Calls for gender diversity in Singapore’s corporate leadership to evolve past box ticking

It is also time to broaden the discussion on diversity and equity in the workplace to beyond gender

Michelle Quah

Published Mon, Mar 6, 2023 · 07:46 AM

Singapore’s business culture has made huge progress in becoming a more equitable place for all, but there is still a lot more work to be done, says Valerie Mantot-Groene, regional managing director, Asean, Apex Group. PHOTO: APEX GROUP
There are more women in positions of leadership and in the boardroom, but corporates need to ensure this isn't just tokenism, says Stefanie Yuen Thio, joint managing partner at TSMP Law Corporation. PHOTO: ST
Inclusiveness at the workplace goes beyond gender equality - it’s about challenging different unconscious biases, says Patricia Quek, head of UBS Wealth Management Singapore. PHOTO: UBS
We have the privilege of power and therefore the responsibility to challenge archaic social norms to provide access towards equitable and just opportunities for all, says Nathalie Huynh, country HR director, Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, at Schneider Electric. PHOTO: SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC

SINGAPORE companies have made impressive strides in improving women’s share of senior roles, but must do more than chase the numbers, say commentators and industry participants.

They also believe it’s time for diversity and equity to move beyond gender in the workplace, and to strive for a more just and inclusive world for other marginalised groups as well.

“We see more women in positions of leadership and in the boardroom, and there is more discussion around the issue and general acceptance that gender diversity is needed,” said Stephanie Yuen Thio, joint managing partner at boutique law firm TSMP Law Corp. “That said, I feel that a lot of it, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is still focused on getting the token female on board. To tick the box.”

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