Latest news with #ASME
Straits Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Straits Times
Chat with experts on brand media coverage at the latest Conversations with ST
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The event is held in partnership with the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises. SINGAPORE – Business executives keen on having their brand stories picked up and covered by the media will be able to get tips on doing so at a discussion with Straits Times insiders. The Business Leaders Edition of Conversations with The Straits Times, the fourth of a year-long series to mark ST's 180th year in 2025, will be held on July 29 and will focus on how brands can get their stories heard. The event is held in partnership with the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME). The representatives from ST sharing their processes of crafting stories and headlines are: ST editor Jaime Ho, newsroom strategy associate editor Jeremy Au Yong, newsroom insights editor Diane Leow, deputy business editor Kang Wan Chern, ST Now assistant editor Lim Say Heng, newsroom strategy assistant editor Rei Kurohi and environment correspondent Shabana Begum. Representatives from ASME will participate in the discussions as well. Participants can ask questions and raise ideas that they have in small group settings. The event will be held at The Great Room in Centennial Tower at 3 Temasek Avenue. Registration begins at 4pm, and the event is expected to run from 4.30pm to 7.15pm. Light refreshments will also be provided. Registration is free and closes on July 24. Sign up at .
Independent Singapore
11-07-2025
- Business
- Independent Singapore
Singapore businesses to receive up to S$100,000 grant in October as they face a new tariff environment; SMEs to get ‘more generous' support
Photo: Depositphotos/realinemedia SINGAPORE: Singapore businesses, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs), will be eligible to receive up to S$100,000 per company under the Business Adaptation Grant by October 2025. The grant is to help them for a time-bound period of two years as they adapt to tariff-related challenges. This was stated in a joint press release by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Singapore Business Federation, National Trades Union Congress, and Singapore National Employers Federation on Thursday (July 10), citing an update from the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce (SERT). The press release said the grant will help businesses that export to or operate in overseas markets 'conduct free trade agreements and trade compliance advisory, legal and contractual advisory', as well as 'supply chain optimisation and market diversification advisory'. Enterprises with local or overseas manufacturing operations may also receive support for reconfiguration expenses, such as logistics and inventory holding costs. In May, the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME) said that businesses would go on 'life-saving and life-support mode' once the pause on tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump came to an end. While interest rates have slightly dropped, many remain reluctant to apply for loans or working capital. According to Bernama , Manpower Minister Tan See Leng said that the government would 'be more generous' to SMEs than to larger firms, as they account for about two-thirds of Singapore's workforce. In terms of support for workers, the government and NTUC-e2i will provide more career guidance services amid economic uncertainty. To help employers better support their staff, temporary enhanced funding will also be introduced for basic HR certification for HR professionals. For fresh graduates entering the workforce this June, Minister Tan shared that the public service has about 2,400 immediate vacancies available. Graduates can find out more through the Careers@Gov job portal , social media channels, or at an upcoming public service career fair in August. 'Vacancies for entry-level jobs have remained steady and opportunities remain available,' he noted. Meanwhile, Bernama reported that Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, who is also the Minister for Trade and Industry, said the latest round of tariffs announced by the United States will likely prolong global uncertainty and economic challenges. See also IP fund: What about the risks? He will travel to the US later this month to discuss potential concessions on pharmaceutical tariffs. He also noted that talks on semiconductors will probably follow once progress has been made in pharmaceutical discussions. /TISG Read also: RHB economist: Infrastructure investment, port upgrades, and digitalisation key to keeping Singapore's trade hub status as businesses reroute amid trade volatility Featured image by Depositphotos () => { const trigger = if ('IntersectionObserver' in window && trigger) { const observer = new IntersectionObserver((entries, observer) => { => { if ( { lazyLoader(); // You should define lazyLoader() elsewhere or inline here // Run once } }); }, { rootMargin: '800px', threshold: 0.1 }); } else { // Fallback setTimeout(lazyLoader, 3000); } });
New Straits Times
06-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
PGB to rebuild confidence
KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas Gas Bhd (PGB) has stepped forward to provide clarity and assurance amid continued public interest and speculation surrounding the recent investigation into the Putra Heights pipeline incident. In a timely move, managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) Abdul Aziz Othman said: "We are not here to deflect. We are here to demonstrate that safety is not a slogan — it is a system, a culture and a daily commitment." The recent investigation findings confirmed what PGB had long maintained: the pipeline infrastructure is structurally sound and built to meet stringent engineering and regulatory standards. Yet, like the public, PGB remains concerned by the soil movement issue and is committed to addressing it with transparency and responsibility. "What we can say, with clarity and confidence, is that our pipeline infrastructure has operated safely for more than 30 years, under continuous monitoring, a structured operation, maintenance and inspection plan, built as per International Code and Standards Requirements, high standards of acceptance and evaluation from hydrostatic testing, in-line inspection works, and third-party audits — all in line with the requirements of international standards like ASME B31.8 and B31.4 – as part of an ongoing safety and reliability regime." While the report points to environmental and geotechnical factors, PGB remains steadfast in its belief that community confidence must be earned, not assumed. "Which is why we are here today: not to speculate, but to communicate openly, provide technical clarity and reinforce our unwavering commitment to public safety, regulatory compliance and responsible co-existence with the communities we serve." An Era of Enhanced Corporate Transparency PGB's leadership made its position clear: the safety and integrity of its PGU pipeline infrastructure are ensured throughout its entire lifecycle — from design to construction and into daily operations. At the design stage, PGB adheres to internationally recognised codes, incorporating geotechnical assessments and pipeline engineering specifications tailored to terrain and urban factors. During the construction phase, materials, welding and installation undergo stringent quality controls, third-party verification and non-destructive testing to detect anomalies. In the Operation & Maintenance phase, the company conducts periodic in-line inspections and integrity assessments. This holistic process culminates in the issuance of the Occupational Safety and Health Department's Permit to Instal and Permit to Operate — granted only after all non-destructive testing has passed acceptance criteria, hydrostatic testing, structural validation and third-party verification prior to commencement of operations. "Our infrastructures were inspected, verified and certified. That's not a claim — it's a fact," said Abdul Aziz, referencing a folder of compliance reports. "Now, the focus must shift from speculation to restoring confidence through transparency." Addressing Soil Suitability Concerns Addressing public concern on soil suitability, Abdul Aziz explained: "Before any construction, our engineers and consultants conducted proper route selection, geotechnical and soil stability assessments prior to designing the pipeline in accordance with international standards. At the time, all site conditions met all safety thresholds." He added that pipeline design and construction were tailored to suit specific ground conditions. Depending on soil type and resistivity, different protective coatings were applied to ensure long-term durability and corrosion resistance. High-resistivity soils may require standard coatings, while low-resistivity or more corrosive soils — such as in peat or swampy areas — demand enhanced anti-corrosive systems, including additional layers of specialised coating. This ensures the pipeline's integrity across diverse terrains. Aziz emphasised that this was not a failure of due process, but a result of evolving subsurface shifts — a challenge that highlights the need for stronger urban resilience and ongoing vigilance. "This is not just a lesson for the energy sector, but for developers, planners and regulators alike." Reassurance Across the PGU Pipeline Aziz also addressed speculation about similar risks along the 2,680km PGU pipeline. "As a prudent operator, even without instruction, we initiated additional soil movement assessments across key segments as a further precaution, over and above standard requirements." Using Geopig, Magnetic Flux Leakage technology, Intelligent PIG and Electro-Magnetic Locator tools, PGB found no location with conditions comparable to Putra Heights, reinforcing the pipeline's safety and structural integrity. "What we hope for now is to shift the public lens from blame to building trust. And trust, in our view, begins with honest conversations and visible action." Living Near Infrastructure — A Reality Reimagined The core message of the session revolved around "Confident Coexistence" — the idea that urban communities and energy infrastructure can, and must, live side by side. In a world increasingly dependent on energy security, pipelines are not relics of risk, but lifelines of continuity. "Natural gas powers between 40 per cent to 50 per cent of Malaysia's electricity. Our job is to make people feel secure living near it," said Abdul Aziz. In Putra Heights, PGB has installed a bypass line to ensure continuity of gas supply with enhanced safety features. To ensure long-term stability, sheet piling and engineered support structures have been installed to safeguard the pipeline, preventing stress or pressure during operation. "We acted early, not because we were told, but because it was right," Aziz affirmed. CSR That Doesn't Wait for a Verdict One of the clearest reflections of PGB's values is its swift and sustained community response, initiated without waiting for blame to be assigned. Through local authorities, over RM2 million has been channelled into medical aid, property relief and rebuilding support under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) charter. "We didn't wait for a verdict," said the CEO. "People lost homes, peace of mind, and in some cases, their health. That warranted action, not arguments." To date, 55 individuals have received treatment at various hospitals and medical facilities, with PGB covering both billed and uninsured costs. On humanitarian and ex-gratia grounds, RM1.38 million has been extended in financial assistance to affected families. An earlier RM25 million contribution was also made through the Housing and Local Government Ministry for home reconstruction. PGB is collaborating with medical and psychological specialists to roll out a trauma and mental health corporate social responsibility programme for residents impacted emotionally and psychologically. Details will be announced soon. "This isn't just about PGB. We call on other corporations, including property developers, government-linked bodies and industry partners with ties to the community to also come forward. This is a moment to stand together — not just to restore buildings, but to restore dignity, livelihoods and a sense of hope." Urban Safety: Whose Responsibility? While the investigation highlights soil movement as a cause, it has sparked broader questions around land use, drainage systems and development pressures near pipeline corridors. Aziz acknowledged that urban safety cannot rest on a single party. "Urban safety is multi-layered. It involves planners, regulators and developers, not just operators. "That's why we're advocating for a more integrated risk framework that brings all stakeholders to the table to collectively manage long-term risks and resilience." This shift toward shared urban resilience forms the strategic backbone of PGB's response. It's not about denial; it's about defining safety as a system, not a silo. Moving Forward Together: Confidence, Not Closure PGB reaffirmed its ongoing engagements with affected residents, local councils and safety regulators. "We will continue to be visible, responsible, and responsive," Abdul Aziz said. "We will also inform the public, transparently, on our next phases of works and safety enhancement." A key element of this process is reframing community dialogue from conflict to coexistence. "We want to build not just pipelines, but confidence. When people ask, 'Is it safe to live near this infrastructure?' — we want the answer to be backed by data, design and dialogue." Abdul Aziz concluded by reinforcing that this is not about closure: "We're not here to seek closure. We're here to rebuild confidence, through action, not assumption." It's a powerful message — and in a landscape where responsibility is often confused with culpability, PGB's decision to engage directly, empathetically and technically may redefine what responsible corporate leadership looks like.
Associated Press
25-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Singapore-Led Professional Services Centre Opens in Shanghai to Strengthen Cross-Border Business Collaboration
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2025 - Six trade associations and professional membership bodies have come together under a unified collaboration, known as the Alliance, to officially launch the full-scale Professional Services (PS) Centre in Shanghai today. The Alliance comprises the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), the Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore (IVAS), the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), the Tax Academy, and The Law Society of Singapore. Together, the Alliance represents a network spanning over 30 industries, from manufacturing, electronics, energy and life sciences to finance, technology, F&B, logistics, legal, tax, accountancy and valuation, bringing over 50,000 professionals and businesses under one collaborative ecosystem for cross-border growth. This marks a significant milestone in strengthening professional and business ties between Singapore and China. Strategically located in the heart of the Hongqiao Business District, the PS Centre will serve as a gateway for bilateral engagement, providing a platform for Singapore and Chinese businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow. The PS Centre builds upon the Alliance's long-term vision to establish up to 10 PS Centres globally under this collaborative initiative with its founding partners. It represents a pivotal step in expanding Singapore's professional services ecosystem into China through a permanent, on-the-ground presence in one of Asia's most vibrant business hubs. Supported by key stakeholders from both Singapore and China, including government agencies, trade associations, and professional bodies, the PS Centre will act as a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, talent support, thought leadership, and business development, especially for firms seeking new opportunities in China. The PS Centre exemplifies Singapore's 'hunt in a pack' strategy, where business associations and professional membership bodies expand together as a group to regionalise. This enables: The PS Centre is built around three overarching focus areas: 1. A Conduit for International Expansion Acting as a hub for firms, trade associations, and partners seeking to expand overseas. By connecting them to a curated network of region-specific experts and local partners, firms gain tailored guidance and services to navigate new markets confidently. 2. Business Enablement The PS Centre provides business opportunities for ISCA Corporate Members and a wide community of professional services firms, including those in accounting, tax, legal, business valuation and corporate advisory. It offers an in-market presence, local expertise, and collaboration spaces for sustained engagement. 3. Fostering a Regional Ecosystem Serving as a platform for cross-border knowledge sharing, strategic networking, thought leadership, and innovation - laying the groundwork for robust, long-term professional partnerships and a future-ready business community across Asia. Mr Fuan Kong, Secretary, Party Leadership Group Executive Deputy Director-General, said: 'We welcome ISCA's presence here and are confident that the PS Centre will play a meaningful role in advancing our shared goals of development, innovation and economic exchange.' This launch signals the start of a new chapter in the internationalisation of Singapore's professional services in China, paving the way for additional full-scale PS Centres in Ho Chi Minh City, Nanjing, and Johor Bahru in the coming months. 'The establishment of ISCA's PS Centre in Shanghai reflects the growing demand for trusted, cross-border professional partnerships,' said Mr Loh Tuck Keat, Consul-General of the Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore in Shanghai. 'I believe that it will serve as a strong foundation for deeper economic and professional engagement between Singapore and China.' The Alliance invites businesses and professional services firms to watch for more updates as they continue to expand this regional network - bringing trusted expertise to businesses across Asia and creating new pathways for sustainable growth and collaboration. 'The new PS Centre in Shanghai is an important step forward in our goal to support organisations as they expand overseas,' said Mr Teo Ser Luck, President of ISCA. 'Having a physical presence in China helps us build a stronger, Singapore-led network where professional bodies, trade groups, and businesses work closely together to find new opportunities. This 'hunting in a pack' approach means companies can get support in critical functions, while allowing us to grow our reach further into the region.' Mr Ang Yuit, President of the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), said, 'Shanghai represents a gateway to one of the world's most dynamic markets. With the launch of the Professional Services Centre here, we are not only deepening cross-border business collaboration but also reinforcing the commitment of Singapore's trade associations to support SMEs in navigating complex, fast-moving economies. ASME is proud to be part of this Alliance and looks forward to helping our enterprises build trusted partnerships, access in-market expertise, and scale confidently across borders.' 'The opening of the China Shanghai Professional Services Centre marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional collaboration and enabling Singapore enterprises to internationalise with confidence,' said Mr. Dennis Mark, CEO of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation. 'As a strategic platform for business enablement and cross-border partnerships, the Centre will play a vital role in deepening professional networks, facilitating market access, and fostering sustainable growth across Asia. The Singapore Manufacturing Federation is proud to support this initiative, which aligns with our commitment to empowering local firms to seize global opportunities through innovation, connectivity, and shared expertise.' 'The Tax Academy of Singapore's mission is to raise the professional competency of the tax community and develop our standing as a leading centre for taxation and a regional tax knowledge hub,' said Mr Dennis Lui, CEO of Tax Academy of Singapore. 'We are delighted to participate in ISCA's Professional Services Centre initiative, so as to help build a stronger regional eco-system for the growth of businesses in the region.' 'The Law Society of Singapore is pleased to support this cross-profession initiative to deepen collaboration between Singapore and China,' said Ms Lisa Sam, President of the Law Society of Singapore. 'The Professional Services Centre in Shanghai provides a valuable platform for professionals and businesses from both countries to connect, share knowledge, and grow together. We look forward to contributing to greater awareness of legal risks, dispute resolution, and ethical business practices, and to working with ISCA and our partners to strengthen Singapore's professional presence abroad.' -END- Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #DifferenceMakers #ProfessionalServicesCentre The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants
Zawya
25-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Singapore-Led Professional Services Centre Opens in Shanghai to Strengthen Cross-Border Business Collaboration
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 25 June 2025 - Six trade associations and professional membership bodies have come together under a unified collaboration, known as the Alliance, to officially launch the full-scale Professional Services (PS) Centre in Shanghai today. The Alliance comprises the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), the Institute of Valuers and Appraisers, Singapore (IVAS), the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), the Tax Academy, and The Law Society of Singapore. Together, the Alliance represents a network spanning over 30 industries, from manufacturing, electronics, energy and life sciences to finance, technology, F&B, logistics, legal, tax, accountancy and valuation, bringing over 50,000 professionals and businesses under one collaborative ecosystem for cross-border growth. This marks a significant milestone in strengthening professional and business ties between Singapore and China. Strategically located in the heart of the Hongqiao Business District, the PS Centre will serve as a gateway for bilateral engagement, providing a platform for Singapore and Chinese businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow. The PS Centre builds upon the Alliance's long-term vision to establish up to 10 PS Centres globally under this collaborative initiative with its founding partners. It represents a pivotal step in expanding Singapore's professional services ecosystem into China through a permanent, on-the-ground presence in one of Asia's most vibrant business hubs. Supported by key stakeholders from both Singapore and China, including government agencies, trade associations, and professional bodies, the PS Centre will act as a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, talent support, thought leadership, and business development, especially for firms seeking new opportunities in China. The PS Centre exemplifies Singapore's "hunt in a pack" strategy, where business associations and professional membership bodies expand together as a group to regionalise. This enables: end-to-end support for businesses entering new markets covering legal, tax, valuation, accounting, and advisory needs; shared resources, know-how, and networks for greater operational efficiency and collective strength; and broader regional footprint and deeper market penetration across Southeast Asia and beyond. The PS Centre is built around three overarching focus areas: 1. A Conduit for International Expansion Acting as a hub for firms, trade associations, and partners seeking to expand overseas. By connecting them to a curated network of region-specific experts and local partners, firms gain tailored guidance and services to navigate new markets confidently. 2. Business Enablement The PS Centre provides business opportunities for ISCA Corporate Members and a wide community of professional services firms, including those in accounting, tax, legal, business valuation and corporate advisory. It offers an in-market presence, local expertise, and collaboration spaces for sustained engagement. 3. Fostering a Regional Ecosystem Serving as a platform for cross-border knowledge sharing, strategic networking, thought leadership, and innovation - laying the groundwork for robust, long-term professional partnerships and a future-ready business community across Asia. Mr Fuan Kong, Secretary, Party Leadership Group Executive Deputy Director-General, said: "We welcome ISCA's presence here and are confident that the PS Centre will play a meaningful role in advancing our shared goals of development, innovation and economic exchange." This launch signals the start of a new chapter in the internationalisation of Singapore's professional services in China, paving the way for additional full-scale PS Centres in Ho Chi Minh City, Nanjing, and Johor Bahru in the coming months. "The establishment of ISCA's PS Centre in Shanghai reflects the growing demand for trusted, cross-border professional partnerships," said Mr Loh Tuck Keat, Consul-General of the Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore in Shanghai. "I believe that it will serve as a strong foundation for deeper economic and professional engagement between Singapore and China." The Alliance invites businesses and professional services firms to watch for more updates as they continue to expand this regional network - bringing trusted expertise to businesses across Asia and creating new pathways for sustainable growth and collaboration. "The new PS Centre in Shanghai is an important step forward in our goal to support organisations as they expand overseas," said Mr Teo Ser Luck, President of ISCA. "Having a physical presence in China helps us build a stronger, Singapore-led network where professional bodies, trade groups, and businesses work closely together to find new opportunities. This 'hunting in a pack' approach means companies can get support in critical functions, while allowing us to grow our reach further into the region." Mr Ang Yuit, President of the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), said, "Shanghai represents a gateway to one of the world's most dynamic markets. With the launch of the Professional Services Centre here, we are not only deepening cross-border business collaboration but also reinforcing the commitment of Singapore's trade associations to support SMEs in navigating complex, fast-moving economies. ASME is proud to be part of this Alliance and looks forward to helping our enterprises build trusted partnerships, access in-market expertise, and scale confidently across borders." "The opening of the China Shanghai Professional Services Centre marks a significant step forward in strengthening regional collaboration and enabling Singapore enterprises to internationalise with confidence," said Mr. Dennis Mark, CEO of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation. "As a strategic platform for business enablement and cross-border partnerships, the Centre will play a vital role in deepening professional networks, facilitating market access, and fostering sustainable growth across Asia. The Singapore Manufacturing Federation is proud to support this initiative, which aligns with our commitment to empowering local firms to seize global opportunities through innovation, connectivity, and shared expertise." "The Tax Academy of Singapore's mission is to raise the professional competency of the tax community and develop our standing as a leading centre for taxation and a regional tax knowledge hub," said Mr Dennis Lui, CEO of Tax Academy of Singapore. "We are delighted to participate in ISCA's Professional Services Centre initiative, so as to help build a stronger regional eco-system for the growth of businesses in the region." "The Law Society of Singapore is pleased to support this cross-profession initiative to deepen collaboration between Singapore and China," said Ms Lisa Sam, President of the Law Society of Singapore. "The Professional Services Centre in Shanghai provides a valuable platform for professionals and businesses from both countries to connect, share knowledge, and grow together. We look forward to contributing to greater awareness of legal risks, dispute resolution, and ethical business practices, and to working with ISCA and our partners to strengthen Singapore's professional presence abroad." -END- Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #DifferenceMakers #ProfessionalServicesCentre The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 39,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries. Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession. ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation. ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries. For more information, visit Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants
