Opening Remarks by SMS Low Yen Ling at the opening of Kwong Cheong Thye’s (KCT) new factory

Mr Choo and the Choo Family, Owners, Kwong Cheong Thye

Distinguished guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.            Good morning, it is my pleasure to join you today for the opening of Kwong Cheong Thye’s (KCT) new factory. Congratulations on achieving this significant milestone and 133 years of sterling business growth.

Opening of Kwong Cheong Thye’s New Facility 

2.            The new facility represents not just an expansion, but a successful evolution. Under the leadership of fifth-generation owners, Alvin, Angie and Allan Choo, KCT is a testament to how a traditional business can successfully navigate today’s evolving landscape by embracing technology while preserving the heritage and craft that have made it a trusted name for over a century. 

3.            This new factory is twice the size of the current one. It features state-of-the-art machinery and robotics, including Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV). It will increase KCT’s production capacity by 6 times. KCT is also committed to sustainability, with 30% of the facility’s operations powered by renewable energy, such as solar. 

4.            By implementing integrated digital solutions like the Accounting Inventory and Sales Management System, KCT now has clearer, real-time visibility of production processes, inventory levels, and sales performance. I look forward to touring the facility later to see these solutions in action. 

5.            KCT is a good example of how food manufacturers can harness digitalisation to achieve tangible results. This is the direction that we want to see across Singapore’s food manufacturing industry, where businesses leverage digital solutions to future-proof operations, raise productivity and strengthen their global market competitiveness. 

Launch of Refreshed Food Manufacturing Industry Digital Plan

6.            In 2021, I launched the first Food Manufacturing Industry Digital Plan (FM IDP) to support our food manufacturers on their digitalisation journey. Since then, we have seen significant progress, with more than 90% of companies adopting at least one sector-specific digital solution in 2025, up from 75% in 2023.

7.            The operating landscape has continued to evolve. AI has emerged as a key enabler of efficiency and innovation, alongside the ongoing need to raise productivity in traditional sectors, amid manpower constraints. 

8.            Companies like KCT are already reaping the benefits of AI adoption. As an early adopter of Microsoft Copilot under the Copilot for SMEs Programme, KCT reduced the time spent on sales analysis and procurement planning by 50%. Through its integrated Manufacturing Execution System (MES), KCT also doubled its sauce production from 3 tonnes to 6 tonnes, while maintaining the same staffing levels, achieving a 20% year-on-year increase in sales. These are not just technological upgrades, but meaningful business transformations with real bottom-line impact. 

9.            Importantly, digitalisation also creates new opportunities for workers. KCT is upskilling two soya sauce production staff to become Data Control Specialists, who will monitor production data to ensure smooth and efficient operations. This is a good example of how AI can support career progression and skills development. 

10.         In the light of our evolving operating context, I am pleased to announce the launch of the refreshed Food Manufacturing Industry Digital Plan. 

11.         Enterprise Singapore and IMDA have worked closely to update the IDP, ensuring that it remains responsive to the needs and capabilities of our food manufacturers. 

a.    The refreshed IDP adopts a more user-friendly and targeted approach. Companies can more easily identify solutions that align with their operational goals and needs. These solutions are organised around three key business outcomes: first, "Digitalising Tedious Processes" to automate routine administrative tasks; second, "Optimising Manufacturing" by providing deeper insights into production processes; and third, "Scaling Up and Expanding" to support businesses in scaling up production and expanding operations overseas. 

b.    In addition, the refreshed IDP incorporates AI-enabled and Generative AI solutions. For example, an automated ordering management solution uses AI to capture customer orders from messaging platforms like WhatsApp and syncs them directly into existing systems. Toh Thye San Farm, one of Singapore’s leading poultry manufacturers, piloted this solution and saw a 20% improvement in order accuracy. This translates to eight hours of labour saved for every mistake avoided. It has allowed staff to focus on higher-value and more meaningful work. 

Helping Food Manufacturers Expand Overseas 

12.         To support the overseas expansion of food manufacturers, the refreshed IDP also includes solutions that help companies scale internationally while maintaining real-time visibility from their Singapore headquarters. This positions Singapore as a digital nerve centre for regional operations. 

a.    One example of a newly added solution is the Logistics Control Tower (LCT). It provides real-time visibility across multiple locations, enabling companies to manage inventory, track shipments, and optimise logistics operations across both local and overseas markets. This helps reduce complexity and risks associated with international expansion. 

13.         Let me share the example of KH Roberts. The flavouring manufacturer has operated across Southeast Asia for over 20 years and uses its Singapore headquarters as a digital testbed and innovation hub. After implementing MES and automation solutions in Singapore, KH Roberts is now rolling out a common Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system across the group, starting with Singapore and Malaysia, before expanding to Thailand, Indonesia and China. This allows the company to access real-time data for more timely decisions from the Singapore HQ. 

14.         I encourage our food manufacturers to leverage these solutions as you expand overseas. With integrated systems and real-time visibility, companies can maintain operational excellence wherever their manufacturing takes place. 

Further Support for Food Manufacturers Looking to Digitalise

15.         We recognise that some food manufacturers may face challenges in starting their digitalisation journey and may be unsure of where to seek help. Beyond the IDP, we have worked closely with partners like SME Centre@SMF and our Institutes of Higher Learning to develop two key initiatives to address these challenges. 

a.    First, the SME Centre@SMF now offers dedicated digitalisation advisory services for food manufacturing SMEs. Their business advisors use diagnostic tools and sector expertise to assess digital readiness and guide companies to suitable IDP solutions, with clear, practical implementation plans. 

b.    Second, we will launch a talent development programme in partnership with our Institutes of Higher Learning in the second half of 2026. This internship programme will connect students in computing and information technology with food manufacturers, meeting the companies’ needs for in-house technical support while giving young talent valuable real-world experience. 

16.         Whether you are taking your first steps in digitalisation or preparing to scale internationally, support is available. I encourage food manufacturers to explore the refreshed IDP and engage SME Centre@SMF for tailored guidance. 

Conclusion 

17.         Together, we can build a food manufacturing sector that serves Singapore well and competes confidently on the global stage. Thank you, and I look forward to seeing the continued transformation of our food manufacturing industry. 

18.         Once again, congratulations, KCT, on the opening of your new factory. I wish you many more years of successful growth ahead! Thank you.