80th Anniversary Commemorative Book - Singapore Manufacturing ...

ChampioningManufacturing– Partner in Nation Building

About the CoverThe cover page design uses several hues ofburgundy to communicate strength, rootednessand freshness. The bright light shining on theSMF logo highlights the burgundy, green andblue strokes of the logo, which stand for loyalty,sustainability and the blue ocean strategy.Yellow sparks of various sizes and intensitieslend sparkle to the burgundy. These lightsbreaking forth denote a lively manufacturingcommunity where new ideas at various stagesof germination abound.

ContentsFOREWORDPrime Minister Lee Hsien Loong 06Minister for Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang 08PREFACESMF President George Huang 10Milestones 12A New Era 16Prelude: The Founding 24Braving The Turbulence 30A Partner In Nation Building 40Initiating Change 68Epilogue: Mapping The Future 90The SMF Family 102Messages From Our Partners 126Synopsis In Chinese:引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事 146Acknowledgements 156

“The SMF’s volunteers also deserve praise –they are the unsung heroes who help implementSMF programmes successfully.”Lee Hsien LoongPrime Minister

F o r e w o r dSingapore has progressed from being a low-costmanufacturer of simple components to a world leaderin high-end manufacturing and R&D. The SingaporeManufacturing Federation (SMF) has been a partnerin this transformation. It was established in 1932,when 90 exhibitors came together to promote locallymanufacturedproducts such as tobacco, hats andeven pineapples at the Tanjong Pagar railway station.From those humble beginnings, the SMF hasexpanded its activities, and contributed significantlyto the Singapore economy. It helps our manufacturingcompanies open new markets through internationalmissions and exhibitions. Its six Centres of Excellencecomplement the Government’s efforts to upgrade ourmanufacturing sector. The SMF’s latest Centre is theSingapore Innovation & Productivity Institute (SiPi),which supports national initiatives to raise productivitythrough customised productivity roadmaps.The SMF’s leaders and staff have kept the SMFrelevant in the face of Singapore’s rapid developmentand global changes in manufacturing. They have alsowidened the SMF’s representation by reaching out tomany manufacturing companies – big and small, localand foreign. The SMF’s volunteers also deserve praise– they are the unsung heroes who help implementSMF programmes successfully. This book is a fittingtribute to these volunteers, and I hope it encouragesmore Singaporeans to serve the community throughassociations such as the SMF.Congratulations to the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary!I wish the SMF many more years of success to come.Lee Hsien LoongPrime Minister

“The SMF has renamed itself the Singapore ManufacturingFederation. This renaming is testimony to SMF’s commitment tomove with the times and to embrace the need to be involved inengineering services, design and logistics services.”Lim Hng KiangMinister for Trade and Industry

F o r e w o r dOur manufacturing sector is a key pillar of oureconomic growth strategy. Over the years, Singaporehas built a globally competitive manufacturing sectorby moving existing clusters up the value chain,and identifying new growth clusters: Chemicals inthe 1980s, Bio-medical Science in the 1990s, andCleantech and Aerospace in the 2000s. The sectorcurrently makes up about a quarter of our GDP, hiresover 420,000 workers, of which more than half areSingaporeans, and has a direct export of over S$184billion.The Singapore economy is going through restructuringto transit to a more sustainable model of productivityledgrowth. At the sectoral level, the manufacturingindustry must continue to move up into highervalue-added activities, as manufacturing activitieshave evolved in complexity and are becoming moreknowledge and innovation-intensive.Established in 1932, the Singapore ManufacturingFederation (SMF, then called the SingaporeManufacturers’ Association) was set up to championthe Singapore manufacturing sector. Throughout theyears, it has constantly risen to the challenges of theday to help our manufacturing companies grow andremain competitive.For example, the SMF set up its first Centre ofExcellence, GS1 Singapore Limited in 1987 toimplement and administer the global standards usedin many manufacturing industries. Some of thesestandards include GS1 Identification and Barcodes,RFID and electronic business messaging which arecommonplace in today’s products.In 2011, the SMF has taken the initiative to set up theSingapore Innovation & Productivity Institute (SiPi)- its latest Centre of Excellence, in support of theGovernment’s call to raise productivity. SiPi championsmanufacturing excellence through innovation andproductivity for Singapore’s manufacturing sector, byproviding productivity resources and customised roadmappingand coaching support for enterprises. It aims toreach out to more than 3,000 manufacturing companiesand provide direct assistance to over 700 companies.Today, the SMF has arrived at a new milestone inits history. Recognising the trend that products areincreasingly commoditised and that manufacturersmust move towards providing whole businesssolutions to remain competitive, this manufacturers’body has renamed itself the Singapore ManufacturingFederation. This renaming is testimony to the SMF’scommitment to move with the times and to embracethe need to be involved in engineering services,design and logistics services. In doing so, it furtherentrenches itself as a key contributor to Singapore’smanufacturing landscape. I am confident that theSMF will continue to play a pivotal role in guidingcompanies and driving initiatives to raise the industry’scapabilities.I would like to extend my warm congratulations andvery best wishes to the Singapore ManufacturingFederation on its 80 th Anniversary.Lim Hng KiangMinister for Trade and Industry

p r e f a c eThe Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF)was founded in 1932. From our inception during theGreat Depression through the Second World War, toIndependence and the many and varied ups and downsof economic recessions and other macro historical andeconomic events, SMF has persevered and has stayedtrue to our mission over the past 80 years, to representand promote the interests of our manufacturingindustry.Developing from an association with hopes and dreamsto a well-established and respected Federation, the SMFgrew from 17 founding members to 3,000 memberscurrently. The organisation was initially run by volunteersbefore employing its first full time staff in 1965. Currentstaff strength stands at 160 employees.Our Federation continues to transform itself from anindustry association to a national institution with amanufacturing base, while remaining committed tocreating value for our members. The Federation drivescompetitiveness and sustainable growth through oursix Centres of Excellence as well as our membershipservices and our Global Business Group. We havealways been active in helping our members to improvetheir businesses and explore new business opportunitiesoverseas.The SMF has always spearheaded changes to remainrelevant to the industry, economy, community and thenation. This is reflected in the stories of our membersin this book, who have also had to change in orderto remain sustainable. The change of name from theSingapore Manufacturers’ Federation (SMa) to the SMFreflects the Federation as it is; and as it will have to be– transforming itself for the future.The SMF logo has evolved over the years to reflect thechanges in Singapore’s manufacturing landscape. Thenew logo, unveiled at the 80th Anniversary Gala Dinnerby the Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, will completeour symbolic transformation.This book charts our 80-year journey which is inextricablyinterlinked with the growth and development of themodern history of Singapore.Our growth over the last 80 years would not be possiblewithout the dedication and commitment of our membersand the support of the Government of Singapore.I would like to express my gratitude for all they havedone to make us what we are today. However, due tolimited space in the book, I sincerely apologise to thosemembers who have not been acknowledged.On behalf of the Federation, I would like to thankPresident Tony Tan Keng Yam, Prime Minster Lee,Ministers, government ministries, statutory boardsand our partners for their steadfast support and wellwishes.Much credit must also go to our past Presidents, CouncilMembers and volunteers for their time, support andsacrifice to make the SMF the successful and dynamicFederation it is today.The SMF will strive to become even more vibrant andrelevant. With increased collaborations locally andinternationally, we will continue to contribute to thegrowth of the industry, economy, community and thenation.We wish you all the best for the future.George HuangPresident of Singapore Manufacturing Federation11

12 Singapore Manufacturing Federation: MilestonesSingaporeManufacturingFederation:Milestones

1932 The Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF, then called the SingaporeManufacturers’ Association) is formed by 17 founding members to representthe interests of local manufacturers.1965 The SMF hires its first full-time administrative staff, Mr Gan Siaw Hor.The SMF, together with the National Trades Union Congress and theSingapore Employers’ Federation, signs a historic charter for industrialprogress, which includes a productivity code. It is believed to be the firstjoint-agreement of its kind in Southeast Asia.1970 The SMF organises the first of its high-profile annual trade exhibitions.1973 The SMF organises its first trade mission to China.1979 The SMF signs up its 1000 th member.1981 The SMF stages the first SMF International Trade Fair.1987 GS1 Singapore is formed to implement and administer the global multiindustryGS1 standards-based system of automatic identification. It is thefirst of six SMF Centres of Excellence to be established.1996 The SMF is renamed the Singapore Confederation of Industries and expandsits role to be the umbrella body for all industries, including manufacturing.For consistency:The association will be referred to as the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) throughout this book.The SMF’s leaders were called Chairman until 1985. When Mr Tan Wah Thong helmed the organisation, he changed the titlefrom Chairman to President.All the leaders will, however, be referred to as President throughout this book.Singapore Manufacturing Federation: Milestones 13

2002 The eSupply Chain Management Council is set up to improve companies’supply chain capabilities. This is the SMF’s second Centre of Excellence.2003 From the Singapore Confederation of Industries, the SMF’s name is changedback to Singapore Manufacturers’ Federation as it refocuses its efforts onmanufacturing and manufacturing-related industries.The SMF Institute of Higher Learning is formed to enhance the humancapital development of Singapore’s workforce. This is the third Centre ofExcellence.2004 The Centre for Corporate Learning is formed, and is the fourth Centre ofExcellence.The SMF signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the largestmanufacturing association in the world – the National Association ofManufacturers of the United States of America.2005 The Enterprise Development Centre@SMF is formed. This is the fifth Centreof Excellence.2008 The SMF’s School of Management is appointed Murdoch University’sInternational Centre.The Centre for Corporate Learning is appointed by the Singapore WorkforceDevelopment Agency (WDA) as the WSQ Generic Manufacturing SkillsTraining Provider.2010 The SMF and the Singapore Environment Council launch the SingaporeEnvironment Achievement Award to help SMEs go green to staycompetitive.The SMF’s Centre for Corporate Learning launches the WSQ CertifiedProductivity and Innovation Manager programme jointly with the SingaporeWorkforce Development Agency.14 Singapore Manufacturing Federation: Milestones

2011 The SMF is the second association to obtain the Eco Office label given outby the Singapore Environment Council.The SMF is the first association to receive the Total Defence Award given outby MINDEF.The SMF, through the SMF’s Education & Training Fund, gives $50,000 overthree years to Temasek Polytechnic.The SMF, together with the WDA, develop a customised innovation andproductivity training programme called SME Qiang which will benefit up to11,000 workers.The SMF is appointed by SPRING Singapore as a Standards DevelopmentOrganisation (SDO).The SMF forms the Singapore Innovation and Productivity Institute (SiPi), itssixth Centre of Excellence.2012 The SMF celebrates its 80 th Anniversary by officially instituting its currentname, having an orchid named after it, organising a golf tournament andpublishing a commemorative book.The SMF collaborates with the Tampines Central Citizens’ ConsultativeCommittee and the Northeast Community Development Council to provideabout $350,000 in university scholarships to nine needy students over threeyears to study at the SMF Institute of Higher Learning.The SMF is presented with the Distinguished Defence Partner Award inrecognition of its outstanding contributions towards National Defence.The SMF is awarded the Community Chest Award for raising funds to helpthe less fortunate from 67 charities.The SMF is awarded an Appreciation Award from the Singapore Corporationof Rehabilitative Enterprises for encouraging member companies to hire exoffenders.SMF also holds courses to help ex-offenders learn new skills.Singapore Manufacturing Federation: Milestones 15

A New EraThe Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) turns 80 this year.Over the decades, this non-profit organisation, which representsthe interests of manufacturers in Singapore, has continued tostand tall, boldly instituting changes to lead its members forward.Even now, at 80, the SMF continues to transform itself from anindustry association to a national institution with a manufacturingbase, while remaining committed to creating value for itsmembers.16 A New Era

“To know nothing of what happened beforeyou were born is to remain forever a child.”- CiceroAs the years slip away and generations pass, people forget.The 1932 pioneers of the 80-year-old SMF are long gone and most of thosewho were active before the 1970s no longer tell their tales.But, as Roman thinker Cicero would say, knowing our history is crucial tofully understanding the present and taking possession of the future.A sense of our history teaches us to avoid making common mistakes, andgives us an understanding of the factors which have made us successful.Only then can we continue to move forward with confidence to succeed.The SMF’s 80 th Anniversary commemorative book encapsulates thetransformations which the SMF has undergone in its long history anddescribes how it has grown from a handful of industry stalwarts to over3,000 corporate members consisting of MNCs and SMEs today. Apartfrom this commemorative book, the SMF has also organised a series ofcelebratory events to mark the occasion.A fundraising golf tournament at the Raffles Country Club on 6 July helpedto raise scholarship funds for the staff and family of SMF members to pursuedegree or diploma courses.For the first time, an orchid – the Ascocenda-SMF 80 th Anniversary – wasnamed after the SMF. This orchid is a burgundy-speckled flower whose boldcolours communicate strength. Even more remarkably, its colour becomesstronger and more vibrant as it matures and grows – much like the SMF,which has become stronger and more resilient as it matured.A New Era 17

The Ascocenda SMF 80 th AnniversaryTinged lightly in gold, this bold 9cm-orchid has a peach edging and is speckled with burgundy spots thatdarken upon maturity.This unique hybrid was carefully selected to be part of the SMF 80 th Anniversary Celebration on 20 September2012 as its intense and vivid colour underscores SMF’s continuous growth in the ever-growing manufacturinglandscape.18 A New Era

Unlike most orchids, the Ascocenda SMF 80 th Anniversary blooms onupright flower stems, with five to eight blooms at the top of each stem. Thisis nicely symbolic: The stem mirrors the SMF, while the blooms representthe various Centres of Excellence and Industry Groups in the SMF. Whileeach of these centres and groups is independent and different, they arecollectively part of the SMF and draw strength and gain unity from the stemof the SMF.Over the years, the SMF has relocated its headquarters and revamped itscorporate identity several times to better reflect the manufacturing industryduring each period in its history .Buildings associated with the SMFSMF has shifted premises several times in the past.• 1932: The SMF’s first registered office was at 63H, in what was then theChina Building on Chulia Street.• 1965: The Shell House at Collyer Quay.• 1967: John Little Building. The SMF headquarters also included a ProductDisplay Centre which attracted more than 350 people a day.The original SMF office at Chulia Street in 1932.SMF was situated at Shell House at Collyer Quayin 1965.A New Era 19

• 1973: Colombo Court at High Street. There was a 3,000 square footDisplay Centre to showcase Made-in-Singapore products.• 1979: World Trade Centre at Harbourfront.• 1987: A three-storey building on Orchard Road named SMA House.Opposite Fort Canning Hill, it boasted high ceilings, church-like windowsand a distinct cog-wheel shaped structure covering both the front andback gables on the roof. The facility included several seminar rooms, alibrary and a Product Display Centre.• Late 1990s: Unity House at Jurong.• 2008: Spring Singapore Building at Bukit Merah.• 2012: The SMF secured a landed four-storey building from the EconomicDevelopment Board to be its home and headquarters in the years tocome.The SMF moved to SMA House at Orchard Road in 1987.20 A New Era

The new landed SMF headquarters in 2012 has ample room for growth.A New Era 21

Logos that reflect the timesThe SMF logo has evolved over the years to reflect the changes in Singapore’smanufacturing landscape.• 1958: The SMF logo, showing factories with chimneys surrounded bygears, represented the dawn of industrialisation in Singapore.• 1970s: With the advance of colour technology, the SMF adopted adynamic red logo showing factories with chimneys surrounded by gears.1958 SMF logo• 1988: As Singapore moved towards high-tech industries, emphasisingproductivity and mechanisation, the chimneys in the logo were taken out,leaving a clean gear-shaped design.• 1998: As the Federation became the Singapore Confederation of Industries(SCI), it adopted a new logo which comprised three progressive strokes.The red stroke represented Singapore’s national colour, the blue authority andconfidence and the light blue one evoked a sense of vibrancy and freshness.1970s SMF logo• 2002: As the SCI was renamed the Singapore Manufacturers’ Federation,the logo remained unchanged but the letters were altered from SCI to SMa.• 2012: The newest SMF logo portrays a three-dimensional ‘S’ in three prongs,extending upwards and forwards with dynamism, flexibility and vigour, whileits supple nature signifies fluidity and an ability to change with the times.1988 SMF logoThe ’S’ shape stands for Singapore while the three prongs emphasisemanufacturing. The position of the words “since 1932” symbolises thebeginning, from which time, the SMF has been moving onwards to thepresent and soaring upwards into the future.The three bold prongs highlight the tripartite relationship between theGovernment, Industry and the Federation. The modern, clean prongsresembling USBs allude to high technology, reiterating the Federation’srole of connecting members in a technology-driven era.The burgundy prong echoes the colour of the SMF orchid and representsloyalty and ethics while the blue symbolises vibrancy, energy and passion.The blue also depicts the search for new markets, as outlined in the blueocean strategy. Green denotes the SMF’s commitment to sustainabledevelopment and fresh ideas as it brings new initiatives into newmarkets.22 A New Era

1998 SMF logo2012 SMF logo2002 SMF logoOne entity, different names for each epochReflecting the tides of change, the SMF has adopted different namesthroughout its history.• 1932: When it was first formed, the organisation was called the SingaporeManufacturers’ Association (SMA).• 1996: It was reorganised and renamed the Singapore Confederation ofIndustries (SCI) to better reflect the umbrella role it would play.• 2002: With the formation of the Singapore Business Federation, the SCIdecided to go back to its manufacturing roots and renamed itself theSingapore Manufacturers’ Federation, or SMa for short. The small “a” in theacronym then symbolised the convergence of automation, computerisationand robotisation in manufacturing operations in the Internet age.The word “Federation” was chosen over “Association” because“association” implies a collection of individuals, whereas the SMFcomprises mainly member companies.• 2012: The acronym was officially changed to the SMF and the organisationis now called the Singapore Manufacturing Federation to embrace theentire supply chain of the manufacturing industry.A New Era 23

Prelude:The FoundingThe Great Depression of 1929 – the longest, most widespreadand deepest depression of the 20 th century – struck Singaporehard. The dominant tin and rubber industries reeled from theeconomic aftershock. The British Colonial Government decidedthat it had to help small local businesses grow, and encouragedthe setting up of the Singapore Manufacturers’ Association.24 Prelude: The Founding

26 Prelude: The Founding

By way of entertainment, a symphonic band from the Gloucester Regimentstruck up the right notes throughout the seven days of the exhibition.That week, about 7,500 people trooped through the exhibition hall each day,many clutching a Special Exhibition supplement which had been publishedby The Straits Times.By all accounts, the exhibition was a roaring success. “Most people weresurprised at the range and importance of local industries,” one scribe noted.Many of the companies also reported an increase in business, post-event.This historic exhibition was the precursor to the establishment of oneof Singapore’s oldest and most enduring associations to representmanufacturers: The Singapore Manufacturers’ Association.It was the work of the British Colonial Government. The Governor andCommander-in-Chief of the Straits Settlements, Sir Cecil Clementi, vigorouslychampioned the development of industries in Singapore apart from rubberand tin, and strongly advocated the setting up of a representative body toadvance the interests of small local manufacturers.The Colonial Government’s push was apparent even in the lead-up to theexhibition, when it offered to subsidise the entire cost so that the manufacturerswould not have to pay a single cent towards staging the exhibition.Why did the British Government push for theformation of a manufacturers’ association?• The founding of the association during the economic slump helpedmanufacturers to present their interests and promote themselves. TheGreat Depression started in 1929.• There was a need to look beyond rubber and tin as these industriesaccording to a Straits Times journalist “were in a sorry plight” in 1932.There was, therefore, an increased urgency to diversify the island’seconomic base. It would be the association’s role to nurture these fledglingindustries. In 1932, there were about 35 industries in Singapore, of which90 per cent were “new and undeveloped” according to a manufacturerquoted in The Straits Times.Part of The Straits Times coverage on the historic 1932 exhibition.Prelude: The Founding 27

• It was necessary to advance the interests of small up-and-coming localenterprises. Singapore already had in place the factories and plantsto make items like tobacco, biscuits, tin, trunks, soap, cement, sauces,artificial manure, aluminium, brass beds, tiles, essential oils and buildingmaterials but they needed a champion to look after their collective needs.• The general lack of awareness within Singapore of the manufacturingindustry. In a Straits Times editorial in January 1932, the editor wrote:“We doubt whether the average member of the public was aware of theextent of our local manufacturing industries.” An association would helpto raise the profile of many of the local manufacturers.• Singapore could capitalise on its position as a sea port to export locallymadegoods overseas. Being a free port, raw materials and finishedproducts could enter and leave the country without the burden of taxes.The exhibitors continued to meet after the exhibition with the intention ofsetting up an organisation to nurture local manufacturers. Six months later,on 20 September 1932, the association was formally incorporated as aCompany Limited by Guarantee. Its first meeting was held three monthslater, on 16 December.Some pioneer members were United Engineers, Singapore Cold Storage,Malayan Paintworks, Fraser & Neave, Ho Hong Oil Mills and Lam SoonCannery.DID YOU KNOW?• As far back as the1920s, Jurong had beenearmarked as the spot forlocal factories but it wasnot until the 1960s that itwas properly developed. Inan article published in 24August 1931 in The StraitsTimes, a certain Mr RolandBraddell wrote: “I believethat the area aroundJurong Road has been allocated for factory sites but this is useless.It is nine miles from town and has no water, gas or electricity.”• Apart from the railway station, alternative venues considered forthe manufacturers’ exhibition included amusement parks likeHappy World at Geylang Road, Great World at Kim Seng Roadand New World at Jalan Besar, as well as the Victoria Theatre andthe Memorial Hall.• Some of the items on display at the FMS Railwaysterminal station exhibition included:o Balloon toys from the Nanyang Manufacturing Company.o A book rest which could be used in a dozen different positions –on the bed, on the chair, and as a note stand for public speakers– from the Papyrus Book Rest Company.o Grey and green-coloured lift gates from United Metal Works,which were set up in front of its booth.o The model of a man made of soap, surrounded by baskets offlowers, from the Eng Moh soap company.o A $1,000 bronze coffin from the Singapore Casket company.o A bunch of fresh flowers embedded in a big block of ice by theAtlas Ice Company.o An entire boat was placed in the centre of the railway track byThornycroft (Singapore), a company which dealt in boats.28 Prelude: The Founding

The man behind the Singapore ManufacturingFederationSir Cecil Clementi was an outstanding British colonialadministrator who was lauded for his work as the Governorof Hong Kong from 1925 to 1930 and then as the Governorand Commander-in-Chief of the Straits Settlements, whichincluded Singapore, from 1930 to 1934.The Oxford University graduate was a supporter oflocal enterprise and would make the effort to ask localmanufacturers probing questions at events he attended,as to the nature and strength of their competition. He alsopresided over the preliminary meetings which led up to theexhibition at the FMS Railways terminal station.Sir Cecil Clementi (R) performing hisduties as Governor. He was instrumentalin the setting up of the SMF.He delivered the opening speech at the exhibition itself,promoting Singapore’s attractiveness to the sector:“I strongly recommend manufacturers in the East whoare looking out for ways and means of expanding theirbusiness to examine closely the great natural advantagespossessed by Singapore before they think of erectingfactories elsewhere.”It helped that Sir Cecil Clementi, a fan of Chinese culture, was well-versedin Cantonese and had a singular ability to pick up languages. While he wasin Hong Kong, he passed the Civil Service examination in Cantonese in1900, an “achievement almost without parallel in the history of the Colony”,according to a Straits Times article in November 1929. The article alsoreported that he passed a proficiency examination in Pekingese in 1906.In October 1934, two years after the Singapore Manufacturing Federationwas formed, the father of four resigned from his post due to ill-health.A Straits Times article from June 1934 highlighting his achievements notedthat “his arrival in Malaya coincided with the beginning of one of the mostdifficult periods, economic (the Great Depression) and political, that thiscountry has experienced.”It was just as well that this dynamic, intelligent leader helmed the colonythrough this challenging period. His legacy continues to live on in Singapore.The HDB town of Clementi is named after him.Prelude: The Founding 29

Bravingthe Turbulence1932 – 1965It was a tough beginning for the Singapore ManufacturingFederation (SMF) as it had to contend with a World War, theJapanese Occupation, unemployment, poor living conditionsand political unrest during its first three decades of existence.However, the adversity served only to strengthen the Federationand it emerged from the turbulent times as a strong voicerepresenting the interests of the manufacturing community, andpartnered the Government to create a vibrant manufacturingsector in Singapore.30 Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965

Apart from one Mr Tay Lian Teck, the British ran the SMF in its first24 years.This should come as no surprise. The architects of Singapore during thecolonial times were inarguably the British and it was only natural that theyshould lead the newly-formed outfit. Local businessmen only stepped up tothe plate nearly three decades later.Growing its cloutFrom the early days, the SMF Presidents represented the interests of localmanufacturers and spoke up for them against unfair trading practices, a rolewhich has remained unchanged through the decades.Some of the issues highlighted in the 1930s and 1940s were:• Protectionism in overseas markets. In a November 1934 article publishedin the Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, an unnamed SMFmember noted that local businesses had difficulty exporting to protectedoverseas markets, and complained that they were being “treated asaliens” on the Peninsula as they had to pay high duties.• Uneven playing field. The SMF objected to the tender documents of thePublic Works Department, which named specific brands of productsmanufactured overseas, instead of simply listing the specifications needed.These documents went against the interests of local manufacturers. TheActing Director of the Department, responding to objections raised by thethen-President of the SMF, Mr Tay Lian Teck in 1937, promised that nospecific company name would appear in future tender documents.• Unfair treatment of Singapore-made goods such as beer, rubber goodsand coconut oil that were exported to India, as compared to goodsexported from other parts of the British Empire. In 1938, Mr Tay Lian Teckasked for lower taxes on goods exported to India.• The shortage of raw materials such as cast iron in Singapore.Over time, the young SMF developed a higher public profile as it activelysubmitted proposals to the Government and engaged the media.Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965 31

Surviving World War 2In 1937, Japan invaded China.For a while, life carried on as usual in Singapore as the war seemed remote,both politically and geographically.In 1939, the SMF even planned to organise a trade exhibition to take placethe following year.By 1940, although the war was still far away, its impact was being felt.The small Chinese manufacturers in SMF were asked if they could producemilitary articles like gun parts. A Straits Times editorial on 14 June 1940suggested that an organisation like the SMF could coordinate the war effortby assigning work to the manufacturers and taking their finished productsto a central HQ for assembly.The proposal never came to pass. In 1941, the whine of bomb sirensbecame the soundtrack of life in Singapore. Singaporeans suffered dailyair raids, some of which targeted civilian structures such as hospitals andshophouses. Many people died, as casualties ranged from the tens to thehundreds each time.The high-flyer who became the first Chinese to helm the SMFIn its first 24 years, the SMF washeaded by eight men. Seven wereBritish but the third man on the liststands out. The President from 1936 to 1941 was the HonourableMr Tay Lian Teck.A leading figure in the Straits Chinese community, Mr Tay was colonialSingapore’s youngest nominated Legislative Councillor. He ran the HoHong Shipping Company.That Mr Tay headed the SMF at a time when top posts were mostlyoccupied by the British came as no surprise to many as he had beena high-flyer since the time he studied in the Victoria Institution (VI)in Kuala Lumpur and never missed a day of school in eight years. Ata school event where he was Guest-of-Honour, he was introducedthus: “In Tay Lian Teck, we have one of the most brilliant VI boys inour midst.”Mr Tay was very active in the community. “There were few publiccommittees or commissions with which Mr Tay Lian Teck did nothave any connection,” noted one observer in the press.His community involvement included being a Justice of Peace and Vice-Chairman of the Garden Club. He was also active in the clerical union. Inone of his many interviews, he said it was the duty of everyone – if hecould – to be of some use to his community and the public in general.The Japanese invaded Singapore a year after he stepped down fromthe SMF. Mr Tay, the father of two children, was killed on 14 February1942, a day before the British surrender. He was trying to leave Singaporeon board the vessel Kuala when the Japanese bombed the ship.In his eulogy, Mr C.W.A. Sennett, Commissioner of Lands, said: “Mr Taywas a very public-spirited Chinese – he had been a member of theSingapore Legislative Council and Municipal Commission, in addition tositting on several public bodies – and he lost his life during the war. Itwas suggested to me that we should perpetuate his name by attachingit to the road in which he lived.”Mr Sennett’s suggestion was taken up and today, Mr Tay’s name liveson in Tay Lian Teck Drive and Tay Lian Teck Road, in the East Coast ofSingapore, where he used to live.32 Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965

A first-hand accountof doing business inSyonan-ToMr Lee Seng Gee, son of Mr LeeKong Chian and grandson of Mr TanKah Kee, recalled how the Japanesedeclared their businesses “enemyproperty” after his family escapedfrom Singapore.“The main company is of course, LeeRubber. Then the next one would beLee Pineapple, the pineapple business,then we have the Biscuit factory, thatis the biscuit business. Those are themain lines… By the time war startedin 1941, we had two main factoriesin Singapore and about 20 branchesin Malaya with factories and officesand so on. And we had one branchin Thailand and about four or fivefactories in Indonesia… They took overeverything, I mean, all the properties,factories, everything, all over Malaysia,Dutch East Indies, Singapore. All thesewere taken over by the Japanese.And of course, a lot of it was badlydamaged. The business was closeddown, people all dispersed until wecame back here in 1946, early ’46.”- Extract from “Syonan Years 1942 – 1945:Living Beneath the Rising Sun” published bythe National Archives of SingaporeSingapore fell to the Japanese on 15 February 1942. All SMF activities cameto a standstill in 1942, as did the lives of the people of Singapore.In the aftermath, the people struggled to survive. This was one of the mostdifficult periods in Singapore history.When Singapore was occupied by the Japanese from 1942 to 1945, afterthe non-battle where the Japanese attacked from the North while Britishguns were trained towards the South, life changed completely. Childrenlearned Japanese in school, The Straits Times was renamed The SyonanTimes and the population celebrated the Japanese Emperor’s birthday byobediently waving flags along the streets.Although various shop advertisements might have suggested that it was“business as usual”, most businesses came to a virtual standstill during thewar years. Many local businesses were taken over by Japanese companies.Bureaucratic processes – which required manufacturers to secure permitsbefore they could start any new enterprise, buy raw materials or export andimport – meant that only Japanese-controlled companies could continuefunctioning; the rest were denied the permits.Picking up the piecesLife was only marginally better when Singapore returned to British rule.There was a scarcity of essential goods and the British Military Administrationfailed to regulate the prices of such goods, bringing further hardships on thepopulation. Worse, the Japanese “banana” banknotes, which were usedduring the war, became worthless two days after the British returned. Manypeople, caught by surprise, were left penniless overnight.Chaos, with looting and revenge-killings, reigned across the island.The shortage of food led to malnutrition. There was disease and widespreaddiscontent over high food prices. Long queues formed as Singaporeanslined up for rice and other essential goods. Milk and soup for children wereprovided in welfare centres.People struggled with their lives. Much of the infrastructure, such as electricity,water and telephone services had been destroyed during the war.Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965 33

Manufacturers grappled with rebuilding theirbusinesses. Employment was scarce andworking conditions appalling. Workers’ discontentculminated in a series of strikes in 1947 causingmassive stoppages in public transport and otherservices.By late 1947, the economy began to turn around,bolstered by a growing demand for tin and rubberaround the world. However, it would take severalyears before the economy returned to pre-warlevels.Chinese students being rounded up by thepolice during the 1954 Chinese MiddleSchool Student riots.The discontent continued well into the 1950s. In 1954, the Chinese MiddleSchool riots broke out, fueling the tension between the local Government onthe one hand and on the other, students from The Chinese High School andother Chinese-medium schools, who were joined by unionists who wereregarded as having communist sympathies. In May 1955, the Hock Lee BusRiots broke out, in which four people died.The 1958 worldwide trade recession also affected local manufacturers’efforts to rebuild their businesses.Politically, Britain’s failure to defend Singapore had destroyed its credibilityin the eyes of Singaporeans. The decades after the war saw a politicalawakening amongst the local populace, which led to the formation of severalpolitical parties, one of them being the current ruling People’s Action Party(PAP).The British Government, on its part, was prepared to introduce selfgovernancefor Singapore and Malaya gradually. On 1 April 1946, the StraitsSettlements were dissolved and Singapore became a separate CrownColony with a civil administration, headed by a Governor.The first Singaporean elections were held in March 1948, as the Britishgradually ceded their political reins to the locals. A general election for a fullyelected Government was held on Saturday, 30 May 1959.34 Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965

Working with the new GovernmentAt 2:45 a.m. on Sunday, 31 May 1959, the PAP was declared victorious atthe polls, and party leader Mr Lee Kuan Yew became the first Prime Ministerof Singapore.The next day, the front-page of The Straits Times read “PAP romps homewith Landslide Victory”. The news brought some relief to SMF members asthe win heralded a measure of political stability.The new PAP Government was quick to unveil a five-year-plan in whichindustrialisation would be the engine to power Singapore’s economy forwardand create jobs for the many unemployed Singaporeans.SMF leaders were quick to support the Government’s economic proposals.The then-President of the SMF, Mr David Lee, said in July 1959: “We, thelocal manufacturers, feel that at long last, we are going to get encouragementand a new deal from the Government. We will definitely cooperate with theGovernment.” He said that, prior to the plan, the past Government hadneglected industrialisation in favour of promoting trade.The then-Finance Minister, Dr Goh Keng Swee was also supportive of theSMF. “I assure you of the fullest support in concrete terms for the expansionof your activities,” he said at an annual SMF lunch in June 1960 at theAdelphi Hotel.Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965 35

More political changes were underway. Singapore merged with theFederation of Malaya, Sabah and Sarawak in 1963, forming a new nation,Malaysia. The manufacturers were hopeful that finally, a common marketcould be established and their goods would move into Peninsula Malaysiaeasily.SMF leaders had lobbied strongly for the formation of a common market,where Made-in-Singapore products would not be slapped with high tariffs,as was then the case.The merger, however, was rocky from the start, and on 9 August 1965,Singapore split from the Federation and became an independent republic.The SMF became a key partner in the new Government’s plans for jobcreation via industrialisation. Anticipating its greater role, the SMF rampedup its activities a month after Singapore became independent.It hired its first full-time staff to organise meetings, manage the association’soperations and liaise with the Government.During this time, more companies joined the SMF as members, some ofwhich are still active today.Drawing illustrious pioneersOne of the pioneer members was Coca-Cola, which is today bottled by Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages. It has been amember of the SMF since its inception in1932 and is the SMF’s oldest member.Coca-Cola, one of the pioneers, startedproducing in Singapore in 1936.When asked about the circumstanceswhich led to Coca-Cola joining the SMFin its early years, Coca-Cola SingaporeBeverages CEO, Mr Amit Oberoi, said:“The world-famous Coca-Cola onlystarted to be produced in Singapore in1936, a few years after the establishmentof the SMF. The relationship with the SMFprobably was useful in helping Coca-Cola, then produced under franchiseby Fraser & Neave Limited, establish itself as the preferred brand.”36 Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965

Amoy Canning leveraged on the SMF to buildits business in Singapore in the 1950s.Amoy Canning was another SMF pioneer which found itself better able toride the wave of Singapore’s future success after first finding its footing in theSMF. It became a SMF member in 1956, a year after it set up its Singaporefactory.Said its Managing Director, Mr George Huang, PBM, DSM: “When we firstcame to Singapore in 1950, the company comprised people who were fromChina and Hong Kong. We did not have any local contacts or knowledgeof how to do business in Singapore. Because Amoy Canning joined theSMF, we got to know the local food scene and integrated quickly into theSingapore business community.”He added that this advantage still applies today for foreign companieslooking to establish a Singapore presence like ZhongDe Waste TechnologyAG, which became a SMF member in 2012. Specialising in turning wasteinto energy, the German-based company has lofty visions to be a ‘globalcleaner’ and setting up shop in Singapore is part of its expansion plan.“ZhongDe combines the high standards of German engineering withChinese cost advantages, and Singapore is an ideal place for us to furtherour business opportunities in this region,” said ZhongDe’s Chairman andCEO, Dr Chen Zefeng. “We are looking forward to forging business links inSingapore.”Mr Huang continued, “I would say joining the SMF is the fastest way to learnhow Singapore operates.”Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965 37

Tiger Beer has been a member of the SMFsince 1966.A year after Singapore became independent, another prominent homegrownbusiness, Asia-Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS), became a SMFmember in 1966. The Tiger Beer manufacturer is a key player in the beerindustry, with over 30 breweries in 14 countries.Said Mr Michael Chin, General Manager of APBS: “APBS is proud to be aMade-in-Singapore company and an iconic brand. Therefore, it was verynatural for APBS to join the SMF.”Singapore was poised at the edge of a new dawn. The challenges weregreat and the SMF members knew that they had much to do.This was Singapore in 1965:• The literacy rate in Singapore was 60 per cent. There was a shortage ofschools as well as qualified teachers for secondary schools and technicaland vocational institutions. This resulted in overcrowded classes.• Rubbish was strewn in the streets, attracting flies and rats. Of 50,000street hawkers, 80 per cent were unlicensed and lacked knowledge ofbasic food hygiene and waste disposal. Diseases such as cholera andtyphoid were rampant.38 Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965

• The city areas were extremely overpopulated. Residents lived in verycramped conditions, often lacking in facilities and amenities, includingpiped water.• Unemployment was at a dizzy 14 per cent.• Strikes arising from trade disputes scared foreign investors away andaffected productivity.Confronted with these challenges, manufacturers were unaware that thenext three decades would prove to be some of the best years for the SMF.DID YOU KNOW?• From the time it was founded until its 33 rd year, the SMF was fullyrun by volunteers – mostly bosses who ran their own companiesas well. It was only in September 1965 that it hired an ExecutiveSecretary. Mr Gan Siaw Hor was selected from a field of 40candidates to become the SMF’s first full-time Executive Secretary.His office was on the 13 th floor of Shell House in Collyer Quay. TodaySMF has 160 employees.• In 1937, the entrance fee to join the SMF was $50 with an annualsubscription of $40. (In today’s terms, the entrance fee would beabout $2,500 and the membership fee, $2,000, based on a ratio of1:50. This is derived by comparing the pay of an average machinist,which was $38 in 1932 to $1,900 currently.) Currently, the SMFentrance fee is $200 and membership fees range from $200 to$1,800, depending on staff strength.• In 1938, public officers, then called MunicipalOfficers, would turn up unannounced at localfactories, presumably to check on operations.The then-SMF President Tay Lian Teck said thiswas not an acceptable practice and asked for atleast a 24-hour notice before any visits.• Too many trishaws on the road, screamed the newspaperheadlines in 1950. The SMF, together with the Trisha IndustryProprietors and Trisha Owners Association, called for fewertrishaws and more riders – there were 9,000 licensed riders thatyear – as too many trishaws were being left idle.• The SMF’s first President from 1932-1933, and one of its foundingmembers, was Mr R. L. Hastie. He was General Manager of foodand beverage company, Fraser & Neave.The SMF helped to mediate the issue of idle trishaws on the roads in the 1950s.Braving the Turbulence 1932 – 1965 39

A Partner inNation Building1965 – 1996As the people of Singapore rallied around the new nation, theSingapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) stepped up to theplate. With a growing corps of local and then large multinationalmembers on its rolls, it responded to the urgent need to boostemployment through a slew of initiatives aimed at creating jobs,including promoting Made-in-Singapore products, encouragingforeign investors to set up shop here and, later, helpingmanufacturers to grow their global presence.40 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

In the first flush of Singapore’s independence, it was clear that there wasstill much work to be done.Topping the list was the urgent need to create jobs.Unemployment was at a vertiginous 14 per cent and people needed jobs tocurb rising dissatisfaction.The SMF, already an established organisation at this point, was a naturalleader, working in partnership with the Government to help galvanise theeconomy.In February 1965, the then-Finance Minister Goh Keng Swee said: “If ourindustries want to remain competitive in the home market against importedproducts as well as competitive against others in the world market, it isimperative that we keep pace with these developments. The SingaporeManufacturers’ Association has a big role to play in this, and I am confidentit will use its influence to continuously encourage the development of thehighest levels of operational efficiency within industry and the achievementof a ‘quality goods’ image for all our products.”From the start, SMF leaders hit the ground running.Government ministers, for example the then-Finance Minister Goh Keng Swee, were often invited to speak at the SMF events.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 41

Working for good labour relationsOne of the first things the SMF did was to help smoothen industrial relations.For while the SMF represented the interests of manufacturers, this was neverat the expense of nation building.At that time, labour strikes, which threatened economic progress, werecommon. In 1961, there were 116 strikes and lock-outs involving 43,584workers, resulting in the loss of over 400,000 man-days. Strikes were socommonplace that they were the subject of the key message in the SMF’s1961 annual report: “If the industrialisation of Singapore is to achieve thedesired results, then it is not only necessary to have a Government activelypromoting industrialisation, but the people of Singapore as a whole, includingboth employers and trade unions, must actively support it.”On 16 January 1965, the SMF, together with the National Trades UnionCongress and the Singapore Employers’ Federation, signed a historiccharter for industrial progress, which included a productivity code. It wasbelieved to be the first joint-agreement of its kind in Southeast Asia.“I have no doubt that this joint declaration will open a new chapter in thehistory of industrialisation in Singapore as a landmark in the field of industrialrelations,” said the then-Chairman of the Economic Development Board,Mr Hon Sui Sen.The charter set forth the basic objectives of achieving higher productivitythrough closer cooperation between workers and employers on a commonunderstanding of industrial progress through industrial partnership, justiceand peace.42 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

The-then Singapore Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew (centre) told representatives from the industryand trade union leaders that full Government backing would be given to locally-organised trademissions as well as trade misssions from abroad in order to widen trade opportunities.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 43

The action of the three entities demonstrated that all sectors in Singaporewere ready to pool their efforts and strive to promote the national interest. In1968, the Government enforced new labour laws to curb strikes.In the ensuing decades, Singapore’s economic growth and its attractivenessto foreign investors was helped greatly by its harmonious labour relations.Partnering the GovernmentThroughout the nation building years, the SMF also worked closely with theGovernment.The SMF’s leaders endorsed the directions that were articulated by the then-Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, the then-Finance Minister Goh Keng Sweeand Dr Albert Winsemius, a Dutch United Nations Development Economistwho served as Chief Economic Advisor to Singapore from 1961 to 1984.Over the years, the SMF would partner institutions which the Governmentset up, such as the Economic Development Board and the Jurong TownCorporation, to pave Singapore’s road to prosperity.The success of the SMF was partly due to its good relations with theGovernment, which continue till today.Dr Albert Winsemius, a Dutch industrialeconomist, was Singapore’s economic adviserfrom 1960 to 1984.SMF events, be they factory openings or certificate presentation ceremonies,were often graced by senior Government officials.In 1988, former Singapore Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, who was thenthe First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, paid tribute to theSMF when he was invited to the official opening of the then-SMA House atOrchard Road. He said: “The SMF has played its part in the developmentof Singapore. It will, I believe, continue to do so, by cooperating with theGovernment, and getting members to cooperate amongst themselves.”Four years later, in 1992 the current Prime Minister of Singapore, Mr LeeHsien Loong, who was then the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tradeand Industry, wrote in a special message for the SMF’s 60 th anniversary:“The SMF has done much to help manufacturers upgrade, grow andinternationalise their businesses… (Manufacturing) will continue to be theprime mover and mainstay of our economy, even as we become moredeveloped.”44 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

The then-First Deputy Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong touring anSMF exhibition of Made-in-Singapore goods.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 45

As investments in manufacturing increased, the SMF became the bridgebetween the Government and industry.The two held regular dialogue sessions to address problems encounteredby manufacturers.Owing to this cordial and supportive relationship, industrialisation andlabour policies could be implemented smoothly and efficiently. This, in turn,encouraged more manufacturing investments to flow into the country.The SMF former Vice-President Paul Chan Poh Hoi, PBM,who has been actively involved with the SMF since 1970,said: “In the 1970s and 1980s, the SMF played a veryuseful role as the views of its members were respected.I remember that whenever there were any Governmentannouncements on new labour laws, the SMF would beconsulted and its feedback would be adopted. I still recallon many occasions, after the Government announced itsBudgets, SMF members were invited to give their views ontelevision. It enjoyed a very high profile.”Due to the supportive national environment,many companies, such as Chan Ho,expanded their manufacturing investmentsin Singapore.Added Mr John Chin, who was Executive Director of theSMF between 1990 and 1999: “There was frequent meetingof the minds, between the SMF and the Government. Wekept our wavelengths in tune.”When the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a geo-politicaland economic organisation of Southeast Asian countries, was formed in1967, the SMF also worked hard to promote investments and trade betweenmember countries.Said Mr Michael Yeo, BBM, PBM, who was Chairman of the TradeDevelopment Committee of SMF from 1972 to 1975, and President of theSMF from 1976 to 1979: “We were very active in those days, promotingAsean Trade and Industrial Fairs in Singapore and trade missions overseasto countries in the Middle East, Europe and the Asean Countries. The SMF,together with the other Chambers of Commerce and Industry, spearheadedthe formation of the Singapore Federation of Chambers of Commerce andIndustry in 1978 to intensify the economic and trade ties among Aseancountries, which led to the formation of the Asean industry clubs amongindustry members.”46 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

ASEAN leaders attending the 9 th meeting ofthe Asean Economic Ministers. The SMF wasactive in promoting economic and trade tiesamong ASEAN countries.Attracting foreign investorsThe Government determined that one way of creating jobs in Singapore wasto attract multinational companies.Regarded as unorthodox in those days – many Asian countries regardedmultinationals as “evil companies” – the Government adopted an “opendoor”policy which gave investors complete freedom to run their operationsand allowed 100 per cent foreign ownership, while other countries restrictedforeigners to minority ownership of domestic assets.It also lured companies with Pioneer Status. This was awarded to companieswhich were manufacturing products that had never been manufactured inSingapore. Receiving such a status would exempt the companies fromtaxes for five years, amongst other benefits.The SMF worked closely with the Government to increase awareness of thebenefits of Pioneer Status among manufacturing companies. It encouragedits members to apply for such incentives and organised events wherethe certificates were presented to SMF members by senior Governmentministers.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 47

The then-Finance Minister, Dr Goh Keng Swee(L) presents a Pioneer Certificate awarded bythe Economic Development Board toMr T Nakayama (R) representing SimaplanSteel Industries Ltd.These fiscal incentives proved to be one of the most effective schemes bythe Government in attracting foreign investments.They also helped to tide Singapore over an economic crisis when Britainannounced plans to withdraw all its military forces from Asia by 1971. At thetime, the British forces in Singapore accounted for around 40,000 civilianjobs. It was during this time, too, that the Cultural Revolution reached aclimax in China. Singapore’s friendly business climate made the island anideal alternative manufacturing centre compared to Hong Kong and Taiwan,which had been impacted by the political events in China. Internationalinvestors who had shied away from Hong Kong and Taiwan were keen tomove to Singapore.In the 1960s, the first international electronic companies set up basicassembly lines in Singapore, producing silicon chips and circuit boards.One of the international companies which joined the SMF in 1973 wasLeblond International, the precursor to global machining company MakinoAsia. Then American-owned, it is today a Japanese-owned firm which“operates in Singapore and is fully managed by Singaporeans”, said itsPresident and CEO, Dr Moh Chong Tau.By the 1980s, Singapore had become one of the leading centres in Asia forthe production of consumer electronics.48 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

Ford Motor Company’s old Singapore assembly plant helped to create jobs for workers.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 49

Encouraging the growth of factories in SingaporeThe SMF also encouraged local businesses to set up factories.When the Jurong Industrial Estate – converted from swampland in Jurong –was cleared for factory use in 1961, the pace of factory growth gained furthertraction. Here, the land was offered to potential investors at low rates, withvarious amenities such as water and electricity, roads, telecommunicationand housing provided. The nearby wharves also helped to facilitate theimport of materials for manufacturing.By 1968, more than 150 factories were operating in Jurong.In 1970, the SMF started organising its members into different industrialgroups according to their various needs, and Group J catered specifically tomanufacturers who were based in Jurong.The then-Singapore Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, accompanied by the then-PresidentTun Yusof bin Ishak (extreme left) touring the Jurong industrial estate.50 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

In 1968, the then-SMF President Ong Leng Chuan encouraged “traditional”traders to venture into manufacturing.He said: “Many of them have already turned industrialists, and their successshould assure them that there are better prospects for using their experienceand capital in industries that will give a better return than just a marginalprofit in the way of commission, in their present activities.”Newspapers from the 1960s and 1970s were peppered with photographsof former Finance Minister Goh Keng Swee diligently attending factoryopenings all over the island.Mr Ong Leng Chuan, the then-Presidentof the SMF, encouraged traders to ventureinto manufacturing.At the same time, the Government restructured the education system toprepare the new generation workforce for the technological challenges of anemerging industrialised economy, to ensure that it would be able to competeon a global footing.These efforts soon bore results.In 1969, private sector investment stood at $596 million compared with$234 million in 1966, an increase of 156 per cent.Manufacturing as a percentage of GDP rose over the years, from 9 per centin 1959 to 17 per cent in 1969 and then to 23.6 per cent in 1979.The then-Minister for Finance, Dr Goh Keng Swee (L), at the National Iron and Steel Mills. This wasthe first factory in the Jurong Industrial Estate to go into production.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 51

Glowing testimonialsA Straits Times editorial on 15 Sept 1971attested to how the organisation had grown instrength and prominence post-1965. The article,titled “SMA grows in strength and prestige”, hadthis to say:The role of the SMF in the republic’sindustrialisation programme is gainingimportance daily. And quite rightly so, for sinceits birth, the SMF has been the one organisationworking very hard for the advancement of itsmember manufacturers.But the promotion of the interests of its membershas never been at the expense of the nation.More often than not, the SMF has taken the leadin responding to calls for greater efforts in nationbuilding and economic progress.And because of this as well as its owndynamism, the SMF grows in strength andprestige. Member manufacturers are showingeven greater confidence in the organisationand the direction of the association.In 1970, the then-Minister of Finance Hon SuiSen proclaimed: “Although the Governmenthas its instrumentalities such as the EconomicDevelopment Board and its sister or affiliateorganisations like the Singapore Institute ofStandards and Industrial Research and theNational Productivity Centre, it is importantthat manufacturers should have their ownAssociation to voice the views and opinionand to look after the legitimate interests ofthe manufacturing industry as a whole.”Promoting Made-in-Singapore goodsThe SMF championed the “Made-in-Singapore” brand strongly to both localand foreign buyers.The most high-profile of the SMF’s efforts were the annual exhibitions whichit organised from 1970. These were warmly received by the people ofSingapore.A Product Display Centre was set up at the SMF’s headquarters, then inthe John Little Building, to showcase its members’ products. This centrewas labelled the “shop-window of Singapore” in an August 1967 StraitsTimes article. Thousands of schoolchildren also visited the centre and were“impressed with the fine quality of locally-manufactured goods”.The SMF joined various international chambers of commerce as it wasaware that many of these chambers had global contacts, which would beuseful in its export efforts.From the 1970s, trade missions to promote Singapore-made goodsoverseas also became a big part of the SMF’s activities.52 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

The SMF organised several trade missions to Asia. In 1973, it organisedSMF’s first trade mission to China, to explore the China market for Singaporeproducts. The delegation to Canton, Peking, Shanghai, Nanking andHangzhou was led by the then-SMF President Ong Leng Chuan. Duringthe trip, members also visited the Spring Fair in Canton, which showcasedmany industrial and commercial products. “These trade missions helped topromote Yeo Hiap Seng’s products in countries in the Middle East, especiallyin Dubai and Abu Dhabi”, said Mr Michael Yeo, the former Executive Directorof Yeo Hiap Seng, which is a major manufacturer of food and beverageproducts. “Products like canned foods including curry sauces, tomatosauces and chicken curry under the Yeos brand became household namesthere.”The export of Singapore-made goods grew tenfold, from $1.8 billion in 1970to $18 billion in 1979.Trade delegations from other countries would visit the SMF showroom in Colombo Court to examinethe Made-in-Singapore goods on display.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 53

Made-in-Singapore exhibitions were resounding successes and many paid to attend these fairs.54 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

The then-Prime Minister, Mr Lee Kuan Yew, accompanied by the late Mrs Lee, toured the SMF’s Buy-Singapore-Made exhibition at the National Stadiumbasement. They were escorted round the various stalls by SMF officials, headed by the then-SMF President, Mr Ong Leng Chuan.The mega fairsIn terms of scope and appeal, the SMF trade exhibitions in the 1970s and1980s were glittering affairs akin to the F1 events of today, said GroupPresident of event organiser PICO, Mr James Chia.The over-arching theme was: Buy Singapore-made goods.“In the Singapore calendar at the time, it was like the centrepiece of theyear. It was the only mega fair around then,” said Mr Chia, whose companyhad been contracted by the SMF on several occasions to help run theexhibition, and design and build stands.Often, the SMF would follow up these exhibitions with smaller displays insupermarkets, department stores and shops.The SMF only started organising regular exhibitions from 1970 following a38-year hiatus. Its then-President Whang Tar Liang was credited as one ofthe key people behind the move. In a message to mark the start of the 1970exhibition, he explained: “The main purpose of organising this exhibition isto show the general public the achievements of Singapore’s industrialisationduring the last decade. We have also to prove to overseas buyers thatSingapore has made and will continue to make quality products.”Unlike the trade exhibitions of today, which cater to niche industries suchas a furniture show or a food fair, the SMF exhibitions were general massmarketevents which showcased a staggering plethora of goods. In theearly 1970s, many of these were basic necessities, reflecting the simplernature of manufacturing then.Canned food, drinks, tyres, shoes, clothes and furniture went on display atvenues like hotels, the Singapore Conference Hall, the National Stadiumand the old World Trade Centre convention halls.Entire families of excited Singaporeans would pay an admission fee andthrong the halls to check out the goods on display, or to snap up discountedgoods. There were also plenty of foreigners, as the fairs were marketedoverseas, attracting visitors from around the world who were interested inSingapore’s offerings.In 1976, products from other ASEAN countries started making anappearance at these exhibitions. From 1973, the SMF’s Trade DevelopmentCommittee also started organising Asean Trade and Industrial Fairsfeaturing products from Asean and Singapore. Mr Michael Yeo, who wasPresident of the SMF at that time, recalled: “It was very memorable. EvenSingaporeans were quite surprised to see ASEAN products here.”These exhibitions were resounding successes. In September 1973, forinstance, the 120 exhibiting manufacturers received more than $2.5million worth of contracts and orders over the 10-day event at the NationalStadium, which was attended by about 120,000 people.PICO, which was founded in 1971 and became a SMF member soon after,also benefitted from the exposure it received from these SMF exhibitions.“When we first became the SMF’s contractor for the fair, it was the largestscaleevent we had ever handled,” said Mr Chia. “It enabled us to buildup a track record and we were then able to offer our services to local andinternational clients.”Following its work on the SMF trade fairs, PICO set up similar fairs formanufacturers in Malaysia. This eventually led PICO to establish a Malaysianbranch in 1982. Today, the company has 2,500 workers across 36 cities.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 55

The SMF product centre in the 1980s.Boosting qualityIn order for the Singapore brand to fly high, the SMF pushed for quality in the1970s. Its leaders were convinced that it was in the interests of Singaporemanufacturers to improve the quality of their products.The then-SMF President, Mr Whang Tar Liang said in 1970: “Although when webegan to industrialise, observations were made that the quality of our productswas not good or consistent, with the establishment of industrialisation,emphasis was placed on quality control, and Singapore manufacturedproducts have proved comparable in standard to improved products.”In 1978, the theme for the SMF exhibition was “Singapore for Quality”.This tied in with the Government’s call for industries to move away fromlabour-intensive products like textiles, toys and beverages, to technologyintensiveand higher value-added industries like electronics and petrolchemicals,so as to enhance the export competitiveness of Singaporeproducts.The 1970s marked the dawn of precision engineering in Singapore, animportant industry that propelled the country into the next level of economicdevelopment.While Singapore had been moving along at a fast clip and had been termedone of the original “Newly Industrialised Countries” alongside Hong Kong,South Korea and Taiwan, a shift was needed to respond to the challenge56 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

Motorcades, dinners andVIPsThe trade missions of the 1980s and1990s were occasions to remember,say those who went.The manufacturers who went alongwere almost always treated as visitingdignitaries. It was during the time whenmany of the countries in the regionwere looking for investments andSingapore companies were very muchsought after.presented by other countries in Asia, which had embarked on their ownindustrialisation programmes. These countries possessed greater naturalresources and their labour costs were also lower.What did the SMF do?• It worked closely with the Singapore Institute of Standards and IndustrialResearch (SISIR) to keep a close watch on locally-made productsand assisted members to achieve high quality in manufacturing. SISIRcertificates were issued as a hallmark of quality products.Anecdotes abound of travelling incars escorted by motorcades, beingwelcomed by schoolchildren whohad been brought in to wave flags bythe roadside, sitting down to lavishdinners with good food and wine, andmeeting top-level business leadersand politicians such as the then-PrimeMinister of Malaysia Dr MahathirMohamad and the then-President ofIndonesia Suharto.“In those days, trying to meet Suhartowas a near impossibility,” rememberedMr Bob Tan, the Chairman of JurongEngineering and Deputy President ofthe SMF from 1990 to 2000. “But inthe early 1990s, there was a group offive of us who did meet Suharto. Wewent to the palace and spent some40 minutes with him, talking aboutinvestment opportunities in Indonesia.It was an overwhelming experienceand so surreal.”The SMF worked closely with SISIR to maintain high standards in local products.• It organised courses on quality awareness and improvement for itsmembers and encouraged them to strive to achieve SISIR quality certificateawards. To emphasise the importance of quality, senior Governmentministers like Dr Goh Keng Swee were invited to present SISIR qualitycertificates to SMF members.• It helped its members recruit skilled workers like engineers and technicians,by inviting them to put up job recruitment notices in its newsletter.In order to comply with global standards, the SMF championed the use ofbar codes in the 1980s.At that time, Singapore consumers were more familiar with manually keyedinnumbered price tags. But the black and white stripes on the price tags ofimported products were more efficient.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 57

Representatives from the SMF, the Trade Development Board and theEconomic Development Board came together to form the Article NumberingCouncil to help companies assign barcodes to their products.Today, the Council still exists within the SMF and is known as GS1 Singapore.GS1 Standards include GS1 Identification and Barcodes, GS1 eCom(electronic business messaging), GS1 GDSN (Data Synchronisation) andEPCglobal (RFID). In Singapore, more than $4 billion worth of retail sales aregenerated through the GS1 barcodes annually.Helping workersIn the 1980s, the SMF faced one of its greatest external challenges: Theeconomic recession of 1985.The 12-member economic committee, helmedby BG (Res) Lee Hsien Loong (arms raised). Thethen-Minister of State for Trade and Industryunveiled a slew of proposals in February 1986that forged new directions for Singapore.Caused by a convergence of weak external demand and a loss ofcompetitiveness due to higher business costs, 1985 was a watershed year.An Economic Committee chaired by the then-Minister of State for Trade andIndustry, BG (Res) Lee Hsien Loong recommended wide-ranging policychanges to reduce costs and increase Singapore’s external competitiveness.New directions for enhancing Singapore’s competitiveness and growth werecharted.58 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

Learning expeditionsMany of the overseas trips organised for SMF members were notjust about business. Often, these provided eye-opening insightsinto the manufacturing and business processes of their overseascounterparts.Ms Janice Kwok, who has been part of the SMF secretariat for threedecades and is now a Senior Director for the Council Affairs & SpecialProjects, Membership & Industry Groups, and Events divisions,remembered a memorable trip to Japan in 1983. At that time, theEconomic Development Board was looking into the possible use ofrobotics to boost productivity.“It was so interesting. You must remember this was 1983 and Japanwas already employing robots in their manufacturing. I rememberwe visited a Japanese farm. A robot in a hut on the farm was doinginjection moulding! We visited small companies and big MNCs and onone occasion, on a factory floor, apart from a few engineers, we sawmany small robots running around manning the factory floor. Therewas only one engineer in the control room. We saw how a machinechanged its own tools in a big machine tool plant. Needless to say, wewere impressed,” she said.“But when we returned, we felt that there was no market for suchtechnology in Singapore. Local industries were not ready to use thiskind of technology then, and one robot could cost a few hundredthousand dollars. But we are revisiting the idea of robotics today, inline with the emphasis on productivity.”Mr C S Wong, Honorary Chairman of the Packaging Council ofSingapore and former Managing Director of MC Packaging, recalledbeing inspired by the highly automated production processes he sawin German and Japanese factories during the SMF trips in the late1980s. “When I returned, I told my staff that for manufacturing tosurvive in Singapore, we had to be innovative to boost productivity.Over the years, we managed to reduce headcount while increasingour output.”The SMF committee members were invited to participate in several subcommitteesof the Economic Committee. Their views on rising costs weresought and given considerable attention.Many SMF members struggled with the enormous difficulties caused by the1985 recession as manufacturing was the sector worst hit by the downturn.In its 1985 annual report, the then-SMF President Tay Kwang Seng noted that47 manufacturing companies had closed during the year. “Many companieshad to struggle with increasing economic pressures while a few even foundit impossible to carry on.” Around the world, growing protectionism, aslowdown of the world economy and the strong Singapore dollar made localexports uncompetitive.Throughout this difficult period, the SMF worked tirelessly with Governmentagencies to ride out the economic downturn. The SMF contributedsignificantly to some of the recommendations of the Economic Committee,and SMF members heeded the Government’s call for increased productivitythrough automation and computerisation.Some of the measures which the SMF deployed to help its membersincluded:A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 59

60 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

• Setting up a bureau to help place retrenched workers in new jobs.• Lobbying the Jurong Town Corporation to reduce rentals for industrialland and buildings.Extending the boundariesIn the 1980s, Singapore became an uncomfortably expensive place to dobusiness. The SMF, with the blessing of the Government, went all out tohelp Singapore companies establish an overseas footprint.It was a preemptive measure to tackle the acute labour shortage and dearthof land. From finding new export markets to setting up shop spaces tobuilding manufacturing facilities in other countries, the SMF watch wordsthen were: Regionalisation and Globalisation.Unlike the trade missions in the 1970s, which were product-focused, thesemissions in the 1980s had a broader objective and were known as Tradeand Investment missions.“We wanted to help our manufacturing companies explore moving some oftheir labour-intensive operations overseas in order to remain competitive,”said Mr Bob Tan, who was Deputy President of the SMF from 1990 to 2000.“The SMF was paving the way for our companies to regionalise throughthese missions with the support of the Singapore Government.”In 1992, at a SMF tribute dinner, former Singapore Prime Minister Lee KuanYew commended the SMF for its outreach efforts, specifically in Vietnam.He said: “You have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with theVietnam Chamber of Commerce to promote more investment missionsbetween the two countries. These are encouraging beginnings.”The secretariat would proactively contact overseas embassies andconsultants to broach the possibility of bilateral trade.Countries which Singapore manufacturers fanned out into included Chinain the days following the 1989 Tiananmen incident, Myanmar in the 1980s,Vietnam in the early 1990s and Malaysia.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 61

Organising trade and investment missions to China allowed local manufacturers to understand the Chinese market first hand.“Going to China in the early days gave us an opportunity to study what theChinese market was like and to talk to the relevant people,” said Dr MohChong Tau, the President and CEO of Makino Asia.“The advantage of going with the SMF is that together we had the connectionsand recognition. If I were to go on my own, who am I? Also, the trips werepartly funded with subsidies and tax benefits. We businessmen did not haveto organise ourselves. We just had to bring along our suitcase.”These SMF Trade and Investment missions, he said, opened the door forMakino Asia to additional business in growing economic powerhouses suchas India and China.Dr Moh Chong Tau is the President and CEOof Makino Asia.“The SMF also organised missions to the second and third-tier cities inChina,” noted SMF Vice-President Poh Choon Ann. “This was particularlyhelpful to the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as they might havebeen too small to make an impact in the first-tier cities.”62 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

Trade missions to Malaysia proved to be another huge success. DatukRobert Chua, the SMF President from 1988 to 1998, ended up forging somany business links with Malaysia that he was conferred the honorary titleof Datuk. At the time, much of the SMF-related news coverage featuredDatuk Chua talking about the potential prospects of investing in Malaysia.“There was hardly any organised push into Malaysia before 1988. But therewas potential symbiosis,” said Datuk Chua, who in 1988 led the first SMFmission to Malacca. “Some companies, for instance, would manufacture inJohor while doing the marketing and design in Singapore. So it’s a Made-in-Singapore design and product. There were many advantages, including thefact that there was plenty of industrial land in Johor.”Another landmark event was the first Singapore-Johor investment conferencein Johor Bahru in 1989, which saw some 400 manufacturers from Singaporecrossing the Causeway to attend. The then-Deputy Prime Minister Lee HsienLoong and the Johor Mentri Besar were the Guests-of-Honour.By the end of 1989, Singaporeans had invested $2 billion in Malaysia.These Trade and Investment missions were organised at least once a month.There were several factors which led to their success:• Countries around Singapore were opening up and many, thirsty forinvestments, welcomed Singapore’s offer to do business with openarms.• The SMF had, by then, built up a strong reputation as a credible andeffective organisation for Singapore manufacturers and foreign politiciansand businessmen felt they were in safe hands.• With its network of contacts, experience and organisational clout, many ofthese SMF-organised trade missions became good learning experiencesfor the participants.However, it was not always smooth sailing.Mr Bob Tan recalled: “Trying to persuade companies to go overseas in theinitial period was difficult. Many of the companies were SMEs and fundingwas an issue. Fortunately, we were able to get the support of IE Singapore (aGovernment agency driving Singapore’s external economy) to make thesemissions affordable for the participants.”A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 63

Those who were with the SMF at the time remember feeling a keen senseof mission in helping Singapore companies spread their wings overseas,and they describe the SMF office as bustling with energy as its leaders andofficers worked toward a common goal.“I was particularly interested in what I call ‘matchmaking’, where we wouldmatch smaller Singapore businesses with overseas contacts so they couldform a connection,” recalled Mr John Chin, the SMF Secretary-General,who headed the SMF Secretariat between 1989 and 1998. “That, I feel,was one of the SMF’s most active roles in the 1980s and 1990s.”Added Datuk Chua: “Not only were we helping the MNCs,we were helping the SMEs to grow. In some instances,experienced manufacturers brought along smaller companies,which were doing complementary work, into countries likeChina and Malaysia. And the small ones were able to set upfactories overseas.”Mr Douglas Foo, the founder and CEO of Japanese restaurantchain Sakae Sushi, who had attended several SMF trademissions to countries like Indonesia, China and Vietnam,concurred. “As an established organisation, the SMF is wellconnectedin many countries, enjoying relationships whichhave grown over the years.”Going on SMF trade missions helpedcompanies like Sakae Sushi to tap into theSMF’s network of relationships and contacts.Forging a new identityAs the SMF moved into the 1990s, Datuk Chua observed that differentindustry groups were forming their own separate associations.According to former SMF Vice-President Paul Chan, it is a fact that severalassociations today have their roots in the SMF – The Association of Smalland Medium Enterprises, the Singapore Furniture Industries Council andthe Singapore Chemical Industry Council.Datuk Chua, who recognised the new landscape, pushed for change andultimately managed to restructure the SMF into the Singapore Confederationof Industries (SCI) in 1996.The change would allow other industry associations to join their voices withthe SCI.64 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

“We thought it would be good to haveall the manufacturers under a biggerumbrella.”– Datuk Robert Chua, the SMF President from 1988 to 1998“We thought it would be good to have all the manufacturers under abigger umbrella,” explained Datuk Chua. “While the industry associationswould retain their autonomy, they could enjoy certain benefits like widerrecognition, better exposure and a stronger link with the Government andother international groups.”To strengthen the SCI, Datuk Chua included in its council senior leadersfrom international business groups operating in Singapore. For the first time,it also allowed Singapore-registered companies which had manufacturingactivities overseas to become members.It was a move which the Government applauded.In 1993, Mr S. Dhanabalan, who was the then-Minister for Trade and Industry,said: “The formation of a confederation of industries will help Singaporeaddress many of its concerns to compete better in regional markets andto deal with its business environment. From the Government’s view, sucha confederation will help to focus Government’s policies, strategies andassistance programmes more effectively through a single channel.”It was an exciting time.This upbeat mood was captured in a commemorative book produced bythe SCI in 1997, titled: “The First Step in the Next Lap”.In a speech at the installation of the SCI council on 8 July 1996, the then-Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr Yeo Cheow Tong said: “The SCI is animportant bridge between the Government and industry. By includingunder its fold manufacturing industry associations which represent specificindustry interests, the SCI has become more representative of the entiremanufacturing sector. (It will) help SMF members and new SCI members torespond more effectively to the rapidly changing business environment.”A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 65

DID YOU KNOW?• In 1932, the SMF had 17 members. This grew to about 450 in 1970, andthen to about 750 in 1976 and around 3,000 members currently.• General Electric, which set up six different facilities in Singapore todevelop electrical and electronic products in 1970, became Singapore’slargest single private employer within 10 years of its establishmenthere.• In 1970, the SMF estimated that there were at least 700 job vacanciesin Jurong – mostly for female workers.• It was in 1970 that the SMF members were first categorised into variousindustry groups to better cater to their different needs. The groups were:Food and Beverage (Group A), Textile (Group B), Furniture (Group C),Chemical (Group D), Building (Group E), Metal (Group F), Rubber andPlastics (Group G), Electronics and Electrical (Group H) and companiesin Jurong (Group J).66 A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996

• In 1971, the SMF received 200 queries every month from all over theworld, from people who were interested in Singapore-made goodslike women’s garments and concrete castings. The inquiries wouldbe printed in the SMF’s monthly bulletin and members were free torespond to the queries.• In 1972, the SMF planned to open a permanent exhibition hall for itsmembers. Until then, it had borrowed one for free at the Golden MileComplex.• In 1976, SMF members donated products ranging from shirts to foodfor a Christmas fair in Jakarta. This was in response to an appeal bySingapore’s ambassador in Jakarta, Encik Rahim Ishak.• In 1978, Singapore Airlines, which was the official carrier for the SMFexhibition that year, offered a special packaged tour for overseas visitorswho were attending.• In 1979, it cost an adult $1 and a child 50 cents to attend the SMF’sexhibition.• In 1984, the SMF published a handbook on the then-new MRT system.This was aimed at helping members secure business from the project.The handbook included a list of members which could supply materialsand products to contractors.• Singapore’s bar code system was only introduced in 1987. To helpmanufacturers implement the system, a Singapore Article NumberingCouncil, which included representatives from the SMF, the TradeDevelopment Board and the Economic Development Board, wasformed. The Council still exists within the SMF today and is known asGS1 Singapore Limited.• In 1988, the SMF chose a red lion head logo to represent “Made-in-Singapore” goods. The logo would be emblazoned on the packaging ofall locally-made goods.A Partner in Nation Building 1965 – 1996 67

Initiating Change1997 – 2012At no time in the history of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation(SMF) was its transformation as rapid as in the last 15 years.Nothing was too sacred to escape scrutiny. In the process, theSMF went right down to redefining what “manufacturing” means.While external events – from recessions to competitive pressuresto evolutions in manufacturing – played a part in shaping thechanges, much of the driving force behind this move was fromits visionary and dynamic leadership team. It believed that tocompete and exist in this fast-changing world, there was a needto anticipate and respond to the first winds of change, which couldthen power its sails to surge ahead.

SMF members had good reason for cheer in 2000.As the Singapore Confederation of Industries, which had been reformeda few years earlier, they had a wider sphere of influence and clout, whichhad led to better recognition, greater exposure and stronger links with theGovernment.Big plans were in the works: A new logo was unveiled in 2000, and a$3 million Internet portal to showcase the products of 1,500 local andoverseas manufacturing companies was launched. Meanwhile SMF’sleaders continued with the day-to-day tasks of organising dialogues withthe Government and other organisations, arranging trade missions andpromoting Singapore’s industries and services. It was also during this timethat the designation of Secretary-General was created. Prior to that, theposition had been known as Executive Director.Going back to basicsHowever, this all changed in 2002 when the Government felt that itwas necessary to restructure the Singapore Federation of Chambers ofCommerce and Industry (which then comprised the Singapore ChineseChamber of Commerce and Industry, the Singapore Indian Chamberof Commerce and Industry, the Singapore International Chamber ofCommerce, the Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industryand the SMF), into a new entity.The new Singapore Business Federation would champion the interests ofthe wider Singapore business community in trade, investment and industrialrelations. In one stroke, the umbrella role which the SMF had played wasaltered.Honed by years of adapting to change, the SMF leaders faced the newdevelopment head on. They decided to refocus on members’ corecompetence: Manufacturing.A special task force was formed to look into the SMF’s role. It decided to:• Rename the Singapore Confederation of Industries the “SingaporeManufacturers’ Federation” or “SMa” for short.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 69

• Craft a new Mission Statement to promote the SMF as a globallyrecognisedmanufacturing federation.This was a crucial shift in direction, and this new definition was what drovethe SMF’s work and thinking over the next eight years.Redefining manufacturingIn 2010, however, owing to widespread changes in the manufacturingindustry, manufacturing was once again redefined by the council, this time toinclude all services and industries that contribute to the entire manufacturingvalue chain.Current SMF President George Huang explained: “In the past coupleof decades, the manufacturing industry has been transformed withrapid advances and changes in technology. Manufacturing has evolvedsubstantially. These days, manufacturers need not own or operate thefactories that produce their product because they farm out the productionto highly efficient Original Equipment Manufacturers or OEMs, to producetheir products on a mass scale.“Also, as products become “commoditised” around the world throughthe use of ISO standards, the best way to differentiate one’s product isby leveraging the product brand and the ancillary services provided, togive total satisfaction to customers. Increasingly, more and more of suchproduct owners are selling services around their main products, giving riseto the term ‘manu-services’.“Hence, where you manufacture and who manufactures for you is notimportant. Brand and product differentiation have become paramount.”By way of example, Mr Huang citedRoyal Selangor, which no longerjust manufactures pewter plates forits clients to engrave a message asan award, but maintains a team ofdesigners to create and customisethe decor of the plates.Due to this redefinition of SMF as an association for manufacturing ratherthan manufacturers, more service-oriented companies have joined in recentyears. They have both contributed to and benefited from the SMF.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 71

One such example is the online arm of flowers and gifts provider Far EastFlora, FarEastFlora.com.FarEastFlora.com became a member of the SMF in 2004 after its ManagingDirector Ryan Chioh had a chance meeting with a SMF member whosuggested that he join. “At the time, it was a bit unusual for a service-orientedcompany like ours to join the SMF,” he conceded, “but we see this as anopportunity to gain more insights across different industries into strategicissues like productivity and process agility.“Since the start of FarEastFlora.com, we have fine-tuned processes andcut our order processing time by 90 per cent. Going online has given us acompetitive edge and I have found that when we shared our experience ithas proven useful to other SMF members. There is now much talk aboutgreen buildings, being eco-friendly and trying to earn eco-labels. It’s part ofour business and we have helped the SMF achieve the eco-label.”FarEastFlora.com may seem anunlikely member, but increasingly,more and more service-orientedcompanies are joining the SMF.Surmounting external challengesThroughout this period of soul-searching and refining its role, SMF membersalso had to grapple with external changes.Change is inevitable. But, with the advent of the digital era and the Internetin the last couple of decades, the pace of change has increased.Property and economic cycles have become shorter. Nowadays, recessionshappen far more often. Lifestyles evolve more quickly – and manufacturersmust adapt faster than ever.At a SMF tribute dinner in 1992, former Singapore Prime Minister LeeKuan Yew painted a compelling picture of the challenges manufacturerswould face: “In the 1990s economic growth will not be as high as the 1980s.We are at a higher income level and are at the limits of our land size andpopulation growth. At the same time many countries are ready to go fasteralong the route we had travelled – Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico,China, Vietnam, India, Pakistan, and many others.“Every economy whether developing or developed faces the need torestructure. Technology does not stand still. It is difficult for those involved.Some businesses must decline because the conditions for their businesshave become unfavourable.”72 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

From 1996, the SMF’s mettle was tested time and again as it had towithstand world events which, while unanticipated, seemed to happen withclockwork regularity.The SARS outbreak and the Iraq warThe SARS outbreak in 2003 hobbled the Singapore economy, as economicgrowth fell from 2.2 per cent in 2002 to 1.1 per cent in 2003. The Iraq warfollowed soon after, dealing a heavy blow to the global economy.Despite the turmoil, the SMF managed to stay strong, recruiting 212 newmembers in 2003. To reduce the burden on its members, it lowered itsmembership fees by 40 per cent.The crisis was shortlived and the manufacturing sector bounced back in2004, contributing strongly to the Singapore economy which grew at aspectacular 8.4 per cent that year.The Boxing Day tsunamiOne of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history struck the dayafter Christmas 2004, as an earthquake triggered a series of devastatingtsunamis along the coasts of countries bordering the Indian Ocean. Over230,000 people in 14 countries were killed.For the SMF, it heralded another sombre year, which was clouded bylarge-scale natural disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, a looming avian flupandemic and ongoing terrorist threats.The SMF remained unfazed and continued its work doggedly, knowingthat there would be a recovery. The Government had come up with aplan for manufacturing in October 2005 which sought to double the totalmanufacturing output to S$300 billion by 2018. The SMF was involved ina Government task force in 2005 to kick-start a series of programmes toachieve the 2018 target.It also worked closely with the Singapore Workforce Development Agency(WDA) to expand the manufacturing talent pool.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 73

The 2008 Economic Crisis2008 was a punch in the gut for the world economy. Major economies suchas the US, Europe and Japan experienced meltdowns, which spilled overto many other countries including Singapore. In October 2008, Singaporeslipped into recession.Singapore’s overall economy grew at just 1.1 per cent for 2008, comparedwith a robust 7 per cent in 2007. The manufacturing sector was estimatedto have contracted by 4.1 per cent from an earlier growth of 5.8 per centin 2007.Several of the SMF’s key clusters, including electronics, precision engineeringand chemicals, were hit by the sudden decline in demand from key exportmarkets in the last quarter of 2008.74 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

Melaminein 20 moreproductsHOME PAGE B1SINKWorld stocks savagedby recession woesand earnings fearsBY ALVIN FOOMICA ( P ) 115/12/2007 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2 5 2 0 08 AN S PH PUBLICATION ESTABLISHED 1845 $ 1 . 0 0 * *MARKETSMARKETS CORRESPONDENTBY PEH SHING HUEICHINA CORRESPONDENTBEIJING: Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loongyesterday called for a measured responseto the ongoingglobalfinancialcrisis, cautioningagainst an over-reactionthatmight cause more alarm and uncertainty.The financialauthoritiesshouldkeepin close contact, he added on the openingday of the Asia-EuropeMeeting (Asem)in Beijing – a summit of 45 members, butseeminglywithonlyoneissueontheirminds.A statementissuedaftertheleaders’meeting expressed their concern over thespreading malaise. But they struck an upbeatnote by saying that with decisive andtimely measures, they have “full confidence”that the crisis can be overcome.Yet, there was a feeling that Asem wasbut a preview to the real big pow-wow inWashingtonnextmonth. That is whenthe world’s top 20 economies gather for aCALL 6388-3838 TO SUBSCRIBE ORGO TO www.sphsubscription.com.sgSingapore (STI)FALL YESTERDAY8.33%FALL THIS WEEK14.81%GLOBAL stocks were savaged yesterday,sendingmanyboursescrashingtomul-ti-year lows as investorswerespookedby fears that a harsh global recessionwould pummel company profits.It was one of the worst days on globalmarkets since collapse of US investmentbank LehmanBrotherslastmonthset off widespread panic on fears of a financialmarket meltdown.Yesterday, already punch-drunk equitymarkets suffered more bloodletting asintensifyingworriesoverthedreadedR-word spread like wildfire worldwide.Worse-than-expected British data releasedyesterday meant that Britain isheaded towards its first recessionsince1991, while new data showed that SouthKorea’s economy grew at its weakestpace in four years.Increasingly, investorshavenowhereto seek refuge amid the growing prospectof a widespread recession, analysts say.Oneoftheworst-hitboursesonapan-ic-fuelleddaywasSouthKorea’sKospiin-dex, which dived 10.6 per cent to its lowestclosinglevelsince2005 – ending itsworst week in two decades.Japan’s Nikkei-225indexwasnotfarbehind, collapsing9.6percenttoitslow-est finish in more than five years.But the biggest loser was India, whosestock index plummeted 11 per cent in itsbiggest drop 16 years.HongKong’sHangSengIndexandSin-gapore’sStraitsTimesIndex (STI) bothdived 8.3 per cent. Australian stocks slida relatively modest 2.6 per cent.Wall Street’s 2 per cent gain overnightwas largely ignored in the region, asPM Lee cautionsagainst over-reactionNEP on theway out?summit called by United States PresidentGeorge W. Bush to discuss the crisis.The Asem leaders, who do not includeMr Bush, seem to acknowledge as much,noting in their joint statementthattheysupport the Washington summit.But leaders here wasted no time in firingthe topic to the top of the agenda,with Chinese President Hu Jintao settingthe scene from the get-go in his speechduring the opening ceremony, devotingsignificant chunks to the crisis.He assured the world that China is doingall it can to help counter the financialmeltdown.But as Asian stock marketscontinuedto plummet yesterday and the worldlooks to China for help, Mr Hu remindedall that his country is not immune to thecrisis.“The global financial crisis has clearlyincreasedtheuncertaintiesandunstablefactorsintheChineseeconomy’sdevelop-ment,” he said, addingthatChina’secon-omy is also facing uncertainties.“China’s sound economic growth is initselfamajorcontributiontoglobalfinan-cial stability and economic growth.”The crisis has led to calls for a commonAsian fund.CONTINUEDON PAGE A12We have to change,says NajibWORLD PAGE C6Japan (Nikkei)FALL YESTERDAY9.6%FALL THIS WEEK12.02%Hong Kong (Hang Seng)FALL YESTERDAY8.3%FALL THIS WEEK13.3%Asian and European investors headed forthe exit from the opening bell.It did not help that United States stockfutures were sharply in the red duringAsian trading hours before they hit theirmaximumdownwardlimit, signallingadisastrous opening last night.The bloodlettingcontinuedinEuropeafter Asian markets closed, with theFrankfurtindexslidingasmuchas10.1per cent and London stocks sinking morethan 8 per cent. Widespreadpanic-sell-ing in Russia caused the market regulatorto call a prematureclosetothemarketthere for the week.On Wall Street last night, the DowJones Industrial Index opened 3.7 percent lower, and had plunged more than 5per cent during the first trading hour.“Financialmarketshavecrashedandare out of control,” Mr Yuji Ogino, executivedirectoratMeijiDresdnerAssetManagement, told Bloomberg News.“This crash is different from anythingI’ve experiencedandit’shardtofindways to ride out the situation.”South KoreaFALL YESTERDAY10.57%FALL THIS WEEK20.49%The then-SMF President Renny Yeorecalled: “The first task on our agendawas to leverage our relationships withthe Government so as to solicit moredirect help for our members.”In the short three-month span, fromOctober to December 2008, the SMFconducted several dialogue sessionswith key Government agencies. Italso organised over 20 seminarsto update members on the latestinitiatives and financial assistanceschemes made available by thevarious Government offices tohelp companies tied over thedownturn. Manufacturers alsoturned to the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC@SMF) for assistance and to help obtain loans from the Government andfinancial institutions.In addition, trade missions were organised to help members find new marketsand opportunities. To help companies defray some of their marketing costs,the SMF organised seminars to alert members to available schemes.“These initiatives and programmes were just some of the highlights thattestified to our proactive commitment as an advisory body to our members,”said Mr Yeo.ShanghaiFALL YESTERDAY1.92%FOR BREAKING NEWS GO TO www.straitstimes.com REACH AND INTERACT ON www.stomp.com.sg SMS MMS 75557 1800-777-5557 WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON www.razor.tvThenextFandi?Sex and theIndian callcentre girlsWORLD PAGE C14FALL THIS WEEK4.71%In Singapore, the STI plunged145.39points to 1,600.28 – its lowest closesince September 2003 and itsfourth-worst one-day crash. It wasmauled by a sharp selldown in banks andproperty counters.“The markets are still in panic mode,”said a local dealer. “Just when you think anew floor has been reached, another lowemerges.”The stock market mayhem and worriesabout emerging market instabilityhurtthe corporate earnings outlook but liftedgovernment bonds and the Japanese yen.The US dollar tumbled to a 13-yearlow against the yen in Asian trade.The yen was driven up as major investorswho borrowed in yen to buy in higher-yieldingcurrenciesunwoundthoseinvestments.The euro fell 10 per centagainst the yen, while the pound hit arecord low against the euro.Investor confidence in Japan was badlybruised when electronics giant Sony’sshares sank more than 14 per cent after itslashed its earnings forecast.GREENSPAN:I WASWRONGFormer Fed chieftells lawmakers:My view of the freemarket was flawedPRIME PAGESA10-11 ANDREVIEW PAGE A22From ChildAid toworld stageKhairulNizam isonly 17. Buthe is alreadytipped forstardom Talented youngsters go onSPORTSto bigger thingsPAGES C37-38LIFE! PAGES E6-7DESIGN: BONG FORTIN PHOTOS: AFP, ALBERT SIM AND BERNARD & CHRISTINA ONG“The goal was to assist our manufacturers to ride through this crisis, while atthe same time, equipping them with capabilities to seize opportunities whenthe economy recovered.”India (Sensex)FALL YESTERDAY10.96%FALL THIS WEEK12.77%In South Korea, SamsungElectronicsshares crashed 13.8 per cent to their lowestlevel in four years after a slump inprofits.Back in Singapore, investorsdumpedbank and property plays en masse, as theSTI closed down 14.8 per cent for theweek.Property counters were hit after quarterlydata showed private home pricesslumped for the first time since 2004.Banking stocks were batteredduetofears over possible credit losses fromfunding the Marina Bay integrated resort,as operatorLasVegasSandsmaybefinan-cially distressed.Analysts warn that the worst may notbe over.A Daiwa report said that Asian marketsexcludingJapancouldslideanother25 per cent from current levels, but it saidsome stocks are now at bargain prices.alfoo@sph.com.sgMore reports: Prime Pages A8-A21,Money Pages C24-C27Private homeprices andrents downBY JOYCE TEOPROPERTY CORRESPONDENTPRIVATEhomepricesinSingaporefellfaster than expectedinthethirdquarteras the global financial turmoil weighedheavilyonalreadyweakenedmarketsenti-ment.The price slide is expected to continueinto next year, property consultants said.But the HDB resale flat market continuedto buck the trend, with prices rising4.2 per cent in the third quarter followinga 4.5 per cent rise in the second quarter.They have now surpassed the peakseen in the fourthquarterof1996. But analystsexpect this growth trend to slow asbuyers turn cautious.Urban Redevelopment Authority(URA) data yesterday put the privatehomepricedipat2.4percentfortheperi-od endedSept30, the first contractionaf-ter 17 straight quarters of growth.This compares with an initial estimateof a 1.8 per cent drop releasedbyURAear-lier this month. In the previousquarter,private home prices rose 0.2 per cent.The outlookisgrim. Since the end ofthe third quarter, global markets havetumbledfurtherandSingaporeofficiallyentered a technical recession. Buyers expectinga full-blown recession are set toCONTINUEDON PAGE A4“We are always getting feedback from all our members,” added Dr MohChong Tau, SMF Deputy President. “The moment we saw the early signsof a downturn, we talked to the Government. Recessions always affectmanufacturers first, and we had feelers on the ground.”By the end of 2009, the Singapore economy managed a successfulturnaround. “This was only possible with the collective efforts from theGovernment, unions, companies and associations such as the SMF,” saidMr Yeo. “These endeavours strengthened our economic resilience.”Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 75

Building up core strengthUndoubtedly, the ability of SMF members to weather external challengeshas been due to their diligence in constantly reinventing and strengtheningthemselves to stay relevant.The SMF’s leaders have stood resolute over the years, refusing to letchange floor them. One area which they identified as a vital pillar of successis training. Over the past decade, the SMF has successfully worked withthe Government and various other partners on programmes to keep itsmembers competitive.Improving skillsToday, a diverse array of courses is being offered under the SMF umbrella,covering postgraduate courses like Masters in Business Administration, tobasic courses like conversational English. Other courses addressing areaslike how to tap on Government subsidies and schemes are fundamental andvery useful for members. There are currently more than 160 Governmentschemes and funds for companies.“There are funds available to us but it’s not as simpleas one would imagine,” noted Mr John Kong, a formerSMF Honorary Secretary. “How do you tap into thatfund?” asked Mr Kong, who is the Managing Directorof M Metal. “The SMF helps its members tap into suchfunds.”Seminars and workshops conducted by theSMF Centre for Corporate Learning helpedparticipants to contribute more effectivelyto their organisations.Often workers are involved in a wide range of processesand they require different training in all their operations.They need to develop their skills in conducting all theseactivities, using supply chain management which is fundamental in makingthem more competitive.However, workers may find it a challenge to attend these courses becausecompanies, especially SMEs, are unable to release their workers for anextended period of time. In such cases, the SMF pulls out all the stops.“There was an excellent course which would help companies improve theirproductivity if their staff attended it, but a lot of our SME members could notspare their staff,” recounted Mr Michael Chin, who is Chairman of the SMF’s76 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

Membership & Industry Groups Function Committee. “The SMF, therefore,worked with the WDA to create a condensed version of the course, which tookjust a few days. That was one instance of how SMF benefitted its members.That was our service to them.”Three of the SMF’s key training institutes, also called Centres of Excellence,are:The SMF Centre for Corporate LearningThe SMF Centre for Corporate Learning (CCL) was established to providetraining for workers in diverse subjects like workplace health and safety,housekeeping operations and working effectively as a team.Each year, CCL conducts over 400 seminars, workshops and conferencesand trains more than 10,000 people. Ms Joanne Chung Bih Yin, whoattended the WSQ Develop Supply Chain Professional Skills Course, wasone of those who benefitted from the training.The SMF conducts courses where it trains workers to operate forklifts.More than 10,000 people are trained at the SMF Centre for CorporateLearning each year.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 77

She said: “After attending the course, I am able to organise my workexperience in a more systematic manner. My thought processes havebecome more efficient, I am able to connect the dots and strategise better,and I can now see things from a wider perspective.”2010 marked another major milestone for CCL as it launched the WSQCertified Productivity and Innovation Manager programme jointly with theWDA. The programme is a cost-effective and practical way for businessesto embark on their productivity improvement journey.The SMF Institute of Higher LearningThe SMF Institute of Higher Learning aims to enhance the human capitaldevelopment of Singapore’s workforce. Initiated by current SMF PresidentGeorge Huang when he was the Vice-President and Chairman of theBusiness Development Function Committee, it partners renowned overseasuniversities and professional institutions to provide a wide range of academicand executive education programmes from Business Engineering to SupplyChain Management to the Social Sciences.The SMF Institute of Higher Learningoffers students overseas degrees andprofessional certifications.78 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

The reception area of the SMFInstitute of Higher Learning’sCity Campus.A wall displaying logos of the SMFInstitute of Higher Learning’s partners.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 79

Students can also participate in SMF activities such as high profile networkingsessions, forums, dialogues, seminars, national conferences and workshops,through which they can interact with industry professionals.The Enterprise Development CentreThe Enterprise Development Centrepromotes skills such as business roadmapping to help companies developbusiness competencies.The EDC@SMF assists Singapore enterprises in developing essentialbusiness competencies and adopting best practices throughout theiroperations, helping them to compete more successfully both domesticallyand globally. It promotes skills such as business road mapping, workplacesafety and health, branding and technology innovation.

“Many of these SMF-organised training programmes are heavily subsidised,some even up to 90 per cent, by the WDA,” said Dr Moh Chong Tau, thePresident and CEO of Makino Asia.“We send our staff to these courses quite regularly. I would say, within ayear, about 30 to 40 of my staff would attend the courses. Clearly, I get morein return than the membership fees I pay.”Innovation-led productivityProductivity is currently being emphasised in SMF’s training courses, in linewith the Government’s call.Local companies, particularly SMEs, are faced with dauntingchallenges from labour market shrinkage and emerging regionalcompetitors.In order to stay competitive, SMEs are looking for new methods toinnovate their business processes. The Singapore Innovation & ProductivityInstitute (SiPi), is positioned as a first-stop gateway and collaborates withthe Agency For Science Technology & Research (A*STAR) to provideadvisory services to SMEs, helping these companies jumpstart their questfor innovation-led solutions to improve productivity. The Government hasalso pumped in funds to help workers and has started various schemes,such as the Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) programme.“Over the last decade or so, productivity growth has averaged only 1 percent a year,” said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in January 2010. “Wehave to double this and improve it to 2 to 3 per cent per year and this willtake a major effort. But we have to do it so that progressively and inexorably,our economy will be transformed.” SMF President Mr Huang concurred. “Tobe able to react quickly to changes, we need to be more nimble, innovativeand productive.”To this end, the SMF has charted a productivity roadmap for each ofthe manufacturing sectors, specifying areas for improvements to helpmanufacturers review their business processes.The SMF organised the inaugural Singapore Innovation and ProductivityConference in June 2010 with more than 300 members attending. Expertsshared their experiences and provided insights into ways of increasingproductivity and competitiveness. The same year, the SMF also set up theInitiating Change 1997 – 2012 81

Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Trade andIndustry & Ministry of National Development,Mr Lee Yi Shyan, penning the word “Qiang”during the WDA-SMF Productivity & InnovationAwards 2011.Innovation and Productivity Function Committee, which offered advice onautomation processes, research & development, and staff training for SMFmembers.In July 2011, the SMF together with the WDA developed a customisedinnovation and productivity training programme called SME Qiang. Thiswould benefit up to 11,000 workers from a pilot batch of 55 SMEs inmanufacturing and manufacturing-related industries.One of SMF’s members, Beyonics International, achieved a quantum leapin productivity after their managers practised skills acquired at the WSQCertified Productivity & Innovation Manager (CPI Manager) programme.Manufacturing lead time was reduced by 18 per cent. Overtime was alsoreduced, and the delivery of orders made more efficient. All in, Beyonicsachieved a 35 per cent revenue increase for that product line.82 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

Mr Douglas Foo, the founder and CEO of sushioutlet Sakae Sushi, recalled how the productivitytraining sessions were eye-openers both for himand his staff who attended the course.“There are a lot of important productivity toolswhich are being used in the manufacturingindustry, like the business management strategytool Six Sigma, which I found were applicable toSakae Sushi, and indeed, to any industry.”Another SMF member who has benefited fromproductivity training is Mr Tan Jit Khoon, the ChiefExecutive Officer of Winson Press.The Chief Executive Officer of Winson PressMr Tan Jit Khoon (R) discussing ways toincrease productivity with his employees.“I had a steep learning curve when I first joined our family business as Idid not have prior business experience. The SMF provided a great avenuefor me to pick up essential business skills and build a network fast,” saidMr Tan, a mechanical engineer who had worked in Hewlett Packard forthree years before joining the family printing business which his father setup in 1965. He attended various courses and appreciated the knowledgehe picked up in areas like lean manufacturing and boosting productivitymost. “We applied the concepts to our workplace and found that theyyielded good results,” he said.Boosting standardsThe SMF has also been very much involved in the standardisation programmewith SPRING Singapore over the last decade. In view of the SMF’s abilityto leverage on its members’ extensive industry knowledge and experience,SPRING Singapore, as the national standards and accreditation body,appointed the SMF to administer standards development work on threestandards committees: The Biomedical (BMSC), Food (FSC) and GeneralEngineering & Safety Standards (GESSC) Committees.This resulted in the establishment of the Standards DevelopmentOrganisation (SMF-SDO) on 1 April 2011. The SMF-SDO is currentlymanaging the development, promotion and implementation of standardsand participating in relevant international standardisation activities.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 83

“With more local companies being aware of the importance of adoptinginternational standards, our manufacturers will be more competitive andtheir products more accessible to both the local and international markets,”said former SMF Secretary-General Gwee Seng Kwong. He was with thesecretariat from 2008 to 2012.Involving membersAs manufacturers became more established over the years, many of themstarted to give back to the SMF, further strengthening the Federation aseach contributed its own unique area of expertise.Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS), for instance, has been a SMFmember since 1966. However, it was only in the last five years that itsleaders became more involved in the running of the Federation.Mr Michael Chin, the General Manager of APBS said, “As a Singaporecompany and with a brand like Tiger Beer which has gained renown abroad,we feel a responsibility to give something in return, to society as a whole andthe manufacturing industry, in particular.“APBS has 30 breweries across 14 countries, and what we have learnt inour experience, we want to pass on to other SMEs.”Similarly for Japan-based imaging company Canon, which has been inSingapore for 32 years. It became a SMF member in 2009.Increasingly, SMF members are lookingat contributing back to the manufacturingindustry. Mr Michael Chin, the GeneralManager of APBS, is one of them.Through the process of strengthening ties with other SMF members, it steppedup to the plate to champion the idea of cloud-enabled computing and printing.“We discussed cloud computing with the SMF leadership and we realisedthis is really what the members, particularly the SMEs, are looking for,”said Mr Von Chan, Director and General Manager of the Business ImagingSolutions and Business Solutions Division of Canon Singapore.“They were searching for a productivity solution without a huge capital outlay.We showed them how they can modernise their workplaces and increaseproductivity with the help of Canon’s technology, together with Governmentfunding, which the SMF would help them access.”It organised a Canon Cloud Advantage Show at the Marina Bay Sands inMay 2011, which was attended by nearly 1,000 SMF members.84 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

“The SMF also plays a critical role in helping its members tap into Governmentfunds to boost their technological capabilities,” added Mr Chan. “It’s apartnership. The SMF needs a tech partner like Canon, and from Canon’spoint of view, we need a business partner like the SMF.”Going green for sustainabilityKeeping up with the times also calls for embracing new trends.Going green, said former SMF Secretary-General Gwee, is a necessity.“Increasingly, European companies that are sourcing for products fromSingapore are asking whether our local companies have a green policy.It will soon be difficult for companies without such a policy to successfullycompete in the global marketplace, especially if they want to export to thedeveloped world.”In order to stay competitive in the global market, more large companiesare adopting sustainable practices. Singapore SMEs are gradually adoptinggreen policies by staying relevant and innovative, otherwise they risk beingdropped as an approved or preferred supplier.Hence, the SMF signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with theSingapore Environment Council (SEC) in December 2008 to advance andenable environmentally sustainable solutionsfor the manufacturing sector, especially SMEmanufacturers. This will enhance the capabilityof the SMEs in implementing environmentallysustainable business solutions, and betterprofile their environmental efforts.Coca-Cola’s coolers arefitted with intelligent energymanagement devices tosave electricity.Taking the lead, the SMF itself became thefirst association from the manufacturingand service sector to receive the Eco-OfficeLabel certified by the SEC in March 2011.In one year, electricity usage was reducedby 55 per cent per employee and paperconsumption was reduced by 52 per cent peremployee. It works to educate its memberson environmental-friendly work processes.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 85

Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages is an SMF member which championssustainability: “Working with the SMF, we believe that a sustainabilityapproach based on collaboration and partnership will benefit more and moreSingaporeans,” said Mr Amit Oberoi, the CEO of Coca-Cola Singapore.The company walks the talk by improving its water use efficiency andreducing its carbon footprint through the use of coolers fitted with intelligentenergy management devices that monitor energy use and deliver energysavings of up to 35 per cent.He added: “The SMF has worked with us by being part of the SingaporePackaging Agreement, and helping us and other member companies withongoing efforts to make packaging light and eco-friendly. This provides uswith an opportunity to decrease packaging costs while offering environmentalbenefits. Our goal is to make a positive difference in the communities weserve while refreshing them.”The proceeds from the SMF 80 th Anniversary Fundraising Golf Tournament, at which Minister, Prime Minister’s Office Lim Swee Say (2 nd from right) was theGuest-of-Honour, were used to fund educational bursaries.86 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

Being part of the communityMaking connectionsThe venue: The residence of the HighCommissioner to Pakistan.In attendance: The High Commissionerhimself, leading Pakistani industrialistsand about 40 SMF members.Over fine Pakistani fare of naan, kebabsand Pakistani dates, name cards areexchanged and business opportunitiesexplored.It is a scene which has played out manytimes over in the SMF’s 80-year history,where connections are made andrelationships established.Vice President of Strategic Marketingand Market Access for Johnson &Johnson Pte Ltd, Mr Alok Mishra whoalso chairs the SMF India BusinessGroup, which organised the event, said:“Establishing connections is a veryvaluable role which the SMF plays,particularly for SMEs which might nothave the capability of doing business inunfamiliar parts of the world.”Part of being a responsible corporate citizen entails giving back to thecommunity. In this regard, the SMF has been very zealous. Some of itsinitiatives include:• Providing about $350,000 in university scholarships to nine needystudents over three years. A tie-up with the Tampines Central Citizens’Consultative Committee and the Northeast Community DevelopmentCouncil will give these students the chance to study at the SMF Instituteof Higher Learning.• Offering job training to ex-offenders even while they are in prison so that theycan rejoin the workforce when released. In August 2012, the SMF Centrefor Corporate Learning was awarded a project tender to work with theSingapore Corporation of Rehabilitative Enterprises (SCORE) – which trainsand carries out job placement for ex-offenders – to conduct job training for200 inmates. In collaboration with SCORE, the SMF also encourages itsmember companies to offer job opportunities to ex-offenders.• Running generic training programmes for security officers on theverge of retirement, to prepare them for post-retirement careers in themanufacturing or manufacturing-related industries. It also provideslogistics and warehouse training programmes for security officers,giving them the opportunity to obtain the Global Logistics Associate andProfessional Designation in Logistics and Supply Chain Management(PLS) Certifications offered by the American Society of Transportation andLogistics (ASTL).• Using proceeds from the 80 th Anniversary Fundraising Golf tournament tofund bursaries for SMF members or their offspring. “We want our membersto know that because their company is a member of the SMF, they or theirchildren can apply for bursaries to study for degrees at the SMF Instituteof Higher Learning,” said SMF President George Huang.Mr Huang views all these engagements as broadening the SMF’s touchpointsin the community. “This is important as we need the community. We are partof the community.”“We are taking the lead as an organisation to have many more touchpoints,to provide exposure and opportunities for our members. In this way, aswe become more relevant, others will come to us, and our networks andconnections will become wider.”Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 87

Heading into the futureAs the SMF looks back on 80 years of challenges, it has the satisfaction ofknowing that it has stayed true to its course of representing and championingSingapore’s manufacturing industry. This is despite crises such as the SecondWorld War, economic meltdowns and changes in the business climate.“Considering theadvantage ofmembership, Idecided to make theinvestment of timeand effort to getinvolved.”– Former SMF Vice-President Mr Paul ChanSMF veterans offer different views as to whathas kept the organisation vibrant and dynamicthrough the decades.Some point to it as an umbrella associationwhich has the clout to represent its members.Others appreciate the inherent diversity in theassociation – from SMEs to MNCs – whichcreates an accurate representation of how theissues of the day are affecting manufacturers.M Metal’s Mr Kong, who is the SMF’s formerHonorary Secretary, presented yet anotherview. “I would say the SMF’s success is reallywhat happens below the green line. Above thegreen line is what is official. Below the greenline is when we, the members come togetherfor a drink and build up relationships. In my opinion, these relationshipshave kept the SMF going for the last 80 years and that is something whichis very valuable.”Former SMF Vice-President Paul Chan, who has been active in theFederation since 1970, heartily agrees. Mr Chan, who still remembers thedinners he used to enjoy in the 1970s with his SMF friends from what wasthen known as Group F, said: “I never forget the running joke that GroupF belonged to the ‘Foolish’! I was then running a small, unsophisticatedengineering company and had to cope with hectic operational problemsand schedules. Joining a larger trade association added one more activityto my tight schedule. That did not seem a good idea. But consideringthe advantage of association membership, networking and camaraderie,I decided to make the investment of time and effort to get involved.”Honorary Secretary of the SMF, Mr Patrick Chang, the Managing Directorof Paclin Office Products, values the network of friends and businessassociates he has built over the years. As a committed exco member,88 Initiating Change 1997 – 2012

My stint as Honorary Secretaryhas been fulfilling as it allows meto contribute greatly in building“up a strong secretariat.”– Mr Patrick Chang, the Managing Directorof Paclin Office ProductsMr Chang is at the SMF frequently to discuss ways to advance the interestsof the SMF with the President and Vice-President. “My stint as HonorarySecretary has been fulfilling as it allows me to contribute greatly in buildingup a strong secretariat.”Mr Chang establish his business outside of Singapore in the mid-1990s,when, through the process of taking part in trade shows, he was approachedby regional businessmen to print national identity cards, driving license andother security related smart cards. His business quickly grew to countrieslike Indonesia, Malaysia and Macau.However, to SMF President George Huang, it is the mindset of the SMF’smembers throughout the years, which is the real root of its success.“Manufacturers, by nature, are used to change,” he mused.“It is our adaptability which has allowed us to take the lead for themanufacturing and manufacturing-related community. We have anticipatedchanges and embraced change. With such a mindset, we have ensured thatwe remain relevant to the industry, transforming ourselves as necessary.”It is this winning mindset, which will see the SMF sail confidently into its next80 years.DID YOU KNOW• A television series was once aired on primetime TV in a bid to lure viewers into manufacturing jobs. In 2006, the SMF,together with the EDB and WDA, produced the eight-part infotainment series showcasing exciting manufacturing jobs inemerging sectors like aerospace, electronics, biomedical and chemicals.• In September 2004, the SMF signed a MOU with the largest manufacturing association in the world – the National Association ofManufacturers of the United States of America.• On 24 October 1996, the Singapore Accreditation Council was established under the SMF. Datuk Robert Chua, who chaired the firstcouncil and was concurrently the SMF President, believed that accreditation would enable Singapore’s products to be accepted in theglobal market.Initiating Change 1997 – 2012 89

Epilogue:Mapping theFutureThe manufacturing sector will undoubtedly remain a pillar of theSingapore economy in the long term, and is expected to constitute20 to 25 per cent of its gross domestic product. SingaporeManufacturing Federation (SMF) leaders and members discusshow the SMF could fulfil its mission of helping members thrive inthe years to come.90 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

The new SMF headquarters has many common areas that allow members and students attending classes at the SMF’s Centres of Excellence to interact.The SMF’s 80 th year has been a year of change – new headquarters, anew logo, a new corporate identity.These changes reflect a deep transformation, one which is essential for theSMF to remain relevant to its members for years to come.Manufacturing will undoubtedly remain a pillar of the Singapore economy.The Government has projected that this sector will constitute 20 to 25 percent of the country’s GDP in the long term.The questions which most concern the SMF leadership are:How can manufacturers here continue to thrive?How can they respond to mounting competition from China and otheremerging economies, where land and labour are relatively cheap?Domestically, how can manufacturers leverage on the small talent poolin Singapore, given that the Government is tightening its immigrationpolicies?Epilogue: Mapping the Future 91

The biggest question of all is: What can the SMF do to help its members,the manufacturing community and the nation move forward? What should itcontinue doing to fully service and create value for its membership core as itmoves along as a national institution with a manufacturing base? How canit better touch communities?Transforming itselfAt a macro level, SMF President George Huang said the SMF mindset – toembrace change and transform itself – remains as strong as ever and will bethe key to unlocking a slew of new initiatives down the line.“The SMF has successfully evolved over the years to ensure survival. For us,it is survival of the most adaptable,” he said.Indeed, in July 2011, at the 2 nd SMF organised Singapore Innovation andProductivity Conference, Mr Huang said in his speech: “This year, theSMF aims to push the boundary and help manufacturers make a quantumleap.”On 30 November 2011, the organisation took a bold step and changedits name to become the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, thus movingfrom an Industry Association to a national organisation with a manufacturingbase and membership core.Leveraging on the supply chainMoving forward, the SMF will continue to expand the scope of its membershipto align it to current realities. At one time, SMF membership was confined tothose which had manufacturing operations in Singapore. Now, the emphasishas shifted from “manufacturer” to “manufacturing” and has allowed a widerrange of companies, each engaged in the manufacturing supply chain to joinas members. This is reflected in the name change. As businesses becomeincreasingly interconnected, these new members will lend greater breadthand depth to the organisation.Manufacturers no longer operate in standalone factories, churning out theirproducts and taking them to market by themselves. In almost every instance,they have to work with many service providers along a supply chain, likelogistics companies to deliver both parts and the completed products,92 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

A seminar on Supply Chain Management co-organised by the SMF. The ability to manage the supply chain is critical to the survival of manufacturers.packaging companies, marketing companies to advertise the products andbuild up the brands, and even banks to provide finances.The manufacturing landscape has changed dramatically. Some major brandsno longer operate their factories themselves, but outsource production toOEM manufacturers, concentrating on just design and marketing. ManyOEM manufacturers do not have their own design departments nor theirown brands but simply manufacture based on the specifications providedby suppliers.Given such a landscape, it makes sense to put manufacturers in touch witha wide network of service providers, or what Mr Huang calls “touchpoints”,so they can leverage on these connections.Companies which do not have factories in Singapore, but whoseheadquarters are based here, have been allowed to become SMF members.This is practical, given that many manufacturers are closing down theirfactories here and moving their operations to countries like China, wherethe cost of production is lower.Epilogue: Mapping the Future 93

The SMF through its Centre for CorporateLearning provides training in diverse areasto upgrade workers’ skills.“The SMF plays a vital role to link all these people along the supply chain,” saidSMF Deputy President Moh Chong Tau. “It enables the various segments ofmanufacturing to be integrated and coordinated. This will ultimately createvalue. The whole process is very complex.”Innovating to improve productivityFor members old and new, the buzzword is still productivity.Productivity is already an area of focus, and it will continue to be in thespotlight in the years to come.SMF President Mr Huang pointed out that a gap analysis and opportunitiesassessment, conducted by Frost & Sullivan in December 2010 onmanufacturing SMEs in Singapore, found that SMEs’ investment in infocommtechnologies (ICTs) and automation systems was low.Almost 50 per cent of the SMEs surveyed did not have any ICT or enterpriseresource planning systems in place. Instead, there was a continueddependence on manual systems and foreign workers for production.Also, more than 40 per cent of the SMEs surveyed did not send workers forformalised training.94 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

Building brandsPart of the evolution of manufacturing companies is an increasing emphasison the softer aspects of the business.Success, say SMF veterans, is no longer just about who makes the bestproduct in the shortest time or which company has the greatest productivity,but is also about who sells it best.These days, it is necessary for manufacturers to pump their resourcesinto building up a brand name and image so that they can reach out toconsumers who are bombarded with diverse choices every day.Although companies are moving their factories and operations outside ofSingapore, these companies still choose to locate their headquarters inSingapore for higher-order corporate functions like marketing and branding,a development which dovetails nicely with the desire and demand in thelocal population for higher-end jobs.The “Made-in-Singapore” tagline, which originated in the 1960s, shouldremain a key part of the branding message, suggested Mr Michael Chin,the General Manager of Asia-Pacific Breweries Singapore (APBS).“A key success factor for APBS is knowing how to build brands successfullyaround the world,” said Mr Chin, adding that in an international study, TigerBeer was found to be the second-most recognised Singapore brand behindSingapore Airlines. “The SMF should continue to champion the ‘Made-in-Singapore’ tagline.”“Branding requires a lot of time and investment,” observed former SMFPresident, Datuk Robert Chua. “However, the investment can be worthwhileas well-known brands are able to gain wider acceptance when theirmanufacturers export their products overseas and compete successfully inthe international arena.”Developing the manufacturing workforceSuccess comes down to having the right people.The SMF has always worked to ensure a pipeline of talent for themanufacturing sector.96 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

One way it does this is by working with educational institutions. It also proactivelycommunicates its concerns as well as the developing trends of the industry tothe Government, highlighting areas where there is a potential dearth of talentand identifying areas where talent might be needed in the future.The SMF has held talks with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry ofManpower and the Economic Development Board where it has expressedits concerns and shared its views on how to retain engineers for themanufacturing sector, and how schools can nurture and cultivate an interestin engineering among their students.SMF Deputy President Moh Chong Tau, who is working with the SingaporeUniversity of Technology & Design, said “I tell them about the kinds ofengineers we need, not only in terms of hard skills but soft skills as well, sothey can better prepare their students for a career in manufacturing.”These skills can only be developed through rigorous training. “Our membersare saying that they need workers who are multi-skilled. We are talkingto the Government about how to provide multi- rather than mono-skilledtraining.”This versatility will stand local workers in good stead as the supply of foreignmanpower dries up, forcing our engineers to do a wider range of jobs,Dr Moh added.Mining the silver workforceThe SMF’s focus is not just on the young. Besides developing the potential ofyouth, it is also looking to draw on the experience of the silver workforce.According to the “Report on Labour Force in Singapore 2010” releasedby the Ministry of Manpower, more than 300,000 employed residentsin the manufacturing and service sectors are aged 55 and above. Thisfigure accounts for more than 15 per cent of the total employed residentsin Singapore, and the percentage will continue to grow over the next 20years. Generally, companies are hesitant about hiring these mature workersbecause they believe that the cognitive, physical and social abilities of olderworkers have started declining, compromising their productivity.Epilogue: Mapping the Future 97

As more workers, aged 55 andabove, remain in the workforce, theSMF is developing new productivityimprovement strategies together withthe Republic Polytechnic to enhance theproductivity of these workers.However, under the new retirement legislation that came into effect inJanuary 2011, companies are required to offer reemployment options toeligible employees who reach the age of 62.The SMF, with the support of the Employment and Employability Instituteor e2i, is developing a new productivity improvement strategy with theRepublic Polytechnic to enhance the productivity and performance of themature workforce.…and the journey continues…Over the last 80 years, the SMF has established itself as a major player inthe manufacturing industry. It has been blessed with a core of committedbusiness leaders who were not afraid to face the challenges posed bychange in the manufacturing industry and turn them into a positive force.98 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

Having accrued experience invarious relevant areas, I waskeenly interested in helping my“fellow manufacturers.”– SMF Assistant Secretary-General Mr James SeeEven when the years roll by and the present stalwartsare no longer leading the Federation, the SMF’s cultureof overcoming adversity will stand it in good stead. Inall its 80 years of existence, new leaders have alwaysstepped forward to take the Federation to new heights.There is no reason why this should not continue in thefuture. In this process of transformation, the SMF needspassionate individuals who are willing to give their timeto the SMF – while holding full-time jobs – to do whatis essentially volunteer work, said Mr Huang. “However,it is not good enough just to have visionary and goodleaders,” he continued.Complementing the leadership team is a pool ofcompetent, professional secretariat staff, who haveensured the smooth running of the SMF’s programmes.They have enabled the SMF to serve its members aswell as impact the nation and community.As the SMF becomes more relevant, more people willleave their jobs to join the SMF full-time. Before joiningthe SMF as its Assistant Secretary-General in December2011, Mr James See was an SMF member for over 20years, representing Singco, a company manufacturingfire-resistant doors. Over the years, he was also in the SMF ExecutiveCommittee, a council member as well as the Chairman of the Lifestyle andMetal, Machinery and Engineering Industry Groups.Mr See made the move as he felt that it was far more rewarding to contributeto the SMF than to be on the receiving end. “Having been involved with theSMF for quite a number of years, and having accrued experience in variousrelevant areas, I was keenly interested in helping my fellow manufacturers,”Mr See affirmed.Epilogue: Mapping the Future 99

“If you want to go fast,you go alone.If you want to go far,you go with others.– The SMF President Mr George Huang,quoting an old African saying”Mr See’s SMF colleagues who, like him, joined the Federation out of a desireto help their fellow manufacturers include Mr Richard Soh, the current CEOof the SMF Institute and former Regional Director of packaging companySCA Packaging Singapore, and Mr Tan Jin Soon, who used to be on theBoard of Directors of Sime Packaging and is now a Senior Advisor withthe SMF’s Standards Development Organisation. Even with this excellentteam, the SMF realises that it cannot go far without its valued customers.Mr Huang, who is also Ethiopia’s Honorary Consul General to Singapore,quoted an African saying: “If you want to go fast, you go alone. If you wantto go far, you go with others.”But, Mr Huang continued, “The SMF wants to do both – it wants to go fastand far. This has led the SMF to initiate various programmes so that theorganisation can go fast. At the same time, the SMF will engage partnersalong the way to give these programmes depth, sustainability and continuity,in order to go far.”“In this continuing journey with the SMF, we have come far together withour valued partners, especially the Government agencies. I am confidentthat we will continue to go much further into the future with the continuedhelp, support and collaboration of all our partners in our journey of ensuringthat manufacturing remains an important, integral part of the Singaporeeconomy and business community.”100 Epilogue: Mapping the Future

George and staff group photoTogether, we go far.Epilogue: Mapping the Future 101

102 The SMF FamilyThe SMF Family

Manufacturing is indeed pervasive in our modern society. Almosteverything we use in our daily lives, directly or indirectly, has to be made– from the engines in our cars to the seasoning we use in our kitchens.Each finished product requires different processes, skill sets, machines,standards and requirements. Behind every product, however simple, is adeep and specialised supply chain.With such a diverse range of manufacturers and businesses amongst itsmembers, the SMF was aware of the need to organise its members alongindustry groups to better represent their interests. Hence, its members weredivided into 11 Industry Groups, with each concentrating on the specificneeds and concerns of each specialised sector.As the manufacturing scene has changed over time, the groupings haveevolved. New ones have been added in recent decades, others have beenphased out.However, the mission of these industry groups remains the same:• To lend a collective voice to their members to ensure that their industry isrepresented at the broader SMF level and overseas.• To spearhead new industry initiatives.• To organise networking activities, exhibitions and conferences.• To keep members abreast of the latest technologies, Governmentinitiatives and global trends.• To expand members’ market horizons through exhibitions, trade missionsand fairs.The SMF Family 103

Automation TechnologyWho are they?This group comprises companies which manufactureproducts to help other companies automate their workprocesses. For example, machinery which can performthe role of the factory worker, smart computer systems,smart sensors and intelligent measuring instruments. Inareas such as the precise manufacturing of computercomponents, automation technology is superior to humaneffort.HistoryThe automation industry is a cornerstone of Singapore’sdrive towards productivity as companies and businesses,in particular manufacturers, seek high-tech manpowersavingsolutions.104 The SMF Family

Current statusTo establish partnerships with other agencies, the group has organisedmany CEO forums and visits to various research institutions, including theAgency for Science, Technology & Research (A*STAR). Members have alsoparticipated in overseas exhibitions, including MetalTech, ITM, WorldTechand the Shanghai International Fair.In 2010, the group, responding to the Government’s call for companiesto enhance productivity, organised CEO breakfast forums, where speakerswere invited to speak on this subject.FutureMany industries in Singapore and Southeast Asia, particularly the foodand beverage and pharmaceutical sectors, are looking to automate theirmanufacturing lines. Energy demand and emerging markets will drive thegrowth of this industry.Furthermore, there is a converging demand for power and automationtechnologies in data centres and grid systems.The SMF Family 105

Building Products& Construction MaterialsWho are they?This group comprises companies that make any sort of material used inbuilding and construction works, including glass, scaffolding, doors andinsulation.HistoryWhile construction firms from developed countries once dominated theSingapore construction industry, local contracting firms have started takingon more sophisticated and complex contracts in the last three decades.The construction sector expanded rapidly in the late 1980s and continued todo so in the mid-2000s, as Singapore shifted into a new phase of economicdevelopment, one which emphasised higher value-added products andservices.Current statusSingapore builders are concentrating on high-tech infrastructure to catch upwith construction advancements around the world.The group promotes the sharing of business information and experiencesamong its members by disseminating Government legislations, enhancingnetworking opportunities and forming strategic alliances to help membersachieve economies of scale.106 The SMF Family

FutureAs Singapore prospers with more ambitious projects in the pipeline, foreigncompanies are muscling in, offering lower prices for construction materials.Group members are responding to this challenge by emphasising the qualityand high standards of their products.As green or energy-efficient buildings become an essential part of thetendering process, group members are looking at offering products likedouble-glazed windows which let in less heat.As the inflow of foreign construction workers slows, the industry is alsolooking at automating more work processes through mechanisation as wellas adopting cutting-edge technologies like scissor lifts that can be operatedby just one person.The SMF Family 107

Electrical, Electronic& Allied IndustriesWho are they?This group is one of the largest in the SMF. It comprises a broad swathof companies which are involved in Singapore’s electrical and electronicindustries, including telecommunications providers, consumer electronicsmanufacturers, infocomm companies, industrial electric system providersand other supporting industries.HistorySingapore’s electronics industry started modestly in the 1960s. It was theonly country in Southeast Asia to have a TV assembly plant. The industryhas since grown from strength to strength, becoming a vital node in theglobal electronics market. Top electronics companies have also chosen tolocate their bases in Singapore.108 The SMF Family

Current statusElectronics is the major industry underpinning Singapore’s economic growth.In 2009, electronics accounted for almost 41.5 per cent of the S$11.8 billionfixed asset investments.Today, Singapore is home to 14 silicon wafer fabrication plants, 20semiconductor assembly and test operations, and about 40 integratedcircuit design centres. It houses one of the world’s top three wafer foundriesand nine of the world’s top 10 fabless IC design companies. Singapore isalso a major hard disk media manufacturing location, accounting for about40 per cent of the world’s hard disk media volume.However, the global recession of 2008 dealt precision engineering a hardblow. The group encouraged its members to boost productivity by puttingin place information management systems to streamline and integrate keybusiness and production processes.FutureThe Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) has identified fourgrowth areas for the industry – green electronics (energy-efficient solutions),bioelectronics (like CT scanners for the healthcare industry), plasticelectronics and security products. These currently form 10 per cent ofSingapore’s electronics output, a figure that is targeted to increase to 30per cent by 2020.The SMF Family 109

Energy & ChemicalsWho are they?This group comprises companies which are involved mainly in the oil and gas,energy and chemical industries. They are in the business of manufacturingand trading petroleum products, industrial oils, greases and gases,petrochemicals and specialty chemicals, drill rig machinery and equipment,repair and maintenance services, logistics and oil brokering.HistoryThe group started in 2006 as an Industry Group which was then called Oil &Gas and Related industries.The energy industry has been an integral part of the Singapore economyever since oil trading activities started in 1891. Over the years, Singaporehas become Asia’s undisputed oil hub and one of the world’s top threeexport refining centres.110 The SMF Family

Current statusIn the last six years, the group has worked with Government agenciesto promote investment in, and development of the energy and chemicalindustry in Singapore and other countries – particularly ASEAN membercountries.The electricity and gas sectors in Singapore have also been significantlytransformed over the last 10 years. Market liberalisation has led to theadoption of gas-fired combined cycle gas turbines, replacing oil-firedsteam plants. This has boosted the competitiveness of electricity pricesand lowered Singapore’s carbon intensity. The divestment of state-ownedpower companies has resulted in the entry of leading global energy playersin Singapore’s electricity market.FutureSingapore is committed to realising a smart energy economy, with innovative,resilient and sustainable energy solutions to fuel its growth. The country hasalso embarked on developing its first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminalby 2013. The LNG terminal will not only meet Singapore’s energy needs,but see the city-state plugged into the global LNG market. Singapore isalso continually enhancing its energy infrastructure and developing newsolutions to navigate the challenges of the changing energy landscape.The SMF Family 111

Fire Protection,Safety & SecurityWho are they?The group comprises companies which help to keep buildings safe bymanufacturing products such as fire protection devices, locking technologies,special doors and windows, and alarm systems.HistorySingapore’s reputation as a safe and secure city was tested in 2002 when,in the wake of the September 11 incident, it was revealed that the countrywas a terrorism target. Members of the Jemaah Islamiyah group, which haslinks to terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, were arrested.In 2003, the Fire Protection, Safety and Security Industry Group was formedby five SMF member companies.112 The SMF Family

Current statusThe group helps to draft and review safety standards, promote bestpractices, conduct joint research and educate the public by promoting andenhancing fire safety, security and safety issues.It also works closely with the SingaporeCivil Defence Force in promotingfire safety to all SMF members, andorganises joint seminars and dialoguesessions with relevant associationsto generate greater awareness onfire safety, especially on industrialpremises.Recently, Deputy Prime Minister,Coordinating Minister for NationalSecurity and Minister for HomeAffairs, Mr Teo Chee Hean, said:“Over the years, robust laws, effectiveenforcement and concerted outreachhave reduced crime, strengthenedcommunities and kept security threatsat bay. Our crime rate has fallen forthe sixth consecutive year, with 2011 being the lowest in 20 years.” Hespoke at the Ministry of Home Affairs Committee of Supply Debate 2012.FutureProtecting our citizens and guests from the danger of uncontrolled firesin public and private buildings will always be a priority for the SingaporeGovernment. The group will continue to share this goal and play its role inadvancing fire protection, safety and security in Singapore.The SMF Family 113

Food & BeverageWho are they?These companies are involved in making food and beverage products,including coffee and tea powders, seasonings, pre-packed mixes, cannedfood, canned soups, frozen food products, bottled water, sweets, biscuits,beer, fruit juices and vending machines.HistoryThe Food & Beverage group was one of the pioneer Industry Groups withinthe SMF. Over the years, F&B companies in Singapore have had to adaptto numerous changes with the changing lifestyles of Singaporeans and theadvent of new technologies.For instance, in the 1970s, consumers turned to wholemeal bread andyoghurt. In the 1980s, there was a pre-occupation with low fat, low sugar andlow salt in foods. In the 1990s, the trend was leaning towards nutraceuticals,where vitamins and minerals are added to products like bread and milk. Inshort, people have become more conscious about healthy eating.They also have less time to prepare their food. Therefore, pre-cooked foods,pre-mixed spices and condiments, and frozen foods that need only a onesteppreparation process before consumption have become extremelypopular in the last two decades.114 The SMF Family

Current statusThe food industry in Singapore has established a reputation ofhaving high standards in food safety assurance and hygiene.This has helped local companies sell their products overseas.These high standards are largely due to the efforts of theindustry as well as the authorities. For example, the Agri-Food& Veterinary Authority of Singapore has launched the FoodSafety Excellence Award to ensure that high standards continueto be maintained. In 2010, 23 companies were awarded theGold Medal for achieving 15 consecutive years of “A” grademanufacturing license.This Industry Group actively promotes Singapore’s F&B manufacturing andservice industry, both at home and abroad. Through constant dialoguesessions, this group has managed to foster a close working synergy withthe authorities and has facilitated export opportunities for members throughits trade missions, fairs and Working-in-Partnership (WIP) programme. Italso provides information and training to upgrade the knowledge of itsmembers.FutureGiven the global economic climate, fluctuating exchange rates and naturalcalamities, the group intends to continue working closely with variousGovernment agencies like IE Singapore, SPRING Singapore and the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore on various initiatives. It will alsohold regular dialogue sessions to foster closer understanding between theindustry and the authorities.The SMF Family 115

Life SciencesWho are they?The group represents local generic drug manufacturers and drug distributors.It comprises the Singapore Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Council – whichoversees Western and quasi-Western secondary pharmaceutical productssuch as generic pharmaceuticals and medicated balms and oils – and theSingapore Pharmaceutical Trade Organisation, which promotes, protectsand works for the advancement of the industry.HistorySingapore has focused on promoting the biomedicalindustry as a pillar of growth since the early 1990s.The lastdecade saw not just the growth of bio-pharmaceuticalmanufacturers, but also the establishment of toplife science and medical technology companies inSingapore.In the 2002 to 2005 period, major pharmaceuticalcompanies spent over US$500 million on buildingmanufacturing facilities in Singapore.116 The SMF Family

Current statusBy all measures, Singapore has become a world-classbiomedical science hub, as the industry, which was valued atS$6.3 billion in 2000 grew 229 per cent to S$20.7 billion in 2009.However, the authorities continue to focus more on attracting foreignmultinationals to the sector rather than on developing local manufacturers.The group members meet regularly with the Health Sciences Authority todiscuss the latest regulatory issues in the region.FutureIn terms of future challenges, the booming economy and market attractivenessof India and China could potentially erode Singapore’s dominance in thissector as there have been various joint-ventures, and the acquisition ofChinese and Indian companies by pharmaceutical giants. A 2011 BusinessMonitor International report suggests that in order for Singapore to continueits success in this sector, the Government may have to consider a further shiftto manufacture biologics and pharmaceuticals, whose manufacture requiresskills and knowledge that emerging markets currently do not possess.The SMF Family 117

LifestyleWho are they?Members comprise companies which are not manufacturers in thetraditional sense of the word. They are mostly lifestyle-oriented businesses,providing services to the general public. They may work with manufacturersin the course of their work. These companies include boutiques, cosmeticscompanies, paper makers, restaurants, watch retailers and banks.118 The SMF Family

HistoryThe Lifestyle Industry Group was officially formed in September 1988 asa result of the merger of several groups, including the Fashion & ApparelIndustry Group and the Jewellery & Watches Industry Group.Current statusAs one of the most diverse industry groups, the seminars and activities itorganises tend to be more general in nature. For instance, a representativefrom the Thai embassy, in response to the political crisis in Thailand in 2010,gave a talk to group members, some of whom had business interests inthe country. It has also organised talks on general business practices likeplanning for business continuity.The group actively promotes industries and services associated with theSingapore lifestyle, both locally and internationally, through trade missions,fairs and networking sessions.FutureThe rising cost of doing business in Singapore remains a concern amongstgroup members, as they grapple with rising land and labour costs.The SMF Family 119

Medical TechnologyWho are they?This group comprises companies involved in the manufacturing of medicalequipment, instruments, diagnostics, and implantable devices like stents,metal and plastic knee-replacement components, and even contactlenses.HistoryMultinationals and local companies in the medical technology businesshived off from the pharmaceutical Industry Group to form a separate groupin 1998. They felt that their industry – in terms of technology, target groupsand standards – was markedly different.The formation of this Industry Group predates Singapore’s push into thebiomedical industry as the Singapore Health Sciences Authority was onlyformed in 2001. In the last decade, the bio-pharmaceutical manufacturingindustry has grown from strength to strength, alongside the establishmentof top life science and medical technology companies in Singapore. Thishas led to the creation of more than 7,000 new jobs and the sprouting ofnumerous local medical technology start-ups.Current statusIn the last decade, the group has played a key role in protecting andpromoting the interests of the industry, and it is committed to continuedoing so.Working closely with the Government, initiatives to grow the industry includeacademic tie-ins to encourage innovation in medical devices, funds forstart-up companies and the development of the MedTech Hub for medicaltechnology manufacturers by the JTC Corporation.120 The SMF Family

FutureThe issue of maintaining standards, in a diverse industry which covers thegamut from MNCs to one-man distributors, remains a challenge.But overall, the future is bright as the wheels set in motion – from thedevelopment of the MedTech Hub to seeding innovation – continue to roll.The SMF Family 121

Metal, Machinery& EngineeringWho are they?These are companies which make machines for manufacturers who needto work with metal. They are engaged in areas like metal fabrication and inengineering services like welding.HistorySingapore’s precision engineering activities began in the 1970s tosupport the first manufacturing investments. Today, there are some 2,700companies, ranging from SMEs to large MNCs, in the precision engineeringsector. Singapore also hosts the headquarters and R&D functions of manyof these companies.Precision engineering is a core enabler for many industries such as complexequipment, marine, aerospace, oil & gas, and the manufacturing of medicaldevices.122 The SMF Family

Singapore’s precision engineering industry has grown from being made upof simple contract manufacturers to solutions providers with strong design,prototyping, production and supply chain management capabilities.Current statusThe focus is on developing a talent pool. In October 2007, a S$76 millionprecision engineering manpower initiative was launched to attract a newgeneration of talent to join the industry, and to upgrade and deepen thecapabilities of Singapore’s precision engineering manpower base.As in times past, the Industry Group organises training programmes andfactory visits for its members.FutureIn 2009, Singapore’s precision engineering industry contributed aboutS$18.3 billion in manufacturing output and S$5.6 billion in value-add. Bothtrends are projected to increase, to S$28 billion and S$10 billion, respectively,by 2018.The SMF Family 123

Packaging Councilof SingaporeWho are they?The Packaging Council of Singapore (PCS) supports companies that makeany sort of packaging material, including protective foam, bubble wrap,wooden pallets, crating, paper, cans, foil, plastic and bottles. It is an incrediblydiverse industry, as it includes companies that make labels for packages.It serves a large group of manufacturers including food and beverage,electrical, electronics, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and cosmetics.HistoryThe PCS was founded in 1975 as a sub-committee of the SMF. In October2001, it absorbed the Plastics Industry Group.The nature of the industry has also changed dramatically over the yearsfollowing changes in lifestyle. For instance, with the advent of cans, glass softdrink bottles, which were a big industry back in the 1970s, were phased out.Current statusThe demand is now for high-end packaging, where manufacturers areexpected to provide end-to-end solutions, from producing the packaging toinserting the instruction manuals in the case of hi-tech products.With increasing customisation, packaging manufacturers in Singapore are alsohaving to produce many different packages for one brand, in what is calledhigh-mix, low-volume packaging.PCS helps packaging companies stay competitive by providing training,conducting research on the packaging industry and producing the onlypackaging directory in Singapore. Going global is also a key focus for124 The SMF Family

the group. The PCS is a member of the Asian Packaging Federation, anon-profit organisation which consists of packaging industry associationsand institutes from various countries in the Asia-Pacific, and of the WorldPackaging Organisation.FutureFuture trends include smart packaging, which can be customised to includecustomer names, and even temperature-sensitive packaging. Imagine: Abeer can which changes colours to indicate the temperature in which thebeer tastes best. To encourage innovation, the PCS runs the SingaporePackaging Star Award, which recognises companies with unique packagingdesigns.The SMF Family 125

Messages fromour Partners

“Manufacturing has been a key engine of growth for the Singapore economy. It willcontinue to play an important role as we reposition ourselves for the future. Sinceits establishment in 1932, the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) hasplayed a vital role in promoting the growth and development of the manufacturingand manufacturing-related industries in Singapore. The past 80 years have seenSMF growing steadily and transforming itself readily to meet the needs of itsmembers and the industry. My heartiest congratulations to the SMF on its 80 thyear of establishment. I wish SMF well as it continues to meet the ever-changingneeds of the manufacturing community. Together, we can strengthen the positionof Singapore as a premier manufacturing hub in Asia for a long time to come.Mr Lim Swee SaySecretary-General, National Trades Union Congressand Minister, Prime Minister’s OfficeI first came into contact with the SMF when I was a young trade negotiator.My negotiating team was trying to find out what benefits our industry wouldlike to see coming out of our various trade agreements. I remember theSMF giving feedback on tariffs as well as non-tariff, custom-based barriersto export.Later on, when I was in the Singapore Workforce Development Agency, Iworked with the SMF again to set up a partnership to deliver quality trainingto workers in the manufacturing sector. The SMF was one of the earlysupporters advocating generic manufacturing skills that are applicable to allmanufacturing sub-sectors.Today, at NTUC, I am still working with the SMF, to promote the use of bettermachinery and automation to raise workers’ productivity, and increase theirwages.The SMF has been a partner throughout my work life. Thank you andcongratulations.Mr Ong Ye KungChairman of the Employment and Employability InstituteDeputy Secretary-General of the National Trades Union Congress127

My heartiest congratulations to the SMF on your 80 th Anniversary! The SMF hascontributed significantly to the growth and competitiveness of manufacturing as a keypillar of Singapore’s economy. It has been our pleasure and privilege to work with you. Welook forward to building on the strong partnership between the Economic DevelopmentBoard and the SMF.We wish you all the best for your upcoming celebrations!Mr Yeoh Keat ChuanManaging DirectorEconomic Development BoardOn behalf of Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore, I would like tocongratulate the SMF on celebrating its 80 th Anniversary this year. The SMF is anexample of a trade association that has, over the years, consistently supportedits members to upgrade and thrive in a competitive environment. ICT is alreadyan integral part of globally-integrated manufacturing and supply chains. The IDAhopes to continue our collaboration with the SMF to identify opportunities for themanufacturing sector to grow to even greater heights through ICT adoption.Mr Ronnie TayChief Executive OfficerInfocomm Development Authority of SingaporeWe would like to congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary. The SMF has played a vital role in promoting thegrowth of the manufacturing industry in Singapore. This has helped our manufacturing sector to move up thetechnological ladder and created highly skilled jobs for our people. As the leading agency tasked to develop adynamic industrial landscape in Singapore, JTC is committed to providing efficient and innovative infrastructuresolutions to differentiate Singapore as a manufacturing location and optimise our land-use. We look forward toour continued partnership with the SMF to bring our manufacturing industry to even greater heights.Mr Manohar KhiataniChief Executive OfficerJTC Corporation128

My heartiest congratulations to the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary.Over the years, the SMF has played a key role in the manufacturing sector, which is a key pillarof Singapore’s economy, accounting for 23 per cent of GDP and 62 per cent of employment.As the industry champion for the manufacturing sector, the SMF has brought together boththe private and public sectors to shape a vibrant and robust manufacturing sector. The SMFhas spearheaded various initiatives to help manufacturing companies upgrade capabilities,innovate, improve productivity and expand into new markets.In particular, the SMF is a key partner of SPRING Singapore in helping manufacturing SMEsthrough its Enterprise Development Centre and its Singapore Innovation & Productivity Institute.It is also a key partner in the national standardisation efforts, leading standards developmentand implementation initiatives in various manufacturing sectors.I am confident that the SMF will continue to play a pivotal role in leading the manufacturingsector in Singapore and am looking forward to continuing this partnership between the SMFand SPRING Singapore into the future.Mr Png Cheong BoonChief ExecutiveSPRING SingaporeThe SMF has been IE Singapore’s close partner all these years, workingwith us to help Singapore enterprises build capabilities and internationalisethrough missions, tradeshows, seminars and industry projects. As wehelp companies become globally competitive, we look forward to evencloser collaboration with the SMF as it champions excellence for itsindustry. On behalf of IE Singapore, I extend our heartiest wishes andcongratulations to the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary.Mr Teo Eng CheongChief Executive OfficerInternational Enterprise SingaporeCongratulations, SMF, on your 80 th Anniversary! I am heartened to note that the SMF, through its F&BIndustry Group, has been steadfast in its support for local food manufacturers. Likewise, the Agri-Food &Veterinary Authority of Singapore has collaborated with the SMF in various ways to co-create pro-businesssolutions, in areas such as food labelling, import and export matters, as well as consumer education onfood safety. We look forward to fostering even closer partnership with the SMF, to uphold high food safetystandards in Singapore and enhance the industry’s competitiveness globally.Ms Tan Poh HongChief Executive OfficerAgri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore129

On behalf of Temasek Polytechnic, I would like to offer my heartiest congratulationsto the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary. We are honoured to count SMF as our partnerin-education,contributing in many ways to our students’ learning and ensuringthat they in turn, would be able to contribute to the development and growth of theindustry they eventually join. I wish the SMF and its members continued successand prosperity for many more years to come.Mr Boo Kheng HuaPrincipal & Chief Executive OfficerTemasek PolytechnicIt is my delight to extend sincere congratulations to the SMF and staff on its80 th Anniversary. This is a significant milestone for the SMF as you continue toserve the manufacturing community. Republic Polytechnic is honoured to beworking with the SMF as a strategic partner to raise the industry standardsthrough continuing education programmes for industry practitioners. We lookforward to strengthening our collaborations and wish the SMF many moregood years ahead.Mr Yeo Li PheowPrincipal/Chief Executive OfficerRepublic PolytechnicI wish to extend my heartiest congratulations on the 80 th Anniversary of the SMF. In recent years,the SMF has been championing the Singapore manufacturing community in establishing Singaporeas one of the premier manufacturing hubs in Asia. With its extensive network, the SMF has greatlyfacilitated Health Sciences Authority’s (HSA) ability to reach out with timely regulatory updates to theSMF members dealing with health products. In turn, our regular interactions with the SMF also allows usto have strategic insights on the industry’s concerns and suggestions. The enhanced communicationhas contributed to effective implementation and strengthened the refinement of the health productsregulatory framework. It has better addressed the concerns of the industry while ensuring public safety.I look forward to further strengthening the good professional relationship between the SMF and HSA.Associate Professor John LimChief Executive OfficerHealth Sciences Authority130

I am much heartened by the strong support rendered by SMF in championing thetraining needs and productivity causes of the manufacturing sector. I would alsolike to congratulate SMF on its 80 th Anniversary, and look forward to bringing ourcollaboration to greater heights in 2012 and beyond.Mr Wong Hong KuanChief ExecutiveSingapore Workforce Development AgencyIt is a pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to the SMF on the occasion of its80 th Anniversary. Since 1932, your organisation has exemplified excellence and leadership.It has done outstanding work to strengthen businesses, helping them seize opportunitiesand achieve sustainable growth. Earlier this year, on behalf of the U.S. International TradeAdministration, I was proud to sign a Statement of Intent with the SMF, building on analready strong partnership. I look forward to our work together to promote commercial tiesbetween the U.S. and Singapore. And please accept my best wishes for continued growthand success.The Honourable Francisco J. SánchezUnder Secretary of Commerce for International TradeU.S.A. Department of CommerceInternational Trade AdministrationIt is my great pleasure to congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary.The SMF has been playing an important role in promoting and strengthening innovation and productivity to provide a completeservice to all its members, the manufacturing community in Singapore, as well as its local and overseas strategic partners.I hope that the SMF will continue to play an important role to support its members and act as the gateway for connectingboth countries’ business and investment activities.I wish the SMF every success in its important work.The Honourable Cham PrasidhSenior Minister and Minister of CommerceKingdom of Cambodia131

The SMF is one of the most professional and important Trade Associationsand Chambers in Singapore that I have come across in my long serviceas Ambassador. The SMF has rendered assistance and service to me andmy country people and has actively forged cordial bilateral economic tiesamong enterprises in my country and Singapore. I really appreciate that.Her Excellency Sin SereyAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Cambodia to SingaporePlease accept my warmest congratulations on celebrating the 80 th Anniversary of SMF.The SMF, which represents the largest community of Singapore’s manufacturing companies, has animportant role in helping its members improve their manufacturing excellence, strengthening theircompetitiveness and exploring new business opportunities both locally and globally.The Embassy highly appreciates the SMF’s close partnership in our joint efforts to strengthenand further develop the mutually beneficial cooperation between Uzbekistan and Singapore’smanufacturing companies.It is my pleasure to wish the SMF new successes in championing Singapore’s manufacturing sectoras well as in contributing to its sustainable growth.I will look forward to further strengthening our partnership and friendship.His Excellency Alisher KurmanovAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiaryof Uzbekistan to SingaporeThe Australian High Commission to Singapore congratulates the SMF onreaching this significant milestone. Over the past 80 years, the SMF hassupported Singapore to evolve into a base for multinational companies– including many of the more than 2,000 Australian companies nowoperating in Singapore – to engage in high-end manufacturing and productdevelopment, deliver services and coordinate regional procurement,production, marketing and distribution operations. We congratulate SMFon a job well done.His Excellency Doug ChesterAustralian High Commissioner to Singapore132

I congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary. The SMF’s evolution throughthe decades is noteworthy. I wish the SMF continued success in deliveringservices to those who depend on the SMF’s effective leadership.His Excellency Dato’ Md Hussin NayanMalaysian High Commissioner to SingaporeHeartiest congratulations to the SMF on the occasion of its 80 th Anniversarycelebration.His Excellency Roland van RemoorteleAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belgium to SingaporeThe SMF has helped propel U.S.-Singapore relations to an all-time high. Congratulations onyour 80 th Anniversary. The United States values our partnership with you and we offer you bestwishes on achieving this important milestone.His Excellency David AdelmanAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States to SingaporeThe Embassy of Italy, as well as on behalf of the Italian Chamber ofCommerce in Singapore and the Italian business community as awhole, expresses the most heartfelt felicitations to the SMF on theoccasion of its 80 th Anniversary.Indeed, Italy and the SMF can have many opportunities for furthercooperation and interaction that are mutually beneficial. In the lightof the increasingly productive trading and financial relations betweenItaly and Singapore, I express my sincere wishes for further, brilliantsuccesses of the SMF.His Excellency Anacleto FelicaniAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Italy to Singapore133

It gives me great pleasure to congratulate you on your 80 th Anniversary Celebration.May I wish you every success and many more good years ahead in your service to themanufacturing community both locally and internationally. Furthermore, it is my desire tostrengthen the friendly ties between Spain and Singapore.My personal regards to all your members for good health, happiness and prosperity.His Excellency Federico Palomera GuezAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Spain to SingaporeI hereby extend my heartfelt congratulations to the SMF for its 80 th Anniversary and for thepublication of its Commemorative Book to showcase the important milestones of the SMFsince its establishment in 1932. Being Singapore’s largest organisation to represent theinterest of manufacturing and manufacturing–related industries, the SMF has contributed tothe development of Singapore’s manufacturing sector and has supported its competitivenessand sustainable growth over these years. As a major partner organisation in Singaporecontributing to the enhancement of bilateral economic and commercial ties between Turkeyand Singapore, I look forward to furthering the dialogue and cooperation with the SMF.His Excellency H. Taner SebenAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to SingaporeOn behalf of the Royal Thai Government and the Royal Thai Embassy, I would like to congratulate the SMFon its 80 th Anniversary of establishing the SMF. For the years, it is recognised that the SMF has maintainedits pertinent role as one of the important engines to stimulate the vibrant growth of the economy ofSingapore, to which I would like to laud the success of the SMF. For this remarkable milestone of the SMF,I wish the SMF and its members the continued success and prosperity.Singapore and Thailand are indeed strategic economic partners. The activities, such as businessmatchmaking, networking sessions and the exchange of trade missions have definitely facilitated andbenefitted the two sides. Connectivity indeed lies at the heart of all successes. Through the continuedefforts of the SMF and its Thai counterparts, I look forward to the enhanced economic cooperationbetween the SMF and Thailand, which will help to ensure sustainable economic growth of the twocountries for the years to come.His Excellency Marut JitpatimaAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Thailand to Singapore134

The British High Commission would like to congratulate the SMF on reachingits 80 th birthday. We have had a long and fruitful relationship with you andare grateful for your professional support and friendship. We look forward toworking with you in the future, hopefully for at least the next 80 years, andwe wish you every success going forward.Ms Judith SlaterActing British High Commissioner to SingaporeCongratulations on the SMF’s 80 th Anniversary!The SMF is indeed a success story. And as Confucius says: “Success depends upon previouspreparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure”.The success of the SMF certainly lies not only in its ability to prepare its own organisation for thepermanent challenges and surprises the business world always has up its sleeve, but also in its ability,knowledge, service and successful support to its members. However, there is more to an organisationthat has endured the life span of 80 years – and this is hard work. We therefore congratulate the SMFand all its hardworking teams for their endurance, their motivation and the hard work they have put into form this very fine organisation.With our very best wishes for the coming 80 years.Mr Volker R. AmmannChargé d’Affaires a.i.Commercial CounsellorAustria Embassy to Singapore135

The SMF, no doubt, these 80 years, lived up to the vision and mission of itsfounding members. Indeed, the success story of Singapore is critically linked to thecommitment, innovation and success of the SMF.As you celebrate the 80 th Anniversary, the High Commission of Nigeria, in Singapore,cannot but wish the SMF a greater and brighter future in contributing positivelytowards the sustainable growth of Singapore’s economy.While looking forward to a more fruitful partnership in the years ahaed, we wish youa happy 80 years anniversary.Mr S.A.O. EgurubeDeputy Head of MissionThe High Commission of NigeriaOn the occasion of the 80 th Anniversary of the SMF, the commercial section ofthe Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore warmly wishes that the cordialrelations developed between the two organisations over the years passedwill be further strengthened in the years to come to serve the respectivebusiness communities of both countries better.Mr Ananda DharmapriyaMinister (Commercial)Sri Lanka High Commission in SingaporeI am pleased to offer my sincere congratulations to the SMF on the occasionof your 80 th Anniversary. The U.S. Commercial Service looks forward tocontinuing to work closely with the SMF to increase trade and investmentbetween the United States and Singapore.Mr Patrick SantilloCommercial CounselorU.S. EmbassySingapore136

I wish to extend our heartiest congratulations andappreciation to the SMF in championing and promoting thegrowth of Singapore’s industries. Ascendas, as a businessspace provider to many of your members, is privileged towork with successive SMF leadership and members inSingapore and Asia, and I look forward to even greaterpartnership for many more decades to come.Ms Chong Siak ChingPresident and CEOAscendasThe SMF has always been the stalwart champion for the local manufacturingcommunity, being the voice for these critical economic businesses on thenational platform. The Association of Small and Medium Enterprises ishonoured to be working closely with the SMF for a pro-enterprise Singapore,as well as to aid the companies that fall under our representation.I am confident that the SMF will continue to deliver added value and greaterbenefits to all within the manufacturing sector in the years to come.I wish the SMF every success in their future endeavours.Mr Chan Chong BengPresidentAssociation of Small and Medium EnterprisesOver the past 80 years, the SMF has played a key role in keeping our manufacturing sector robust,innovative and competitive.As the national federation of Singapore’s manufacturing industry, your support for continuouslearning and enterprise development has positioned Singapore well in competing on a dynamicglobal platform. The SMF Institute of Higher Learning has also continued to produce graduates withpractical and global perspectives to meet the myriad needs of the industry.The Australian Alumni Singapore is glad to have the SMF as one of our key partners. Together, wewill continue engaging members to build a strong and cohesive community in Singapore.I congratulate the SMF on your 80 th Anniversary and wish you all the best in the years ahead!Mr Loh Hoon SunPresidentAustralian Alumni Singapore137

At Edith Cowan University we value our partnership with the SMFbecause of their deep commitment to the quality of our programmes ininternational education. We congratulate the SMF on its eight decadesof fine achievements.Professor Kerry O. CoxVice-Chancellor and PresidentEdith Cowan UniversityWestern AustraliaOn behalf of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), it gives me greatpleasure to congratulate the SMF on the happy occasion of its 80 th Anniversary.Over the years, we have witnessed the significant role that has been played by theSMF in promoting the interests of the manufacturing community and the significantcontributions made to the growth and expansion of the economy of Singapore. TheFMM values the close working relationship that we have forged with the SMF andlooks forward to continued engagement and collaboration moving forward. The FMMwould like to extend our best wishes on this joyous occasion and wish the SMFcontinued success in the years ahead.Tan Sri Datuk Yong Poh KonPresidentFederation of Malaysian ManufacturersThe SMF has demonstrated its leadership in championing productivityimprovement in the manufacturing sector. JMA Consultants Inc (JMAC) isproud to have partnered with the SMF to provide training and coachingopportunities to upgrade Singapore companies to implement Lean SixSigma methodology in improving their productivity. JMAC is very pleasedto be part of this collaboration with the SMF. We congratulate the SMF fortaking the lead in promoting productivity in Singapore.Mr Takashi AsanoPresidentJMA Consultants Inc Management Planning Office138

In the words of NBA player extraordinaire and legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: “Great playersare willing to give up their own personal achievement for the achievement of the group. Itenhances everybody.” The SMF has demonstrated great collaborative work with Singaporemanufacturers, particularly enhancing the capabilities and connections of SMEs within themanufacturing community. This hallmark of achievement is only borne through the visionand tenacity of the Federation over the many years leading up to the 80 th Anniversary.Heartiest congratulations to the team and its leadership!Ms Chen Yew NahManaging DirectorDP Information GroupManufacturing and service industries are the twin engines that propel the growth of the Singapore economy. Themanufacturing industry commenced in the very early days in the form of family enterprises. It went through labourintensive, capital intensive and today, it is a knowledge-based industry.In the past 80 years, the SMF has guided the manufacturing industry to overcome all the obstacles encounteredand to strive through all the ups and downs. Today, you are again leading the manufacturing industry to take up thechallenges in the IT era. We congratulate you for all the efforts and successes and look forward to your leadershipin the coming years.Mr Wong Mong HongPresidentSingapore Food Manufacturers’ Association139

At this very special time, I would, on behalf of myself, the Staff and Membersof the Australian Institute of Management WA, like to congratulate the SMFin achieving 80 years of dedicated service to the Singaporean manufacturingindustry, Government, and local and overseas partners.This is a significant milestone in the history of the Federation.Its engagement with leadership and enterprise development, alongsidea commitment to continuous improvement and education, has made animportant contribution to shaping the future of its member organisations.I have had the pleasure of being associated with the SMF for more than10 years and during that time I have been impressed by its commitment,integrity and professionalism.I am confident the SMF will continue to go from strength to strength in theyears that lie ahead.I wish the Federation every success.Emeritus Professor Gary MartinChief Executive OfficerAustralian Institute of Management WAOn behalf of the Singapore Furniture Industries Council, it is my pleasureto congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary. The SFIC and the SMF’scollaboration has been a fruitful one to date. I look forward to more years ofpartnership to build Singapore as a furniture hub in both its designing andmanufacturing excellence for the international markets.Mr James GohPresidentSingapore Furniture Industries Council140

Dassault Systemes Singapore would like to congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary. We praisethe SMF on its commitment to support and groom Singapore’s manufacturing community to agreater level. We wish the staff and management at the SMF the very best as they celebrate thisimpressive milestone.Mr Samson KhaouManaging DirectorAsia Pacific SouthDassault Systemes SingaporeCongratulations, Chairman and Council, Management and Staff of the SMF, on this joyous occasion.Your organisation is now 80 years old. It is still energetic, and has grown wiser and become moreunderstanding. The SMF has come a long way; your history is yuan yuan liu chang ( 源 远 流 长 ),your responsibilities are weighty and the journey long. This is really 任 重 道 远 the case indeed. Andespecially so, in the last few years, when you led the organisation to make quantum leaps, both inthe range and the scope of the SMF’s services to your members and the manufacturing community,and in contributing significantly to Singapore’s economy.WaterTech in particular has a deeper appreciation of the SMF’s work and enthusiasm in providingpersonalised services at the right time and place to companies in need, especially after havingworked closely with the SMF and other agencies to organise and participate in an exhibition projectin the recent World Cities Summit. WaterTech and many other companies have benefited from theSMF’s comprehensive contributions, be they technical assistance, marketing, human resources, ortraining and development.Congratulations again. May the SMF grow ever stronger as an institution and its members moresuccessful under the SMF’s leadership! Thank you for the SMF’s encouragement and support.Mr Lau Wah MingRetired Secretary to the Cabinet & Vice ChairmanWaterTech Pte Ltd141

The SMF is a critical player in Singapore’s ever-evolving manufacturing sector.It has helped address various challenges over the last 80 years. From operatingproduction lines in the past to managing biotech and high-end technologies intoday’s manufacturing sector, the SMF has been instrumental in helping the industryovercome challenges and to step up to new opportunities. Today, more than ever,we need a strong industry leader like the SMF to address workplace safety andhealth issues that have arisen in the last few years. Other developments includetechnologies that bring new work risks, the modernisation of traditional workprocesses and manufacturing facilities, and the changing workforce demographicslike ageing workers and work health concerns. The Workplace Safety and HealthCouncil looks forward to working closely with the SMF in all these areas to ensurethat this dynamic sector continues to stay ahead.Mr Lai Poon PiauExecutive DirectorWorkplace Safety and Health CouncilMurdoch University is proud of its partnership with the SMF’s Institute of HigherLearning. We look forward to many years of continued success as we worktogether to provide high quality Higher Education for our students in Singapore.Congratulations on your impressive achievements over the past 80 years. HappyAnniversary!Prof Richard HiggottVice ChancellorMurdoch University142

SPETA would like to send our heartiest congratulations to the SMF for your 80 th Anniversarythis year. We applaud your organisation’s many achievements, especially to Singapore’smanufacturing community. We look forward to continuing this strong relationship with yourorganisation in the years to come.Dr Ricky SouwChairmanSingapore Precision Engineering and Tooling AssociationWith 80 rich years of championing the manufacturing industry, the SMF has indeed been a keyplayer in transforming Singapore into the dynamic manufacturing hub we see today.Congratulations SMF, and may you continue in your quest to drive competitiveness and sustainablegrowth. Canon Singapore looks forward to many more years of partnership with the SMF toempower businesses with the right business solutions and the know-how in pursuing technologicalinnovation and productivity.Mr Von ChanDirector and General ManagerBusiness Imaging Solutions and Business Solutions DivisionCanon Singapore Pte LtdCongratulations to the SMF on your 80 th Anniversary. Having been part of the fabric ofSingapore for over 150 years, Standard Chartered Bank is proud to have supported youthrough the years.Mr Ray FergusonCEOSingaporeStandard Chartered Bank143

On behalf of NTUC FairPrice Co-operative, we wish the SMF a happy 80 thAnniversary!For eight decades, the SMF has been representing the interests of themanufacturing sector in Singapore. It has taken a holistic approach andchampioned various effective initiatives to bring Singapore’s manufacturingindustry to greater heights. We salute the good work of the SMF, and lookforward to many more years of partnership with you so that we may all continueto stay competitive and enjoy sustainable growth in the years to come.Mr Tan Kian ChewGroup CEONTUC FairPrice Co-operative LimitedOn behalf of the Design Singapore Council, I would like to congratulate the SMF onits 80 th Anniversary. We have been working with the SMF to inspire and encourage itsmembers to use design in their businesses as this enables manufacturers to achievegreater productivity, competitiveness and sustainable growth. I look forward to continuedcollaborations with the SMF to catalyse design-driven innovations in the manufacturingindustry.Mr Jeffrey HoExecutive DirectorDesign Singapore Council144

On behalf of the members and staff at Food Industry Asia, we congratulate the SMF onreaching this auspicious milestone. We have come to rely on the SMF Food & BeverageCommittee as the trusted voice of food manufacturers in Singapore and we are honouredto formally recognise the SMF as our valued partner and Associate Member. We send ourvery best wishes to the whole SMF team for ongoing growth, success and prosperity in thenext 80 years.Dr Bev PostmaExecutive DirectorFood Industry AsiaI’m delighted to congratulate the SMF on its 80 th Anniversary.The manufacturing sector is a strategic sector in Singapore with vast spin-offs to many other sectors. The SMFhas contributed tremendously to the vitality and growth of many companies in this sector. It has helped themtransform, move to higher value added activities and into manufacturing services. SMF’s own re-positioning reflectsthe continuous transformation of this extremely competitive sector.Since Singapore Business Federation’s (SBF) inauguration in 2002, SMF has been an important member of the SBFfamily, working closely on a variety of activities in the service of the business community. These include businessmissions, policy briefings, capacity building initiatives and more recently the SBF-led SME Committee to look intothe needs and concerns of SMEs. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank SMF for its close collaborationwith SBF.”SBF looks forward to many more years of close business fraternity with SMF.Gerald De CottaDirectorCorporate CommunicationsSingapore Business Federation145

新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 成 立 八 十 周 年 志 庆引 领 制 造 业- 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事1932 年 9 月 20 日 是 新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 ( 前 身 为 新 加 坡制 造 商 联 合 会 ) 成 立 的 日 子 。 本 会 的 成 立 为 新 加 坡 工商 业 人 士 团 结 互 助 的 精 神 奠 定 了 良 好 的 基 础 。 今 年 ,总 会 庆 祝 成 立 八 十 周 年 , 为 此 总 会 特 别 出 版 了 精 美 纪念 特 刊 , 以 见 证 该 会 的 发 展 历 程 、 新 总 部 落 成 、 新 徽章 的 启 用 以 及 总 会 命 名 的 胡 姬 花 。146 引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事

回 顾 新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 ( “ 总会 ”) 漫 步 时 光 隧 道 八 十 年 , 几 经 沧桑 与 艰 辛 , 却 能 不 断 茁 壮 成 长 , 荆 途上 树 立 了 无 数 闪 亮 的 里 程 碑 。 今 天 ,本 会 已 发 展 成 为 拥 有 3000 名 大 小 企业 的 团 体 , 全 赖 领 导 层 及 会 员 的 努力 , 以 及 劳 、 资 、 政 三 方 面 相 互 配 合的 成 果 。新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 新 总 部为 配 合 世 界 工 业 潮 流 转 变 , 总 会及 附 属 团 体 与 时 并 进 , 不 断 创 新 。资 深 前 副 会 长 陈 宝 开 先 生 说 :“ 工 业形 态 瞬 息 万 变 , 难 以 推 测 。 风 向 转 变时 , 有 人 筑 墙 ; 有 人 造 风 车 。 要 掌 握时 局 , 创 造 契 机 , 顺 应 潮 流 , 才 是 明智 之 举 。”艰 辛 创 建 , 稳 健 成 长1932-19651929 年 世 界 经 济 大 萧 条 重 创 新 加 坡 经 济 , 主 要 的 锡 与 橡 胶 工 业摇 摇 欲 坠 。 海 峡 殖 民 地 总 督 赛 西 尔 金 文 泰 倡 议 在 丹 戎 巴 葛 火 车 站 主 办商 展 , 协 助 本 地 小 企 业 与 扶 持 新 行 业 。 在 英 殖 民 地 政 府 鼓 催 之 下 ,1932 年 9 月 20 日 正 式 成 立 了 新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 ( 原 为 新 加 坡 制 造 商 联合 会 )。总 会 成 立 最 初 二 十 四 年 , 共 由 八 人 继 管 。 第 三 任 理 事 长 郑 连 德 先生 是 首 位 掌 管 总 会 的 华 人 。 郑 先 生 是 殖 民 地 时 代 , 立 法 会 议 员 中 最 年轻 的 华 人 领 袖 。 他 参 与 大 量 的 公 共 委 员 会 与 公 益 活 动 , 人 脉 广 泛 。 总会 努 力 为 会 员 谋 求 福 利 , 争 取 改 变 不 公 平 交 易 手 段 、 向 政 府 献 议 与 联系 媒 体 。 新 加 坡 东 海 岸 尚 有 以 郑 连 德 先 生 的 名 字 命 名 的 街 道 , 以 纪 念他 的 贡 献 。引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事 147

工 潮 迭 起 , 严 重 影 响 经 济二 次 大 战 期 间 , 日 军 占 领 新 加 坡 , 本 地 生 产 活 动 停 顿 下 来 。 郑 连德 先 生 不 幸 罹 难 , 总 会 停 止 运 作 。 许 多 公 司 被 日 军 接 管 , 人 民 与 商 家经 历 最 艰 难 的 时 期 。 日 本 被 打 败 后 , 新 加 坡 重 返 英 国 人 手 里 。“ 香 蕉钞 ” 报 废 , 资 源 短 缺 , 物 价 飞 涨 , 人 民 生 活 于 水 深 火 热 中 , 引 发 社 会动 荡 。 厂 商 努 力 恢 复 生 产 , 但 恶 劣 的 工 作 环 境 导致 工 人 不 满 , 引 发 了 大 工 潮 。 不 满 的 情 绪 , 延 伸到 50 年 代 , 牵 起 了 学 潮 与 工 潮 。1958 年 , 新 加 坡经 济 受 到 世 界 性 贸 易 萧 条 的 冲 击 , 加 上 英 国 人 在治 理 上 的 软 弱 , 导 致 本 地 人 政 治 上 的 觉 醒 , 努 力争 取 自 我 当 家 。 此 后 , 英 国 人 逐 渐 让 本 地 人 接 手管 理 新 加 坡 。恶 劣 的 工 人 生 活 环 境1959 年 , 人 民 行 动 党 在 大 选 中 获 胜 。 李 光 耀先 生 出 任 新 加 坡 第 一 任 总 理 后 , 新 政 府 推 出 五 年计 划 , 以 工 业 推 动 新 加 坡 经 济 的 发 展 。 总 会 积 极响 应 与 配 合 , 而 当 时 的 财 政 部 长 吴 庆 瑞 博 士 也 大力 支 持 总 会 。 总 会 成 为 新 政 府 的 得 力 伙 伴 , 协 助 政 府 推 行 工 业 化 计 划和 发 展 制 造 业 。 总 会 的 会 员 不 断 增 加 , 最 早 加 入 的 制 造 商 有 联 合 工程 (United Engineers)、 新 加 坡 冷 藏 公 司 (Singapore Cold Storage)、Malayan Paint、 星 狮 集 团 (Fraser & Neave)、 何 鸿 炼 油 厂 (Ho Hong148 引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事

总 会 积 极 配 合 新 加 坡 政 府 制 定 的 发 展 策 略 , 与 经 济 发 展 局 与 裕 廊镇 管 理 局 合 作 , 成 为 政 府 的 工 作 伙 伴 。 政 府 还 邀 请 总 会 参 与 工 业 与 劳工 政 策 的 制 定 , 协 助 推 行 新 政 策 , 吸 引 外 资 大 量 流 入 我 国 , 促 进 制 造业 的 发 展 。 在 亚 细 安 成 立 的 时 侯 , 总 会 致 力 促 进 各 会 员 国 之 间 的 贸 易联 系 , 令 总 会 会 员 获 得 开 拓 新 市 场 的 机 会 。为 了 鼓 励 公 司 在 新 加 坡 生 产 全 新 的 产 品 , 政 府 采 取 “ 开 放 门户 ” 政 策 。 跨 国 企 业 到 新 加 坡 投 资 时 可 以 拥 有 绝 对 自 主 权 。 政 府 还 给予 生 产 新 产 品 的 公 司 “ 先 锋 者 地 位 ” 和 五 年 免 税 优 惠 。 总 会 在 本 地 和国 外 积 极 招 商 , 并 协 助 会 员 取 得 “ 先 锋 者 地 位 ”。Makino Asia 就 是在 那 个 时 侯 前 来 新 加 坡 投 资 , 总 裁 莫 壮 涛 博 士 指 出 公 司 现 在 完 全 由 本地 人 管 理 。 由 于 大 量 外 资 到 新 加 坡 开 设 工 厂 和 招 聘 员 工 , 让 政 府 克 服了 英 军 撤 退 时 引 发 的 经 济 问 题 。产 品 与 设 计 中 心 陈 列 本 地 制 造 的 产 品1969 年 , 裕 廊 正 式 开 发 为 工 业 区 。 总会 积 极 鼓 励 本 地 公 司 设 立 工 厂 , 而 理 事 长王 麟 川 先 生 则 鼓 励 商 家 从 传 统 贸 易 行 业 投身 制 造 业 。 在 总 会 推 动 下 , 新 工 厂 涌 现 ,制 造 业 占 国 内 生 产 总 值 的 比 例 , 从 1959 年的 9% 增 加 至 1979 年 的 23.6%。 为 了 协 助会 员 建 立 “ 新 加 坡 制 造 ” 的 品 牌 , 总 会 在会 址 总 部 成 立 了 “ 产 品 与 设 计 中 心 ”, 让公 众 了 解 本 地 制 造 的 产 品 。 总 会 也 派 遣 代表 团 到 国 外 宣 传 会 员 的 产 品 , 帮 助 他 们 开发 国 际 市 场 。 从 1970 年 至 1979 年 , 本 地 产品 的 出 口 额 猛 增 了 十 倍 。为 了 使 新 加 坡 品 牌 能 展 翅 高 飞 , 总 会 与 新 加 坡 标 准 与 工 业 研 究 所合 作 鉴 定 本 地 产 品 的 质 量 。 总 会 为 会 员 开 办 质 量 改 进 课 程 , 鼓 励 他 们取 得 品 质 认 证 。 为 了 帮 助 会 员 提 高 产 品 品 质 , 总 会 协 助 会 员 招 聘 工 程师 与 技 师 等 熟 练 技 术 工 人 。 总 会 也 制 定 了 本 地 产 品 应 用 条 码 的 规 格 ,广 泛 地 应 用 到 生 产 与 零 售 业 , 帮 助 会 员 降 低 生 产 成 本 。150 引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事

总 会 代 表 出 访 韩 国总 会 主 办 巴 淡 岛 投 资 考 察 团 会 议总 会 组 织 了 许 多 贸 易 与 投 资 代 表 团 , 带 领 会 员 到 国 外 展 开 第 二 对翅 膀 。 帮 助 会 员 “ 区 域 化 与 国 际 化 ”, 把 劳 工 密 集 工 业 转 移 到 成 本 较低 的 国 家 。 许 多 会 员 因 此 提 升 成 为 区 域 性 或 国 际 性 的 跨 国 公 司 。1985 年 , 新 加 坡 面 临 经 济 严 重 衰 退 的 严 峻 考 验 。 总 会 受 邀 参 与 由李 显 龙 准 将 主 持 的 经 济 委 员 会 的 工 作 小 组 , 协 助 政 府 机 构 制 定 策 略 和应 对 措 施 。 总 会 一 方 面 协 助 会 员 把 生 产 作 业 自 动 化 , 以 提 高 生 产 力 和降 低 成 本 ; 另 一 方 面 协 助 被 裁 工 友 寻 找 新 工 作 。 同 时 , 总 会 与 裕 廊 镇管 理 局 进 行 协 调 , 降 低 工 业 用 地 与 店 面 的 租 金 。 新 加 坡 迅 速 走 出 经 济不 景 的 阴 霾 。九 十 年 代 开 始 , 不 同 工 业 团 体 为 了 本 身 的 需 要 , 组 织 本 身 的 公会 , 如 新 加 坡 中 小 型 企 业 公 会 、 新 加 坡 家 具 商 理 事 会 与 新 加 坡 化 学 工业 理 事 会 等 。 总 会 资 深 会 员 陈 宝 开 先 生 指 出 它 们 虽 属 于 独 立 公 会 , 但仍 以 总 会 为 本 。 为 了 能 够 代 表 这 些 新 成 立 的 公 会 , 在 理 事 长 蔡 哲 洲 拿督 的 倡 议 下 , 总 会 改 组 为 新 加 坡 工 业 联 合 总 会 , 首 次 允 许 在 新 加 坡 注册 , 但 生 产 基 地 设 在 国 外 的 公 司 加 入 ; 此 外 , 蔡 先 生 邀 请 在 新 加 坡 的国 际 商 团 的 领 袖 成 为 总 会 理 事 。 这 些 改 变 , 获 得 政 府 的 赞 许 与 支 持 。引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事 151

创 新 求 变 , 持 续 发 展1997-2012跨 入 二 十 一 世 纪 , 数 码 与 互 联 网 时 代 降 临 , 加速 了 各 方 面 改 变 的 步 伐 。 生 产 业 与 经 济 的 周 期 越来 越 短 , 经 济 衰 退 的 发 生 频 率 提 高 了 。 总 会 与 会员 在 这 期 间 经 历 了 沙 斯 爆 发 、 伊 拉 克 战 争 、 南 亚大 海 啸 与 2008 年 的 经 济 危 机 。 新 加 坡 工 业 联 合 总会 主 动 寻 求 改 变 , 在 2002 年 进 行 改 组 , 成 为 新 加坡 制 造 商 联 合 会 。 总 会 重 新 定 义 “ 制 造 业 ”, 不再 局 限 于 拥 有 工 厂 的 制 造 商 。 以 服 务 业 为 主 的 远东 花 卉 有 限 公 司 因 此 加 入 了 总 会 。此 外 , 外 国 公 司 也 能 借 助 总 会 的 本 地 网络 , 进 驻 新 加 坡 市 场 。 如 2012 年 加 入 总 会 的 中德 环 保 。 这 家 总 部 设 于 德 国 的 公 司 , 专 门 从 事将 垃 圾 转 化 为 再 生 能 源 的 事 业 。 它 的 愿 景 是 成为 “ 地 球 清 洁 工 ”, 而 新 加 坡 是 它 拓 展 计 划 的目 标 之 一 。中 德 环 保 的 董 事 会 主 席 陈 泽 峰 说 :“ 中 德 环 保 集 合 了 德 国 的 高 端工 程 技 术 和 中 国 的 低 制 造 成 本 等 优 势 。 新 加 坡 是 个 理 想 的 基 点 , 允 许我 们 扩 大 在 东 南 亚 地 区 的 商 机 。 我 们 期 待 着 与 新 加 坡 的 其 他 企 业 建 立业 务 关 系 。”中 德 环 保 总 部152 引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事

他 也 表 示 :“ 我 认 为 , 想 要 了 解 新 加 坡 市场 的 运 作 模 式 , 加 入 总 会 是 最 有 效 的 方 式 。”新 加 坡 创 新 与 生 产 力 局 主 办培 训 活 动总 会 认 识 到 制 造 业 要 提 高 生 产 力 与 持 续发 展 , “ 培 训 ” 是 不 可 或 缺 的 一 环 。 总 会主 办 各 种 讲 座 , 让 会 员 了 解 政 府 制 定 的 劳动 力 培 训 政 策 与 培 训 基 金 的 详 情 。 另 外 ,也 开 办 基 本 英 语 会 话 班 至 商 业 管 理 硕 士 课程 , 并 与 劳 动 力 发 展 局 合 力 开 发 短 期 课 程 ,让 小 型 企 业 的 工 友 用 最 短 的 时 间 修 完 课 程 。总 会 成 立 了 三 个 卓 越 学 习 中 心 以 推 广 培 训 计划 , 它 们 是 : 新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 企 业 学 习中 心 、 新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 高 等 教 育 学 院 以 及 企业 发 展 中 心 。总 会 还 为 各 制 造 领 域 规 划 了 生 产 力 蓝 图 , 协 助 制 造 商 修 订 作 业 的流 程 , 配 合 政 府 提 高 生 产 力 的 目 标 。 总 会 主 办 “ 新 加 坡 生 产 力 与 创 新研 讨 会 ”, 并 成 立 “ 生 产 力 与 创 新 工 作 小 组 ”; 与 劳 动 力 发 展 局 联办 “SME 强 ” 课 程 ; 为 公 司 领 导 层 开 办 生 产 力 课 程 。 荣 寿 司 的 总 裁符 标 雄 先 生 受 训 后 指 出 , 课 程 有 助 于 提 高 公 司 生 产 力 , 并 降 低 运 作 成本 。“ 取 诸 社 会 , 用 诸 社 会 ” 是 总 会 一 贯 的 信 念 。 总 会 设 立 大 学 奖 学金 协 助 贫 困 家 庭 的 孩 子 继 续 升 学 ; 开 办 课 程 让 即 将 退 休 的 保 安 人 员 能够 在 退 休 后 转 换 职 业 ; 颁 发 助 学 金 让 会 员 和 他 们 的 孩 子 到 新 加 坡 制 造商 总 会 高 等 教 育 研 究 学 院 修 读 大 学 学 位 。 总 会 与 社 区 建 立 起 密 切 的 联系 , 有 助 于 扩 大 总 会 的 网 络 。总 会 指 出 环 保 也 是 制 造 业 持 续 发 展 的 另 一 个 要 素 。 总 会 以 身 作 则获 得 了 “ 环 保 办 公 室 ” 的 认 证 。“ 绿 色 环 保 ” 是 制 造 业 发 展 的 新 趋势 , 许 多 欧 洲 公 司 都 会 要 求 生 意 伙 伴 具 有 绿 色 环 保 认 证 。 可 口 可 乐 公司 与 总 会 携 手 , 提 高 工 厂 用 水 的 效 率 , 降 低 耗 电 量 , 减 少 了 碳 气 的 排放 。引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事 153

迎 接 挑 战 , 展 望 未 来总 会 在 过 去 八 十 年 , 协 助 会 员 度 过 重 重 难 关 , 并 不 断 茁 壮 成 长 。会 员 来 自 中 小 型 企 业 与 跨 国 公 司 , 年 龄 层 分 布 广 。 大 家 集 思 广 益 , 协助 会 员 拓 展 事 业 。 像 陈 宝 开 先 生 自 七 十 年 代 , 就 一 直 活 跃 于 总 会 。Paclin 的 张 汉 运 先 生 通 过 总 会 的 联 络 网 , 使 公 司 的 营 业 扩 大 到 印 尼 、马 来 西 亚 和 澳 门 等 地 。新 加 坡 政 府 估 计 制 造 业 仍 会 占 全 国 生 产 总 值 的 四 分 之 一 左 右 。 但是 如 何 保 持 制 造 业 的 兴 旺 , 如 何 面 对 拥 有 廉 价 土 地 与 劳 动 力 的 中 国 和印 度 的 竞 争 , 如 何 充 分 利 用 新 加 坡 有 限 的 人 力 资 源 等 等 问 题 , 是 总 会必 须 协 助 会 员 解 决 的 困 难 。 总 会 会 长 黄 章 谊 说 :“ 唯 有 改 变 , 才 能 适应 和 生 存 。” 因 此 , 总 会 改 变 以 往 只 收 制 造 商 的 规 矩 , 招 揽 供 应 商 ,接 受 工 厂 设 在 国 外 的 企 业 总 部 成 为 会 员 , 扩 大 会 员 的 “ 接 触 点 ”, 形成 更 大 的 总 会 网 络 。总 会 通 过 属 下 的 培 训 机 构 为 会 员 主 办 生 产 力 课 程 、 研 讨 会 与 讲座 , 并 且 协 助 中 小 企 业 电 脑 化 与 自 动 化 , 减 少 对 劳 动 力 的 依 赖 。 总 会继 续 协 助 会 员 建 立 本 身 的 品 牌 。 亚 太 酿 酒 厂 总 经 理 郑 健 发 指 出 公 司 因为 建 立 了 “ 虎 标 啤 酒 ” 的 品 牌 , 而 能 傲 立 于 世 界 上 。 此 外 , 总 会 会 向政 府 反 映 市 场 的 需 求 ; 与 教 育 部 、 教 育 机 构 、 新 加 坡 科 技 与 设 计 大学 、 人 力 部 以 及 经 济 发 展 局 进 行 对 话 和 协 商 , 以 培 养 多 技 能 与 热 爱 制造 业 的 人 才 。 随 着 高 龄 工 友 不 断 增 加 , 加 上 重 新 雇 佣 法 令 的 落 实 , 总会 、 职 总 就 业 与 职 能 培 训 中 心 及 新 加 坡 共 和 理 工 学 院 联 合 推 出 生 产 力提 升 课 程 , 协 助 高 龄 工 友 提 高 生 产 力 和 帮 助 他 们 重 新 就 业 。2012 年 , 总 会 会 员 见 证 新 总 部 落 成 、 新 徽 章 的 启 用 与 新 身 份 的建 立 。 总 会 将 继 续 以 不 断 求 新 求 变 的 精 神 面 向 未 来 , 应 付 挑 战 。 会 长黄 章 谊 最 后 借 用 非 洲 的 一 句 名 言 概 括 :“ 如 果 你 想 走 得 快 , 就 单 独 一个 人 走 ; 如 果 你 想 走 得 远 , 就 跟 大 家 一 起 走 。” 他 说 :“ 新 加 坡 制 造商 总 会 能 茁 壮 成 长 , 是 因 为 我 们 与 重 要 的 伙 伴 紧 密 联 系 在 一 起 , 尤 其是 与 政 府 机 构 的 合 作 。 我 坚 信 在 伙 伴 的 支 持 与 合 作 下 , 我 们 将 走 得 更远 , 让 制 造 业 继 续 成 为 新 加 坡 经 济 的 一 个 重 要 支 柱 。”154 引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事

新 加 坡 制 造 商 总 会 附 属 团 体制 造 业 在 现 代 社 会 的 影 响 广 泛 , 人 们 的 生 活 离 不 开 制 造 业 生 产 的产 品 。 制 造 业 的 范 围 广 而 繁 复 , 因 此 , 总 会 把 属 下 的 会 员 分 为 11 个 工业 小 组 , 以 便 更 好 地 专 注 个 别 工 业 的 需 要 。随 着 制 造 业 的 不 断 更 新 , 工 业 小 组 不 是 一 成 不 变 , 而 是 根 据 变 化而 重 新 组 织 小 组 。 不 过 , 小 组 的 基 本 使 命 维 持 一 致 , 那 就 是 :• 代 表 会 员 的 集 体 声 音 , 确 保 会 员 所 属 的 个 别 工 业 能 在 总 会 和 国 外 获得 认 可• 引 领 新 工 业 的 发 展 方 向• 组 织 联 谊 活 动 、 展 览 会 与 研 讨 会• 让 会 员 了 解 与 认 识 最 新 技 术 、 政 府 的 新 措 施 与 世 界 的 工 业 潮 流• 通 过 展 览 会 与 贸 易 访 问 团 协 助 会 员 扩 大 市 场引 领 制 造 业 - 携 手 共 创 建 国 故 事 155

Acknowledgements

Long StandingMembersAs the SMF turns 80, we will like to acknowledgeour members, some of whom have been withus for decades. These companies have beeninstrumental in our success. Below is a list ofsome of our long-standing members.80 yearsCoca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte Ltd60 – 79 yearsLam Soon Singapore Pte LtdAuric Pacific Food Industries Pte Ltd50 – 59 yearsYHS (Singapore) Pte LtdAmoy Canning Corporation (S) LtdKhong Guan Biscuit Factory (S) Pte Ltd40 – 49 yearsPrima LimitedSIS ‘88 Pte LtdMalaysia Dairy Industries Pte LtdSime Darby Edible Products LtdEnergizer Singapore Pte LtdCementaid (S.E.A.) Pte LtdChemical Industries (Far East) LtdCrown Beverage Cans Singapore Pte LtdAsia Pacific Breweries (Singapore) Pte LtdKansai Paint (Singapore) Pte LtdSouth East Metal Industries Pte LtdBRC Asia LimitedSin Cheong Containers Mfg Co (Pte) LtdBesley & Pike (Singapore) Pte LtdElectro Mechanical Industries (Pte) LtdAkzo Nobel Paints (Singapore) Pte LtdWong Brothers Shoe Factory Pte LtdRoyal Selangor (S) Pte LtdDIC Asia Pacific Pte LtdKwong Maw Co Pte LtdColgate-Palmolive (Eastern) Pte LtdChloride Batteries S.E. Asia Pte LimitedSingapore Oxygen Air Liquide Pte Ltd (Soxal)ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte LtdLeung Kai Fook Medical Co Pte LtdBoncafe International Pte LtdOriental Metals Pte LimitedKester Components Pte LtdF&N Foods Pte LtdSingapore Petroleum Company LimitedDynea Singapore Pte LtdPhilips Electronics Singapore Pte LtdSintex Nylon & Cotton Products Pte LtdNestlé Singapore (Pte) LtdKwong Yu Industries (S) Pte LtdKH Roberts Pte LtdHiap Moh Corporation LtdJebsen & Jessen Broadway (S) Pte LtdMC Packaging (Pte) LtdHaw Par Healthcare LimitedThe Chemical Corporation Of S’pore (Pte) LtdSingapore Takada Industries Pte LtdSingapore Ishizaki Industries Pte Ltd157

ContributorsMr Douglas FooFounder and Chief Executive Officer,Sakae Holdings LtdWe want to thank all members and staff whohave made this book possible. We want toacknowledge the work of our past presidents,some of whom have been quoted extensively fromnewspaper reports and archival materials, for thepurpose of this book. We would also like to thankthe following for taking time off to be interviewed.Mr John KongChief Executive Officer,M Metal Pte LtdMr Alok MishraVice President,Strategic Marketing & Market Access,Johnson & Johnson Pte LtdDr Moh Chong TauPresident and Chief Executive Officer,Makino Asia Pte LtdMr Von ChanDirector and General Manager,Canon Singapore Pte LtdMr Valerio NanniniManaging Director,Nestlé Singapore (Pte) LtdDr Chen ZefengChairman & CEO,ZhongDe Waste Technology AGMr Amit OberoiCEO,Coca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte LtdMr James ChiaGroup President,PICOMr Poh Choon AnnChairman and Chief Executive Officer,Poh Tiong Choon Logistics LimitedMr John Chin Teck HuatMr Michael ChinGeneral Manager,Asia-Pacific Breweries (S) Pte LtdMr Ryan ChiohManaging Director,FarEastFlora.com Pte LtdDatuk Robert ChuaExecutive Chairman,EFL GroupMr Bob Tan Beng HaiChairman,Jurong Engineering LtdMr Tan Jit KhoonChief Executive Officer,Winson Press Pte LtdMr C S WongHonorary Chairman,Packaging Council of SingaporeMr Michael Yeo Chee Wee158

ChampioningManufacturing– Partner in Nation BuildingPublished bySingapore Manufacturing Federation2985 Jalan Bukit MerahSingapore 159457www.manufacturing.org.sgTel: (65) 6826 3000Fax: (65) 6826 3008Enquiries: contact@manufacturing.org.sgPublishing agentFocus Publishing Limited(A subsidiary of Singapore Press Holdings)1000 Toa Payoh NorthNews CentreSingapore 318994Tel: (65) 6319 2392Fax: (65) 6319 8114Publication committeeAdviser: George HuangPublishing Consultant: Seow Choke MengChairman: Patrick ChangMembers: Paul Chan, Tan Jit KhoonSMF Secretariat: James See, Pauline Teo, Patricia Ang, Christina OhEditorial and design teamWriter: Wong Sher MaineEditor: Jenny ChinResearchers: Cheryl Lim, Wong Sher MaineChinese Translator: Ben ChngDesigner: Jonathan FooPhotographer: Bob LeeProject Managers: Teri Chia, Seow Siok MuiISBN 978-981-07-3551-7All rights reserved. No part of this publication may beproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmittedin any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,photocopying, recording or otherwise, without priorpermission of the copyright owner. Whilst every careis taken to ensure that this publication is as up-todateand accurate as possible, no responsibility canbe taken by the publisher for any errors or omissionscontained herein.Copyright © 2012Singapore Manufacturing Federation, SingaporePhoto and archival materials creditsAmoy Canning Corporation LtdAsia Pacific Breweries (Singapore) Pte LtdCoca-Cola Singapore Beverages Pte LtdChinatown Food Corporation Pte LtdF&N Foods Pte LtdGreenpacJebsen & Jessen Broadway (S) Pte LtdMakino Asia Pte LtdMetrohm Singapore Pte LtdNational Archives of SingaporeRoyal Selangor (S) Pte LtdSick Optic-Electronic Pte LtdSingapore Press HoldingsStarlite Printer (Far East) Pte LtdSuper Coffee Corporation Pte LtdWin Sin (Pte) LtdWinson Press Pte LtdPrinted byKHL Print Co. Pte Ltd, Singapore159

This specially-commissioned commemorative pewter plaque was presented to the Prime Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong onthe occasion of the SMF’s 80 th Anniversary celebration. The plaque contains the logos of the SMF, which trace the historyof the Federation. The earliest logo stands at the top to mark its birth. At the extreme right is the clean gear-shaped logo of1988, while the 1998 SCI logo is situated at the bottom. The 2002 SMF logo is located at the left. These logos are in black, todenote that they are in the past. However, the latest 2012 SMF logo is engraved in colour and sits right at the centre. This logosymbolises boldness, dynamism, vigour and freshness in a technology-driven era.160

Ascocenda SMF 80 th AnniversaryThe orchid was officially unveiled by His Excellency President Tony Tan Keng Yam on 27 January 2012.