Detail

SMEs in Southeast Asia, which contribute 40% to 60% of GDP in most ASEAN countries, face pressure to digitalise, adopt sustainability, and compete in integrated markets but often lack resources, funding, and future-ready talent. SP is helping address these gaps by aligning its programmes with business needs and building regional partnerships to give SMEs access to scalable solutions, innovation opportunities, and skilled talent. The effort coincides with the launch of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which aims to boost cross-border trade and collaboration, creating both opportunities and challenges for SMEs. SP’s strategy is anchored in applied learning, industry partnerships, and platforms like the Enabling Platform Partnership, positioning education as a catalyst for enterprise transformation. Events such as Automation SolutionGO! and the Regional Industry Networking Conference (RINC) act as ecosystems where SMEs, policymakers, and students engage through exhibitions, panel discussions, and co-created projects. These platforms also host initiatives such as the GO! Awards, recognising SMEs and solution providers that excel in growth, sustainability, and technology adoption. Mr Toh Ser Khoon, Senior Director of the Engineering Cluster at SP, said: “As part of our work with SMEs, we want to make transformation stick — not just through technology adoption or strategy, but through how leaders and employees think, what they can do, and how they act day-to-day.”

[Tech Edition]