Lee Jian Hui Elected SBF Chairman: Focus on Resilience and AI Impact
Mr. Lee Jian Hui, President of Sing Lun Holdings, was elected as the new Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), succeeding former Chairman Mr. Siong Song Chang, who earlier announced a temporary leave of absence and did not seek re-election.
The SBF held its 24th Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, June 24, and elected the 13th Council, with a term of two years until 2028.
In a statement, the SBF noted that the new council comprises 24 members, including 12 elected council members, 11 representatives from trade associations and chambers, and one co-opted council member.
Among the new council, there are six new members, including Mr. Adam Click, Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Singapore; Mr. Mo Sixiang, President of the Restaurant Association of Singapore; Mr. Lee De Ming, Chairman of SGTech; and Mr. Suhaimi Zainul-Abidin, CEO of hedge fund Quantedge Capital.
During the AGM, the SBF also concurrently held the fifth Future Ready Business Dialogue, with Guest of Honour Mr. Chan Chun Sing, Minister-in-charge of the Public Service and Minister for Defence.
Themed "System-Wide Readiness: What Must Government and Businesses Change?", the dialogue brought together numerous corporate executives and policymakers to discuss how businesses can enhance resilience, build future-ready capabilities, and cope with growing uncertainties.
Lee Jian Hui: Ensure Businesses Stay Competitive and Resilient for Future Development
New Chairman Lee Jian Hui is also a Nominated Member of Parliament. In a statement, he said that geopolitical tensions, the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI), and shifts in trade patterns are reshaping the global economy, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses.
Mr. Lee said: "My top priority is to ensure that businesses remain competitive, resilient, and future-ready. We will work closely with enterprises, the government, and industry partners to develop practical solutions, foster a business-friendly environment, and help companies build the capabilities needed for innovation, internationalization, and robust growth."
He also noted that Singapore will chair ASEAN next year, presenting a good opportunity to deepen regional economic integration and consolidate ASEAN's role as a key engine of global growth. "SBF will work hand in hand with regional partners to turn these opportunities into tangible business outcomes and drive a more connected, innovative, and sustainable ASEAN."
Previously, Mr. Lee served as Deputy Chairman and Treasurer of SBF. He also acted as Chairman during Mr. Siong Song Chang's temporary leave.
Mr. Siong Song Chang, aged 71, stated in May that he would not seek re-election after his term as SBF Chairman ended on June 24. He had earlier temporarily stepped down from his roles as SBF Chairman, Executive Chairman of Pacific International Lines, and other positions to deal with charges brought against him by the US Department of Justice. Earlier, Lianhe Zaobao reported that US authorities accused him of involvement in manipulating dry bulk container prices.
