Singapore, 28 October 2024 – The Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME) and Temasek Polytechnic (TP) have entered a strategic partnership to advance sustainability efforts among Singapore’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). This collaboration seeks to raise awareness, build capabilities, and foster sustainable practices, helping SMEs align with Singapore’s national sustainability goals.

As part of the partnership, both parties will jointly provide opportunities for SMEs to gain knowledge and motivation towards environmental sustainability. A key focus will be to help ASME’s network of businesses build their capabilities in sustainable practices. The collaboration includes conducting surveys and studies to gain insights into the general public’s mindset towards sustainable consumer products, as well as understanding the barriers and drivers that influence SMEs in adopting these practices.

One of the major initiatives within this collaboration is the launch of a business transformation program that will help ASME member companies curate and fine-tune their sustainability roadmaps. This program is designed to provide SMEs with practical tools and guidance to embark on their sustainability journey. Additionally, ASME and TP will co-organize outreach events and platforms to promote sustainability and the adoption of joint initiatives, ensuring a broad and impactful reach across the SME community. The collaboration signifies TP's commitment in inculcating a sustainability culture through industry partnerships, advancing knowledge, and developing solutions that address sustainability challenges.

 ASME Harmony (ESG) Action Group Chair, Mr Tan Ching Hwee shares, “This partnership with Temasek Polytechnic marks a pivotal step for Singapore’s SMEs in their journey towards sustainability. By providing tailored programs and actionable roadmaps, we are equipping businesses with the tools and knowledge they need to embrace environmentally-responsible practices. At ASME, we recognize that sustainability is not just a trend but a long-term commitment. Through this collaboration, we aim to help SMEs overcome challenges, adopt sustainable strategies, and ultimately contribute to Singapore’s broader environmental goals

 “While sustainability is an increasingly important topic of interest, we understand that for many SMEs, breaking this down into actionable steps is where the gap is. This partnership with Temasek Polytechnic is a step towards helping our members and SMEs at large explore how to make sustainability practical and real for SMEs. Through this collaboration, we want to provide SMEs with the tools and support to navigate the sustainability landscape. For those ready to take the first step, this partnership will be about making sustainability both actionable and accessible.,” adds Mr Ang Yuit, President, ASME.

Commenting on the partnership between TP and ASME, Mr Tay Boon Keat, Director of Research, Innovation & Enterprise (RIE) & Partnership Development said “Temasek Polytechnic is pleased to collaborate with the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises (ASME), to jointly drive environmental sustainability efforts and promote the adoption of sustainable practices amongst SMEs in Singapore. Supported by broad-based capabilities across TP’s Academic Schools and Centres of Excellence, we are committed towards partnering ASME to identify and implement sustainable solutions with our local SMEs, contributing our part towards the Singapore Green Plan 2030 vision.”

This partnership underscores the commitment of ASME and TP to help foster a sustainable business ecosystem, positioning Singapore’s SMEs at the forefront of environmental responsibility. By equipping SMEs with the necessary knowledge, tools, and support, this initiative will empower them to contribute meaningfully to Singapore’s broader sustainability efforts.