Semiconductor Business Connect

Semiconductor Business Connect is a key initiative designed to strengthen and grow Singapore’s local SMEs within the semiconductor industry.

Targeted at SMEs, MNCs, and industry leaders, the event provides a platform for fostering partnerships, sharing industry knowledge, and showcasing SME innovations. It also engages foreign partners, encouraging cross-border collaboration to drive growth and innovation.

Through keynote speeches, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, Semiconductor Business Connect helps SMEs navigate challenges, leverage new technologies, and enhance their capabilities.

By promoting collaboration and innovation, the event plays a crucial role in building a robust semiconductor ecosystem, supporting the growth of local SMEs, and driving Singapore’s semiconductor industry forward.

Theme for 2025:
Strengthening Collaborations, Building Resiliency
Date: 10 July 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Venue: Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
Registration Closed
Focus Areas
Intelligent Manufacturing

The advancement of technology especially in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, has the potential to transform manufacturing. As these technologies continue to evolve, it is crucial that we leverage them to improve productivity and maintain our competitive edge.

Sustainability

Sustainability is of growing significance as climate change intensifies and our industry remains a key exacerbator. With MNCs focusing on sustainability and a growing emphasis on a sustainable supply chain, it is crucial for the entire value chain to collaborate in this area.

Supply Chain Resilience

Multinational corporations diversify their supply chains in response to geopolitical challenges, local SMEs may capitalize on this by becoming second-source suppliers. At the same time, SMEs can broaden their international footprint to support MNC partners in other regions.

Guest of Honour

Mr. Alvin Tan

Minister of State

Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Trade and Industry

Focus Areas
Time (SGT) Agenda
8:00 am Registration, Breakfast & Exhibition
8:45 am Guests to be seated
9:00 am Opening Address

Mr Brian Tan, Chairman, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA)
9:10 am Opening Speech by Guest-of-Honour (GOH)

Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Trade and Industry
9:25 am Memorandum-Of-Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony Between NYP,
AI Singapore and SSIA
9:30 am Navigating Geopolitical Risks: Strategies for Resilience
Speaker: Mr Alex Capri, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, CAPA INT’L
Alex Capri will discuss the impact of geopolitics and ‘techno-nationalism’ on semiconductor value chains, with a focus on the implications for Singapore and the broader ASEAN region. This session will examine how the convergence of export controls, sanctions and recent tariffs are accelerating the fragmentation of chip supply chains, and, more generally, how critical technology stacks are bifurcating along geopolitical fault lines. For the semiconductor sector, there are growing strategic imperatives around supply chain diversification and reorganisation, and how SMEs and MNCs can partner regionally to build greater resilience against global disruptions. This requires proactive measures involving the 4 T’s: Tech-diplomacy, Tech, Talent and Transparency.
9:55 am Understanding the Semiconductor Ecosystem and Landscape in Singapore
Speaker: Mr Ravi Krishnaswamy, Managing Director & Regional Leader, Asia Pacific, Frost & Sullivan
In partnership with Frost & Sullivan, SSIA launches the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Landscape Study to identify the capabilities, gaps and opportunities for the industry.The session will unpack key findings from the study, offering a forward-looking view of how Singapore can sharpen its competitive edge and deepen its role in the global semiconductor value chain.It will spotlight global megatrends and strategic shifts—from global supply chain realignments to rise of frontier technologies—and how these dynamics are reshaping industry priorities. Anchored on a four-pillar strategic framework, the session will explore actionable pathways for companies to capture growth opportunities in light of a shifting paradigm – in areas such as frontier technologies that shape the future of the industry and initiatives to drive manufacturing excellence and sustainable growth.
10:20 am Networking Break
10:40 am Beyond Advanced Manufacturing: Building the Future of Intelligent Manufacturing

Speaker: Ms Fong Shwu Jin, Senior Manager, Siemens Digital Industries, Singapore, Siemens
As the semiconductor industry moves toward a truly AI-driven and interconnected manufacturing ecosystem, the potential for transformation is immense. This session explores a future where decision-making is not just automated but intelligent, context-aware, and adaptive. Key advancements include predictive insights for yield optimisation and defect detection, closed-loop self-learning systems for rapid ramp-up and recovery, real-time ESG reporting, and seamless data integration across global fabs and supply chains.
11:05 am Scaling AI Adoption Through Industry Collaboration
Speaker: Dr Wang Wei, Centre Director, AI Centre of Excellence for Manufacturing (AIMfg)
Manufacturing companies may often face difficulties adopting AI solutions due to many factors, yet many groundbreaking opportunities are available with the emergence of new AI technologies. This session explores how manufacturing companies stand to gain an unfair advantage by leveraging on AI within the manufacturing value chain while also providing insights into use cases among manufacturing companies in Singapore.
11:25 am Forging AI Talent for Engineering Excellence
Speaker: Dr Graham Ng, Director, School of Engineering, Nanyang Polytechnic
As AI continues to reshape industries, the demand for engineering talent with advanced AI skills is rapidly evolving. This talk will explore the latest trends in AI competencies required for the engineering workforce and highlight how a new tripartite partnership can empower local companies to build a robust talent pipeline. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and strategic collaboration, businesses can equip their workforce with the skills necessary to thrive in an AI-driven future.
11:50 am Driving Value Through Sustainability
Speaker: Ms Michelle Tan, Deputy Director, Enterprise Sustainability, Enterprise Singapore
With rising regulatory, investor, and supply chain pressures, sustainability is now a strategic necessity. This session outlines global trends, local support measures, and the role of both MNCs and SMEs in driving meaningful change in the semiconductor industry. Early action enables greater resilience, efficiency, and long-term competitiveness. The time to act is now.
12:15 pm Building Global-Ready Talent: Developing Manpower Locally and Abroad with Workforce Singapore’s Support
Speaker: Mr Kwan Wei, Assistant Director, Trade and Lifestyle, Enterprise Development Group, Workforce Singapore
In today’s competitive global economy, companies need to cultivate a strong pipeline of skilled talent both within Singapore and through strategic overseas exposure. This session explores how companies can leverage Workforce Singapore’s comprehensive suite of programmes to build global-ready capabilities through overseas deployment. Learn how these programmes can help your organisation develop an agile workforce, mitigate reskilling costs, and equip employees with the skills and global experience needed for business growth in an increasingly interconnected world.
12:30 pm Lunch and Networking
2:00 pm Start of Breakout Tracks
4:30 pm Networking Session
Time (SGT) Track 1: Intelligent Manufacturing Meets Sustainability
2:00 pm Smart Material Handling with AMRs
Speaker: Mr Mazher Anwar, Chief Technology Officer, SESTO Robotics
As fabs pursue higher efficiency and contamination control, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are evolving to handle complex material transfers. This presentation explores how intelligent AMR design enables secure, flexible transport of sensitive components—minimizing exposure and supporting high-throughput operations in cleanroom environments.
2:20 pm Driving Water Circularity & Intelligent Manufacturing for Business Resilience
Speaker: Ms Chua Yina, Head of Customer Solution, Industry, APAC & China, Grundfos
Water scarcity poses a critical challenge for the semiconductor industry, with more than 40% of fabs soon to face severe water stress. To ensure business resilience, operational continuity, and achievement of ESG goals, embracing water circularity and smart manufacturing is no longer optional—it’s essential. Grundfos are dedicated to help semiconductor manufacturers tackle water and energy challenges through innovative solutions and strong partnerships, driving meaningful sustainability impact across the industry.
2:40 pm Labless Enable High-Quality Development of Singapore Semiconductor
Speaker: Mr Fu Chao, Vice President , Wintech Nano-Technology Services 
3:00 pm Tea Break
3:20 pm Optimizing Energy and Water Use for a Sustainable Semiconductor Future
Speaker: Mr Derek Chan, Industry Manager – Life Sciences, Food & Beverage, Semiconductor, Endress+Hauser
Sustainability is becoming increasingly critical in the semiconductor industry, where resource efficiency and regulatory compliance are essential to long-term resilience. This presentation explores how process measurement technologies can support sustainability goals across key areas such as energy use, water management, and environmental compliance. Drawing on examples from Endress+Hauser’s work with semiconductor manufacturers, the session examines how accurate and reliable data from instrumentation can inform better decision-making, improve resource efficiency, and help meet evolving regulatory and industry standards. The discussion aims to highlight practical approaches to integrating sustainability into core manufacturing processes, contributing to both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
3:40 pm Empowering Businesses to Lead in the Low-Carbon Economy
Speaker: Mr See Sang Lye, Executive Director, Insitutional Banking, Group Sustainability, DBS
This session will explore how DBS supports companies in their journey toward a low-carbon future through sustainable financing solutions and the ESG Ready Programme. From funding support to carbon tracking and advisory services. Learn how your business can take actionable steps today to unlock long-term value and growth through sustainability.
4:00 pm Unlocking Business Growth with NTUC e2i Support
Speaker: Mr Jonathan Ang, Senior Specialist, Industry Partnership Group (Manufacturing), e2i
Is your company planning to upskill employees or embark on business transformation? In this session, discover how NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) can support your journey through a range of grants. Learn how these funding schemes can help offset training and transformation costs, making workforce development more sustainable and impactful for your business.
4:20 pm Networking Session
Time (SGT) Track 2: Supply Chain Resiliency in a Fragmenting World
Moderated by Atul Shah
2:00 pm Opening Remarks
Speaker: Mr Ang Wee Seng, Executive Director, Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association
Framing the urgency for diversified, resilient supply chains in light of escalating geopolitical shifts. This session outlines SSIA’s approach to supporting companies in identifying alternative end-markets and supply chain partners.
2:05 pm Expanding Your Semiconductor Business to the United States: Unlocking Strategic Growth Opportunities

Speaker: Mr Muhammad Masthan, Investment Specialist (ASEAN), U.S. Embassy, Singapore
The session will highlight how Singapore-based semiconductor companies can strategically expand into the United States by leveraging key government programs, incentives, and potential partnerships to establish a strong presence in this dynamic market. Companies can leverage the SelectUSA program, which provides services on navigating regulatory requirements, accessing state-level tax credits and grants, and identifying optimal site locations. Furthermore, Singapore firms can benefit from collaborations with U.S. economic development organizations, research universities, and industry clusters to build local talent pipelines and strengthen innovation capabilities. By participating in events like the SelectUSA Investment Summit, Singapore semiconductor companies can successfully integrate into the U.S. ecosystem and scale their operations in this highly competitive and innovation-driven market.
2:20 pm Building a Trusted Supply Chain Corridor – Opportunities from Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ)
Speakers: Mr Vinothan Tulisinathzan, Director, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Singapore
Mr Tan Teck Lee, Country Head (Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines), Singapore Business Federation
Deep dive into cross-border production, logisitics and supplier integration opportunities under initiatives such as the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

Participants to glean insights on JS-SEZ and opportunities for Singapore companies to leverage the region as a nearshore base to scale their manufacturing activities and strengthen regional supply resilience.
2:45 pm India’s Semiconductor Drive: Building Trusted Capacity for a Resilient Global Supply Chain
Speaker: Mr Raja Khurana, Vice President, Invest India (National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India)
Amidst shifting global dynamics, India is emerging as a reliable partner in the semiconductor supply chain. Backed by targeted policy interventions, significant fiscal incentives, and strategic collaborations, India is developing end-to-end capabilities – from design to manufacturing and assembly. This session will outline India’s semiconductor roadmap, recent breakthroughs, and the path ahead. Learn how global industry players can gain insights and leverage Invest India – the Government of India’s national investment promotion and Facilitation agency to tap into emerging opportunities in India’s semiconductor ecosystem.
3:00 pm Tea Break
3:20 pm ‘Silicon Rainforest’: Costa Rica as a Strategic Node for Semiconductors
Speaker: Mrs Mónica Umaña, General Manager of Foreign Direct Investment, Procomer
Showcase Costa Rica’s semiconductor backend and design capabilities and its emerging role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Highlight Costa Rica’s semiconductor roadmap and initiatives e.g. FTZs, skilled workforce development in partnerships with top US universities, and offer advice for Singapore companies to explore opportunities within Costa Rica.
3:40 pm Resilient and Green: Why Indonesia’s Semiconductor Supply Chain is the Next Big Opportunity
Speaker: Mr Tjaw Hioeng, Vice Chairman for Promotion, investment and international relations, Industrial Estate Asociation of Indonesia (HKI)
Emphasize Indonesia’s potential to support supply chain diversification, sustainability efforts, and low emissions production for semiconductors.
4:00 pm Catalysing Deep Tech and Supply Chain Collaboration: The Netherlands–Singapore Partnership
Speakers: Ms Astrid Seegers, Head of Innovation, Netherlands Innovation Network, Netherlands Embassy in Singapore
Mr Zakaria den Held, Project Manager Southeast Asia & Oceanie, Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency, Netherlands Embassy in Singapore
Highlights Brainport Eindhoven’s leadership in high-tech manufacturing, and broader Dutch interest in Southeast Asia for co-development, advanced manufacturing, and innovation partnerships. Session focuses on how ecosystem-level collaboration (across mechatronics, optics, automation, and photonics) can enhance supply chain resilience.
4:20 pm Networking Session

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Highlights from Semiconductor Business Connect 2024

Business Connect 2024 reinforced SSIA’s commitment to uniting MNCs and SMEs, fostering collaboration to drive innovation and competitiveness. The event focused on key areas like AI, cybersecurity, internationalization, and sustainability, addressing industry challenges through insightful discussions and networking opportunities.

Official Notice Regarding Multimedia Recording
Please be aware that by entering the premises of this event, you acknowledge and consent to photographs and video recordings being taken on behalf of the Singapore Semiconductor Industry Association (SSIA). All multimedia recordings captured during the event will become the sole property of SSIA. By your presence, you grant SSIA unrestricted rights to utilize these images and recordings for lawful promotional or informational purposes, which may include, but are not limited to, dissemination in SSIA marketing collateral, publication on the SSIA website, and distribution across SSIA’s various social media platform channels.

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