The Singapore Apex Business Summit (SABS) held a preview event this morning, setting the stage for the main Summit scheduled from 23 to 25 July 2024 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre. This event brought together business leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities for businesses across the region.
Hosted by Kok Ping Soon, CEO of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), and Jason Ng, Managing Director of MP Singapore, the preview focused on critical themes such as technology, sustainability, and trade partnerships. Discussions highlighted the importance of corporate purpose in enhancing business competitiveness and integrating philanthropic practices within organisations.
According to SBF’s National Business Survey 2023/2024, 90% of businesses acknowledge the need for transformation but face challenges with digitalisation, internationalisation, and sustainability. The upcoming SABS aims to equip leaders with strategies to address these challenges effectively.
Key speakers at the media conference included:
- Pamela Chng, Founder of Bettr Group, on fostering diversity amid demographic challenges.
- Liew Nam Soon, EY Asean Regional Managing Partner, previewing the future economy conference.
- Tony Soh, CEO of NVPC, who discussed the link between corporate purpose and competitiveness.
- Jason Ng, Managing Director of MP Singapore
- Kok Ping Soon, CEO of the Singapore Business Federation
- Kelvin Tan, MD and Head of Sustainable Finance and Investments, ASEAN, HSBC, on Asia’s transition to net zero.
- Tan Li-San, CEO of NCSS, introducing a framework for sustainable philanthropy.
- Yap Chuin Wei, Program Director at Hinrich Foundation, on engaging with international partners.
- Hafimi Abdul Haadii, Executive Director of LVK Group, providing an ASEAN perspective.
Kok Ping Soon emphasised the need for Singapore businesses to adapt and strengthen their core competencies amidst global uncertainties and internal constraints. He highlighted that the SABS presents an opportunity for businesses of all sizes to gain insights from leaders and experts.
The Summit is expected to attract over 2,000 participants, featuring six political office holders and over 100 speakers across 20 plenary sessions. The three-day event will focus on various themes:
- Day 1: Future Economy Conference (FEC) and Company of Good Conference (COGC), themed “End of Business as Usual: Smart Technology and the Future of Work”, followed by the SABS Welcome Dinner.
- Day 2: Singapore Regional Business Forum (SRBF), themed “Transforming Regional Collaborations towards a Sustainable Future”, and a Networking Dinner.
- Day 3: Future of Trade Forum (FOTF), themed “End of Business as Usual: Global Trade at a Crossroads”.
Key highlights include:
- Community Marketplace: Social impact enablers and their corporate partners sharing insights on corporate purpose, diversity, and community development.
- Future-Ready Businesses Spotlights: Visits to leading companies like Keppel Marina East Desalination Plant and Schneider Electric Innovation Hub.
- GCNS CEO Roundtable: The United Nations Global Compact Network Singapore (GCNS) 9th CEO Roundtable involve discussions around the Forward Faster Initiative aimed at accelerating progress towards Sustainable Development Goals.
- Exclusive Welcome Dinner/One-to-One Business Matching: Networking activities for high-net-worth business leaders and senior government officials.
- Partners Showcase: An exhibition of cutting-edge solutions from leading companies.
For more information and to register for the Summit, visit the official website.
