Connecting Businesses to National Conversations - Singapore Malay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SMCCI)

Connecting Businesses to National Conversations

by | Aug 28, 2026 | Insider | 0 comments

At SMCCI’s National Day Observance, members were invited by SMCCI to come together for a short programme to celebrate Singapore’s 61st birthday and reflect on the strength of community, collaboration and shared responsibility in helping businesses grow. 

In his speech, SMCCI Deputy President Mr Azhar Othman highlighted that while businesses continue to face new challenges, there are also new opportunities ahead. He emphasised the importance of businesses working together, learning from one another, and supporting each other so that the wider business community can move forward with confidence. 

That message closely reflects SMCCI’s role in representing the concerns and aspirations of businesses on the ground. 

SMCCI Deputy President and Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP), Mr Azhar Othman, delivering a speech during National Day Observance.

A Business Voice in Parliament 

This role is further strengthened by Mr Azhar’s service as a Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP), where he has raised issues relevant to businesses, including: 

  • support for SMEs and stronger Trade Associations and Chambers 
  • commercial rental costs 
  • overseas expansion, FTAs and market access 
  • COE requirements for motorcycles 
  • entrepreneurship among youths 
  • Singapore’s energy resilience 

These issues reflect the realities businesses face every day, from rising costs and manpower pressures to regulations, financing and opportunities for growth. 


Tell SMCCI What Your Business Is Facing 

If you are facing an issue that may affect the wider business community, we want to hear from you. 

SMCCI can assess the matter and identify the appropriate platform or stakeholder to engage. Where an issue has broader implications and warrants national level policy attention, Mr Azhar may also consider raising it in Parliament in his capacity as an NMP. 

Not every issue requires parliamentary attention, but every meaningful concern deserves to be heard. 


Share your concerns with SMCCI. Your experience on the ground could help shape a stronger business environment for the wider community.Â