’s a message from our friends at Children’s Cancer Foundation. Please give them your support by either taking a haircut or by donating.

16 July 2024

We have received news that our Guest-of-Honour for the Awards Ceremony & Gala, Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Heng Swee Keat is unable to grace the event on 2nd October 2024 due to an unexpected change in his travel schedule.

9 July 2024

You will recall, back in November 2023, I agreed to continue as Chief Executive until such time as my successor was recruited in 2024. At the Chamber’s 183rd AGM last week, our Chairwoman Dawn Tan Ly-Ru announced I will step down as Chief Executive on 31 August 2024 to assume the role of Advisor to the Board for the remainder of this year.

2 July 2024

Earlier today, we held our 183rd AGM followed by the annual luncheon attended by hundreds of Chamber members and distinguished guests from the business community, government and the Diplomatic Corps.

25 June 2024

Every year Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Day falls on 1 July. It is a day for businesses to rededicate themselves to National Service (NS) and to celebrate and recognize the important contributions of their NSmen employees to the defence of our national sovereignty and our economy. It is also a day for businesses to salute the men and women of the SAF. Equally, 1 July is a day for NSmen and the men and women of the SAF to rededicate themselves to their vital role.

18 June 2024

There are many connections between the workplace and family life. For one thing, if workplace culture is toxic, employee health and family life always suffer. Where workplace culture is positive, it usually includes flexible work arrangements to facilitate work life integration. This is important because, while there is always work to be done and deadlines to be met, lives are to be lived too.

21 May 2024

Some of you will remember we published “Navigating Singapore” in 2022. This is an e-book, freely available on our web site under Publications, to help those of you based in Singapore better navigate our country. We also wrote it with prospective, overseas entrepreneurs and investors in mind because our Chamber’s purpose is to help businesses and Singapore.

14 May 2024

As a local Singapore Chamber with an international focus, we have been building relationships with other chambers to benefit you. We have announced these one by one as we have signed Memoranda of Understanding. The most recent is with the Brooklyn Chamber.

7 May 2024

We often say ASEAN is Singapore’s economic future. We sometimes forget the importance of its Agri sector. Here is a message from our respected partner the Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA) which should interest members of Singapore International Chamber of Commerce Rubber Association (SICCRA) and all of you interested in the future of our region’s agricultural commodities sector.

30 April 2024

The Chamber applauds the publication on 16 April of the Tripartite Guidelines on Flexible Work Arrangement (FWA) Requests which have been accepted by the Singapore government and which will come into effect on 1 December 2024. While the word “guidelines” is used, it is important to understand they are mandatory.

23 April 2024

Each year on 22 April we mark Earth Day to demonstrate support and sustain awareness about the causal link between environmental protection and the survival of our species and others on this planet. Climate change is a global issue and it is very encouraging to see more and more businesses taking action to mitigate its effects.

16 April 2024

Good things come in threes. Firstly, we are celebrating the 500th issue of this weekly e-newsletter. We want to thank all our members and partners who have contributed input, articles and thought leadership over the last 500 weeks!

9 April 2024

We hope you all had an enjoyable long weekend and, for those of you who celebrate, a blessed and happy Easter.

We have rebranded and relaunched our member-exclusive Entrepreneurs Singapore Interest Group (ESIG).

2 April 2024

It was great to see collaborations in action last week. Our annual TV programme “Collaborate to Innovate: Achieving Positive Outcomes” was aired on Channel News Asia on 14 March at 7.00pm. It featured the winners of the 2023 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation sharing the how, the why and the lessons learned from their collaborations – all skilfully moderated by Wong Su Yen.

19 March 2024

While, as you know, we have our own business awards, we do support a small number of other award programmes which are aligned with our Chamber’s values. These include the Singapore Apex Corporate Sustainability Awards organized by our partners and friends at UN Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS). Read on for a message from GCNS. We encourage you to participate and gain the recognition you deserve.

27 February 2024

Our annual post-budget set piece is a set piece because of the quality of speakers we invite each year. Yesterday’s panel of experts was no exception. Ms. Selena Ling, Chief Economist & Global Head, Global Markets Research & Strategy, OCBC, Dr. Chua Hak Bin, Regional Co-Head of Macro Research, Maybank and Mr. Loh Eng Kiat, Tax Partner, Deloitte each gave a thoughtful presentation followed by a panel conversation moderated by Mr. Victor Mills, Chief Executive, SICC.

20 February 2024

Your team at Raffles Quay is very much looking forward to the Year of the Dragon which will begin on 10 February. The 15 day Lunar New Year festival, like so many others celebrated in our country, is all about reunions with our loved ones, our friends and our business contacts.

6 February 2024

It is a pleasure to bring you a thought leadership piece by one of our SME members Coco Veda which proves, yet again, you don’t need to be a large business to achieve positive impact. Coco Veda does so because it is a purpose driven brand focused on bringing positive impact to the world through sustainable, natural beauty and wellness products which are responsibly manufactured to benefit producers, their community and consumers. Listen to what this business has to say.

30 January 2024

The true meaning of Christmas is not the tree, nor the decorations and certainly not the presents or the feasting. Rather, the true meaning of the festival is the promise personified by a child born over two thousand years ago. His birth was signalled by a bright star which provided light to guide the shepherds and wise men to his manger which served as his cradle.

19 December 2023

On 10 December we will observe Human Rights Day. This marks the day on which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

5 December 2023

Later this week, environmentalists, scientists, political and thought leaders as well as businesspeople will gather for COP28. Expect a lot of talk. Can we expect a lot of action? The jury is out but one thing is for certain: there can be no more cop outs at COP28.

28 November 2023

As we approach another Deepavali on 12 November, there can be no doubt our world needs more light to overcome the darkness of selfishness, inhumanity, human hunger and suffering, displaced people everywhere, polarized societies and societies which seem hell bent on self-destruction. The world often seems in a mess. It does so again now.

7 November 2023

Below is the second of a quarterly series of articles on the various aspects of inclusive hiring of persons with disabilities (PwDs) from SPD and the benefits it can bring to you, your teams, customers, businesses and society. In the spirit of Forward SG, please read the article and act.

31 October 2023

This week, we hear from our friends at EDB on a future of marketing tool they commissioned. Read on for their message and let them and us know how useful you find the tool and the other complimentary resources from a variety of government agencies.

24 October 2023

Excitement is in the air. And so it should be. After months of hard work and meticulous planning by the Chamber team and our partner vendors, we are now only days away from celebrating the finalists of the 2023 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation and announcing and awarding the winners.

17 October 2023

Mental health should be a universal human right. It is not yet so in every business and in every society. Today marks the observance of World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental well-being.

10 October 2023

The Chamber is proud to be a supporting partner, once again, for the Fintech Festival. We do so because we believe in collaboration and its positive outcome innovation. We do so because we know you believe in progress too. Here’s a message from the organizers of this year’s festival which we hope you will support.

3 October 2023

We know! We Know! We know how survey fatigued many of you are. That is why we rarely ask you to complete surveys. However, we always ask you to complete the annual National Business Survey organized by SBF. We support our Apex Chamber’s survey rather than trying to reinvent the wheel by creating one of our own.

19 September 2023

This Saturday we will commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. Not only was he our Founding Prime Minister. He was also the lead visionary of what Singapore could be and has largely become. He devoted his entire life to creating and sustaining an economically successful, multicultural society in which everyone had the opportunity to succeed. He devoted his entire life to Singapore and to making it a better place for Singaporeans. He did all this with modesty, eschewing a personality cult which is so often the result of selfish leadership. Mr. Lee was selfless.

12 September 2023

Your Chamber has always supported the work of the National Integration Council (NIC) because integration of newly arrived immigrants, professionals and workers is essential to our economy and to social harmony. It is essential to enable them to contribute faster and to encourage them to assimilate. In so doing, they become more effective for themselves and for the businesses they work for. They need to want to integrate just as much as it is essential that people already here welcome them and enable their integration. Like any worthwhile relationship, integration is always a two way street.

5 September 2023

The subject of respect for all jobs has been mentioned in the current Presidential Election campaign. This is important for a healthy, cohesive society where we all appreciate each other’s capabilities and value them. This enables self-worth which, in turn, reduces stress levels as well as mental and physical illnesses. We all need to accept and act on our collective responsibility to treat other fellow human beings in ways we would like to be treated. No one should be looked down on. Everyone should be lifted up.

29 August 2023

What are the key lessons for businesses from this year’s National Day Rally (NDR)? For the benefit of newly arrived businesspeople in Singapore, the NDR features a speech by our Prime Minister. It is the most consequential, political speech of the year. It outlines our government’s plans for the years ahead.

22 August 2023

Every year we present our members with a comprehensive review of the Chamber and its activities. The latter are all designed to provide you with access to decision makers, thought leaders and fellow businesspeople.

15 August 2023

“We are going to have a multi-racial nation in Singapore. We will set the example.”
Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, 9 August 1965.

As we celebrate the 58th anniversary of the founding of our Republic on 9 August, it is useful to ask ourselves have we set an example?

7 August 2023

The Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and Institute of Policy Studies are jointly organizing a conference entitled “Reinventing Destiny – A Conference on the Occasion of Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s 100th Birth Anniversary.” The conference will take place on Monday, 14 August 2023 at Marina Bay Sands.

25 July 2023

The extraordinary, attempted, and then called off, mutiny in Russia recently underscores how conflict can bring about unexpected consequences. For a short time there was a distinctly 1917 whiff about events. Back then an equally, unnecessary war caused the collapse of the Imperial regime in Russia and, one year later, those of Austria-Hungary and Germany. War is always a catalyst for change and the changes wrought by war are not always what those in power at the outset had in mind.

4 July 2023

It is with much pleasure we announce the finalists of the 8th annual SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation! This year we have a total of 13 finalists across five award categories. We are particularly encouraged and pleased to have received nominations for our new 5th category this year: Most Positive Workplace Collaboration.

27 June 2023

In issue #450 of this e-newsletter we suggested two ways in which you might consider commemorating LKY 100 – the 100th anniversary of the birth of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s Founding Prime Minister, which falls on 16 September this year.

6 June 2023

Business China is a valued partner of the Chamber. We support Business China’s goals of improving mutual understanding between businesses in Singapore and in China and increasing people to people links. In addition, we are both members of an integrated network which supports the Singapore Mentorship Committee.

30 May 2023

One of the scourges of our times is the transactional nature of interaction between so many of us. The motivation for too many people seems to be “what can I get from this person today?” Once that transaction is completed, you never hear from or see that person for a very long time, if at all. It’s the equivalent of walking up to a person at a networking reception and opening with: “I just want to pass you my business card.” Why would anyone think that was a good idea?

23 May 2023

Yesterday’s Labour Day reminds us that every business needs talented people and people with potential, who are fully engaged in their work and willing to go the extra mile for their customers, to achieve the company’s commercial goals. Human capital, as we are told all the time, is Singapore’s only natural resource. It makes human and commercial sense for that resource to be engaged and developed.

2 May 2023

In just under 5 months’ time all of us in Singapore will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of the late Mr. Lee Kuan Yew on 16 September 2023. Not only was he Singapore’s founding Prime Minister and a man of values, he was the lead visionary of a remarkable team which believed in Singapore, deeply cared for the country and its people and fostered its economic success.

25 April 2023

All over the world families and relationships matter. Our nuclear family is our first network. Our Chamber is another. Both thrive when we are present, non-transactional and engaged in a long term, mutually beneficial relationship.

28 March 2023

We all love to travel but how can we do so in more sustainable ways to protect our planet and the places we all enjoy for ourselves and for future generations? We can reduce business travel for cost reasons and because, thanks to the pandemic, we know the online tools work well. What about leisure travel?

21 March 2023

If we as consumers and businesses are to achieve a more sustainable existence for ourselves and for future generations, we all need to change our individual and collective behaviour. This year’s Earth Hour aims to encourage positive action from all of us. Earth Hour is organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

14 March 2023

Tomorrow, we will all mark International Women’s Day when we celebrate the half of humankind who enable our lives and who are every bit as able, ambitious, brilliant, capable and imperfect as any man.

7 March 2023

It is with much pleasure we announce the renaming of our flagship Distinguished Speaker Series to The Signature Series to mark the 100th anniversary in August 2023 of the birth of the late Brother Joseph McNally.

28 February 2023

The Chamber’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on 22 June at Marina Bay Sands for members only. It will be followed immediately afterwards by our flagship AGM Luncheon to which all members, prospective members and their guests are cordially invited to attend.

21 February 2023

We have all been shocked by the devastation wrought by last week’s earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. There are big questions to be answered about building codes and their enforcement in Türkiye not to mention the absence of any caring governance in Syria. However, the immediate priority is to help the many thousands of people who have lost loved ones, homes and places of work.

14 February 2023

Last week, we launched the 8th annual SICC Awards and this week we bring you Chamber member QBE’s 8th annual SME Survey. SMEs form the backbone of every economy including ours and employ most people. What they do, think and how they feel are important which is why QBE surveys them.

7 February 2023

When we first launched our awards in 2015, as part of celebrating SG50, many people thought we were unwise to attempt an annual awards programme. They were right in the sense it is tough to do – just like many things which are right are tough to do.

31 January 2023

Happy New Year! Xin Nian Kuai Le!

Your Chamber is all about sustaining businesses and Singapore. What has been achieved in the last 6 decades here is nothing short of remarkable and deserves to be sustained.

25 January 2023

As we look forward to the year-end festivities and holiday, let’s not forget the underserved communities among us. Your Chamber has been a long-time supporter of APSN which stands for the Association for People with Special Needs.

29 November 2022

This week we bring you two opportunities: one related to personal development and another related to employer recognition.

22 November 2022

This Chamber was founded in 1837 to preserve Singapore’s Free Port status without which our founders would have lost their shirts, Singapore would not have developed as it has and we would not be here today. Sustaining Singapore is what interests us and, indeed, was the title of our SG50 commemorative publication in 2015. To do that, we all need to sustain our planet.

15 November 2022

In nearly every value system worth its salt, and in every major religion, light denotes illumination; the triumph of knowledge over ignorance and good over evil. As we wish our Indian members and friends a Happy Deepavali on 24 October, our world badly needs more light.

18 October 2022

After 2 years of virtual and hybrid award ceremonies, it felt really special to be able to host an in-person award ceremony and gala again last Thursday, 6 Oct at the Equarius Hotel Ballroom of Resorts World Singapore.

11 October 2022

As the first business association in Singapore to champion the circular economy, when it was still unfashionable to do so, the Chamber is proud to support the work of Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS).

27 September 2022

Our thanks to Isaiah Chng for this follow up piece to last week’s issue which suggests a solution to help manage workplace health & safety.

6 September 2022

The 1 answer to all these workplace issues is for every senior leadership team in every business, irrespective of ownership structure, sector or size, to collaborate with their teams and co-create and sustain a positive workplace culture. It is the 1 solution that everyone is running around looking for.

30 August 2022

Several of our members have asked for more content on geo-political topics to enable them to make more sense of what is going on and what are the possible consequences of the current lamentable state of China-USA relations.

10 August 2022

In last week’s issue we talked about the commercial advantages a positive workplace culture brings to a business and to everyone in it, including its customers and the wider community. SICC has advocated for some time it should be the responsibility of all company boards to ensure their companies have the policies and procedures in place to enable and sustain a positive workplace culture. The Chamber believes this is part and parcel of good corporate governance and ethical values in action.

19 July 2022

A large part of the success and implementation of the Forward Singapore initiative launched by Mr. Lawrence Wong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance last week will depend on our successors: the young people of Singapore who are now at school, college, National Service (NS) or university.

5 July 2022

It is with great pleasure the Chamber announces the finalists of the 7th annual SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation and congratulates everyone involved in each project. The Chamber’s awards recognize, celebrate and learn from successful commercial collaborations which allow agencies, businesses, schools, colleges, universities and unions to innovate, grow, learn, be positively impactful and succeed.

28 June 2022

Allied to our support of education is our support of educators. We have a tremendously diverse group of members, mostly in the private sector, which provide primary, secondary and tertiary education services. They come together in the Education Services Interest Group to share best practices, learn from one another and collaborate to increase the visibility of the private education sector and promote its value to our economy. Chaired by Professor Linley Lord, Pro Vice-Chancellor and President, Curtin Singapore, the interest group’s key focus areas are sustainability and the government’s recently released paper Skills Demand for the Future Economy. Both will feature prominently as the members of the Interest Group lay out their plans for enabling the key skills we will all need for the future.

21 June 2022

Fellow Chamber member Dr. Michelle Dimasi of MAXIMUS has written a book on the topic of refugees with a link to an island that was once part of Singapore not so long ago. All too often it is the refugees who get the blame not the people or the regimes which caused them to become refugees. It is the refugees who are treated as some kind of sub-species when they are just like the rest us imperfect humans looking for a safe place to live a decent life. Remember them on World Refugee Day on 20 June ladies and gentlemen and appreciate the peace, harmony and safety we all enjoy in Singapore.

14 June 2022

Here is a commentary from Chamber member WNS on data, analysis and insights. Think of it as lights, camera and action! In addition to the commentary, there is a link to a report which you will find interesting.

7 June 2022

Looking for ideas and recommendations for CSR activities which are impactful, meaningful and well worth your time and that of your teams? Look no further. We have two suggestions for your consideration this year both around the theme of inclusion of underserved communities which deserve more attention and help from businesses.

31 May 2022

It is very encouraging to see more companies are consciously thinking about how to achieve a positive workplace culture for their teams for the best of commercial reasons: better customer service and financial results. All the literature suggests when companies demonstrate they are actively thinking about, and showing authentic interest in, their team members’ general wellbeing, productivity increases.

24 May 2022

For the 400th issue of MemberCONNECT, it is a pleasure to feature an activity organized by your fellow member Dow which demonstrates the themes of action, personal and collective responsibility and concern for our environment. These themes regularly appear in this weekly e-newsletter.

10 May 2022

Everyone engaged in what they do wants to excel, wants to delight existing customers, win new ones, gain recognition and enjoy success. What does it take to consistently deliver excellence in whatever we do each day? This week, fellow Chamber member Infinye Incorporated, licensee of ValueSelling Associates, Inc. offers some thoughts on this theme.

4 May 2022

As you know, this Chamber has always supported education in the broadest sense as the best guarantor of social mobility, personal and commercial success. Your fellow member United World College South East Asia (UWCSEA) is celebrating 50 successful years of holistic education by re-examining what holistic and sustainable education should provide in the next 50 years.

19 April 2022

One of the most important issues in our society for today and for the future is integrating local and foreign talent for business and societal progress. It must never start or become a “them and us” dynamic because that simply promotes division rather than integration and unity. Integration should always be seen as “about us all” – about everyone who works in Singapore for Team Singapore for however long they do so.

5 April 2022

Earlier this month, as part of activities to mark International Women’s Day, our Chief Executive Victor Mills attended the official launch of EmpowHER. This @Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) initiative is designed to partner companies and organizations to encourage their women team members to get screened for cancer to protect their health, their families and the businesses they work for. Every life matters.

29 March 2022

Like you, we read and watch on TV every day now the dreadful, inhumane scenes from Ukraine caused by Russia’s invasion. Nearly 25% of Ukraine’s population or 10 million fellow human beings have had to leave their homes for safety. Over 6 million people are displaced within Ukraine and over 3 million people have left the country.

22 March 2022

This issue we feature our Circular Economy Interest Group (IG).

The transition to the circular economy is the only rational response to managing existential climate change risks. The apposite word here is transition. It will take time but action is needed now by all businesses: to reduce waste and emissions, to design goods with components which can be recycled and reused all in the best interests of their own commercial survival and the survival of the human race and our planet.

15 March 2022

In January, we shared an important message, via an EDM, from the Competition & Consumer Commission, Singapore (CCCS) entitled “Collaborate with Greater Confidence” – here is the link: https://bit.ly/3ClvYyk to that message again for ease of reference.

You will find it useful when reading this thought leadership piece from Chamber member Kala Anandarajah (to be tagged on LinkedIn), PBM of Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP on collaborating with care. It is wise advice.

8 March 2022

One of our focus areas is to encourage entrepreneurship as an essential part of a vibrant and sustainable Singapore economy. This is why we are launching a new Members’ exclusive interest group called: Young Entrepreneurs Singapore! (YES!). This interest group will be chaired by @Ameer Jumabhoy who is an entrepreneur himself.

1 March 2022

We all know there is a shortage of talent everywhere, not just in Singapore. Our member Globalization Partners has produced an e-guide to help you take a different approach to finding the talent your business needs.

22 February 2022

It is entirely fitting this issue #388 is published on the 15th and final day of the Lunar New Year festival. 388 is a great number and freely interpreted means “may prosperity and good fortune prevail.”

15 February 2022

Today is the 185th anniversary of the founding of our Chamber in Singapore on 8 February 1837. Founded with the purpose to help businesses and Singapore, this remains our purpose today. It is central to our ethos and to everything we do and aim to do.

8 February 2022

Throughout this year we will be shining a spotlight on Chamber members who form member-exclusive Interest Groups on topics and themes important to them and the wider membership. Each Interest Group (IG) is led by a Chair, or co-Chairs, who provide the energy, drive and rallying power for what are totally voluntary groups.

25 January 2022

It is a real pleasure to officially open nominations for the 2022 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation! This year marks the 7th consecutive year the Chamber will be presenting these awards.

18 January 2022

One of the key deliverables for any business association is to open doors for people. This is illustrated in our logo where the letter I is also used to represent ever open doors to potential partners and collaborators. We open doors, you walk through to connect and build the relationships you need for your business.

11 January 2022

As we all start another year of work, what vision do we have for ourselves, our teams and our businesses beyond the imperative of good health and prosperity?

4 January 2022

The Chamber wishes you, your families and colleagues all the very best for the new year. We hope 2022 will enable more collaboration, more innovation, more growth and more success for all your businesses.

28 December 2021

As we approach the festive Season, it is time to give thanks. Like anyone who leads a business association, there are a lot of people to thank and we are delighted to do so. Everything we deliver depends on the willing collaboration of active members, customers and partners.

14 December 2021

The emergence of the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus is no surprise given unequal vaccination rates around the world, most especially in developing countries, and the lack of trust too many people have in their leaders and/or in vaccination.

7 December 2021

2021 is the year of celebrating SG Women – defined as all women who live in Singapore. Though many women may be aware of the availability of cancer screenings, and even of the need for them, there seems a fairly widespread lack of motivation to take the first step make an appointment for these screenings. The Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) is launching a new programme called SCS EmpowHER Campaign focusing on how each woman’s health is key to work performance and well-being.

23 November 2021

We all know by now the commercial and reputational importance of protecting company data and systems from internal and external cyber-attacks. But how do companies achieve these goals? How do they manage internal human error or fraud and external risks at the same time?

16 November 2021

Now that the retirement age and re-employment age have been raised to 63 and 68 respectively, with effect from 2022, the time has come to move from words on anti-ageism to action. This means individual, corporate and societal action. In other words, action from each of us.

9 November 2021

This week many of our Indian members and friends will celebrate Deepavali – the Festival of Lights. My team and I wish happy Deepavali to everyone who celebrates the festival and to all who seek the light.

2 November 2021

The Chamber is very proud to be a supporting partner of Singapore FinTech Festival 2021. Finance and access to finance is critical for all businesses. Innovation in delivery channels and in the security of those channels continues apace. Learn how technologies like AI, machine learning, blockchain, 5G and the internet of things are improving the delivery of financial services at the Singapore FinTech Festival.

26 October 2021

As you know, this e-newsletter is usually published every Tuesday. We held publication over until today in honour of the winners of the 2021 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation. They were announced, recognized and celebrated at a hybrid awards ceremony & gala yesterday at Suntec Singapore. Over 200 in-person and virtual guests attended the event. Many congratulations to Singapore’s 2021 Champions of Collaborative Innovation! Our thanks to every company which took part – especially to all the finalists.

20 October 2021

It is exactly one week before the winners of the 2021 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation are announced, celebrated and recognised at a Gala Awards Ceremony on 19 October. Let’s wish this year’s Finalists all the very best!

12 October 2021

Last Friday the Alliance for Action (AfA) on Work Life Harmony launched a series of useful resources for companies to consider. These are all designed to help companies develop and sustain Work Life Harmony and positive workplace culture. All the resources are available at the TAFEP web site under Resources, Work Life Harmony. Check them out and let us know what you think.

28 September 2021

As you know, every year your fellow members in the Tax Policy Interest Group come together to compile a Budget Wishlist of tax measures for submission to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS).

21 September 2021

What are your concerns, views and questions about talent and manpower matters? Attend our online dialogue with Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower on 24 September at 2pm.

14 September 2021

It is not often we feature a piece from the Financial Services sector. Here is an article with plenty of food for thought on hidden investment fees written by Legacy Wealth, a Partner Practice of fellow member St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited.

7 September 2021

Over the last 8 years the Chamber has consistently called for an end to discrimination of all kinds especially discrimination based on age and gender.

24 August 2021

For a country that placed far too much emphasis on paper qualifications for decades, the new LinkedIn Skills Path initiative is most welcome. It aims to encourage and facilitate hiring based on skills not qualifications.

17 August 2021

We are delighted to launch the following enhanced and new membership categories to give companies and individuals in Singapore and around the world every opportunity to leverage the ecosystem with an edge that is SICC.

10 August 2021

Our time calls for increased unity among all human beings, for more innovation in business, in processes and in the way people are managed and led at work. Majulah Singapura!

3 August 2021

UNHCR’s partner Relief Singapore (RSG) is raising funds to support UNHCR – the UN Refugee Agency – in its humanitarian work in the world’s largest refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.

27 July 2021

This week we are delighted to celebrate another fellow member GREY – for over 100 years one of the world’s most successful advertising and marketing organisations – for its exciting Youth Sustainability Movement for Asia and the world.

6 July 2021

Fellow Chamber member Dow has collaborated with Sport Singapore to create a permanent collection capability for old sports shoes. You now have the chance to give your used sports shoes a second lease of life and contribute to a more sustainable future for Singapore.

29 June 2021

Distinguished Speaker and Leader of the Opposition, Mr Pritam Singh, will talk about what more businesses can do to tackle the forces of xenophobia and nativism, to promote integration and inclusion for themselves and for Singapore.

22 June 2021

We have all been called on to be resilient because of the pandemic. Some of us have found reserves we either did not know we had or we had forgotten.

15 June 2021

Yesterday’s televised statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on the status of Singapore’s management of Covid-19 was an excellent piece of communication. There are lessons we can all learn from it.

1 June 2021

If we did not realise it before, we now know for sure that the way through the pandemic will feature multiple advances and reversals. The road is neither straight nor is the direction of travel always forwards. The only sensible approach we can take as individuals and as businesses is to practise continued agility.

25 May 2021

Two issues ago we covered Hair for Hope 2021. I said I would shave my head to support the initiative. I just want you to know I have followed through and kept my word. I am now officially a shavee!

11 May 2021

Your Chamber’s 180th AGM on 23 June at 10.30am will be a hybrid event with 50 people in a meeting room and everyone else joining virtually all equally enabled to vote via Convene’s AGM platform.

20 April 2021

If you would like to help reduce the risk of innocent children and refugees being exploited and trafficked and help displaced communities have access to safe shelter, education, training and healthcare, contact the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) at [email protected].

13 April 2021

Now that companies are allowed to have up to 75% of their teams working from the office (WFO) what happens to working from home (WFH)?

6 April 2021

Tune into Channel News Asia on 18 March at 7pm to watch our programme “Collaborate to Innovate: Accelerating Progress” for a conversation with the winners of last year’s SICC awards.

16 March 2021

Yesterday was International Women’s Day and Commonwealth Day. We all know the yellow brick road to gender and racial equality is never fast or linear. It is long and winding.

9 March 2021

Your Chamber is looking for companies to share their positive workplace culture approaches and experiences and how much commercial success is enabled by a positive workplace culture.

2 March 2021

To recognise the importance and benefits of the mental wellbeing of leaders and their teams for commercial success, your Chamber has formed a new member-exclusive Interest Group on Mental Wellbeing.

23 February 2021

I look forward to marking our Chamber’s 184th birthday on 8 February with a purposeful, member-exclusive meeting to share the results of our collective mindset changes.

2 February 2021

Join us on 29 January when we discuss what talent matters you should be thinking about, planning for and enabling in 2021 and beyond. Why? Because talent always matters.

19 January 2021

Selfless leaders in business and in government consistently enable, convene, unite and act in the best, long term interests of their teams, their businesses and their countries.

12 January 2021

All of us in business are focused on how we can survive the pandemic and thrive after it has passed or we are vaccinated. What do we need to change about ourselves and our businesses to enable the sustained success we want?

1 December 2020

Our first ever virtual awards gala last week had its fair share of technical glitches but the most important thing is we did announce, celebrate and recognise this year’s worthy winners of the SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation.

24 November 2020

The Chamber champions anti-ageism in the workforce. Just like gender, race and sexual orientation, age is not a relevant factor in assessing job fit. Attitude, competencies, skills, potential and output are the key factors each employer should focus on.

27 October 2020

Join us as we celebrate the finalists and announce the winners of the 5th annual SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation on 18 November at a specially designed, virtual Awards Gala.

13 October 2020

It gives me great pleasure to share with you the latest Position Paper from our Circular Economy Interest Group on Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging in Singapore. Read on for more.

29 September 2020

Because of the pandemic and the impact it is having on all our lives, more and more people now understand that good mental health is a priority for each of us. It is every bit as important as good physical health.

22 September 2020

It is all very well being told to go digital but the truth is many companies looking to embark on a digitalisation journey do not have the in-house expertise even to start. Here is where your fellow member Temasek Polytechnic (TP) can help you help yourself.

15 September 2020

Now that we are well into Phase 2 of re-opening the economy, I’d like to conduct a pulse check. Not just on how you and your business are doing but also what your business outlook is for the rest of this year and into 2021.

1 September 2020

Current conditions force us to reset many of our plans and maybe that is not altogether a bad thing. It is useful to take time to take stock; to re-evaluate what we want, why we want it and how we can achieve our goals.

25 August 2020

Singapore’s National Day on 9 August this year will be celebrated differently because of the pandemic. It does not mean we have any less reason to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Singapore’s independence. Majulah Singapura!

4 August 2020

Go digital so that your business is more resilient, more productive and more competitive. Read on for more on IMDA’s Digital Resilience Bonus.

28 July 2020

The Chamber is delighted to publish plain English guides to the European Union-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA) which is already in force and to the European Union-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) which will come into force from 1 August 2020.

21 July 2020

Inclusive hiring must include our fellow human beings who are differently abled. Our friends at SG Enable are available to help you appreciate this talent pool and help you each step of way from getting started to onboarding diverse talent.

14 July 2020

There has been a lot of talk these last few months about the importance of mental health. That is a good thing. One of the silver linings of the pandemic has been the realization by many people that good health includes mental well-being at home and at work, now and always.

7 July 2020

Our guest speaker Dr. Vijayan Munusamy from the Human Capital Leadership Institute (HCLI) presented the institute’s research on the 5 paradoxes of leadership development at our collaboration last week. Here are the key learning points from a great presentation from my perspective.

30 June 2020

This week’s e-newsletter focuses on a skill we have all polished and applied during the Circuit Breaker and Phase 1 of re-opening the economy: renewed empathy for others. Read on for some helpful advice from SG Enable as to how we can keep applying it.

23 June 2020

Many thanks to those members who responded to our recent survey on re-opening the economy and on attitudes to travel. Read on for the key messages from the 102 people who responded to the survey.

16 June 2020

What better way to celebrate the 300th issue of this weekly e-newsletter than to devote it to thinking of others especially others less fortunate than ourselves? Here’s a thought for the day from Assisi Hospice.

9 June 2020

The WorkWell Leaders Workgroup champions workplace mental well-being as a leadership priority, and works collaboratively across sectors to share best practices.

2 June 2020

Check out https://workspace.bantu.life/. This platform facilitates the work of companies in social services and those which need a platform to engage and manage volunteers for their CSR activities.

5 May 2020

Cashflow is the lifeblood of every business but especially for us SMEs and especially right now in the worst economic crisis since 1945. Fellow member, RIABU, is inviting companies to pledge to pay invoices within 30 days.

28 April 2020

Millions of people all over the world are working from home juggling the demands of their jobs with looking after their children and/or elderly relatives. It’s not easy and can be an added source of stress at an already very stressful time.

21 April 2020

Building on last week’s theme of solidarity and partnership building, we launched a new initiative last week called Members Helping Members leveraging on the Chamber’s platform for mutual benefit.

14 April 2020

A mentor recently said to me: “All of us are judged by how useful we are to others.” That’s why everyone except people in essential services need to stay at home for the next month. That’s the best way each of us can help each other through the crisis.

7 April 2020

The government presented a significantly larger than anticipated stimulus package in last week’s Resilience Budget. It is now time for all of us to our part.

31 March 2020

We strongly believe collaboration is one of the fastest ways for any business to innovate. That is why your Chamber is supporting Enterprise Singapore to promote the Singapore-France Joint Innovation Call.

10 March 2020

It is a pleasure to invite all members to attend your Chamber’s AGM on 25 Jun at the Pan Pacific Singapore. While the AGM is strictly for members only, the luncheon is open to all members, friends and prospective members alike.

25 February 2020

On Total Defence Day last Saturday I represented the Chamber by attending the 53rd War Memorial Service in Commemoration of the Civilian Victims of the Japanese Occupation. This ceremony is faithfully organized every year by Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in collaboration with MINDEF.

18 February 2020

Every year, the Chamber submits its budget wish list for tax measures to the Ministry of Finance. This wish list is compiled with dedication by the members of our Tax Policy Interest Group.

11 February 2020

The latest edition of the rules called Incoterms® 2020 became effective on 1 January this year. Read on for a message from our good friends the ICC Academy, Singapore on how they can help you acquire the knowledge to apply the rules with confidence.

28 January 2020

My goal for our Chamber in 2020 is for SICC’s purposeful network to be more useful to and for each other and to and for the wider business community in Singapore and we would like to hear your ideas and suggestions.

7 January 2020

Your Chamber’s ten Interest Groups are designed to bring members together to exchange views, learn from one another, drive the Chamber’s advocacy efforts with government and open doors for members to more business opportunities.

17 December 2019

Your Chamber is collaborating with your fellow member ICICI Bank to present a talk on “The Indian Economy: Opportunities and The Way Forward” on 17 January 2020.

10 December 2019

Many thanks to our Chamber members and non-members for their support as always and we look forward to welcoming more non-members as members in 2020.

26 November 2019

After 60 events and 40 interest group meetings your Chamber’s 2019 events calendar is coming to close. As my team and I plan next year’s calendar of events, we invite you to share with us your wish lists.

19 November 2019

We are collaborating with member Dow on 16 November on a beach clean-up. Many thanks to all those members and their families who have signed up to do something useful for our environment on a Saturday morning.

5 November 2019

Last week we commemorated Singapore’s Bicentennial in an appropriate way for a business chamber. We collaborated on an event with BritCham, Singapore to celebrate the internationalization of business.

3 September 2019

In support of that goal and of Singapore’s year of Towards Zero Waste, I am delighted to announce a collaboration between your Chamber and your fellow member James Cook University, Singapore.

20 August 2019

Integrating diverse talent in the workplace is the responsibility of leaders and all teams. It just makes commercial sense but it takes effort.

30 July 2019

The 2020 edition of the annual SICC Awards is now launched and we are delighted to invite you to submit your nominations. The SICC Awards are open to both members and non-members.

16 July 2019

Last week, we celebrated SAF Day which falls each year on 1 July. NSmen and the SAF regulars rededicate themselves to defending Singapore. At the same time, they thank the business community for its continued support of National Service.

9 July 2019

It’s in your business interests to fight the apathy that is the result of the wonderful peace and security we have enjoyed for so long but can no longer take for granted.

28 May 2019

Integrating immigrants into our society, whether they are long term residents and potential citizens or here for the short term, is key to the continued success of our economy and this special country of ours.

14 May 2019

Your Chamber is collaborating with the Singapore Manufacturing Federation to offer you subsidised capability building for your Singapore and Singapore Permanent Resident hires. Here are 3 simple questions for you to answer.

16 April 2019

Some of you will be invited to attend a focus group meeting this year and I hope that you’ll do so and provide your insights into how my team and I can serve you better.

2 April 2019

The tragic loss of so many lives in Christchurch, NZ last Friday reminds us just how dangerous extremist political and religious views are. A large part of Singapore’s exceptionalism is the racial and religious harmony every one of us contributes to and benefits from.

19 March 2019

Last Saturday I attended the launch of SG Cares 2019. One highlight was printed panels featuring the history of caring and giving by Singapore’s oldest organizations including your Chamber.

5 March 2019

It is a pleasure to invite all members to attend your Chamber’s AGM on 20 Jun at the Grand Hyatt Singapore. While the AGM is strictly for members only, the luncheon is open to all members, friends and prospective members alike.

26 February 2019

SICC advocates a holistic approach which includes each of us taking responsibility for our own well-being in our self-interest, and the continuation of the effective collaboration between government and industry. Read on for your Chamber’s response to the government’s public consultation paper on possible action on sugar-sweetened beverages.

22 January 2019

The global economic power has moved east and this makes understanding and navigating ASEAN better vital for your businesses’ continued success. What are your thoughts on the ASEAN Summits?

20 November 2018

Many businesses experience unacceptable behaviour from prospective job candidates. Seek help from our tripartite partners, SNEF, MOM and NTUC – they could provide businesses with mediation as a cost effective alternative to expensive ligation.

30 October 2018

Business people need to realize that they can grow and sustain profitable businesses while doing right by our planet and our species. Find out more at your Chamber’s inaugural Circular Economy Forum on 17 Oct.

25 September 2018

The level 1 Workplace Safety and Health Council’s (WSHC’s) bizSAFE capability programme will be held on 20 Sep and WSHC is offering the workshop to all Chamber members free of charge.

11 September 2018

There is never enough talent especially when you are expanding and need trusted talent to manage overseas offices. Join us on 8 Oct to learn more about the SEA Talent Development Programmes by Enterprise Singapore.

4 September 2018

In partnership with Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB), your Chamber will hold an introductory session on the Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs) on 26 September 2018.

21 August 2018

Selfless and fearless leadership are not for the faint hearted but they are for you. Read on to find out more about a leadership course: FLAME – Fearless Leadership and Mindful Enterprise.

14 August 2018

As we celebrate National Day this week, let’s also celebrate and practise inclusion every day of the year, always remembering: “We are Singapore!”

7 August 2018

Join us at the inaugural SICC Circular Economy Forum on 17 October to discuss, debate and share creative solutions on how we can create a practical, commercial roadmap to achieve a circular economy.

31 July 2018

The 2019 SICC Awards for Collaborative Innovation is now launched and we are delighted to invite you to submit your nominations. The SICC Awards are open to both members and non-members.

17 July 2018

Your Chamber celebrates the 200th issue of MemberCONNECT today! This week we bring you the topic on competition and consumer law enforcement; hear from the experts from Ashurst their perspectives on 18 July.

10 July 2018

Many thanks to those of you who attended the Chamber’s 2018 AGM and the AGM Reception that followed it on 20 June 2018 at the Pan Pacific Singapore.

26 June 2018

How can businesses better assess volatile economic situations to reposition themselves during challenging times? Mahamoud Islam, Senior Economist, Euler Hermes Asia Pacific, will share insights on the economic outlook for Singapore’s exports on 5 Jul.

19 June 2018

Mark your calendars – the annual SAF Day Combined Rededication Ceremony, a ceremony that gives our NSmen the opportunity to publicly re-affirm their dedication to the SAF and the Nation, will be held on 2 July 2018.

5 June 2018

What is a positive workplace culture and why is it important? Ms Andrea Della Mattea, President of Microsoft Asia Pacific, will share the failures and successes of Microsoft’s cultural transformation journey at your Chamber’s AGM Reception on 20 June.

30 May 2018

Those of you who are active on the LinkedIn platform will know that last week we launched our collaboration with Chris J. Reed’s Black Marketing company. Chris will chair the Chamber’s new Marketing Committee.

22 May 2018

Tomorrow will be your Chamber’s 2018 SICC Awards Gala Dinner. Winners will be announced during dinner and they will receive their awards from our Guest of Honour, Mr. Ong Ye Kung, Minister for Education.

8 May 2018

I invite more members to co-host your Chamber’s networking sessions to enhance your brands and reach a diverse demographic. Your Chamber has one of the best platforms to showcase your business and create value for your fellow members.

10 April 2018

It is a pleasure to invite all members to attend your Chamber’s AGM on 20 Jun at the Pan Pacific Singapore. While the AGM is strictly for members only, the networking reception at 6.45pm is open to all members, friends and prospective members alike.

3 April 2018

Your Chamber’s first Leadership Series in 2018 will focus on effective strategy execution, one of the most important abilities of a successful business leader. On 4 April, Mr Robin Speculand will share his views on this topic.

13 March 2018

Your Chamber is relaunching our Premium Membership; it now provides a suite of exclusive benefits to facilitate each Premium Member’s outreach to the SICC and wider business community. Read on to find out more.

27 February 2018

As we celebrate the start of the Year of the Dog with family and friends later this week my team and I want to wish you, your families and businesses every success.

13 February 2018

Rather than have committees on specific industries or sectors, your Chamber Committees have been revamped to concentrate our collective efforts on issues and topics which affect all businesses whatever their size or sector.

16 January 2018

Congratulations to all finalists of the 2018 SICC Awards; I wish them well when they present their collaborations to our panel of judges on 30 January. Read on to find out who the finalists are.

9 January 2018

“I want to work for a company that appreciates my worth.” – Is this evidence of an entitlement mindset among young people or is it a problem of a mismatch of communications? Read on for more…

2 January 2018

My team and I wish each of you, your families, colleagues and businesses the very best compliments of the Season, happy holidays and, to all who celebrate it, a happy Christmas!

19 December 2017

The 48th St. Gallen Symposium will be held on the campus of the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland from 2–4 May 2018. Read on to find out why you should attend and support it.

12 December 2017