The First Word: When strategy fails, it’s usually not the plan—it’s the people
In over two decades of helping organisations implement strategy across the region, I’ve noticed a recurring pattern: businesses rarely fail because they lack good ideas. They fail because people aren’t aligned behind those ideas. Singapore is a perfect case in point. With over 400,000 registered businesses and a population of just under 6 million, there’s […]
Allianz Malaysia named “Employer of Choice”
Allianz Malaysia Berhad is the Employer of Choice at the 2024-2025 HR Stars Awards, reaffirming its commitment to creating an outstanding workplace. This recognition highlights Allianz Malaysia’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking work environment. The company has prioritised employee well-being, professional development, and digital transformation to enhance the workplace experience. With a […]
The First Word: How Gen Z entrepreneurs redefine leadership in uncertain times
Singapore’s economy, once celebrated for its stability, is facing a new kind of test. Inflation remains sticky, living costs have continued to climb, wage growth is uneven, and younger professionals face a more precarious future than previous generations. As companies adjust to a post-pandemic reality marked by inflation, digital disruption, and evolving workforce expectations, a […]
Five elements of team resilience
In today’s volatile business landscape across Southeast Asia, organisations face unprecedented challenges from economic fluctuations to digital transformation demands. The ability of teams to withstand pressure, adapt to change, and emerge stronger—team resilience—has become a critical competitive advantage for companies throughout the region, from Singapore’s financial sector to Indonesia’s manufacturing industries. HR professionals in Southeast […]
A winning culture: Allianz Malaysia’s commitment to employees
Allianz Malaysia Berhad has been recognised for its excellence in workplace culture and environment at the 2024-2025 HR Stars Awards Malaysia. The company received the Best Workplace Culture and Environment award, a testament to its unwavering commitment to fostering a positive and thriving workplace. The achievement highlights Allianz Malaysia’s dedication to professional growth, employee well-being, […]
The First Word: How female leaders drive innovation and inspire the next generation
Building a strong pipeline of future leaders is essential for long-term success in any industry. In STEM fields, where women remain underrepresented[1], leadership plays a critical role in expanding access, fostering talent, and ensuring that innovation is driven by a broad range of perspectives. Female leaders contribute not only through technical expertise but also by […]
The First Word: Three priorities to future-proof your workforce
The evolution of Singapore as a nation has been remarkable, one led by a combination of visionary leadership, sound policies and an ability to adopt to global changes. The next 60 years will be different, one that is purpose driven, led with innovation with a conscious balance of doing good as well as doing well. […]
Five essential frameworks for achieving gender equity
Achieving gender equity in the workplace requires a strategic approach beyond traditional diversity initiatives. While many organisations have taken steps toward inclusion, systemic barriers still hinder progress. Implementing structured frameworks can create lasting change by embedding equity into organisational policies and practices. In this last installment of our 4-part “women series,” let’s dig deeper into […]
Five behaviours cultivating women’s professional growth
Creating an inclusive workplace that supports women’s professional growth requires more than policies; it demands a cultural shift in behaviour. While many organisations focus on structural changes, everyday interactions and attitudes significantly impact career advancement for women. Encouraging positive workplace behaviours can help break barriers and foster an environment where women can thrive. This is […]
Five initiatives advancing women’s careers in Southeast Asia
The professional landscape in Southeast Asia is evolving rapidly, with a growing focus on gender inclusivity and empowerment in the workforce. Despite significant progress in recent years, women across the region still face substantial barriers to career advancement, including unequal pay, limited leadership opportunities, and persistent cultural biases. To address these multifaceted challenges, forward-thinking organisations […]
