Welcome Address by Er. Prof. Tan Thiam Soon, Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Board Chairman, at the 47th IFAWPCA Convention 2025 Welcome Dinner

Thursday, 10 April 2025

Mr Kenneth Loo, President of IFAWPCA,

Dr Ho Nyok Yong, Chair – IFAWPCA Programme Committee, SCAL

Distinguished guests,

Fellow industry leaders,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening.

Introduction

I am delighted to be able to join you all at this Welcome Dinner for the 47^th IFAWPCA, especially as Mr Kenneth Loo and Dr Ho Nyok Yong are old friends.  I want to thank them for bringing this important convention to Singapore and congratulate them on a very successful convention. 

I also like to extend a warm welcome to the many friends from across the Asian and Western Pacific region to Singapore – in the current midst of geopolitical tension, this is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to regional cooperation and industry advancement.  As we gather here tonight, we are reminded of the vital role our industry plays in shaping the future of our cities and communities in the midst of many challenges from climate change to technological disruptions.

Built Environment Industry Transformation Map (BE ITM)

In Singapore, we recognise that transforming our Built Environment sector is essential for our continued development. In 2022, we launched our Built Environment Industry Transformation Map - a product of extensive tripartite engagement and crystalises the collective vision and strategies to transform the sector.  I'm pleased to share that we are making steady progress towards our transformation goals, working hand-in-hand with stakeholders to create a safer, liveable, and smarter Built Environment for Singapore.

Corenet X

As our projects grow in complexity, we understand the importance of streamlining processes and enhancing collaboration across the entire value chain. This is why we're advancing our regulatory system through a new transformative digital platform, the CORENET X, making building approval processes more seamless and convenient for all stakeholders. This digital transformation journey is crucial as we move towards a more integrated and efficient sector, and also to take full advantage of the many benefits coming from this digital transformation.

Technology Adoption and Grant

Technology adoption remains a key driver of our transformation. We continue to encourage firms in Singapore to embrace Design for Manufacturing and Assembly, Advanced Manufacturing and Assembly, and Robotics and Automation. To support this journey, our government will be introducing a new Built Environment Technology and Capability Grant to strengthen the long-term capabilities of firms across the Built Environment sector.  Additionally, our Institutes of Higher Learning and BCA Academy are actively developing talent and accelerating innovation through applied research.

Conclusion, Encourage International Collaboration

This convention presents an excellent opportunity for collaboration and knowledge exchange. I encourage all participants to explore potential partnerships, particularly in overseas projects. BCA International, together with our ecosystem partners, stands ready to collaborate with international stakeholders, sharing Singapore's best practices in the Built Environment sector.

Tonight, let us embrace the spirit of regional cooperation and innovation that IFAWPCA embodies.

I wish you all a pleasant evening and a productive convention ahead. Thank you.