华商 Chinese Enterprise - 2013 issue 5

28 与翁山淑枝对话 In Conversation with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi

Chinese enterprise MICA (P) 074/03/2013

第五期 . ISSUE 5/2013

$5.00 (incl. GST)

Big landscapes Inspire big thinking

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE AUSTRALIA FOR YOUR NEXT BUSINESS EVENT. This year we chose Australia for our global congress. It was an easy choice, as Australia’s proximity to Asia gave us the opportunity to attract many new delegates. The program was one of the best in years. New Australian developments in our field attracted a lot of interest and strong international research partnerships were established.

Australia is on everyone’s list to visit, and it lured our highest number of delegates yet. There’s no doubt they’ll be talking about this convention for years to come.

Dr Louise Wong, International Board Member

VISIT BUSINESSEVENTS.AUSTRALIA.COM/ASSOCIATIONS FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PLAN YOUR AUSTRALIAN EVENT.

召集未来 商界领袖

立足亚洲, 引领全球

编辑人语 E D I T O R ’S N O T E

“海上生明月，天涯共此时” 。中秋节是人团圆、庆秋收的好时 节，在中华传统文化中寓意圆满、 和谐。9月12日，本地华社、华商 代表和各国朋友在花好月圆的这一 天齐聚总商会共度中秋，场面热 闹、气氛融洽。9月和10月对总商 会来说，收获丰硕、意义深远。总 商会与首次到访新加坡的翁山淑枝 进行了专场对话会。隔天，蔡其 生会长便马不停蹄地率领了总商会 127人商业代表团到中国成都参加 第12届世界华商大会。总商会是 世界华商大会的发起机构，所以从 不间断组团参加每两年举办一次的 大会，不仅为了履行作为大会召 集人组织之一的职责，也为了带领 会员商家开拓各地商机。大会举 行后的三个星期，总商会位于大巴 窑的中区中小企业中心正式投入 服务；更名后的总商会中小企业中 心也隆重开幕，定位更明确、服务 更深入。我们在开幕式上分析了总 商会年度“中小企业意见调查”的 结果，获得热烈反响。“千里共婵 娟”的气氛渲染了金秋10月的三 大民族商会交流会。由我们主办的 交流会邀请了印度和马来商会的旧 雨新知同游晚晴园，并在中山公园 的餐叙上留下美好记忆。这是一 个把手言欢的季节，也是一个收获 满满的季节，种种的努力在总商会 的历史进程上留下了珍贵、永恒的 印记。

In Chinese culture, the Mid-Autumn Festival is traditionally celebrated as a harvest festival where friends and family gather to enjoy the rich pickings of the harvest. Aside from the usual MidAutumn celebrations at the Chamber together with the larger Chinese business community and friends of many other nationalities, the months of September and October gathered a bumper harvest of various events, all of which bore special meaning to the Chamber. Firstly, the Chamber had the privilege and honour to hold an exclusive business dialogue with Daw Aun Sang Suu Kyi on her maiden visit to Singapore. On the very next day, Chamber’s President Thomas Chua led a 127-strong contingent from Singapore to participate in the 12th WCEC in Chengdu and represented the Chamber to speak on our role in initiating the inaugural WCEC and in forming the Founder Members Board. Within a span of three weeks, the SME Centre officially opened its satellite centre in Toa Payoh, SME Centre@Central, and launched the SME Centre@SCCCI under its new name and with expanded resources. In conjunction with the opening of SME@SCCCI, we released the findings of the annual SME Survey. The festive spirit which began with the Mid-Autumn Festival on September 12 carried on with a convivial congregation of old friends and new at the Inter-Chamber Networking Night in early October with the Indian and Malay Chambers, as our Chamber played host with a guided tour of the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall followed by a buffet dinner at the new Ramada Hotel in Zhong Shan Park. These were a crop of events which added significance and value to the Chamber’s history.

华文翻译：陈星伊 华文翻译：陈星伊 请到中华总商会官方网站 www.sccci.org.sg 阅读电子版 《华商》。 Chinese Enterprise can be viewed online through the Chamber’s corporate website www.sccci.org.sg

目录 CONTENTS PublISher

新加坡中华总商会 Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry 47 Hill Street #09-00 Singapore 179365 Tel: (65) 6337 8381 Fax: (65) 6339 0605 E-mail: corporate@sccci.org.sg Website: www.sccci.org.sg

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拓展中国西部发展新机遇 蔡其生会长率领总商会127人代表 团参加第12届世界华商大会，协助 本地商家把握大会在成都召开的 重大机遇，将机遇转化成实际的 经济效益。

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四川：驱动中国西部经济腾飞 的引擎 快速发展的四川、成都为新加坡企 业创造许多商机。

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百年基 千秋业 蔡其生会长受邀在第十二届世界 华商大会的“世界侨商组织发展论 坛”上，发表主题演讲。

编辑顾问 eDItorIAl ADvISorS Thomas Chua Kee Seng Teo Siong Seng Seow Choke Meng Chan Hian Siang

蔡其生 张松声 萧作鸣 曾宪相

出版统筹 PublICAtIonS SuPervISIon 谭宝锠 Tham Poh Cheong

主编

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eDItor

胡爱兰 Fiona Hu 副编辑 ASSIStAnt eDItor

陈星伊 Chin Sin Yee 撰稿 StAff WrIterS 许彬彬 Kelvin Khaw 黄义芳 Huang Yifang ContrIbutorS

总商会中小企业中心更主动、 全面、贴心地协助商家 总商会在中小企业中心开幕式上， 提出五项协助中小企业克服挑战 的建议。

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借力援助计划之翼 实现企业 提升之志 新开幕的总商会中区中小企业中 心将为邻里商家提供更全面的服 务，范围也扩大。

PhotoS

胡爱兰 Fiona Hu 胡育斌 David Hu

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In conversation with daw aung San Suu Kyi The Chamber organised a business dialogue with Myanmar’s Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on September 22.

FoCuS on SMeS

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国会里的企业心声

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中小企业的持续发展 总商会前任会长、官委议员张松声 向政府提出商家的三个愿望，希 望上下一心，共同推动中小企业持 续发展。

taking a productivity check: SMes showing resilience amidst the winds and rains of restructuring SCCCI’s 2013 SME Survey results, discussed at the opening of the SME Centre@SCCCI, showed the resilience of SMEs.

BuSIneSS VoICe In ParLIaMent

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Sustainability of small and medium enterprises NMP Teo Siong Seng championed the needs of SMEs in a Motion of Adjournment in Parliament.

ChaMBer CoMMunIty

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管顾巨群联盟打造服务输出的典范 管理顾问业将成为台湾经济发展及 增加国际竞争力重要的服务产业。

设计

Chinese Enterprise is produced and designed by Egg Creatives Pte Ltd (Registration No. 200504905G) for Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (Registration No. S61550014E). Copyright of the materials contained in this publication belongs to SCCCI. Nothing in here shall be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written consent of SCCCI and/or Egg Creatives Pte Ltd. The views expressed in Chinese Enterprise by authors and contributors are not necessarily those of SCCCI and no liabilities shall be attached thereto. All rights reserved.

Editorial enquiries should be directed to the Editor, Chinese Enterprise, Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, 47 Hill Street #09-00 Singapore 179365. Tel: (65) 6337 8381 Fax: (65) 6339 0605 E-mail: research@sccci.org.sg.

Unsolicited material will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed envelope and sufficient return postage.

While every reasonable care will be taken by the Editor, no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. MICA (P) 074/03/2013. Printed by Innotech Communication Pte Ltd (Registration No. 199604880H).

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运筹帷幄

行销

DeSIgn Egg Creatives

Venturing into Western China through the 12th WCeC A large contingent from SCCCI participated in the 12th WCEC in Chengdu.

蔡其生会长获颁“南洋校友成就奖” 南大把“南洋校友成就奖”颁给 首位出任总商会会长的南大毕业 生――蔡其生，说明南大对总商会 的肯定。

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摄影

MArKetIng 陈星伊 Chin Sin Yee 何美仪 Queenie Ho

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中小企业

特约撰稿 张宝诚 Chang Bao-Cheng 邓素娟 Tang Soh Kuen

In the Lead

华商焦点

出版

Fostering a close-knit chamber community Friends from SCCCI, SICCI and SMCCI gathered for an enjoyable third Inter-Chamber Networking Night.

商会时讯

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吕德耀部长：总商会是政府难能 可贵的合作伙伴 交通部长吕德耀在中秋联欢晚会 上，颁赠总商会基金奖学金给四 所大学和马来／回教发展理事会 的优秀大学生。

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社区参与计划文化古迹之旅 100名代表通过古迹之旅，了解 不同族群的文化和宗教信仰，促 进种族和谐。

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华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

拓展中国西部 发展新机遇

文：陈星伊

总商会组织127人代表团，赴成都参加第12届世界华商大会，协助 会员商家在新加坡和四川政府建构的合作平台上，把握大会在成都 召开的重大机遇。总商会代表团是海外华人工商团体组团参加大会 中，规模最大的团队。

蔡其生会长（前排左七）带领的127人代表团在成都时受到新希望集团刘永好先生（前排右七）的热情款待。

中国改革开放的总设计师邓小平 曾说：“几千万华侨华人是一支了不起 的力量，是中国大发展的独特机遇。” 全球华商凭借自身的努力，为所在国家 和地区的经济发展作出了巨大的贡献， 同时也成为中国经济持续强劲增长不可 或缺的重要力量。

由新加坡中华总商会于1991年创 办的世界华商大会，搭建了一个让全 球华商加强联系交流，促进经贸合作 的重要平台。2001年，大会首次在中

国举办，时隔12年，世界华商大会再 次回到中国，于9月24－26日在西部城 市成都拉开帷幕，藉由成都的窗口， 充分展示中国发展的新机遇、西部大 开发的新成果，推动中国与世界华商 的交流与合作契机。

以“中国发展 华商机遇” 为主题的第12届大会，由中国侨 商投资企业协会主办，成都市人 民政府承办，吸引了来自104个 国家和地区的3000名华商，聚首

成 都 ， 共 同 寻 找 在 四 川 发 展 的 新 机遇。

蔡其生会长率领总商会127人代表 团参加第12届大会，希望通过此行协助 本地商家把握大会在成都召开的重大机 遇，将机遇转化成实际的经济效益。

新加坡和中国，包括四川的合作 关系非常密切，两国政府早在1996年 就成立了新加坡－四川贸易与投资委 员会，带动本地商家到四川投资。许多

华商焦点

新加坡企业，包括总商会的钟声坚副会 长、外事委员会邓健辉主席、王显荣名 誉董事、郭明忠董事、郭益智董事等在 四川、成都都有投资。全球许多知名 华商，例如香港的李嘉诚、泰国的谢国 民、马来西亚的郭鹤年等也都在四川、 成都打下了根基。 习近平：广大华商应把握机遇

中国国家主席习近平致第12届世界 华商大会的贺信由国务院侨办主任裘援 平宣读。习主席说：“中国改革开放事 业取得伟大成就，广大华侨华人功不可 没。30多年来，华侨华人发挥在资金、 技术、管理、商业网络等方面的优势， 在中国各地投资兴业，用自己的智慧和 汗水，有力促进了中国经济社会发展， 有力推动了中国同世界的交流合作。”

习主席呼吁广大华商把握机遇、 发挥优势，积极关心和参与中国改革 开放和现代化建设，在互惠合作中实 现自身事业更大发展，为共圆中华民 族伟大复兴的中国梦，推动中国人民 同世界各国人民的交流合作，作出新 的更大的贡献。 俞正声：中国提供更多机遇

中共中央政治局常委、全国政协 主席俞正声在大会开幕式上指出，一个 繁荣稳定的中国，将为世界带来更多的 发展机遇与合作机会，也将为广大华商 事业发展提供更富潜力的市场空间。

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他也希望华侨华人： 把握世界经济调整契机，进一步 壮大华商经济 推动住在国经济社会发展，进 步融入当地社会 积极参与中国经济转型升级，进 一步实现合作共赢 弘扬中华优秀文化，进一步树 民族良好形象

第12届世界华商大会期间，总商 会代表团和参会嘉宾参加了中国经济论 坛、15个专题论坛等活动，就中国经 济总体形势及产业政策、中国城镇化战 略的发展机遇、华商跨国企业的机遇与 挑战等多个主题进行深入探讨。

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IN THE LEAD

总商会也为代表团安排了正式行 程之外的参观拜访活动，包括考察新川 创新科技园、参观双流区等，加深新加 坡商家对成都经商环境的了解。

第14届世界华商大会将在2015年 由印尼中华总商会举办。印尼幅员辽 阔、商机无限，是本地商家的另一块投 资热土。

广大 华商应 把 握 机 遇、 发挥优势，积极关心和参 与中国改革开放和现代化 建设。 ―中国国家主席习近平

蔡其生会长在参加第12届世界华商大会期间，与海内外媒体，包括新 华社、成都商报、成都电视台、中国新闻社、四川日报、香港卫视等，分享 了他对四川、成都投资氛围的看法，以及总商会协助会员商家拓展中国市场 的计划： •

在中国西部地区，四川是发展最快的省份之一。新加坡政府和四川政府 建立了贸易与投资委员会的政府合作平台，双方共同投资的新川创新科 技园已经启动，而总商会与新川创新科技园也签署了合作协议，可以协 助新加坡商家到四川拓展投资机会。四川人口多，消费市场大，一些新 加坡的零售品牌，如面包物语等已经开始进入四川市场。随着许多制造 业公司把四川和成都作为生产基地，新加坡企业也可以在供应链管理方 面为这些企业服务。

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新川创新科技园的新方主要投资者是胜科集团和星桥国际，新加坡中小 企业对这两家公司的运作模式非常熟悉，比较容易适应园区的经商环 境。本地一些著名发展商，如仁恒置地、嘉德置地等，也都在成都开发 了商用与零售地产，新加坡的中小企业可以借船出海。

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鉴于本地经商环境正在转型当中，总商会将继续全力协助会员商家到海 外发展。除了协助中国各地政府到新加坡开展招商活动，组织商务考察 团出访中国，组织企业家和管理人员到中国浸濡培训外，总商会将以更 加全面有效的方式拓展中国市场。总商会已经与11家中国各地驻新加坡 代表处签署合作协议，联手协助本地企业拓展中国市场。各省市驻新加 坡的代表机构，熟悉新中两地的情况，是交换信息的中转站。这些代表 对当地经商环境的了解，无论是深度还是广度，对海外商家都极其富有 参考价值。

与总商会签署合作协议的11家中国省市驻新加坡代表处包括山东驻新加坡代表处、 江苏驻新加坡经贸代表处、中国浙江中心（新加坡）、云南驻新加坡商务代表处、 中国－东盟博览会秘书处新加坡联络处、沈阳市人民政府驻东南亚经贸代表处、烟台 市驻新加坡代表处、中国连云港（新加坡）发展机构、舟山市人民政府驻新加坡经贸 联络处、辽源市驻东南亚代表处、吉林（中国－新加坡）食品区管理委员会驻新加坡 代表处。

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IN THE LEAD

华商焦点

四川：驱动中国西部 经济腾飞的引擎

文：陈星伊

在中国的“十二五发展规划蓝图”下，四川将着力发展高科技和创新产业、现 代服务业和农业与“7＋3”产业，即电子信息、装备制造、能源电力、油气化 工、钒钛钢铁、饮料食品和现代中药等优势产业，积极培育航空航天、汽车制 造、生物工程等有潜力的产业。 两大枢纽推动四川经济发展 成－渝经济区

成－渝经济区是继长三角、珠三 角、环渤海地区三大增长极后，中国经 济增长的“第四极”。此区涵盖四川省 15个城市和重庆31个区县，总面积20.61 万平方公里 。

以重庆、成都为核心，沿江、沿线 为发展带的“双核五带”（图一）空间 布局，支持这些产业的发展：

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八大支柱产业：重大装备制造、 汽车、摩托车生产、电子信息、 民航、航天 研发制造、冶金和 材料生产、化学工业、轻纺业、 生物制药 四大现代化农服务业：农作、畜 牧、水产养殖、水果花卉 六大现代服务业：物流、金融、 资信科技、会展、旅游与休闲 现代制造业

图一：成－渝经济区布局 绵阳

德阳

达州

南充

成都

万卅

遂宁

雅安

广安

合川

资阳

眉山

长寿 内江 永川

乐山

自贡

宜宾

成绵乐发展带

渝广达发展带

成（南）遂渝发展带

成内渝发展带

涪陵 重庆

天府新区

天府新区总规划面积1578平方千米， 将发展成以现代制造业为主、高端服务业集 聚、宜业宜商宜居的国际现代新城区。新加 坡和四川政府合作的新川创新科技园便是坐 落在天府新区内。

天府新区的八大产业开发区及重点发展 产业包括： • 空港经济开发区：新能源产业 • 双流信息产业区：电子信息与科 技研发 • 成眉战略新兴产业区：新材料、 生物医

药、节能环保产业及科技研发 • 成都经济技术开发区：汽车研发 与制

造，航空航天装备、工程机械制造 • 新川创新科技园：科技研发、信息服

务、服务外包、总部办公 • 东山科技产业区：科技研发、创新发展

信息服务 • 南部现代农业产业区：农副产品深加

工、现代农业科技研发、生物技术 • 视高经济开发区：农副产品深加工、

机械、电子制造

江津

总商会新加坡企业中心为有意到四川发展的本 地商家提供更多协助，请联系新加坡企业中心 主管林维祺，电邮：weekhee@sccci.org.sg； 电话：8621-5208 2669或总商会中国事务项目 经理胡育斌，电邮：david@sccci.org.sg； 电话：65-6337 8381

泸州

沿长江发展带

资料来源：新加坡国际企业发展局、四川省商务厅、 四川省人民政府门户网站、成都市人民政府门户网站

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华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

百年基 千秋业 9月25日，蔡其生会长受邀在第十二届世界华商大会 “世界侨商组织发展论坛”发表主题演讲， 《华商》刊登 蔡会长演讲全文，以飨读者。

非常感谢本次大会专门设立“世 界华商组织发展论坛”，让不同国家的 华商领袖互相取经。今天，我将以“百 年基 千秋业”为主题，按照历史的脉 络，分享新加坡中华总商会的定位、功 能和管理模式。

百年商会，百年基业。新加坡中华 总商会经历了不同的历史阶段，见证了 新加坡的成长，与国家的发展同甘苦共 患难，凝聚了众多前辈的心血和无私奉 献。过去，她是民间公认的华社华商领 导机构，现在，她是政府与民间的有效

桥梁。以往的华商前辈都是白手起家、 事业有成、回馈社会的热心人士；今天 的商会董事，许多是接受过良好教育， 有着双语双文化背景的青年才俊。过去 的总商会带领华社华商向殖民地政府 争取权益，今天的总商会与政府部门建 立起合作共赢的默契，及时转达商家诉 求，协助会员解决行业相关的难题。秉 承与时并进，自我提升的原则，总商会 一直随着时代的发展进行调整，不断引 进新一代企业家，引进现代管理方法， 引进新的科技理念，提高为商家服务的 素质。

致力于维护华社利益

新加坡建国总理李光耀先生曾 经说过：“总商会的历史，反映着新 加坡的历史。”当初，华族移民在新 加坡以籍贯和方言群为基础，创办了 各种会馆、同乡会，互相依靠，互相 扶持。一些成功商人在会馆中非常 活跃，逐渐成为倍受尊重的民间领 袖。1906年，在当时清政府的支持 下，新加坡中华商务总会成立，打破 了籍贯和行业的限制，成为社会公认 的华商组织。此后，商务总会更名为 中华总商会，历届董事举行就职典礼

华商焦点

时都会安排印信交接仪式，象征着华 商精神代代相传。

在受英国统治的殖民地时代， 总商会扮演着非常重要角色。维护 华社利益，举办慈善筹款活动，兴教 办学，维持社区秩序，促进社会和 谐，总商会的社会影响力日渐提升， 受到社会各界的认同。上个世纪五十 年代，总商会带头发起争取公民权运 动，经过多年的努力，终于在1957年 争取到成果，不仅惠及华族移民，其 他种族的移民也因此能够在新加坡落 地生根。在那个年代，总商会是华社 无可争议的领导机构，不但有效地处 理华社之间政治、经济和社会课题， 还积极与邻近国家建立密切的贸易伙 伴关系。

为了培养更多华族子弟接受高等 教育，1953年，总商会鼎力支持南 洋大学的创办，号召新马华商共襄善 举。从创办南洋大学到1980年南大 与新加坡大学合并，二十多年的时间 里，总商会的历届领导人都积极参与 南大事务，捐献巨款资助教育，为新 加坡栽培了众多青年才俊，兴教办学 的优良传统也一直延续至今。今年， 总商会承诺为新加坡四所大学继续颁 发奖学金，总金额加倍，受惠学生除 了华族子弟，还包括马来回教同胞的 子女。 全力参与经济建设 为商家谋福利

新加坡独立后，总商会所扮演 的社会角色起了根本性的变化，逐渐 淡出政治领域，全力协助政府推动工 业化发展和经济建设，协助会员拓展 商机，促进贸易与投资，带动本地商 家走出国门，迈向国际。这期间，总 商会带头挑战西方船运公司的垄断地 位，为本地、本区域的商家谋福利。 转口贸易是新加坡的核心经济支柱， 从殖民地时代就成立的船运公会一直 垄断船务运输收费，他们制定的价格 比非会员高出20％到50％，严重影

IN THE LEAD

响新加坡的贸易。1967年，总商会联 合62家商团组成工作委员会，多方筹 措，公开挑战西方船运公会的垄断， 增加新马商家对西方航运业讨价还价 的实力，充分展示了与政府、商家和 跨国商业网络互动的能力。

上个世纪八十年代后期，亚洲的 经济开始迅速增长。总商会已故的林 荫华会长提出创办世界华商大会的倡 议，得到时任李光耀总理的支持，在 1991年成功举办第一届大会，为全 球华商搭建起互动合作的桥梁。为了 确保大会的延续性，新加坡中华总商 会，在第一届大会之后，与香港中华 总商会、泰国中华总商会组成召集人 组织，并决定由香港中华总商会举办 第二届大会，第三届大会则由泰国中 华总商会负责举办，自此开始建立由 世界各地华商机构轮办世界华商大会 的机制。此后，在三家召集人组织和 历届主办机构的共同努力下，世界华 商大会经过二十多年的发展壮大，已 经成为全球华商加强经济合作、促进 相互了解的重要平台。 新格局 新使命

在总商会庆祝九十周年的时候， 时任新加坡吴作栋总理题赠“放眼 四海”四个大字，并肯定总商会始 终是一个不断发展，充满活力的团 体。2006年，总商会迎来100周年大 庆。这是温故知新的时刻，也是承前 启后的里程碑。在新经济时代，变幻 莫测的全球经济环境为总商会今后的 发展带来新的挑战。世界经济格局的 重新定位，为新加坡商家带来机遇的 同时，也带来更加激烈的商业竞争。 如何带领会员商家应对经济转型，对 总商会来说是任重而道远。

从2005年开始，总商会历届董事 会上任之前，都会专门组织董事集思 营。全体董事就未来的发展方向展开 热烈讨论，凝聚集体智慧，规划新的 愿景，最终制定出切实可行的策略方 针和行动计划。集思营这种讨论方式 非常有效，只有在统一愿景、目标、

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薪火相传，推陈出新。总 商会在推广各项会务时更 加注重创新和专业化，以 现代化管理为标准，综合 各方资源，推出更多符合 商家需求的活动，真正为 会员商家排忧解难。

方向的前提下，各个委员会才能发挥 所长，群策群力。

总商会目前有4000家公司会 员，150家商团会员。遍布各行各 业，包括进出口、制造业、零售与批 发、商业服务、旅游、餐饮、物流、 金融、建筑、资讯科技等。商团会员 是各行各业的商家组成的，带有明显 行业背景的机构组织，如五金机械公 会、餐饮业协会等。包括这些商团本 身的会员公司在内，总商会所代表的 公司总数为4万家。其中，既有跨国公 司、政联企业，也有中小型企业和专 业人士。拥有庞大的会员资源，不但 有利于总商会举办各项活动，也能为 选拔优秀的董事会奠定基础。

总商会的董事会目前有56名成 员，分为十个委员会，分管总务、财 政、研究与出版、外事、商团与会 员、科技、国际事务、工商业、产 业、文教与社会事务领域的工作。每 个委员会设主席和副主席，加上会 长、前任会长和三位副会长组成常务 董事会。常务董事会是总商会的领导 核心，十个委员会也各自拥有工作小 组，由商会董事和积极参与会务的会 员代表组成。

为了跟上时代的步伐，总商会 一直坚持自我更新。历届董事会选 举，都把吸引年轻一代企业家加入 总商会，引进青年才俊作为重要任

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华商焦点

务。2010年总商会修改章程，彻底废 除按照方言族群背景推选董事的老规 矩，确保董事会更加年轻化，更富有 朝气。目前在任的第57届董事会共有 56名董事，新成员占了14位。可喜的 是，在新成员当中，超过一半都是50 岁以下，其中最年轻的新董事只有37 岁，是上市公司的新一代企业家。

时代在发展，观念在更新， 引进年轻一代，不仅能够带来新理 念、新思路，也能带来新方法、新科 技。贴近商家，了解商家诉求是总商 会的优势。以老、中、青三代企业家 组成的董事会，将能以符合时代需求 的模式，全心全意地为商家谋求最大 的福利。薪火相传，推陈出新，百年 之后的中华总商会，在推广各项会务 时更加注重创新和专业化，以现代化 管理为标准，综合各方资源，推出更 多符合商家需求的活动，真正为会员 商家排忧解难。 协助企业应对新格局中的挑战

今年3月15日，李显龙总理亲自 担任总商会第57届董事会就职典礼 主宾。他在致词时表示：“政府在拟 定援助中小型企业的配套时，得到总 商会不少的协助。它为政府提供了宝 贵的建议，使我们能够改进措施，最 终提出一个更实际有效和更有吸引力 的配套。在此我要特别感谢中华总商 会。”这是对总商会工作的肯定与鼓 励。在政府和商家之间，总商会扮演 着上情下达，下情上传的角色，是政 府与商界之间的桥梁。但是，总商会 不仅仅是意见的转达者，也是有效建 议的提供者，执行政策的协助者。

例如，最近两年，由于商业竞争 加剧、人口老化等原因，新加坡本地 企业面对转型的压力，急需提高生产 力。总商会加强五个方面的工作，协 助各行各业的商家转型。 •

第一是协助企业家开阔视野， 拓展思维，找海外生产基地。总 商会每年组织约十个商务考察 团，到马来西亚、印尼、越南、 缅甸、印度、韩国、中国大陆、

IN THE LEAD

香港和台湾地区，甚至南非等地 考察、取经。

•

第二是定期举办政府部门对话 会，与部长、政府部门长官及时 交换商家的情况，调整政策，提 高公共服务效率。在这里需要强 调的是，多年来，总商会的多位 会长和董事担任过国会官委议 员，专门在国会传达商界心声。 总商会向政府部门反馈商界实际 情况的同时，也会同时提供可行 的解决方案。

•

•

•

第三是举办多种形式，多样内容 的各类商务活动，包括大型会 展、行业研讨会、经验交流会、 各种培训项目等。在这方面的活 动数量众多，每年约200多个 项目。 第四是建立更加广阔的商务联系 网络，特别是重点加强与亚细 安国家和中国市场的衔接。每 年，总商会都会协助中国各地政 府在新加坡举办招商活动，总商 会在上海也专门成立了代表处， 为新加坡商家进入中国市场提供 便利。今年，我们又与中国各地 驻新加坡的代表处签署合作协 议，共同推动两国之间的商务 交流。 第五是通过属下的专门机构， 重点为会员商家提供专业服务。 总商会属下设有管理学院、中小 企业资信资源中心、中小企业 中心等分支机构。以中小企业中 心为例，中心专门负责推广政府 援助计划，同时为中小企业提供 商务咨询服务，提高经营管理素 质，提高生产力。特别要强调的 是中心的服务是免费的。

在开展各项商务活动的同时，总 商会也注重社会、文化、教育领域的 工作，特别是努力推动双语双文化人 才的培养。例如，总商会长期开办商 务华语课程，积极参与讲华语运动、

华族文化节、“春到河畔迎新年”等 活动，并以实际行动帮助新移民融入 新加坡社会。为了保留晚晴园孙中山 南洋纪念馆，总商会先后投入近2千 万新币修复和维护。晚晴园曾经是孙 中山先生号召南洋华侨支持中国革命 的基地，保留这座古迹，不但可以作 为国民教育的基地，也成为联系海峡 两岸以及世界各地华人的纽带。

最近几年，总商会的会员公司背 景也逐渐产生新的变化。来自不同国 家，特别是东南亚各国和中国的华商 企业纷纷把新加坡当作国际化的区域 中心。一些贸易组织、民间机构、跨 国公司，甚至是异族公司也主动申请 加入中华总商会。这个趋势带给我们 两点启示： •

第一是总商会的影响力正在不断 扩大，已经超越原有的华商 群体。

•

第二是在企业国际化发展中，新 加坡已经成为不可缺乏的区域总 部首选之地。

今天，出席世界华商组织发展论 坛的的各位嘉宾都是世界各地优秀华 商组织的代表，大家都是同行，都是 满怀一腔热忱，为社会服务的典范。 我诚挚地希望通过世界华商大会的平 台，与世界各地志同道合的伙伴保持 密切的联系，共同为会员商家打造有 效的合作平台。相知无远近，万里若 比邻。让我们一起携手，建起造福世 界华商的千秋伟业！

华商焦点

17

IN THE LEAD

蔡其生会长获颁 “南洋校友成就奖”

文：陈星伊

蔡其生是总商会自1906年成立以来，第一位出任会长的南大毕业生。

Source Lianhe Zaobao © Singapore Press Holdings Limited.

Reprinted with permission

总商会蔡其生会长获颁“南洋校 友成就奖”。此奖项由南洋理工大学 设立，旨在表扬在所从事的领域或专 业作出重大贡献，为南大带来荣耀的 校友，或持续为大学提供非凡服务， 致力推动大学发展的校友。

10月12日，文化、社区及青年部 代部长兼通讯及新闻部高级政务部长 黄循财在南大举办的“校友之夜”活 动上，把此殊荣颁赠给蔡其生会长。

毕业于1979年文学院的蔡会长， 是总商会自1906年成立以来，第一位 出任会长的南大毕业生。他表示，今 年3月当选总商会第57届董事会会长后 获颁此奖项，意义重大，这说明南大 对总商会的肯定。

“教育春风化雨”，一向以服务 商界为本的总商会，多年以来也不遗 余力地支持和推动我国文化教育事业 发展，与南大的关系源远流长。50年 代，总商会发动新马华商出钱出力筹 建南洋大学。现在的南洋理工大学在 原有的基础上，已发展成本区域顶尖 的著名高等学府，为新加坡国内外培 养了许多领袖人才。 致力栽培国家栋梁

1997年开始，总商会便颁赠商 学奖给优秀的南大和国大学生。2007 年，为了响应政府推动培育双语双文 化人才的号召，总商会在颁赠给南大 和国大的现有奖学金中，拨出一个名 额，奖励主修中文的优秀学生。2010 年，为了提倡华文华语的学习，总商 会再增加一份奖学金给修读中文系的 南大生。

蔡其生会长（中）与文化、社区及青年部代部长兼通讯及新闻部高级政务部长黄循财（右）， 以及南大校长安迪博教授合影。

2013年，总商会不仅继续提供新 一轮为期三年的奖学金给南大等本地 四所大学，总金额也加倍，颁赠给每 所大学的奖学金，从2万元增加至4万 元，同时也允许大学根据实际需要建 议奖学金的用途。 建构新中交流平台

中国经济的腾飞，为总商会和南 大的合作创造了更密切的合作契机。

2005年，总商会与南大签署合 作意向书，发挥各自的优势和实力， 为中国的政府官员和企业家提供高素

质的专业培训课程，通过提供培训服 务和借助中国学员在新加坡学习的机 会，为本地商家搭建交流平台，构建 有效的人脉网络。

为了进一步加强和南大友好合作 关系，总商会在2006年开始，颁发 “市长班学业优异金牌奖”给南大 “市长班”的青年才俊，鼓励他们在 学成归国之后，成为新中两国最稳固 的桥梁，协助促进两国经贸交流和友 好关系发展。

蔡其生以南大校训“自强不息，力求上进”为经营企 业的座右铭，这更是他在逆境中力争上游的动力。

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中小企业

FOCUS ON SMES

总商会中小企业中心

更主动、全面、 贴心地协助商家

文：许彬彬

“视野决定格局”。中小企业的老板需要抽出时间多做策略性思考，多参 加商业活动开拓视野。不能因为是中小企业，就想着自己小，资源不多，很 多事情都不能做。公司虽小，但企业家的想法和思路却可以宽阔些。” ―总商会蔡其生会长

贸工部张思乐政务部长（右三）、标新局陈开河局长（左二）与总商会蔡其生会长（左三）、张松声前任会长（右二）、黄山忠副会长（右一） 和刘泰山副会长摄于开幕后的总商会中小企业中心。

新加坡有17万家中小企业，占 我国公司总数99%，聘用了70%的员 工，为我国经济贡献超过50%的企业 经济增值。中小企业对我国整体经济 发展、就业市场，发挥举足轻重的作 用。因此，政府与商会密切合作， 致力于协助中小企业在多变的经济格 局中提升自身竞争能力，应对各类 挑战。

10月8日，贸工部张思乐政务部 长为总商会中小企业中心开幕。此中

心是总商会于2006年设立企业发展 与服务中心的升级版，是总商会定位 更明确，服务更深入，规模更大的一 次行动。

总商会蔡其生会长在开幕式上 指出，总商会将继续通过中心“更主 动、全面、贴心地协助会员商家，特 别是中小企业和微型企业。”新开幕 的中小企业中心规模扩大，人员加 倍，系统健全，服务将更加广泛，包 括深入咨询和业务需求评估，以及全

面善用政府的援助计划。中心聘用的 顾问除了具备专业知识，还必须掌握 双语技能，方便协助讲华语的商家。 企业升级转型求生存

蔡会长在9月底率领总商会代表 团到成都参加世界华商大会时，与 许多中国民营企业家进行了交流，深 受他们积极进取的精神所启发。他在 会上分享道：“中国民营企业家会想 尽一切办法，自谋生路。因为竞争激 烈，不能转型后生存，就会在转型中

中小企业

消失。在这方面，新加坡的中小企业 就比较幸运。”

这席话，不禁让与会的250名嘉 宾深思：为什么在别人眼里，本地中 小企业是幸运、幸福的？

蔡会长进一步阐明：“中国民 营企业家遇到的挑战更多，特别是东 南沿海一带的中小企业。对外，世界 经济局势的转变造成企业出口压力增 大；对内，劳动力成本上升，银行信 贷紧缩让民营企业受到双重挤压。当 经济局势改变时，企业必须转型，新 加坡政府为此推出了许多援助计划。 但是，这些援助计划并不是每家企业 都了解，特别是申请手续方面企业并 不熟悉。”为此，总商会在标新局的 支持下，成立企业发展与服务中心， 协助政府推广计划，协助企业申请政 府援助。

过去7年，总商会已为超过 18,500家企业提供服务。2010年，总 商会在上海成立了代表处，第一次走 出国门，协助本地企业向海外发展。 政府商会携手提升企业实力

李显龙总理在今年8月的国庆群 众大会上，宣布成立中小企业工作小 组，再次说明政府对中小企业的高度 重视。这是政府首次集合基层顾问、 商团领袖和政府机构的力量，互相支 援协调，为中小企业提供实质协助。

负责领导工作小组的贸工部张 思乐政务部长在总商会中小企业中心 开幕式上致辞时强调：“我们的首要 任务之一，是通过中小企业中心，扩 大与企业的接触范围，并鼓励商家申 请相关援助计划，提高生产力，推动 企业、行业的提升与转型。同时，工 作小组也积极搜集商界反馈及有效建 议，通过优化政策来支持我国经济结 构的调整。”

总商会大厦九楼的中小企业中心，以及 大巴窑建屋局大厦内的中区中小企业中 心竭诚为本地中小企业提供协助，欢迎 商 家 与 我 们 联 系 ： 电 话 ： 6 3 3 7 8 3 8 1 ； 电邮：enquiry@smecentre-sccci.sg

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FOCUS ON SMES

总商会

5 项建议

助企业转型成长 总商会副会长刘泰山在开幕式特设的专题论坛上，按总商会的“中小企业意 见调查”结果，提出五项实质建议，供政府部门在制定、优化政策时参考。

调查显示，PIC计划最受中小企 业欢迎。在申请政府援助计划的企 业当中，高达77%申请PIC，比去年 高出27个百分点。但是，当中小企 业刚刚意识到计划的好处，正要善 加运用来提高生产力时，计划却即 将截止申请。因此，总商会建议政 府延长 PIC的有效期。

熟练员工对公司业务贡献大， 当公司在为员工更新就业准证/ 工 作准证时，希望政府能允许企业留 住技能熟练的外籍员工，无论员工 国籍。

调查显示，57%的企业从政府援助 计划中受惠，比去年高7个百分点。为 了让更多企业受惠，总商会呼吁政府进 一步简化、放宽计划的申请程序，检讨 申请资格，或扩大计划的使用范围及合 格项目。

目前，申请PIC计划的企业，可从 两种津贴方式中选择一项：“400%税 务回扣”或“60%现金补助”。对营业 额不高，无需缴付所得税的小型、微型 企业而言，现金补助比较实用。但是， 现有的申请资格规定，企业必须至少 聘用三名员工（不包括业主、公司董事 本身）并缴交公积金，才能申请现金补 助，这对微型企业/小贩而言，是“望梅 止渴”。

租金成本上涨是企业面临的最大挑战之一（62.3%），也是服务 业、微小型企业最头痛的课题。总商会促请相关政府机构（如：裕廊集团、 建屋局、土地局）提供更多负担得起的工商业用地，协助中小企业降低经营 场地的成本。

63%的企业有意或已经拓展海外市场，最热门的投资地点是马来西 亚、印尼、中国；其他名列前8名的都是东南亚国家。因此，总商会建议政 府为中小企业设立“业务转移海外津贴”，资助有计划把业务迁移到海外、拓 展海外业务的中小企业。

“中小企业意见调查”是总商会年度重点调查项目，今年共搜集516家各领 域企业的反馈；中小企业占受访企业的97.7%。调查结果有效反映了中小企 业四大方面的心声：2013年经济展望；中小企业在聘请员工、经营成本、提 高生产力、进军海外的现状、趋势与挑战，以及政府援助计划对中小企业的 帮助。

专题论坛的主讲嘉宾是总商会副会长刘泰山、工商业委员会副主席程宇 超、普威古柏会计师事务所合伙人暨总商会研究与出版委员会委员李柯龙； 花旗集团私人银行副总裁谭蕾担任论坛主持。

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中小企业

FOCUS ON SMES

借力援助计划之翼 实现企业提升之志

文：陈星伊

总商会中区中小企业中心的启动，将进一步协助中区的商家提升自身的能力。

为了协助我国中小企业更好地 了解政府援助计划，政府设立了中小 企业中心，提供商业咨询服务，让商 家更好地利用计划提高竞争力和生 产力。总商会中区中小企业中心的启 动，将进一步协助中区的商家提升自 身的能力。

开幕式上，中心和9家商团，包 括新加坡食品厂商联合会、新加坡全 国商联总会、碧山商联会、百胜楼商 联会、珍珠百货商场联合会、新加坡 面包西果商公会、大巴窑中心商联 会、亚历山大村商联会、丹戎巴葛坊 商联会签署合作协议。

9月19日，中区市长陈振泉为总 商会属下中小企业中心设立的第一个 邻里卫星中心举行启动仪式。设在 大巴窑建屋局大厦内的中区中小企业 中心得到了标新局和中区社区发展理 事会的鼎力支持，服务范围扩大到 宏茂桥、丹戎巴葛、碧山－大巴窑和 摩绵－加冷集选区。总商会的服务网 络因此从市区拓展到邻里、摊贩，在 政府、商家和商团之间建立起更加广 泛、有效而紧密的纽带。

在这项协议下，中心将为这9家 商团的会员提供免费的一对一咨询服 务，协助他们了解政府援助计划，并 提升业务能力，改善人力资源及财务 管理能力，提高服务素质与生产力。 这9家商团的会员公司大部分在中区 一带经营，商团对会员的情况非常熟 悉。在商团的支持下，中区中小企业 中心与商家之间的联系将更加便利。

总商会中区中小企业中心 将为邻里商家提供更全 面的服务，包括一站式商 业咨询，推广各个政府 部门的援助计划，协助 中小商家，特别是邻里商 家办理政府援助计划的 申请手续，以及善用电脑 科技降低营业成本。

中区市长陈振泉（中间站立者）、总商会蔡其生会长、标新局周沐丽助理总裁见证总商会副会长兼总商会中小企业中心主席刘泰山（前排右五）与 9个商团签署合作协议。这9个商团与签约代表为:（前排左起）丹戎巴葛坊商联会主席刘子福、亚历山大村商联会主席林咏福、百胜楼商联会会长郭文 发、碧山商联会主席洪鼎良、新加坡食品厂商联合会会长白毅柏、新加坡全国商联总会会长杨向明、新加坡面包西果商公会会长廖建发、大巴窑中心 商联会总务张远功、珍珠百货商联合会会长谢赛英。

运筹帷幄

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CORPORATE STRATEGIES

管顾巨群联盟 打造服务输出的典范

文：张宝诚

管理 顾问业是知识服务业的表征。顾问除了具备专业知识 外，透 过 咨询、诊断、辅导、培训等服务，激发出企业经营模式创新，并带动多面 向产业价值链的整合以接轨国际。

根据CPC调查研究团队一项针对 台湾包括：制造业、服务业、金融业 等800家大型企业对顾问服务使用的 调查结果显示，有91.63％的企业曾 接受过顾问辅导，更有80.35％的企 业近2年仍持续接受顾问辅导或正在 接受顾问辅导。

同时，调研团队也针对上述企 业在接受顾问服务后的满意度与辅 导效益做进一步探讨与分析，结果 显示出有16.26％的企业感受到经 由顾问服务而促使组织员工提高士 气；17.69％的企业认为，透过顾问 辅导后有活化营运模式的效益；以及 10.87％的企业认为，企业的投资的 效益有获得提升。

由此得知，在知识经济时代， 管理顾问业透过知识附加价值协助企 业面对国际竞争激烈且产业需求快速 转型的挑战，将成为我国经济发展及 增加国际竞争力重要的服务产业。 建构亚太管顾业服务输出远景

有鉴于此，自2009年我即带领 CPC顾问团队在获得经济部中小企业 处的支持下，藉由执行“管理顾问 服务科技发展计划”，建构以打造 台湾管理顾问业具有国际竞争力， 并且成为亚太管顾服务输出典范的 愿景，致力于提升我国管理顾问业 经营环境与体质，强化管理顾问业 科技价值与创新能量。

过程中，随着台湾整体产业结 构的改变，如何让管理顾问业者跟着 产业环境的改变自我重整、升级转型 则是当前亟待克服的课题。 个人化、规模小亟待突破 CPC团队拟定策略规划以精进产

业环境整备及建构研发创新能量；管 理顾问服务业业务拓展与推动；管理 顾问业网络平台维运等三大策略的 做法，藉此提升管理顾问的素质，以 产业知识连结作为基础，鼓励业者由 过往的个人的、小型化、单打独斗的 经营模式与思维，迈向跨领域服务整 合、跨专业咨询辅导运作模式。彼 得•杜拉克在《谈未来企业》一书中 指出：“知识的生产力大小，会成为 国家、产业、企业竞争地位的决定因 素。”

有鉴于此，CPC团队致力于提升 台湾管理顾问业的经营环境与体质， 强化管理顾问业科技价值与创新能 量。兹进一步详述重点如下： 一、设置规划“管理顾问创新研发 中心”

藉由设置规划管理顾问创新 研究发展中心（简称创研中心）引 进国际管理工具、新知技法以及人 才培训课程，作为业者之间知识 交流与分享，藉此提高创新研发能 量，以及建构完备且健全的环境。 创研中心的服务能量空间提供E化

知识的生产力大小，会成 为国家、产业、企业竞争 地位的决定因素。”

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运筹帷幄

（Electronic）、K化（Knowledge） 、M化（Mobile）等三化的服务。涵 盖商务、知识、技术以及行政等支 持，藉此让成员能彼此进行资源整 合、专长分享及合作，建立完整管理 顾问辅导支持及定期学习网络模式。 同时，也与国际管理顾问业进行交 流，针对如产业脉动、技术新知，透 过成之员间的脑力激荡与讨论，协助 管理顾问业提升整体创新研发的力 量。

“质量跃升”、“制造进化”与各专 业领域管理顾问公司连结协同。此 外，亦透过“研发服务”、“设计服 务”、“信息服务”、“技术服务” 等型态进行跨界结盟。同时，更与学 界、国际管理顾问公司、会计审计、 以及创投等跨业结盟，以提供企业更 多元、完整的服务。

二、筹组台湾管顾巨群联盟 （Taiwan Mega Consulteam，简称 TMCteam）

现阶段台湾管理顾问产业约有 1,839家顾问公司进行服务输出，其 中实际提供境外设点服务的管顾公司 约265家；因辅导计划提供顾问驻点 服务的管顾公司约360家。大多数集 中在如：珠三角、大陆长三角以及京 津冀等台商主要的发展范围。另外， 在东协10国，则以新加坡、越南、 马来西亚、泰国为主。

然而，根据CPC研究团队针对台 湾管理顾问业服务能量的调查，结 果显示，其面临产业规模小、产值 低、研发创新服务能量不足等发展 瓶颈，亟待突破。有鉴于此，为整合 管理顾问业服务能量，发挥1加1大 于3的功效，透过聚合国内具领域专 长特色的12家以上管理顾问业者或 机构，组成“台湾管顾巨群联盟” 。 TMCteam 的组成为一跨领域及跨 界的专业辅导服务团队，除了CPC、 中卫发展中心、台湾绿色生产力基 金会等法人机构外，并与企业经营 管理顾问协会、亚太理财规划协会 充分合作。再加上以“永续管理” 、“组织发展”、“服务创新”、

CORPORATE STRATEGIES

现阶段台湾管理顾问业将于积 极向中国大陆的标竿企业管理阶层建 立 TMCteam 品牌的知名度，短期目 标为提高能见度及产生影响力；中 长程目标则是达成“打造成为华人 管顾业第一品牌”。在具体的作法 上， TMCteam 成员将与创研中心进 行紧密结合，以强化创新研发能量， 开发产业领域专属辅导工具，供应成 员进行新知技法学习与新产品研发。

此外，在接案与执行部分， 分别以“整合性需求”与“专业性 需求”两种模式执行。前者主要由 法人机构统一进行企业需求洽谈， 再将顾客需求依成员专业领域进行 媒合与分工，以及严选优质中小型 管理顾问业协助执行；后者则为由 T MCteam领导企业进行接单，并 严选优质中小型管理顾问业加入辅 导供应链体系协助执行。当专业性 需求延伸至整合性需求时，再由法 人机构进行整体统筹，进行市场的 商机开拓，创造新蓝海。 三、建置知识服务网络平台

知识服务网络平台为支撑产业 环境整备及建构研发创新能量的基 盘。透过调查研究资料与产业情资 分析的汇整整合，平台将提供产业 情报、管理新知、辅导技法、实务经 验、顾问黄页、顾问社群、数字学习 等能量，透过知识活化、资源整合、

联合接案，进而引进产、官、学、研 的相关资源，深化台湾管理顾问的 能量。

全力协助台湾管理顾问业者突 破瓶颈、优化产业，发挥提升台湾产 业服务体质的这条道路，CPC会一直 走下去，也期待在与各产、官、学、 研共同切磋琢磨的过程中，为厚植台 湾产业竞争实力，持续奉献出CPC的 能量。 作者是中国生产力中心 (CPC) 总经理。总 商会于2012年7月12日与台湾中国生产力中 心 (CPC) 签署合作框架协议，充分发挥双 方各自的优势，通过培训与交流，为两地企 业开阔思路，提升技能，提高运作效率，搭 建新加坡企业与台湾企业互动平台和桥梁。 总商会与CPC在培训与研讨会、咨询服 务、产品创新与开发和资讯共享等领域展开 精诚合作，并互为对方在以上四个领域的当 地唯一合作伙伴。

国会里的企业心声

BUSINESS VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

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中小企业的 持续发展 总商会前任会长、官委议员张松声在10月21日 的国会上，再次为本地中小企业转达心声，并提 如果说新加坡是一棵 出商家的三个愿望，以期共同推动我国中小企 参天的大树，那么，众多 的中小企业和员工就是大 业持续发展。 树的根。只有根系发达、 健康，才能及时输送营 养，枝繁叶茂。中小企业 发展的好，企业的员工生 活才会好，国家才会持续 稳定地发展。

议长、各位议员，大家好！ 首先申明，我目前担任新加坡中 华 总 商 会 前 任 会 长 ， 太 平 船 务 (Pacific International Lines)董事总经 理。去年11月，我在国会发言时反映 中小企业的困境和期望，转达中小企 业的心声。一年后的今天，我想再次 尝试转达本地中小企业的心声，发言 主题是“中小企业的持续发展”。

最近两年，政府推出了许多援 助计划，扶助本地企业成长，提高 生产力。商家们自身也努力尝试， 不断创新，有些已经把生产基地搬 到临近国家，降低成本压力。作为 政府与商界的桥梁，新加坡中华总 商会一直努力促进双方的合作，协

助政府推广政策的同时，也及时向 政府部门反映商家的实际情况。

那么，商家目前面临的主要问 题是什么呢？这个月，总商会刚刚 公布了2013年中小企业调查结果。 参加调查的公司共有516家，97.7％ 是中小企业。我们很高兴地看到， 在提高生产力方面，政府与中小企 业方向和立场一致。有84％的受调 查企业表示，公司正在努力进行调 整，通过多种方式提高生产力。这 个结果令人鼓舞，同时也让我们反 思，在立场和方向一致的前提下， 为什么还有不少企业叫苦连天？我 们应该采取什么样的有效措施完成 目标？

经营场地问题让商家头疼

调查显示，本地中小企业面临 的两大难题是员工和场地。员工问 题方面已经是现实，商家很清楚解 决人力问题没有捷径，政府政策不 能U转。于是，在场地方面，寄望于 政府能够给予协助，为本地中小企 业提供负担得起的经营地点。至于 由哪个部门负责，是裕廊集团、土 地局、建屋局，还是环境局，或者 其他机构，在商家眼里都一样，因 为商家不关心政府机构内部如何分 工，只是希望问题能够得到解决。

总商会每个月都举行商团会员午 餐。我们频繁接到商家的反馈，反应 最多的是经营场地问题，涉及的行业 包括五金机械、木材、餐饮、家具、 车业、农产品进出口、花卉园艺、鲜 花批发、面包西果、咖啡店等等，大 家谈的都是同样的问题。这说明，经 营场地问题是本地商家普遍面临的， 非常头痛的难题。

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国会里的企业心声

经营场地问题可以分为两种。一 种是土地续约，另一种是厂房、店屋 租金疯狂上涨。例如，JTC厂房30年租 约到期不一定续约，一些行业如果和 土地局租用土地，租约到期时，是否 续约一向是未知数。如果不能续约， 商家必须在接到最后通知之后，尽快 寻找新的经营场地。搬迁工程耗资巨 大，除了承担搬迁费用、固定资产投 入、装修费用等成本，原来的场地也 要清理干净，许多设施、设备也只能 销毁。在这方面找总商会诉苦的商团 非常多。例如：五金机械、木材等行 业使用的设备都比较粗重，选址、搬 迁绝非易事。因为重量问题，也无法 向空中发展，必须有足够的土地。

我再讲一个花商的故事。新 加坡是花园城市，现在的定位是花 园中的城市，不过，在新加坡做花 商却并不容易。太子花店( Prince’s Flower)主席兼董事经理陈炳却先生 (Mr Tan Peng Kheok)1956年开始在 道德路 (Toh Tuck Road) 经营，至今已 经搬了7次。现在的经营地点在双溪 登加路(Sungei Tengah)，20年租约 明年11月到期，至今还不知道到底 能否续约。以往每次搬迁，至少都 要花费200万元重新设立花圃、灌溉 排水系统等。原来场地的一些粗重 的花盆，尚未出售的鲜花，没有办 法搬动，只好销毁。陈炳却先生现 在的心愿很简单，希望有关部门能 尽早明示土地是否续约，尽量早一 点通知商家。结局明朗，商家才能 及早规划设备、筹措资金、寻找新 的地点等。陈先生的心愿，也是目 前许许多多中小企业的心愿。

在店屋租金方面，服务业、零 售业、餐饮业者受到的影响最大。 目前，裕廊集团和建屋局把大部分 商用店面脱售给市场，或者成立房 地产基金。在商业管理公司的运作 下，租约很短，一般每三年续约一 次。每次续约不仅租金涨幅高，有 些还要与业主分享利润。各行各业 的商家提到房地产基金，几乎都是 叫苦连天。用商家的话讲：“我们 只是在为房地产基金打工而已。”

BUSINESS VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

吁政府提供更负担得起的经营场地

涉及到店铺问题，许多商家非 常怀念过去，那时，裕廊集团和建 屋局为中小企业提供负担得起的经 营场地。在市场化无处不在的今 天，我认为，也希望政府要更加照 顾数量庞大的中小企业。这些企业 当中，有些属于传统行业，有些 为跨国公司服务，有些是刚刚创业 的高科技公司，有些和新加坡人 衣食住行息息相关。更重要的是， 这些企业雇佣了我国70％的劳工 队伍，创造了适合各阶层人士的 就业机会。最近，裕廊集团推出 18个小型标准厂房( small footprint standard factory)供中小型企业租 用，建屋局也宣布兴建新的邻里商 业中心时调整政策，这是非常好的 开始，希望这种模式能不断扩大， 提供更多中小企业负担得起的经营 场地。

经营企业，需要适当的场地。 无论哪种商业模式，都需要规划， 需要一段时间运作。如果场地问题 一直存在不确定性，商家常常处在 游牧民族的状态，无法进行长期规 划，不敢在固定资产、人力培养和 提升，特别是提高生产力的机械设 备方面进行投入。这样下去，将严 重影响本地企业的整体实力。新加 坡土地资源有限，商家们非常了解 这一点。商家希望，土地租约到期 前，能够早一点通知结果，给商家 多一些调整的空间，另谋出路。不 要最后时刻才通知，匆忙中很难找 到比较好的选择。 统筹中小企业事务

另外，在政府层面，商家普遍 反映的一个问题是不同政府部门之 间缺乏协调，企业有时无所适从。 实际上，不同政府部门目标明确， 分工合作本来是好事，但是，遇到 问题，对商家来说，有时会很麻 烦，有时毫无头绪。需求协助时， 商家在不同部门之间跑来跑去，每 一个部门态度都很好，但是每个部 门都无法解决问题。

几个星期前，李显龙总理在公 共服务署常年计划研讨会上，分享

了一个抓蛇的故事。蛇的所在地点 不同，就由不同的政府单位处理。 当然，这个故事的结局是，今后所 有动物相关的问题，都由农粮局负 责，公众只需拨“动物热线”。和 抓蛇相比，中小企业面对的问题更 加复杂，牵涉到的政府部门更多。 我们也希望能够有这样一个部门， 当企业遇到问题，可以直接向这个 部门求助，由这个部门统筹、协调 机构机构。

今年8月，李显龙总理在国庆 群众大会上，宣布成立中小企业工 作组，通过基层政治领袖、商团机 构和政府部门的三方合作，一起探 讨中小企业课题。这个工作组有 16位国会议员、9个商会代表、3 位商界领袖，以及9个政府部门和 机构。这是很好的开始，足见政府 非常重视中小企业。不过，治病 救人，关键是及时对症下药，方法 正确，事半功倍；方法不得当，事 倍功半。中小企业以及企业雇佣的 员工，是新加坡的核心，他们的根 在新加坡。如果说新加坡是一棵参 天的大树，那么，众多的中小企业 和员工就是大树的根。只有根系发 达、健康，才能及时输送营养，枝 繁叶茂。中小企业发展的好，企业 的员工生活才会好，国家才会持续 稳定地发展。

我经常说，协助本地企业转 型不是一朝一夕就能完成，需要政 府、商家和员工不断地努力。总的 来说，要想推动我国中小企业持续 发展，商家们有三个愿望：第一， 希望政府在土地规划、政策调整、 生产力提升方面有更加清晰的长远 规划，以便中小企业能够同时进行 长期规划。第二，希望委任一家机 构统筹中小企业事务，负责协调其 他各个政府部门，中小企业遇到困 难知道找谁。第三，政府各种条例 种类繁多，层出不穷，希望政府能 够体恤中小企业的情况，降低政策 执行费用和成本，减少企业在人力 和租金两大压力之外的负担。

华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

VENTURING INTO WESTERN CHINA THROUGH THE 12TH WCEC by: fiona hu

THE WORLD CHINESE ENTREPRENEURS CONVENTION (WCEC), FOUNDED BY SCCCI IN 1991, HAS REACHED ITS 12TH ROUND. ON SEPTEMBER 23–27, THE CHAMBER LED A 127-MEMBER STRONG DELEGATION TO THE 12TH WCEC HELD IN CHENGDU TO NETWORK WITH AND LEARN FROM TOP ENTREPRENEURS AROUND THE GLOBE.

The 12th WCEC was a grand gathering of entrepreneurs from around the world in the bustling city of Chengdu.

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华商焦点

Even before leaving Changi International Airport, eye-catching signs of the 12th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention (WCEC) were espied by our Singapore delegation as we headed on the travelator towards our boarding gate.

What we found most striking was not merely the tasteful illustrations but the simple slogan that said it all. Chengdu, Can do was the clever play on reversing the character for the city of Chengdu – 成都 • 都成. This was the promise of the 12th WCEC that was displayed all over Chengdu and which welcomed more than 3,000 delegates from 104 countries and regions.

This is the second time China has played host to the WCEC, the first being in 2001 when the 6th WCEC made its debut in Nanjing. Ensconced in China’s western region, Chengdu is a city with a completely different character. It is the provincial capital of Sichuan and its most prosperous city. Over the past few years, Chengdu has risen in international appeal and stature. In October 2010, the city with a 14 million population was named by Forbes as one of the world’s fastest growing cities in the next decade.

Close to 250 of the world’s Fortune 500 companies are also based in Chengdu.

IN THE LEAD

The “Can do” spirit of Chengdu, demonstrating an entrepreneurial flair, turned out to be an ideal setting for the 12th WCEC, and paved the way for many of our delegates from Singapore to tap on China’s Western Development Strategy. oPenIng CereMony oF the 12th WCeC Speeches that unfurled during the Opening Ceremony acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the overseas Chinese entrepreneurs to China’s opening up and continued development.

China’s President Xi Jinping’s congratulatory message to the 12th WCEC was read out by Qiu Yuanping, head of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council. President Xi said that overseas Chinese entrepreneurs, with their hard work, and outstanding Chinese cultural traditions, live harmoniously with people around the world and have contributed significantly to the global economy and social progress. He added that overseas Chinese have also made indelible contributions to the success of China’s opening up over these 30 years. With their capital, technology, management expertise

and business networks, they helped to promote China’s economic and social development, and facilitated exchanges and cooperation with the outside world.

Delivering the keynote speech was Yu Zhengsheng, Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, who spoke on the theme “Taking Advantage of Development Opportunities to create a Better Tomorrow”. He said that since the WCEC was founded in 1991, it has upheld the mission of being a business-oriented Convention that has continued to promote Chinese culture.

Over the years, it has become a most important networking platform for the global Chinese business community to strengthen ties of friendship and of trade and business cooperation.

Mr Yu also elaborated on the theme of the 12th WCEC, which is “China’s development and opportunities for overseas Chinese entrepreneurs”. A prosperous and stable China will be able to bring even more development prospects and cooperation opportunities for the world. It can also open up a limitless market potential for the Chinese

SCCCI’s delegation at a welcome dinner where they learnt about the investment opportunities in Chengdu’s Shuangliu county.

华商焦点

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IN THE LEAD

SCCCI’s President Thomas Chua speaking to the 3,000 delegates at the closing ceremony of the 12th WCEC.

business community worldwide. He urged all overseas Chinese entrepreneurs present to capitalise on these opportunities for a win-win collaboration. on the SIdeLIneS While in Chengdu, the SCCCI delegation was actively involved in numerous activities to maximise its short duration in the city. Upon arrival on the first evening of September 23, our delegation was invited to dinner by the Yibin municipal government as a first welcome to Sichuan province. Situated in the southernmost part of Sichuan, Yibin is a city probably most well-known for manufacturing baijiu.

The next morning, the delegation was brought by coach to the site of the Singapore-Sichuan Hi-Tech Innovation Park (SSCIP) where we witnessed an MOU signing with four global property consultancies – Colliers International CBRE, DTZ and Jones Lang LaSalle – to tap on their overseas network to woo investors to SSCIP. The Singapore-Sichuan Hi-Tech Innovation Park is the first hi-tech cluster jointly developed by Singapore and the Sichuan government and is

one of the flagship projects of Sichuan’s “Tianfu New Area”. Based on the overall planning principle of integrating industry with urban living, SSCIP is set to become an innovative model city where industry, ecology, culture and humanity all co-exist in perfect harmony with one another.

Following that, the delegation visited the Chengdu Planning Exhibition Hall, was briefed on the various developments of Chengdu through a 3D presentation and an impressive floor-sized model of the ongoing infrastructure developments.

Immediately after, delegates were treated to a special lunch hosted by Liu Yonghao of the New Hope Group, the agribusiness conglomerate and one of the most prominent family-owned groups in China. During his spontaneous speech to welcome the delegation from Singapore organised by the SCCCI, the extremely personable Mr Liu also took the opportunity to introduce his daughter and successor Liu Chang, who has taken over the reins as Chairman of the company.

The day’s activities ended with an investment seminar on Shaanxi province at Yi Lang Hotel.

IndoneSIa to hoSt the next WCeC In 2015 Bringing an end to all speculations about the next host for the 13th WCEC was the announcement during the Handover Ceremony preceding the Closing Ceremony and banquet, that Indonesia will be the next destination.

Kiki Barki, President of the Indonesian Chinese Entrepreneur Association, went on the huge stage to take over the WCEC banner from Dhanin Chearavanont, President of the China Overseas Chinese Entrepreneurs Association, witnessed by all three WCEC Founder Members and the entire Indonesian Chinese delegation.

In the tradition of the next host country, Indonesia produced two song items, one in Bahasa Indonesia and one in Mandarin, performed by a talented young soprano.

The 12th WCEC concluded on this high note. Our SCCCI delegation, 127-strong, was led by President Thomas Chua, together with Immediate Past President Teo Siong Seng, and all three VicePresidents Zhong Sheng Jian, Roland Ng and Lau Tai San.

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华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

IN CONVERSATION WITH DAW AUNG SAN SUU KYI by: huang Yifang

IT WAS A MEMORABLE SUNDAY AFTERNOON FOR SCCCI COUNCIL MEMBERS AS THEY TOOK PART IN AN EXCLUSIVE BUSINESS DIALOGUE WITH NOBEL PEACE PRIZE LAUREATE AND MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT DAW AUNG SAN SUU KYI ON SEPTEMBER 22.

华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

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Daw Aung San Suu Kyi accompanied by SCCCI President Thomas Chua (left) and SMU President Arnoud De Meyer (middle).

Recent years have seen gradual change in Myanmar’s political and economic environment. Economic reforms such as the simplification of FDI laws, the development of Special Economic Zones and unifying currency exchange have reinforced the country’s commitment to having overseas investors contribute to Myanmar’s economic growth.

The Chamber had the privilege to hold a business dialogue with Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and Myanmar Member of Parliament Daw Aung San Suu Kyi during her inaugural trip to Singapore to discuss the current economic, social and political climate in Myanmar. The dialogue, held in partnership with Singapore Management University, was organised by the Chamber on September 22 and attended by top management representatives from the Chamber’s Council and SMU Board of Trustees.

SIngaPore BuSIneSSeS In MyanMar SCCCI President Thomas Chua said, “With many of our council members venturing into the Myanmar market, the Chamber is very honoured to be given this

special privilege to hold a closed-door dialogue with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. This dialogue is a very important session for our Chamber’s members as it would offer new perspectives on the needs of a transforming economy.”

Throughout the dialogue, it was clear that Daw Suu had a focused and practical view on the needs of Myanmar’s society. On her list of priorities for the country were job creation, education, training, youth and healthcare.

Mr Chua highlighted that the Chamber’s Immediate Past President Teo Siong Seng’s company Pacific International Lines (PIL) had set up shipping services in Myanmar since the late 1960s. PIL is also a major employer of some 400 Myanmese officers and engineers and intends to increase these numbers. In addition, Robin Village International (Pte) Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Council Member Pek Lian Guan’s Tiong Seng Contractors, holds a 30 per cent stake in a joint venture to set up a precast plant in Myanmar.

Daw Suu elaborated specifically on the need to create social stability by helping the youth in the country. During the dialogue, she cited the high percentage of unemployment in Myanmar’s young population. “Unemployed youth are a great danger,” she stressed.

MyanMar’S PreSSIng needS During the dialogue, Daw Suu discussed issues pertaining to Myanmar’s economy, politics and society. She spoke knowledgeably and eloquently, with a good dash of wit, as she interacted with some of the top representatives of Singapore’s business community.

CaLL For reSPonSIBLe and CreatIVe InVeStMent In her various public appearances, Daw Suu has called for responsible investment in Myanmar; investment that not only brings profit to investors but also contributes to the development of the country. She expressed the hope that

“We need to handle the problem of our youth by providing them with training, education and jobs. We have to focus on our youth. They are the future of our country,” she said.

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华商焦点

IN THE LEAD

During the dialogue, Daw Suu discussed issues pertaining to Myanmar’s economy, politics and society.

investment would result in job creation and training for the people of Myanmar.

“Job creation is the greatest need in our country, especially among the young.

Job creation will create a better economic climate and increased stability. And then, of course, we need capacity building.

We need jobs that will give on-the-job training. Our education system over the last fifty years has been so poor, our young people are only half-educated.

That will achieve two things at the same time: businesses would help us to be healthier economically and help our society to be safer and more stable for your investments,” she said.

Apart from responsible investment, Daw Suu also spoke about creative investment which allows Myanmar to retain its distinct identity. She hoped that businesses would be able to think holistically about their investments.

“For example, those who take interest in developing housing projects in the country must take an interest in town planning,“ she said.

She added that she hoped investors would achieve such creative investments by “engaging the local people, to find out what is possible and what is necessary”.

SPurrIng MeanIngFuL Change When asked about whether Myanmar needed an evolution or revolution, Daw Suu answered with a laugh, “Can I say fast evolution?” Revolution may not be the most practical solution for the country; however, changes were needed. She went on to elaborate that tough, and perhaps unpopular measures had to be made to move Myanmar forward. Daw Suu said that generous and honest opinions were needed from the overseas community to help Myanmar in the long run.

“You have to be generous and honest with your advice and to say ‘you are not doing it right’, if you think we are not doing it right,” she said. This honest feedback would help Myanmar create an environment which helps businesses to be secure as well as expand and progress.

CeMentIng Future CoLLaBoratIon In September 2012, a business delegation from the Chamber went to Myanmar and met with government officials and leaders of the local chambers of commerce in Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon to discuss areas for potential collaboration.

During the business mission, the Chamber established partnerships with the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce & Industry and Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry by inking Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) there.

The dialogue was moderated by SMU’s President Arnoud De Meyer and attended by 31 representatives from the Chamber’s Council.

中小企业

FOCUS ON SMES

TAKING A PRODUCTIVITY CHECK:

SMES SHOWING RESILIENCE AMIDST THE WINDS AND RAINS OF RESTRUCTURING

by: huang Yifang

THE LOCAL SME COMMUNITY HAS SHOWN ITS RESILIENCE IN THE MIDST OF A CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT OF ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING. SCCCI’S 2013 SME SURVEY SHOWED THAT MORE THAN EIGHT IN 10 SMES WERE MAKING EFFORTS TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY. THE CHAMBER ALSO STRENGTHENED ITS ROLE AS AN ADVOCATE OF THE SME COMMUNITY WITH THE OPENING OF THE SME CENTRE@SCCCI AND SATELLITE CENTRE.

Minister of State of Trade and Industry and National Development Teo Ser Luck (front row, middle) officiating the opening ceremony of the SME Centre@SCCCI with SCCCI President Thomas Chua (front row, second from right).

Accompanying them are (left to right) Tan Kai Hoe, SPRING Singapore Chief Executive; Roland Ng, SCCCI Vice-President; Teo Siong Seng, SCCCI Immediate Past President; Philip Kia, SCCCI Commerce & Industry Committee Vice-Chairman; Ang Kiam Meng, SCCCI Commerce & Industry Committee Chairman; Thomas Pek, SCCCI Commerce & Industry Committee Vice-Chairman; and Lau Tai San, SCCCI Vice-President.

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中小企业

This year, the Chamber’s SME Survey revealed the resilience of local SMEs and was a useful barometer to measure the pressures and condition of the business environment.

Conducted over a two-month period from June to July, the 2013 SME Survey garnered feedback from 516 companies across varied industries. The findings were heartening as they revealed that businesses surveyed were taking initiatives to increase productivity and were becoming more aware about government assistance schemes.

CLearIng the SKIeS The 2013 SME Survey results were discussed at the opening of the SME Centre@SCCCI on October 8. Originally known as the Enterprise Development Centre@SCCCI (EDC@SCCCI), the SME Centre is an enhanced initiative by the government to increase assistance and provide a conducive environment for local SMEs. The SME Centre@SCCCI’s opening ceremony was graced by Guest of Honour Teo Ser Luck, Minister of State for Trade and Industry. Mr Teo will be heading the government-led SME Workgroup formed this year to oversee the implementation of SME-related government programmes, strengthen engagement with the local business community and make recommendations on existing government policies affecting SMEs. Chamber’s President Thomas Chua said that the opening of the SME Centre@SCCCI repositioned SCCCI’s service to member companies, especially SMEs and micro-enterprises, more proactively and comprehensively.

BILInguaL ProWeSS Mr Chua also highlighted that the SME Centre’s unique bilingual capabilities will help Mandarin-speaking businesses get assistance in the language they were most familiar in.

“The SME Centre is an enhanced version of the EDC and has expanded in terms of scale, manpower and facilities. Besides being equipped with specialised knowledge, the effectively bilingual business advisors at SME Centre@SCCCI can interact comfortably with Mandarin-speaking businessmen. Apart from this, the SME Centre has now penetrated the heartlands with the opening of a dedicated satellite centre in the Central District of Toa Payoh for the convenience of neighbourhood micro-enterprises,” he said.

On September 19, the Chamber’s SME Centre satellite branch, SME Centre@Central, was opened at Toa Payoh Central with Sam Tan, Mayor of Central Singapore District, officiating the ceremony. reSILIent aMIdSt the WInd and raIn The setting up of the SME Centre@SCCCI and its satellite centre is timely as SMEs are gradually gaining their footing in Singapore’s new economic environment. According to the Chamber’s 2013 SME Survey, the majority of local enterprises are embarking on the productivity journey and more companies are taking pro-active measures to find new markets beyond Singapore.

FOCUS ON SMES

With these efforts made by our local businesses, there is room for relevant and practical assistance to be provided in these specific areas of their growth journey.

ProduCtIVIty: PoSItIVe attItudeS, More rooM For aSSIStanCe The survey revealed that the majority of SMEs were taking initiatives to increase productivity with 84 per cent indicating that they had made efforts in this area.

The top three productivity measures taken by SMEs in 2013 were sending workers for training, optimising business models and implementing automation and ICT ( Table 1).

However, in comparison to the results of the Chamber’s 2012 SME Survey, there has been a notable decrease in companies sending workers for training (–15.7%) and adopting technology capabilities (–25.4%).

taBLe 1 top productivity measures taken by SMes (%) SenD WorKerS for trAInIng

43.5 59.2

2013 2012 oPtIMISe buSIneSS MoDel

43.5 37.8

2013 2012 AutoMAtIon, ADoPt ICt

42.5 67.9

2013 2012 unDertAKe hIgher vAlue-ADDeD ACtIvItIeS

38.8

2013 IMProve brAnD AWAreneSS

36.8 38.8

2013 2012 engAge ConSultAntS

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2013

10

30

50

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中小企业

FOCUS ON SMES

Many SMEs were also not tapping on advice from consultants despite the many government schemes available to fund consultation costs. A minority, slightly more than one-fifth of the companies surveyed, indicated that they were engaging consultants to assist them on their productivity journey. A possible reason for the low engagement level could include the lack of specialised consultants for the services sector.

On the other hand, more SMEs (+5.7%) were optimising their business models by making strategic management-related improvements to increase productivity. With the inevitability of economic restructuring, top-line productivity is essential to ensuring that business operations and staff can be aligned with the productivity drive.

More LooKIng Beyond SIngaPore The survey also found that 63 per cent of SMEs surveyed were venturing into overseas markets, a 21 per cent increase from the survey results in 2012. The top investment hotspots reflected were: 1. Malaysia (39.9%) 2. Indonesia (28.1%) 3. China (27.2%)

The Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) Scheme emerged as the best-used scheme with 77.1 per cent of those surveyed indicating that they had benefited from the scheme. This was a close to 27 per cent increase in take-up rate compared to 2012 (Table 2). The other two well-used schemes were the training subsidies and skills upgrading programme and the Innovation & Capability Voucher (ICV). However, the percentages of companies making use of these two schemes lagged far behind that of the popular PIC scheme. taBLe 2 2013 vs 2012

+ 26.9% - 8.4% + 4.6%

InCreaSIng PreSSure oF BuSIneSS CoStS Despite the resilience and efforts of SMEs, business costs proved a dampener on the business outlook of SMEs. Out of those surveyed, 73.7 per cent indicated that they were expecting business costs to rise. Labour, land and goods-related costs were shown to affect enterprises the most. (Table 3) taBLe 3 reasons for rising Business Costs 1. Employees’ salary (excluding worker levies) 2. Rental, property tax, land tax 3. Cost of goods, raw material, equipment 4. Transport costs (COE, ERP, road tax) 5. Gov admin fees / compliance costs, levies 6. Financing costs / cash flow 7. Strong Singapore dollar 8. Others

ProVIdIng a CoMPaSS

SCCCI’S reCoMMendatIonS to heLP SMeS In light of the survey findings, the Chamber made the following recommendations:

InCreaSIng taKe-uP oF goVernMent SCheMeS More SMEs applied and benefited from government assistance schemes. A total of 57.1 per cent of those surveyed indicated having made use of the schemes available, a 7 percentage point increase from 2012.

government assistance Schemes utilised by SMes 2013 2012 1. Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) scheme (IRAS) 77.1% 50.2% 2. Training subsidies and skills upgrading programme (WDA) 42.6% 51.0% 3. Innovation & Capability Voucher (ICV by SPRING) 18.0% 13.4%

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70.9% 62.3% 53.4% 35.2% 28.3% 26.3% 12.6% 5.1%

1. extend the Productivity & Innovation Credit (PIC) scheme by another three years to Year of Assessment 2018 2. Allow companies to retain existing foreign workers when employment passes or work permits are up for renewal, especially if these workers are experienced and have made valuable contributions to companies’ business operations.

3. fine-tune the PIC and Innovation & Capability voucher (ICv) programmes for micro and small businesses. this can be achieved either by further simplifying the application process, reviewing the eligibility criteria, or reviewing the qualifying items.

4. Provide affordable industrial land and commercial space to bring down land-related business costs.

5. Provide an SMe relocation grant for SMes with plans to relocate or venture overseas.

中小企业

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FOCUS ON SMES

The findings of the 2013 SME Survey were discussed at the opening of the SME Centre@SCCCI at a panel discussion with panelists (from right) Lau Tai San, SCCCI Vice-President; Philip Kia, SCCCI Commerce & Industry Committee Vice-Chairman; Lennon Lee, PricewaterhouseCoopers Tax Partner; and moderator Leiny Tan, Vice President and Private Banker, Citi Private Bank.

Particularly, the survey results indicated that the top cost contributor for the construction industry was labour cost.

Businesses in the services sector saw the highest impact from escalating rental costs. Micro (<S$1 million in annual revenue) and small (S$1-10 million in annual revenue) companies also reflected that rental costs had affected them most significantly.

ProVIdIng PraCtICaL aSSIStanCe “95 per cent of our local SMEs comprise micro and small companies with less than S$10 million in annual revenue.

They have lean manpower, with many bosses carrying out business operations as well. Many of such businesses may not be clear about how to apply and make use of assistance schemes to increase productivity,” said SCCCI Vice-President Lau Tai San in a media interview at the opening ceremony of the SME Centre@SCCCI.

With more members of the SME community embarking on the challenging, but necessary, productivity journey, the Chamber has a greater role to play to convey the challenges and experiences of SMEs. SCCCI is committed to provide practical assistance to local businesses as well.

For SMEs that would like to contribute their wish-list for the 2014 Government Budget, please e-mail survey@sccci.org.sg or contact Kelvin Khaw or Huang Yifang at 6337 8381 to request for a survey form.

For SMEs interested in business consultation and advice on government schemes, please contact the SME Centre@SCCCI at enquiry@smecentre-sccci.sg or 6337 8381.

国会里的企业心声

BUSINESS VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

SUSTAINABILITY OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES THE CHAMBER’S IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT AND NOMINATED MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT TEO SIONG SENG CONTINUED TO CHAMPION THE NEEDS OF SMES IN A MOTION OF ADJOURNMENT IN PARLIAMENT ON OCTOBER 21. IN HIS SPEECH, HE LOBBIED FOR GREATER ASSISTANCE TO HELP SMES COPE WITH RENTAL AND LEASE CHALLENGES. MR TEO’S FULL SPEECH IS REPRODUCED IN THIS ISSUE FOR OUR READERS.

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国会里的企业心声

In November last year, I gave a speech in Parliament to articulate the needs of our SMEs and reflect their challenges and aspirations. Today, one year later, I would once again attempt to convey the voice of our local SMEs on the topic “Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises”.

In the past two years, the government has launched many assistance schemes to help local enterprises grow and increase productivity. Our businesses have also done their utmost to innovate and adapt by trying out new initiatives. Some have relocated their production bases to neighbouring countries to reduce their overheads. The SCCCI, which positions itself as an effective bridge between the government and the private sector, has always striven to promote mutual cooperation. As we assist the government to promote its policies, the Chamber also gives timely feedback to relevant government agencies on the challenges faced by businesses on the ground.

What are the main challenges being faced by the businesses currently? This month, SCCCI announced the findings of its 2013 SME Survey. A total of 516 companies participated in the survey, out of which 97.7 per cent were SMEs. We were pleased to note that the direction and attitude taken by the government and SMEs towards increasing productivity is in sync. Out of the companies surveyed, 84 per cent indicated that they were working hard to make adjustments and implementing various measures to increase productivity. This is extremely heartening news. However, we should also reflect over this situation: if the government and the business community share the same views and attitudes about this new strategic direction, why are many

BUSINESS VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

companies still struggling? What effective measures can we take to achieve the desired goal?

The survey showed that the two salient challenges faced by local SMEs are manpower and business premises.

Manpower challenges have become a reality. Businesses are well aware that there are no shortcuts to solving manpower challenges and there will be no U-turns to the government policies.

Hence, we hope that the government would be able to provide affordable space for the local SMEs. From the perspective of the business community, it does not matter which government agency is responsible; be it the Jurong Town Corporation (JTC), Singapore Land Authority (SLA), Housing Development Board (HDB), National Environment Agency (NEA), or any other agency. They only hope to find the solution to their challenges once and for all.

SCCCI organises monthly lunch dialogues with our trade association members on their challenges. We obtain a great deal of feedback through these dialogues, and the most frequently raised issue relates to business space. Industries which have been affected include metal and machinery, timber, food and beverage, furniture, vehicle trading, food import and export, hortiflora, flower wholesale, bakery, and coffee shops. They have all conveyed the same issue. Evidently, the challenge posed by business premises is a common and predominant challenge to local companies.

The challenges with regards to business premises fall into two categories. The first category pertains to the renewal of land

The most frequently raised issue relates to business space. Industries which have been affected include metal and machinery, timber, food and beverage, furniture, vehicle trading, food import and export, hortiflora, flower wholesale, bakery, and coffee shops. They have all conveyed the same issue. Evidently, the challenge posed by business premises is a common and predominant challenge to local companies.

lease while the other is on the spiralling escalation of rental costs for factory and retail space. For example, there is no guaranteed lease renewal for a JTC factory upon the completion of the 30-year lease.

In addition, some industries are unable to receive a definite answer on whether they can renew their lease for land managed by SLA. When businesses are unable to renew their leases, they would need to identify alternative industrial space quickly upon being notified of the lease termination.

Moreover, moving business operations is also an extremely costly affair. Besides moving costs, fixed assets investment, and renovation expenses, many facilities and equipment are disposed in order to restore the industrial space to its original condition.

Many trade associations have relayed such a grievance to SCCCI. For example, businesses in the metal and machinery as well as timber industries need to use and stock much heavy duty equipment.

Finding a suitable location and moving operations is no mean feat. Such equipment cannot be stacked up due to loading and safety considerations, and thus require sufficient land.

Now let me relay a case regarding a florist.

Being a florist in Singapore is not that easy, even if Singapore is considered a garden city or, as we now position ourselves internationally, a city in a garden. Mr Tan Peng Kheok, Chairman and Managing Director of Prince’s Flower Shop, started his operations at Toh Tuck Road in 1956.

To date, he has moved a total of seven times. His current operation is based at Sungei Tengah Road. However, his 20-year lease will end in November next year and he is unsure whether the lease could be renewed. According to past experience, each move will cost two million dollars which includes setting up new flower beds as well as irrigation and drainage systems.

Heavy flowerpots and unsold fresh flowers at the original location are difficult to move and therefore need to be discarded. Mr Tan’s current wish is simple. He hopes that the relevant agencies could provide an early indication to businesses on whether leases can be renewed. With this certainty, businesses will be able to plan ahead for the facilities required, raise capital and find new locations. Mr Tan’s wish is shared by many SMEs as well.

国会里的企业心声

Businesses in the service, retail, and food and beverage industries are most affected by rising shop rental costs. Currently, JTC and HDB divest many commercial spaces to private owners or establish Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Under the management of private companies, rental periods are very short with renewal being required once every three years on average. Not only is the increase in rent extremely steep with each renewal, profits also have to be shared with property owners. Practically all businesses from various industries have aired their grievances regarding REITs. In their words, “We are simply working for REITs.” With regards to commercial space, many businesses reminisce about the time when JTC and HDB provided affordable space for business operations. With increasing proliferation of free market forces, I hope that the government would increase its support for the large number of SMEs. These SMEs comprise those in traditional industries, those which provide support services to multinational corporations, new hi-tech start-ups, and many which are closely connected to the basic needs of Singaporeans. More importantly, these businesses hire 70 per cent of our country’s workforce and provide suitable employment opportunities for people from all walks of life. Recently, JTC has launched 18 units of Small Footprint Standard Factories for rental to SMEs. In addition, HDB has announced the revision of its tenancy policies together with the building of new neighbourhood centres in HDB estates. This is an excellent start. I hope that this model can be expanded to provide more SMEs with affordable space for business operations.

A suitable location is essential for business operations. Any business model would require planning and time for implementation. If the issue of space becomes a constant uncertainty, businesses will be in a nomadic state; unable to implement long-term plans and lacking confidence to invest in fixed assets, employee training and upgrading, and particularly in equipment that would improve productivity. If this continues, the overall competitiveness of local

BUSINESS VOICE IN PARLIAMENT

enterprises will be seriously affected.

Businesses understand that there is a limited supply of land in Singapore.

However, our businesses hope that early notification on the possibility of future renewals can be given before the expiry of the land lease. This would give businesses more leeway to adjust and find alternatives. This is a better option than having to tackle the difficulty of finding a new location at short notice.

Additionally, a common challenge reflected by businesses with regards to the government is the lack of coordination among government agencies. This has left enterprises totally exasperated and at a loss. In actuality, it is a good thing that each government agency has a clear mandate and cooperates through the division of labour. However, businesses sometimes face great difficulty or are perplexed when approaching government agencies to solve an issue. When looking for assistance, businesses have to hop from one agency to another. Despite the good attitude shown by each government agency, they are still unable to solve the problems at hand.

A few weeks ago, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong shared the story of “catching snakes” at the Public Service Leadership Advance. Different agencies would be required to handle the issue depending on the location of the snake. Of course, the conclusion of the story was that all animal-related issues would be handled by the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) now and there is one hotline for the public to report such issues. Compared to catching snakes, the problems faced by SMEs are even more complicated and involve many government agencies.

We hope that there can be one agency for SMEs to approach directly for help.

This agency can then take the lead to provide coordination services with other government agencies.

In August this year, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced at the National Day Rally that an SME Workgroup would be established so that grassroot political leaders, business organisations and government agencies could work together to examine issues pertaining

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to SMEs. The workgroup consists of 16 Members of Parliament, nine business chamber representatives, three business leaders and nine government ministries and agencies. This is a good start and shows that the government places great value on SMEs. However, it is essential to have the right remedy to deal with the situation. With an accurate solution, challenges can be dealt with in an efficient manner. The opposite would be true with an inappropriate solution.

SMEs and their employees are the core of Singapore and have their roots in the country. If Singapore can be likened to a flourishing tree, then the SMEs and employees are the roots of this tree. Only when the root system is well-developed and healthy, nutrients can be transported effectively to develop lush leaves and branches. When SMEs are developing healthily, their employees can have better livelihoods and the country will maintain its stable development.

I have constantly reiterated that helping our local enterprises restructure is not something that can be completed overnight. It requires consistent effort from the government, businesses and employees. To sum up, in order to help our local SMEs achieve sustainable development, businesses have three items on their wish-list. Firstly, they hope that the government can take a clear and long-term approach with regards to planning land allocation, adjusting government policies and increasing productivity. This would allow SMEs to simultaneously make long-term plans.

Secondly, businesses hope that there can be an over-arching agency to handle SME matters and coordinate with other government agencies to guide businesses to the relevant parties. Thirdly, the policy criteria set by the government is wideranging and numerous. We hope that the government can be more sympathetic towards the situation of our SMEs and lower the compliance costs related to the implementation of government policies. This would alleviate the burden on businesses already coping with the double-whammy caused by manpower and rental cost pressures.

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商会时讯

CHAMBER COMMUNIT Y

FOSTERING A CLOSE-KNIT CHAMBER COMMUNITY by: huang Yifang

THE THIRD INTER-CHAMBER NETWORKING NIGHT SAW REPRESENTATIVES FROM SCCCI, SICCI AND SMCCI GATHER FOR A RELAXED EVENING OF CULTURAL EXCHANGE AND BUSINESS NETWORKING.

SMCCI Immediate Past President Abdul Rohim Sarip (left) and SCCCI Vice-President Lau Tai San.

Fostering greater collaboration: SCCCI President Thomas Chua (middle) with SICCI Chairman R Narayanamohan (left) and SMCCI President Zahidi Abdul Rahman.

The peaceful grounds of the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall were gently bathed in sunlight as guests streamed in.

The historic two-storey villa located at Tai Gin Road served as a significant location for Dr Sun Yat Sen’s revolutionary activities in Singapore.

This picturesque setting was the backdrop for the start of the third InterChamber Networking Night organised

by SCCCI. On the balmy evening of October 4, 120 council representatives and members from the three ethnic chambers comprising SCCCI, Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SICCI), and Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SMCCI) gathered for a meaningful networking session.

As part of the cultural exchange integral to the annual Inter-Chamber Networking Night, guests were invited on a tour at the Chamber’s Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall to learn about the Chinese community in Singapore and its relation to the 1911 Chinese Revolution. The Memorial Hall is a heritage institution owned by SCCCI and managed by the Singapore National Heritage Board. The evening was thereafter followed by a dinner at Ramada Hotel. a PoWerFuL CoMBInatIon oF StrengthS The Inter-Chamber Networking Night highlighted the capabilities of the business community in Singapore. Each

(from left) SCCCI External Relations Chairman Tang Kin Fei, SMCCI Vice-President Akbar Abdul Kader and SCCCI External Relations ViceChairman George Goh.

Chamber has valuable connections and experience on the global stage.

For example, SCCCI has strong connections in and knowledge about the China market.

SCCCI’s President Thomas Chua said that SCCCI’s overseas representative office in Shanghai would be pleased to provide business advisory services to members from SICCI and SMCCI wishing to tap on opportunities in China.

“I would also encourage our members keen on the India market to enlist the help of SICCI which has an office in New Delhi. Similarly, the SMCCI has a reservoir of contacts in Indonesia; this would also be a good resource for us,” he continued.

商会时讯

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CHAMBER COMMUNIT Y

吕德耀部长： 总商会是政府难能可贵 的合作伙伴 文：陈星伊

9月12日，我国交通部吕德耀部长受邀与近500名各国使节、政府机构要 员、工商与文教界代表、社区领袖及总商会董事、会员等共庆中秋。

交通部长吕德耀部长、蔡其生会长与获颁总商会基金奖学金的四所大学和马来／回教优秀学生。

吕德耀部长在会上赞扬了总 商会在弘扬和推动文化传承上作出 的贡献。他说：“总商会是政府难 能可贵的合作伙伴。总商会所提供 的 反 馈 有 助 政 府 制 定 和 修 正 各 种 决策。

各自情况作出分配。例如，国大中文 系便拨出部分奖学金，支持学生研究 本地华商前辈经商的历程，资助学生 参加中国浸濡班和海外交流计划等， 增强学生对华商精神的了解，对中华 文化的认同。

蔡其生会长在致词时强调，总 商会秉承先辈支持教育的理念，为 社会培养人才，促进不同种族之间 的和睦与团结。总商会在社会、文 化、教育领域作出以下努力：

中小企业人才培育计划

政府推出了“中小企业人才培 育计划”，赞助并鼓励理工学院、 工艺教育学院的毕业生加入中小企 业。总商会是计划的推广中心之 一，总商会中小企业中心可协助会 员商家了解计划的详情。

颁赠奖学金给优秀学子

今年，总商会与本地四所大学 签署了延续奖学金颁赠计划的合作协 议，不但把奖学金的金额增加了一倍 多，也在颁赠准则上作出了灵活性的 调整，允许各大学把奖学金款项按照

生产力经理专项培训课程

为了协助企业栽培公司内部的 生产力经理，提升公司的业务和生 产力，总商会管理学院与新加坡制

造技术研究院联合推出生产力经理 专项培训课程。由标新局和劳动力 发展局联合提供赞助的课程，津贴 高达90％。 “植苗”计划

为了缓和本地企业所面对的人 员短缺难题，同时帮助前囚犯重返 社会，加入职场，总商会事业女性 组去年推出“植苗”计划，与新加 坡复员技训企业管理局合作，遴选 出合适的女性前囚犯参与培训，已 经有11位女囚犯在获释后加入工作 队伍。第二批获选参与计划的12名 女囚犯也刚完成总商会提供的客户 服务技能培训。总商会呼吁从事服 务业的会员商家能伸出援手，以实 际行动参与这项计划，为他们提供 就业机会，重新出发。

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商会时讯

CHAMBER COMMUNIT Y

社区参与计划文化古迹之旅

文：邓素娟

总商会一直秉持传承传统文化的精神，以促进我国经济繁荣、文化教育 活动与社会服务为宗旨；协助推动社会融合为己任。

代表们参观新加坡最古老的兴都庙马里 安曼兴都庙。

总商会文教与社会事务委员会副主席白南泉（前排右二）与会员商家和代表们参观建于 1840年的天福宫。

10月5日，总商会带领100名会 员和各个社区参与计划单位－新加 坡马来商会、新加坡印度商会、中 小型企业商会、新加坡全国雇主联 合会、新加坡工商联合总会、新加 坡全国职工总会及人力部代表一起 展开本地文化古迹之旅，参观著名 的文化古迹天福宫、马里安曼兴都 庙及阿尔阿布拉／詹美回教堂，作 为支持社区融合的一项活动。

文化古迹是先贤在历史、文化、 建筑和艺术上的具体遗产，在新加 坡，它们不仅仅成为我们人文旅游的 宝贵资源，不同文化、宗教和种族在 同一个时间共同追寻祖先遗留下来的 种种痕迹，共同欣赏不同风格的庙宇 散发的魅力，共同呼吸祖先累积了百 年的气息，就如同文教与社会事务委 员会副主席白南泉说，一起参观三间 深具代表性的文化古迹，让大家更深 入地了解异族文化，促进社区融合， 意义深远。

詹美回教堂建于 1826 年。

不同文化、宗教和种族在 同一个时间共同追寻祖 先遗留下来的种种痕迹， 共同欣赏不同风格的庙宇 散发的魅力，共同呼吸祖 先累积了百年的气息。