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SINGAPORE, 13 May 2026 – Singapore businesses are set to gain new global growth opportunities following a landmark partnership between the Singapore Islamic Scholars Religious Teachers Association (PERGAS) and the Association of Small Medium Enterprises (ASME).

Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the collaboration brings together enterprise expertise, cultural-linguistic strengths and syariah compliant knowledge to help Singapore SMEs expand into international markets including the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), ASEAN and Latin America while strengthening capabilities at home.

This partnership goes beyond supporting Asatizah-led businesses, creating a broader platform to accelerate growth across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

Unlocking Growth in a Competitive Global Economy

The collaboration focuses on three key thrusts:

• Global Market Expansion: Leveraging specialised skills, linguistic fluency and cultural expertise to help SMEs enter new overseas markets
• Digital Transformation: Supporting SMEs in adopting AI and digital tools to boost productivity and competitiveness
• Entrepreneurship Mentorship: Developing the next generation of business leaders through ASME structured guidance and networks

Together, these efforts aim to position Singapore enterprises to compete more effectively on the global stage.

Building an Inclusive and Resilient Business Ecosystem

“At Pergas, we believe that meaningful progress happens through collaboration and shared growth. Our partnership with ASME is not only about professional development, but also about nurturing the potential within our community. By supporting asatizah-led businesses in adapting to the digital age, we are empowering our members to contribute their expertise, professional strengths, values, sincerity, and the heart they bring in serving society towards Singapore’s shared progress and success.” – Ustazah Dr. Siti Nur ‘Alaniah Binte Abdul Wahid , Vice President of Pergas.

“At ASME, we recognise that the resilience of Singapore’s economy is anchored in its micro and small enterprises, which constitute 94% of our business landscape. This partnership with Pergas is a strategic synergy that bridges robust business frameworks with deep cultural and linguistic expertise. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and leveraging our collective strength, we are empowering our SMEs to navigate complex global markets—from the GCC to Latin America—with greater sensitivity and insight.” – Ms Hamidah Aidillah, Vice President of ASME.

MOU Signing Ceremony

The partnership was formalised at a signing ceremony:

• Date: Wednesday, 13 May 2026
• Time: 5.30 pm – 7.00 pm
• Venue: Maybank Tower, Level 1, 2 Battery Road, Singapore

The event was graced by Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, alongside key business and community leaders.

Media Contacts

ASME

Celestyn Karuppiah

Mobile: 9626 8919

Email: celestyn@asme.org.sg

Pergas

Muhaimin Ali

Mobile: 9139 3951

Email: muhaimin@pergas.org.sg