80th Anniversary Commemorative Book - Singapore Manufacturing ...

“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