Xinglun Holdings President Li Jianhui Elected New Chairman of SBF
Li Jianhui, President of Xinglun Holdings, has been elected the new Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), succeeding former Chairman Zhang Songsheng, who earlier announced a temporary leave and would not seek re-election.
The SBF held its 24th Annual General Meeting on Wednesday (June 24) and elected the 13th Council, with a term of two years until 2028.
In a statement, the SBF said the new Council comprises 24 members, including 12 elected councilors, 11 representatives from industry associations and chambers, and one co-opted councilor.
The new Council includes six new members: AmCham Singapore Chairman Adam Click, Singapore Restaurants Association President Mo Sixiang, SGTech Chairman Li Deming, and Quantedge Capital CEO Suhaimi Zainul-Abidin.
Fifth Future Ready Business Dialogue Held Concurrently
During the AGM, the SBF also held the fifth Future Ready Business Dialogue, with Guest of Honour Minister for Public Service Coordination and Defence Chan Chun Sing.
Themed 'System-Wide Readiness: What Changes Must Government and Business Make?', the dialogue brought together business leaders and policymakers to discuss how companies can enhance resilience, build future-ready capabilities, and navigate growing uncertainties.
Li Jianhui: Ensure Companies Remain Competitive and Resilient for the Future
New Chairman Li Jianhui, also a Nominated MP, said in the statement that geopolitical tensions, rapid AI development, and shifting trade patterns are reshaping the global economy, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses.
Li said: 'My top priority is to ensure that companies remain competitive, resilient, and future-ready. We will work closely with businesses, government, and industry partners to develop practical solutions, foster a pro-business environment, and help companies build the capabilities needed for innovation, internationalisation, and steady growth.'
He also noted that Singapore will chair ASEAN next year, a chance to deepen regional economic integration and cement ASEAN as a key global growth engine. 'The SBF will work with regional partners to turn these opportunities into tangible business outcomes and make ASEAN more connected, innovative, and sustainable.'
Li previously served as SBF Deputy Chairman and Treasurer. He also acted as Chairman during Zhang Songsheng's temporary leave.
Zhang Songsheng Will Not Seek Re-election: Term Ends June 24
Zhang Songsheng, 71, announced in May that he would not seek re-election after his SBF Chairman term ended on June 24. He had earlier temporarily stepped down from his roles as SBF Chairman, Executive Chairman and Director of Pacific International Lines, among others, to deal with charges from the US Department of Justice. Previously, Lianhe Zaobao reported that US authorities accused him of involvement in manipulating dry bulk container prices.
