Gan: We are in a good spot

Opportunities still abound, says minister

OPPORTUNITIES can still abound amid an uncertain global economy, and Singapore, with its stability and highly qualified workforce, is well poised to take advantage of this.

That was the message Health Minister Gan Kim Yong had when he addressed about 1,000 foreign and local delegates in the economic forum which kicked off yesterday.

The forum was part of the 7th World Fujian Convention, which attracted more than 4,000 Hokkiens over the weekend with its activities.

While acknowledging that the nation lacks natural resources and a large domestic market, Gan said work is under way here to strengthen Singapore as a choice destination for global businesses.

This includes the nationwide productivity drive.

One of the speakers, president of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce Teo Siong Seng, said: “Many multi-national companies are now refocusing in Asia as it’s a growth centre. Singapore is an ideal place, but it’s no longer as cheap as it used to be due to rising business costs.”

Meanwhile, Silver Ribbon Singapore launched a new handbook as part of its efforts to combat mental health stigma at the workplace.

The non-profit organisation said the book, Mental Health Matters: Handbook for Employers and Employees, was published to raise awareness among bosses about mental illness, and to help workers who suffer from it cope better.

It is also targeted at their co-workers so they can be more understanding to their condition. — The Straits Times / Asia News Network