Dear Subscriber,
After an energetic month celebrating the Lunar New Year, we forge ahead with even greater enthusiasm and determination in our mission. Throughout this upcoming March, we will shine a spotlight on events commemorating International Women’s Day, as well as our exciting Sustainable construction event. In addition to that, EuroCham and the Singapore Business Federation are hosting a captivating array of events. |
|
EVENTS HAPPENING THIS MONTH |
|
|
|
Join us for a thought-provoking and inspiring event in anticipation of International Women's Day 2024 as we delve into this year's theme "Inspire Inclusion". Mette Johansson shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the significance of inclusion in the journey towards gender equality. |
|
|
This event is not just a celebration of women's achievements but a call to action for creating a more inclusive and equitable world for everyone. Whether you're an advocate for gender equality or simply curious about the power of inclusion, we can guarantee you will leave this event with new insights. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation and gain valuable insights on how each one of us can contribute to building a more inclusive society.
Let's celebrate International Women's Day 2024 by coming together to inspire change and create a future where inclusion is at the forefront of our collective efforts.
Join us in celebrating International Women's Day by embracing diversity and inclusion together. We encourage men to participate alongside women, and invite everyone to bring their partners, as we believe fostering inclusivity is a collaborative effort for all genders.
About the event
- Date: Monday 4 March, 2024
- Time: 7:30 – 9:30 PM
- Location: Hollandse Club, 22 Camden Park, Singapore 299814
- Tickets: $20 for members of the Chambers below
This event is organised by DutchCham.
* If you register for this event, you agree that any photographs or video's made during the event could be shared for promotional reasons. |
|
Constructing sustainability: Rethinking construction for a resilient future
Mar 13, 2024: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM (GMT+8)
COSENTINO. 5 Straits View, West Tower, #01-16/17 Marina One Singapore 018935 |
|
|
The construction industry, a cornerstone of societal development, finds itself at a crossroads where progress comes at the expense of a substantial environmental footprint.
In this panel discussion, the concept of sustainable construction will be defined, emphasizing the imperative use of recyclable and renewable materials, while also examining strategies to minimize energy consumption and waste production in building projects.
Furthermore, the panel will address waste management and pollution control, examining the generation of hazardous waste in construction and proposing effective waste disposal and management strategies to prevent pollution.
This panel discussion aims to foster a collaborative dialogue among industry experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to identify practical solutions and innovative approaches for promoting sustainable construction practices.
Join us in this conversation as we navigate the path toward a sustainable future, redefining the construction industry's role in global environmental stewardship.
About the event
- Date: Wednesday 13 March, 2024
- Time: 6:30 – 8:30 PM
- Location: Cosentino, 5 Straits View #01-16/17, Marina One, Singapore 018935
- Tickets:member-only (complimentary)
Light refreshments will be served.
The organisers reserve the right to change the programme content without giving prior notification or any reasons thereof. Sponsors and Partners |
|
Masterclass on COMPASS: Gain Insights into the New Framework and Other Work Pass Changes |
|
|
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has introduced the Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS), which introduces significant changes to the Employment Pass (EP) application and renewal process. This masterclass will help employers to understand the complexities of the COMPASS Framework and the new guidelines for the EP application and other work pass changes. Attendees will learn how to adapt to the changes brought about by the new policy framework and better manage their talent management and employment process. The masterclass will also provide a clinic session for attendees to consult with the HR and work pass specialists of Payrollserve to get their talent management questions clarified and receive personalised advice on navigating the new COMPASS Framework. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to network with other employers and HR professionals who are facing similar challenges and exchange valuable insights.
Date: 5 March 2024
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Venue: SFB Center, 160 Robinson Road, #06-01 Singapore 068914
Fee: $230 (SFB Member) / $330 (Non SFB Member) |
|
Navigating Upskilling in a Transforming World
Date: 8 March 2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Venue: SAP Asia Headquarters Office |
|
|
In the era of AI and digital transformation, it is important for leaders of global enterprises to adopt a strategic approach to enhance the skills of their workforce, thereby advancing digital maturity.
Light refreshments will be served.
The organisers reserve the right to change the programme content without giving prior notification or any reasons thereof. |
|
WELCOME OUR NEWEST MEMBER |
|
|
|
The Executive Centre (TEC) is Asia’s premium flexible workspace provider, opened its doors in Hong Kong in 1994 and today boasts over 200+ Centers in 33 cities and 15 markets. It is the third largest serviced office business in Asia. |
|
|
It caters to ambitious professionals and industry leaders looking for more than just an office space - they are looking for a place for their organization to thrive.
TEC has cultivated an environment designed for success with a global network spanning Greater China, Southeast Asia, North Asia, India, Sri Lanka, the Middle East, and Australia, with sights to go further and grow faster. Each Executive Centre offers a prestigious address with the advanced infrastructure to pre-empt, meet, and exceed the needs of its Members. Walking with Members through every milestone and achievement, The Executive Centre empowers ambitious professionals and organizations to succeed. Privately owned and headquartered in Hong Kong, TEC provides first class Private and Shared Workspaces, Business Concierge Services, and Meeting & Events facilities to suit any business' needs.
|
|
One of the leading Spanish real estate groups founded in 1979. Specialists in innovative, sustainable and people-centered office buildings. |
|
|
Since its Inception, at Gmp they have maintained a firm focus on property, which has enabled them to build a solid position in the Spanish real estate market as specialists in the development, investment and management of property assets, concentrating on the high-end office and business park segment.
Their vision of the Company incorporates sustainability as a strategic value, both in environmental and in the value creation process, through quality and innovation in management, processes and products, which focus on promoting the health and well-being of the users of its buildings.
|
|
Budget 2024: Companies to get corporate income tax rebate of up to 50% |
|
|
Singaporean companies will receive a 50% corporate income tax rebate, capped at $40,000, in the year of assessment 2024.
This forms part of a $1.3 billion package aimed at helping companies cope with the rising cost of doing business.
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who also serves as the Finance Minister, introduced the Enterprise Support Package (ESP) in Budget 2024.The ESP provides immediate relief to businesses facing challenges such as higher wages for staff and increased rental and utility bills.
In addition to the tax rebate, the government will pay a minimum of $2,000 in cash to companies that employed at least one local employee in 2023.
Businesses with higher funding costs can utilize the Enterprise Financing Scheme (EFS) – SME Working Capital Loan, which now has a permanently raised maximum working capital loan quantum of $500,000.
The maximum trade loan quantum under the Enterprise Financing Scheme - Trade Loan (EFS-TL), currently at $10 million, will be extended until March 31, 2025.
The EFS-TL supports businesses in enhancing productivity and transforming their workforce by redesigning jobs. It offers a one-off credit of up to $10,000, covering up to 90% of out-of-pocket expenses.
While these measures provide near-term support, DPM Wong emphasizes that they are not permanent solutions.For long-term resilience, the focus should be on ensuring that firms and workers become more productive, leading to sustainable growth in real incomes.
For more information visit this link |
|
Singapore’s inflation eases in January despite GST hike; core at 3.1%, headline at 2.9% |
|
|
Singapore’s headline and core inflation both eased more than expected in January, even after the hike in the goods and service tax to 9%. Data from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) revealed the following:
Core Inflation (excluding accommodation and private transport) dipped to 3.1%, down from the 3.3% recorded in December and below economists’ median estimate of 3.6%.
This decline was driven by lower services and food inflation, despite the GST hike in January, as reported by MAS and MTI.
The authorities maintain their full-year inflation forecasts:Headline and core inflation are expected to average between 2.5% and 3.5%.
Excluding the transitory effects of the GST hike, headline and core inflation are projected to fall between 1.5% and 2.5%.
Core inflation is anticipated to rise slightly in February due to the “Chinese New Year effect,” with higher year-on-year price pressures on food.
Factors such as manageable global commodity prices, ongoing strength of the Singapore dollar, and easing domestic cost pass-through should contribute to lower core inflation in 2024 compared to 2023.
For more information visit this link |
|
More firms doing background checks for EP applicants, but high costs remain obstacle |
|
|
MORE companies are checking the educational qualifications of their foreign hires, with a “significant increase” in demand for background-screening services since the new assessment framework for Employment Passes (EPs) kicked in last year. Yet, the added cost means that some firms still avoid the verification process where possible, background-screening companies told The Business Times.
Since Sep 1 last year, new EP applicants must score at least 40 points under the Complementarity Assessment Framework (Compass). There are four foundational criteria, with a possible zero, 10 or 20 points to be scored. To pass, candidates need not score points in all four criteria.
For the “qualifications” criterion, 10 points are awarded for a degree-equivalent qualification, and 20 points for those from top-tier institutions.
The Skills Bonus of 10 or 20 points is for individuals in “shortage occupations”, while the Strategic Economic Priorities Bonus of 10 points is for employers that meet specific criteria on innovation or internationalisation. These include specialised roles in areas such as tech, healthcare, and sustainability, where there are global shortages of skilled professionals.The list will be reviewed regularly with “a major refresh” every three years.
Companies can assess their performance on the firm-level criteria of Compass, as well as compare themselves against industry peers, via a Workforce Insights Tool on the Manpower Ministry’s myMOM portal.Foreign talent must complement the local workforce and be of the right calibre.
For more information visit this link |
|
UNA's 10th Anniversary Party : Fiesta de Aniversario!
15 March, 6pm till late
$88++ per pax
The Spanish restaurant UNA is celebrating 10 years. UNA is a romantic dining destination that offers the best of Spain, highlighting traditional flavors with modernity, creativity and soul.
With an extraordinary culinary experience in its 10th anniversary celebration you will be able to delight your palate with Spanish culinary specialties. Don't miss this fantastic culinary experience! |
|
|
Free-flow dinner buffet feat. 10 Stations of All-Things Spanish
Live Flamenco Dancers | Live Paella Station | Live Parrilla Grill Station | Live 5J Jamón Station | Churros & Desserts | Sangria & Wine Station and more!
|
|
|