The federation will look to strengthen its governance and internal processes, and focus on advancing tripartism.
This article has been updated on 17 September 2024.
The Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF) on 17 September 2024 concluded that it did not identify any evidence that establishes any suspicious, intentional or fraudulent activities.
The conclusion comes following an independent review of internal processes by an external consultant.
“There is no impact on our financial statements,” said SNEF in a statement.
SNEF added: “The Council takes seriously SNEF’s responsibility in upholding governance ideals and made a firm stand to pursue an independent review of internal processes when the governance procedural lapse was brought to their attention.
“The Council will continue to look into and pursue efforts to further strengthen governance and internal processes within SNEF as we focus on advancing tripartism in Singapore.”
Responding to the statement, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) said that it appreciates SNEF’s efforts to address the matter decisively and welcomes its commitment to strengthen its internal governance processes.
MOM added: “MOM and SNEF have built our strong tripartite relationship over the decades. Tripartism is the bedrock of Singapore’s industrial harmony and economic success. We will continue to work with SNEF as our tripartite partner on the basis of trust, collaboration and a shared commitment to win-win solutions, as we continue to advance our economic and social goals for Singapore.”
SNEF’s independent review comes after being informed of a governance procedural lapse during a routine internal review.
SNEF announced the procedural lapse on 11 June 2024, along with the resignation of its former president Dr Robert Yap.
In an earlier statement, NTUC said that the resignation of Dr Robert Yap as SNEF president would not affect NTUC’s tripartite relationship with SNEF and MOM. NTUC will continue to uphold tripartism with these partners.
The statement came shortly after SNEF announced that Dr Robert Yap would step down as SNEF president and council member.
“Tripartism has been and continues to be one of the cornerstones of Singapore’s success,” said NTUC.
Dr Yap has been SNEF president since 2014, and NTUC said it has worked closely with him since then.
“Under his leadership, SNEF contributed to numerous tripartite councils and workgroups, advocating businesses’ interest in improving the lives and livelihoods of workers, including lower-wage workers, older workers and Professionals, Managers and Executives.
“For these and more, we are appreciative of Dr Yap’s and SNEF’s many contributions to our Labour Movement and workers,” NTUC said.
SNEF said its council was informed of a governance procedural lapse during a routine internal review.
The council promptly engaged an external consultant to conduct a thorough review of its internal processes.
SNEF said that the council holds itself and the management to the highest governance standards.
It added that an independent review is underway, and the council is unaware of any financial implications arising from the lapse.
“The Council will continue building on the strengths of the Federation, working closely with all employers, members and partners to advance tripartism and enhance labour market flexibility for employers to implement responsible employment practices in Singapore,” SNEF said.
On 26 July 2024, SNEF announced Mr Tan Hee Teck as newly elected president.
Mr Tan is the chairman and chief executive officer of Resorts World at Sentosa.
He has been SNEF’s vice president since September 2022, and has been serving on the council for the last 15 years.
The current council was elected in September 2022 for a two-year term during its 42nd annual general meeting.
Dr Robert Yap, who is also the executive chairman of supply-chain firm YCH Group, thanked the SNEF council, members, and tripartite stakeholders for their years of support.
Dr Yap said: “I have worked hard to advance the interests of my members and tripartism in Singapore. It is never easy, but I have done what I can. It is also time to hand over the reins of leadership.”
He added that he understands the council’s decision to engage an external consultant to pursue an independent review.
“It is always good to review governance procedures so that organisations can continue to improve and learn from any organisational weaknesses.
“I wish SNEF the very best, and I remain committed to tripartism in Singapore,” he added.
MOM said it was informed that SNEF would be reviewing its internal processes following a governance procedural lapse.
“While there is no indication of any financial implications arising from this lapse thus far, MOM has requested SNEF to provide us with an update on the outcome of their review and to share key documentation with MOM as soon as it is completed.
“MOM will assess our next course of action thereafter,” said the ministry.
MOM added that the tripartite process will not change and that it will continue to work with SNEF and the tripartite partners to advance Singapore's economic and social goals.
