80th Anniversary Commemorative Book - Singapore Manufacturing ...

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