Five approaches to developing local leadership talent
Leadership development represents a critical challenge for organisations navigating the complex and rapidly evolving business landscape of Southeast Asia. The region’s economic transformation demands innovative strategies that can effectively nurture and cultivate homegrown talent capable of driving organisational success in an increasingly competitive global marketplace. The unique cultural, economic, and social dynamics of Southeast Asia […]
The First Word: Strategic shift for HR, business leaders and managers
The 2024 Graduate Employment Survey in Singapore[1] revealed that 87.1% of graduates secured employment within six months of completing their final exams, a slight drop from 89.6% the year before. While the difference may seem minor, those of us working closely with young professionals recognise a deeper trend: many graduates are entering the workforce with […]
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 […]
Giga Maritime Group: Navigating the waves of HR excellence
Giga Maritime Group (GMG) has been recognised as the runner-up for Best HR Team at the 2024-2025 HR Stars Awards Malaysia, a testament to the organisation’s unwavering commitment to collaboration, teamwork, and employee engagement. This achievement reflects the dedication of GMG’s Human Resources (HR) team in fostering a workplace culture where employees feel valued, supported, […]
The First Word: Why belonging matters at work
Three in five respondents (62%) in Singapore would quit their jobs if they didn’t experience a sense of belonging at work, with Gen Z workers (67%) being the most likely to consider resigning. Randstad – the world’s largest talent agency – today released its 2025 Workmonitor research in Singapore. The study surveyed 750 talent locally […]
Five strategies for managing multi-generational teams in Asia
Across Southeast Asia, organisations are increasingly finding themselves with workforces spanning four or even five generations. From Baby Boomers delaying retirement to Gen Z entering the job market, this diversity presents both unique challenges and opportunities for HR professionals in the region. Traditional hierarchical structures common in many Asian organisations can sometimes amplify generational differences, […]
The First Word: A paradigm shift in retaining Gen Z lawyers
I was born in 1984 (i.e. technically, a Millennial) and admitted to the Bar in 2007, less than 20 years ago, but many things have happened since, including a global pandemic, some of which were not even predicted by George Orwell when he wrote Nineteen Eighty-Four. The world’s priorities have shifted for every generation, across […]
Five ways organisations enhance employee benefits
Employee benefits have become a critical differentiator in the competitive talent landscape of Southeast Asia. As the region experiences rapid economic growth and workforce transformation, organisations are reimagining their approach to employee compensation and support. The traditional model of standard salary packages is evolving, with forward-thinking companies recognising that comprehensive, thoughtful benefits can significantly impact […]
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 […]
Five critical skills HR leaders need in 2025
The landscape of HR is undergoing a profound transformation in Southeast Asia, driven by rapid technological advancements, shifting workforce demographics, and unprecedented global challenges. As organisations navigate an increasingly complex business environment, HR leaders must evolve their skill sets to remain effective and strategic partners to their organisations. Southeast Asia’s workforce is shaped by a […]
