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Speech by SMS Low Yen Ling at the Grand Opening of Alcon’s Expanded Manufacturing and Logistics Facility

27 June 2025

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Distinguished guests,

Ladies and gentlemen,

Introduction

  1.              Good morning. It is my pleasure to join you today for the official opening of Alcon’s expanded manufacturing and logistics facility here in Tuas.

  2.             Today’s celebration is especially meaningful as it also marks the 20th anniversary of Alcon’s operations in Singapore. This milestone reflects Alcon’s commitment to innovation and its role in advancing high-precision smart manufacturing in Singapore.

A Growing MedTech Sector in Asia-Pacific

  1.              The Asia-Pacific region continues to be the fastest-growing market for MedTech. Its market value is projected to reach almost S$300 billion by 2030. Fueled by a growing middle-class and rising demand for quality healthcare, the region is now the world’s second-largest source of demand for medical technology – second only to the United States.

  2.              Alcon’s expanded facility demonstrates its readiness to seize the emerging opportunities in this fast-growing market and leverage Singapore’s position as a regional MedTech manufacturing hub.

Singapore’s Value Proposition in MedTech Manufacturing

  1.              Singapore is home to some of the world’s best-in-class MedTech manufacturing plants. The sector has been growing steadily, with a manufacturing output of S$19.4 billion in 2023.

  2.              Our stability, consistent regulatory frameworks, pro-business governance and strong global connectivity allow companies to operate safely, smoothly and efficiently. This is why many MNCs choose to anchor their manufacturing, HQ and R&D operations here at Tuas Biomedical Park.

    1.     Today, we are home to over 400 MedTech companies, including more than 60 major multinationals like Alcon. These companies employ over 16,000 workers – mostly highly skilled technicians and scientist-researchers who power innovative healthcare solutions.

    2.     In fact, one in 10 contact lenses used globally comes from Singapore.

  3.              As part of our “Manufacturing 2030 Vision” to become a global hub for business, innovation, and talent in advanced manufacturing, we are building a vibrant, innovation-driven MedTech ecosystem. For instance:

    1.     In 2024, we invested S$38 million to set up MedTech Catapult. It helps local and international MedTech innovators and companies bring promising technologies from lab to market by providing access to shared facilities, R&D capabilities, and manufacturing networks.

    2.     We are also developing deep tech talent through programmes like SGInnovate’s Helix Immersion Programme and A*STAR’s Technology for Enterprise Capability Upgrading (T-Up). These efforts enable researchers to work directly in MedTech companies.

Singapore’s Long-term Partnership with Alcon

  1.              The partnership between Alcon and the Singapore Government over the past 20 years exemplifies how deep, sustained collaboration can drive industrial growth and create meaningful careers for Singaporeans.

  2.              Through initiatives like the Career Conversion Programme, Alcon Manufacturing and Logistics (AML) was able to tap into a broader, more diverse talent pool, including mid-career switchers and individuals seeking new roles. To date, nearly 180 associates have benefited. Let me share two inspiring examples:

    1.     Ms Chong Cheah En transitioned from aerospace to MedTech, joining Alcon as a production planner in 2017. With the Career Conversion Programme’s support and on-the-job training, she rose through the ranks and now leads as Supervisor of Warehouse and Distribution Operations.

    2.     Mr Muhammad Haiqal Bin Sapuan, who previously worked in the oil and gas sector, joined Alcon as a Senior Technician in 2022. Thanks to the Career Conversion Programme and strong mentoring, he now serves as Associate Supervisor, leading a team of 15 in production technical operations.

  3.           Alcon’s continued expansion reflects not only its commitment to growth, innovation, and excellence but also its dedication to nurturing the local MedTech industry.

    1.     The new facility will create exciting new job opportunities in production operations, quality control and supply chain management. These are meaningful roles with good career pathways that Singaporeans of varying background can look forward to.

    2.     It will also strengthen innovation and supply chain resilience within our MedTech ecosystem. Through initiatives like Partnership for Capability Transformation (PACT), Alcon will partner with local SMEs to build capabilities – from precision moulding to packaging, helping these enterprises scale and compete globally.

  4.           These partnerships create positive ripple effects throughout our ecosystem, creating jobs, strengthening capabilities, and reinforcing Singapore’s position as a global MedTech manufacturing hub.

Conclusion

  1.           Congratulations, Alcon, on the successful expansion of your Singapore operations. As we look ahead, I am excited about the future possibilities and look forward to an even deeper and stronger partnership with Alcon in the coming years.

  2.           Thank you!

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