New guide launched to help S'pore manufacturers decarbonise
SINGAPORE - Local manufacturers, which accounted for nearly half of Singapore's primary greenhouse gas emissions in 2022 , will get extra new help in their decarbonising efforts with the launch of a new guide.
Step-by-step guidance and real-world use cases are included to help over 5,000 Singapore manufacturers on their path to net-zero emissions.
Decarbonisation Playbook: A Practical Guide For Manufacturers To A Low-Carbon Future was launched on May 28 by DBS Bank, the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), consultancy EY Singapore, and Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP).
Many companies in the manufacturing sector, a major economic driver for the country, face challenges in adopting sustainability solutions, the four organisations said in a release.
In a survey of over 70 manufacturers across seven sub-sectors, 80 per cent of them said they were still in the early stages of their sustainability journey.
The survey, conducted in 2025 by DBS, EY and SMF, also found that the top reason local manufacturers want to decarbonise is to comply with regulations.
But SMF chief executive Dennis Mark said in his speech at the launch event that sustainability is also about growth.
'It is now a defining pillar of industrial resilience, innovation, and future growth. Today, the expectations on manufacturers are rising – from customers, from regulators, and increasingly, from global supply chains,' Mr Mark said.
To reduce the complexity of decarbonisation for manufacturers, the playbook provides a framework that offers a step-by-step model for companies.
Under the framework, companies are given help in identifying their emissions sources, then evaluating opportunities, creating business cases, putting in place solutions, and developing long-term decarbonisation roadmaps.
It also provides case studies from different manufacturers in Singapore to show how firms can decarbonise, such as the example of Quantum Leap.
The small to medium-sized smart home device manufacturer in Singapore has identified its emission sources as energy-heavy production processes, packaging materials and overseas shipping.
It then plans to transition to renewable energy, reduce packaging waste and explore product refurbishment and recycling to further reduce its emissions.
DBS head of corporate and SME banking Chen Ze Ling said: 'We recognise that sustainability is essential, and in today's uncertain business climate, building financial resilience is equally critical.
'Striking the right balance between the two empowers businesses to reduce their carbon footprint while effectively navigating ongoing challenges.'
He added: 'Meaningful decarbonisation starts with practical, real-world support – shaped by close industry engagement and delivered in partnership across the manufacturing value chain. That is the spirit behind this playbook.'
SMF chief sustainability officer Clara Kwan said the book can be a practical and inclusive guide for its members.
'It addresses the very real challenges our manufacturers face – from limited resources to regulatory pressure – and equips them with tools to move from sustainability ambition to implementation,' she said.
SMF also has other initiatives to help its members go green, such as a programme where it offers the services of a chief sustainability officer to manufacturers. This programme provides companies with tailored guidance and hands-on expertise in their push to decarbonise.
Mr Praveen Tekchandani, EY Singapore leader and partner for climate change and sustainability services, noted that the book also combines perspectives of manufacturers with the insights of other ecosystem players who are already familiar with decarbonisation.
'It breaks down complex requirements and policies like Singapore's carbon tax and sustainability reporting standards,' he said, adding that it also provides science-based strategies and solutions that are readily applicable.
NYP will also be integrating the playbook into its pre-employment training and the curriculum for its continuing education and training.
This is estimated to benefit 1,000 pre-employment training for students across 10 diploma courses and 220 continuing education and training adult learners in a year.
It will also help 438 companies that are part of NYP's alliance for sustainability innovation.
Dr Graham Ng, NYP director of the school of engineering, said that integrating the book in the school's programmes creates a ripple effect that gives learners the ability to identify and tackle sustainability challenges in their business operations.
Sue-Ann Tan is a business correspondent at The Straits Times covering capital markets and sustainable finance.
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Business Times
a day ago
- Business Times
STI's gains reflect ‘concrete steps' by Temasek companies to address business fundamentals
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During the year to Mar 31, 2025, the Singapore market performed very well – with the Straits Times Index (STI) delivering an unusually high total return of nearly 30 per cent. The STI returned only 4 per cent during the year to Mar 31, 2024, and minus 0.33 per cent during the year to Mar 31, 2023. In fact, some of the best performing components of the STI during the year to Mar 31, 2025, were companies within Temasek's fold. They included ST Engineering (total return of 75.3 per cent), DBS (50.4 per cent); and Singtel (43.2 per cent). At last week's closing prices, Temasek's stakes in these three companies are worth about S$12.6 billion, S$36.9 billion and S$33.9 billion, respectively. BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up Fuelling the market's zeal for these companies, in my view, were their strong financial performance and commitment to deliver value to shareholders. For instance, DBS announced a S$3 billion share buyback late last year, after a series of other moves to return capital to its shareholders, amid sustained elevated profitability since interest rates climbed strongly in 2022. Singtel has also been actively returning excess capital to its shareholders, as it pursues an asset recycling programme. Last year, it introduced a 'value realisation' dividend, on top of its core dividend. Earlier this year, it authorised its first share buyback programme – of up to S$2 billion. Meanwhile, ST Engineering's shares have been galloping in the wake of its robust financial performance, increasing dividends, and growing excitement about exposure to the defence sector. The company is now trading at 35.9 times its reported earnings for 2024. Controlling shareholder support The gains Temasek has reaped from its Singapore-based portfolio companies were not just the result of bullish market conditions, though. 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For its financial year to Mar 31, 2025, SIA's revenue climbed a further 2.8 per cent to another record level of S$19.5 billion. Its operating profit, however, fell 37.3 per cent to S$1.7 billion. Still, SIA's shares delivered a total return of 14.4 per cent during the 12-month period. Temasek's stake in SIA is currently worth about S$11.6 billion. In another case, Temasek helped Sats finance the acquisition of Worldwide Flight services in 2023. The in-flight caterer and ground handler suffered a big sell-off when it first announced the S$1.8 billion deal in September 2022. In February 2023, Sats said it would raise S$798.8 million through a 323-for-1,000 rights issue of new shares at S$2.20 each to help finance the purchase, with Temasek committing to taking up its pro rata 39.7 per cent entitlement. Two years on, Sats seems to be taking off. The group reported a 13 per cent rise in revenue to S$5.8 billion for its financial year to Mar 31, 2025. 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Indeed, the STI's current uptrend might be attributable to some of the biggest companies in the local market having successfully repositioned themselves to thrive in a less globalised and more fragmented world. 'Following Covid, our portfolio has become more resilient compared to pre-Covid times because it was a period when our portfolio companies took very concrete steps to strengthen their business fundamentals, including the strength of their balance sheet and capital allocation, so that they could strengthen their core,' said Temasek deputy CEO Chia Song Hwee last week, while responding to a question about engaging with its Singapore companies. The equities market review group formed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore last year has announced a slew of measures to catalyse demand in the local market, and attract more new listings. The strong contribution Temasek's Singapore-based portfolio companies have made to its recent performance suggests that it might also be worth looking into ways to encourage companies to unlock value and strengthen the long-term fundamentals of their businesses. One idea is for Singapore to come up with its own version of South Korea's 'value-up' programme. Earlier this month, South Korea tweaked its laws to better protect the interests of minority investors and lift its market valuations. If more companies in Singapore pursue initiatives that keep their shares on an upward trajectory, investors like me might have less reason to look to other markets for opportunities.
AsiaOne
2 days ago
- AsiaOne
Little red dot, big bold ideas: 60 Singapore innovations shaping our future, Lifestyle News
When it comes to embracing new tech, our Little Red Dot isn't just keeping up with the future — we're zooming ahead. Case in point: Punggol's set to roll out self-driving buses later this year, just one of many home-grown innovations shaping the way we live, work, and play. To commemorate Singapore's milestone 60th birthday, here are 60 Singapore innovations that are making the future feel a little closer to home. Tech & Digital Innovations 1. Creative Sound Blaster (1989) Michael Jackson at the Creative Booth in Las Vegas. PHOTO: FACEBOOK/@Creative Singapore Designed by Singapore's Creative Technology, the Sound Blaster became the de facto standard for consumer audio on computers — even Michael Jackson was impressed! 2. DBS internet banking first in the region (1997) In 1997, DBS became the first bank in the region to offer full internet banking, years before mobile apps were even a thing. It let users check balances and transfer money from the comfort of home. 3. Thumbdrive (2000) Invented by Trek 2000 founder Henn Tan, the ThumbDrive revolutionised data storage by making floppy disks obsolete. With its compact design and USB plug-and-play convenience, it quickly became a global must-have. 4. SingPass (2003) SingPass started in 2003 as a simple Government login system, but it's now our digital key to 2,000+ Government services from taxes to CPF. 5. Wireless@SG (2006) Launched in December 2006, Wireless@SG set up free Wi-Fi across public spaces such as train stations, libraries, and malls, long before everyone carried smartphones. 6. X-mini (2007) Everyone had (or knew someone who had) an X-mini. The tiny, thumping speaker perfect for camps, chalets, or noisy MRT rides. You could even daisy-chain them together for DIY surround sound. 7. Carousell (2012) Started in a school hall in 2012, Carousell became the go-to app for second-hand everything from sneakers to sofas. It helped declutter homes and launched countless side hustles. 8. 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Wearable AI wound monitoring patch (2023) NUS and A*STAR scientist develop wearable wound monitoring patch, powered by AI Researchers from NUS and A*STAR created a flexible sensor patch that monitors wounds in real-time - like inflammation, pH, and temperature - and alerts doctors instantly. 25. Changi General Hospital introduces 3 robots to augment care team (2023) CGH deployed three friendly robots in its Emergency Department to transport items, guide patients, and reduce nurses' workload. They even bow and say "excuse me" as they pass. Transport & Mobility 26. MRT (1987) The iconic Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system began operations on 7 Nov 1987, transforming local travel from stuffy buses to speedy underground rides. Since then, it's become the backbone of Singapore's public transport, carrying millions daily. 27. SCATS/GLIDE traffic system (1988) Singapore adopted Sydney's Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS) and renamed it Green Link Determining (GLIDE) in 1988 to manage traffic lights based on real-time traffic flow. No more stuck at red lights when there's no car in sight. 28. ERP and Cashcard (1998) Back in 1998, Singapore got ahead of the curve with the world's first Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) and CashCard system. The ERP toll gantries dynamically adjust driving charges during peak hours, helping reduce traffic congestion. 29. App (2011) LTA's app gives real-time updates on bus and train timings, parking lot availability, and road alerts. You don't have to wait long-long at the bus stop. 30. A*STAR's self-driving vehicle (2015) In Jul 2015, A*STAR rolled out Singapore's first autonomous vehicle approved for public road trials at one-north. This driverless ride, packed with sensors and AI smarts, paved the way for future mobility tech. 31. Passportless clearance (2024) In 2024, Changi Airport rolled out full passport-free clearance using face and iris scans. Since then, we can just walk through like a boss - no more fumbling with documents. 32. Driverless buses (2026) From mid-2026, Singapore will begin rolling out fully autonomous buses along key routes in Marina Bay, Shenton Way, and one-north. Equipped with LiDAR sensors and AI brains, these buses aim to make public transport smoother and safer. Jurong Floating Wetlands. | IMAGE: NICHOLAS YONG Sustainability & Green Tech 33. Jurong Lake and Sengkang floating wetlands (2011) These man-made floating wetlands are anchored in places like Jurong Lake and Sengkang to clean water, cool the surroundings, and attract wildlife. They act like natural filters and habitats for birds and dragonflies. 34. Sky Greens (2012) Sky Greens opened the world's first commercial vertical farm on Oct 24, 2012 — growing leafy greens in rotating towers using just a trickle of water. It saves land, energy, and makes "urban farming" look futuristic. 35. Eco-link@BKE (2013) Completed in 2013, the Eco-Link@BKE is a 62m-long bridge for wildlife to cross between Bukit Timah and the Central Catchment. It lets animals move safely above expressway traffic — basically a green corridor in the sky. Finally, a way for pangolins to get right of way! 36. Airbitat Smart Coolers (2017) You've probably seen Airbitat's coolers quietly blasting cold, humid-free air at the National Day Parade, the Singapore Zoo, or Sentosa. Unlike fans or air-cons, these energy-efficient machines cool you down without drying you out. 37. Huber's Butchery - first supermarket in the world to sell cultivated meat (2022) Huber's Butchery made history as the first supermarket globally to serve and sell cultivated meat — meat grown in labs through a partnership with Good Meat under the US-based food tech firm Eat Just. 38. Smart Water Meters for HDBs (2022) The first 300,000 smart water meters were installed from early 2022 to digitalise the water system. Users can monitor water usage and leaks. It's free to install in your home! 39. SIA and Scoot to use sustainable aviation fuel (2023) Singapore Airlines and Scoot became the first carriers at Changi Airport to use Sustainable Aviation Fuel produced at Neste's Singapore refinery. This fuel reduces carbon emissions up to 80 per cent — a major win for greener skies. 40. Tengah centralised cooling (2024) Tengah, Singapore's newest HDB town, became the first township to ditch traditional air-con units for a centralised cooling system that's more energy-efficient and climate-friendly. Cool town, literally. 41. Floating solar systems by PUB (2024) PUB's floating solar installations, like the ones at Tengeh and Bedok Reservoirs, harness the sun's energy while preserving land space. These solar farms help power our grid with green energy and reduce water evaporation. Smart Nation & Infrastructure 42. CPF (1955) The Central Provident Fund (CPF) was introduced in 1955 to help Singaporeans save for retirement, housing, and healthcare. It's a compulsory savings scheme, but ask any Singaporean and they'll say, "It's complicated lah ." Still, it's one of the pillars of our financial safety net. 43. NEWater (2003) Launched in 2003, NEWater is ultra-clean recycled water that's been treated using advanced membrane tech and UV disinfection — so pure it can be used in electronics factories and for drinking. 44. PolCam (2012) Introduced in 2012, PolCam (Police Camera) has quietly become a cornerstone of Singapore's neighbourhood safety. To date, there are more than 90,000 PolCams in public areas around the Lion City, and they have helped solve over 7,500 crime cases. 45. Smart HDB Town framework (2014) HDB's Smart Town Framework, introduced in 2014, aims to create more liveable, efficient towns with tech such as smart lighting, pneumatic waste systems, and real-time data dashboards. 46. SkillsFuture (2015) Launched in 2015, SkillsFuture gives Singaporeans credits to upskill or try something new, from coding to cocktail-making. 47. Punggol Digital District (2025) The Punggol Digital District is Singapore's very own Silicon Valley. It'll house tech companies, a smart university campus, and AI-integrated everything. Defence & Security 48. SAR 21 (1999) The Singapore Assault Rifle 21 (SAR 21) is our home-grown standard-issue weapon for Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) troops, designed for better ergonomics and accuracy. It's compact, reliable, and even has a built-in scope. 49. Underground ammunition storage facility (2008) In 2008, Singapore opened one of the world's first large-scale underground ammo storage facilities, hidden deep beneath a hill. It frees up precious land and keeps things super secure. 50. Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV) (2009) The Terrex ICV rolled out in 2009 as a high-tech, all-terrain vehicle for SAF soldiers. It's armoured, amphibious, and comes with high-end battlefield systems. 51. SPYDER Air Defence System (2011) Singapore's SPYDER (Surface-to-air PYthon-5 and DERby) ground-based air defence system can detect and shoot down aerial threats like drones or missiles in seconds. It's basically our island's real-life missile shield - fast, precise, and always on guard. 52. Singapore Navy's Littoral Mission Vessel (LMV) (2015) The Republic of Singapore Navy launched its first LMV on 3 Jul 2015, designed for flexibility and speed in coastal defence. Thanks to automation, it needs a smaller crew. 53. SAF Smart Camp (2018) SAF Smart Camp is transforming military life with tech-powered upgrades - from mobile apps for admin and training info, to smart cookhouses, automated equipment access, and AR-assisted workshops for greater convenience and efficiency. 54. Hunter Armoured Fighting Vehicle (2019) The Hunter is Singapore's first fully digital armoured vehicle, packed with sensors and touchscreen controls. It also comes with modern comforts like air-conditioning, something that wasn't standard in its predecessors. Now, that's cool! 55. RSAF to acquire eight F-35A jets (2024) With plans to acquire 8 F-35A jets, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) is complementing the previously announced purchase of 12 F-35Bs, replacing ageing F-16s. These stealth fighters come with cutting-edge tech. 56. Formation of Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) (2022) In 2022, Singapore formed the DIS as the fourth arm of the SAF, focusing on cyber defence, data ops, and digital warfare. 57. Two new Commands in DIS (2025) To boost its capabilities, DIS established two new commands: the Defence Cyber Command (DCCOM) and SAF C4 & Digitalisation Command (SAFC4DC), to defend Singapore from increasingly frequent and sophisticated cyber threats happening globally. 58. Maritime Security Unmanned Surface Vessel (2025) The RSN's first autonomous maritime patrol vessel began patrols in January this year, boosting surveillance and operational response to Singapore's maritime security system. These vessels also allow the RSN to remotely and safely conduct potentially risky missions at sea. Architecture & Landmarks 59. SkyPark Infinity Pool (2011) Perched atop Marina Bay Sands, the SkyPark infinity pool opened in 2011 and became an instant icon. It's the world's largest rooftop infinity pool, with killer views of the city skyline. 60. The Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi (2019) The Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport is the tallest indoor waterfall in the world, standing at a jaw-dropping 40m. Surrounded by lush greenery, it's part shopping mall, part rainforest, and part tourist magnet. [[nid:718812]] This article was first published in .
Straits Times
3 days ago
- Straits Times
$3 cashback for hawker centre meals and shopping at heartland malls with DBS PayLah initiative
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox DPM Gan Kim Yong using the DBS PayLah app to pay at a stall in One Punggol Hawker Centre, as DBS Singapore country head Lim Him Chuan looks on. SINGAPORE - Hawker centre meals are set to be cheaper with diners receiving up to $3 in cashback when they use the DBS PayLah app. The cashback initiative, which was first announced in June , is part of a slew of measures worth $23 million launched by DBS/POSB in 2025 to commemorate Singapore's 60th birthday. Starting July 12, Singaporeans and residents can receive up to $3 in cashback when they spend at hawker stalls and heartland shops with the DBS PayLah app on Saturdays. The initiatives are aimed at reducing living and business costs, and promoting multi-generational experiences, said DBS. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong attended the launch of the bank's SG60 pop-up community event held in One Punggol Hawker Centre. 'Cost-of-living has always been a concern for many Singaporeans, and we do our part to try to help and support our Singaporeans,' said Mr Gan, citing the rollout of CDC and SG60 vouchers. Announced during Budget 2025 , all Singaporean households would receive an additional $500 in CDC vouchers May 2025 and $300 in January 2026. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Asia Air India crash report shows pilot confusion over engine switch movement Singapore More NSFs may be recruited to tackle scams: Police Singapore 40% more sign-ups to programmes for adult learners at institutes of higher learning in last 5 years Multimedia Which floor is this? Chongqing's maze-like environment powers its rise as a megacity Singapore Exhibition marking The Straits Times' 180th anniversary opens on July 12 at Jewel Changi Life SG60 F&B icons: 20 dishes and drinks which have shaped Singaporeans' taste buds Life At 79, she can do 100 pull-ups: Why more seniors are hitting the gym Life Hear Me Out: What I wish my parents knew before I was diagnosed with ADHD Singaporean seniors aged 60 and above can claim $800 worth of SG60 vouchers , while adults aged between 21 and 59 will be able to claim $600 worth of the same vouchers from July 22. Said Mr Gan: 'We are very happy that DBS is also doing its part in offering the $3 cashback to help Singaporeans with their hope to continue partnering DBS in serving the people and reaching out to the community.' The cashback initiative will run till Sept 27. It is available to the first 160,000 people who scan and pay with PayLah at over 22,000 participating hawker stalls, wet markets, and heartland shops from 8am during these 12 weeks. In 2024, DBS/POSB disbursed $14 million in cashback via PayLah to users, said DBS Singapore country head Lim Him Chuan, adding that around 40 per cent of beneficiaries were senior citizens and those who earn less than $2,500 monthly. 'The campaign is a way for us to show appreciation and support for society, communities, and our customers in Singapore,' said Mr Lim. Other measures as part of this $23 million package include a six-month free subscription to NETS terminals for heartland merchants, and a twice-weekly distribution of nutritious meals to 6,000 lower-income individuals aged 60 and above over two years, across 12 towns such as Ang Mo Kio, Bedok and Queenstown. Every weekend starting from August, seniors can also take part in free tours of the DBS Singapore Gallery at the National Gallery. Free programmes that spotlight Singapore arts, poetry, and film are also open to visitors at the DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre on weekends. Mr Gan, along with Punggol GRC MPs Dr Janil Puthucheary and Ms Yeo Wan Ling, interacted with diners and hawkers at the hawker centre on July 12. Residents participated in several games, such as one which required players to simulate grocery shopping with a budget of $30. Botak Cantonese Porridge, a stall in One Punggol Hawker Centre, told ST it serves around 40 more people on Saturdays when the cashback initiative was in effect in 2024, as compared to other days of the week. 'Ultimately it's about exposure, and more people knew that we open at 7am after the cashback initiative began,' said outlet manager Chong Wei Jun, adding that the stall saw more customers in the mornings. 'It's a win-win situation for both customers and business owners.'
