SBF plans to engage more companies, build more partnerships

It aims to better support local firms to thrive in a 'business-not-as-usual' landscape

- Timothy Goh

Singapore’s apex business chamber will work with more companies here as they tackle the challenges arising from domestic concerns, global uncertainties and rapid technological changes.

In an exclusive interview with The Straits Times, Singapore Business Federation (SBF) chief executive Kok Ping Soon said the association plans to grow its membership by more than 30 per cent.

This will increase its membership, which includes firms in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare and retail trade, from 30,000 to 40,000 local companies by 2030.

He added that SBF plans to engage 25,000 members and non-member companies by the end of the decade, up from the current 13,000, through dialogues with the Government, projects to help firms expand overseas and training courses for workers.

The association also aims to double its partnerships with government agencies and private organisations, from 150 to 300, by 2030.

“We asked ourselves how we can better support local businesses to thrive in a ‘business-not-as-usual’ landscape,” Mr Kok said.

“SBF’s key approach is to strengthen our network of partners across both the government and private sectors so that we can mobilise their resources, expertise and networks to scale our impact to the business community,” he added.

Established in 2002, SBF helps businesses in Singapore address concerns related to trade and investment, labour management and wages.