Singapore, 27 March 2025 – The Singapore Business Federation (SBF), in partnership with PwC as its knowledge partner and DBS as its strategic partner, hosted the second edition of the Singapore Budget Symposium 2025. The event convened key business stakeholders to explore strategies for navigating economic volatility, advancing business transformation, and strengthening workforce resilience.
With approximately 1,000 attendees, including C-suite executives, industry leaders, government officials, and representatives from various trade associations and chambers (TACs), the symposium provided an in-depth analysis of the key initiatives outlined in the Singapore Budget 2025 and their implications for businesses.
Key Insights from the Symposium
A central component of the event was the plenary discussion, supported by Workforce Singapore and Enterprise Singapore, and moderated by Marcus Lam, Executive Chairman of PwC Singapore. The session featured distinguished panelists:
- Mr Lee Chuan Teck, Chairman, Enterprise Singapore
- Ms Dilys Boey, Chief Executive, Workforce Singapore
- Mr Han Kwee Juan, Group Executive and Group Head of Institutional Banking, DBS
- Ms Chin Wei Jia, Group CEO, HMI Medical
The panelists shared perspectives on critical business priorities, strategies to enhance competitiveness, and approaches to overcoming manpower challenges. They also examined how enterprises can leverage government initiatives to drive digital transformation, sustainability, international expansion, and innovation.
Key Discussion Themes
Driving Business Growth Amid Economic Uncertainty
Industry leaders stressed the importance of sustained investment in innovation and global expansion despite economic fluctuations. Programs such as the Market Readiness Assistance (MRA) Grant and Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) were highlighted as essential resources for businesses seeking growth opportunities.
Building a Future-Ready Workforce
As businesses face evolving workforce demands, panelists emphasized the need for job redesign and new talent strategies. The Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package was identified as a key initiative to support workforce upskilling and adaptability.
Leveraging AI and Digital Transformation
With digitalisation and artificial intelligence (AI) reshaping industries, businesses were urged to adopt technology-driven strategies to enhance operational efficiency, customer engagement, and global competitiveness. Enterprise Singapore’s three-tiered AI adoption framework was cited as a structured approach to guiding companies through their digital transformation journey.
Enhancing Workforce Well-Being and Resilience
Speakers underscored the role of employee well-being in driving business success. The discussion covered holistic wellness programs addressing physical, mental, and emotional health, positioning workforce resilience as a fundamental component of long-term business sustainability.
The Singapore Budget Symposium 2025 reinforced the importance of strategic adaptability, workforce transformation, and technology adoption in ensuring business resilience amid an evolving economic landscape.
