Encouraging a giving culture at the workplace

PropNex Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mohamed Ismail Gafoor
PropNex Directors, Ambassadors, and employees
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. A very good afternoon to all!
   

2. Before I begin, I would like to wish all the Malay/Muslim friends Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri! I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for inviting me to attend this very special occasion. It is indeed my pleasure to be here this afternoon, addressing an excellent crowd of 1,500 professionals who have worked diligently and tirelessly for the real estate industry. Today is indeed special as we will also honour individuals who demonstrate excellence, loyalty and professionalism in the real estate industry.

3. All of you know that buying a property is likely to be the single biggest ticket item for all of us. It is a huge undertaking that we need to make after serious considerations. Property salespersons play a very important role in that decision-making process for us. They need to ensure that they are up-to-date with market trends and movements, and are able to provide professional, accurate and sound advice to buyers and sellers.
   

4. Whether it is in the real estate industry, the F&B industry, or even the Civil Service, everyone needs to stay relevant in today's rapidly evolving economy. What we know and can do today, can easily be outdated and obsolete tomorrow. So we need to build on what we know, continually seek ways to upgrade our skills and knowledge so as to stay competitive, and to stay in the game.
   

5. PropNex Realty, being one of the largest home-grown real estate agencies in Singapore, understands the need to groom and equip its salespersons with good industry knowledge. I am heartened to learn that PropNex has invested $1.5 million as training subsidy for all their salespersons, an increase from the $900,000 invested last year. This shows the commitment PropNex has been investing in their talents. And of course, improving productivity does not mean that one can only go through training programmes alone. A healthy mind and body are also essential in one's productivity level at work. And that is why the Government is encouraging everyone to sign up for ActiveSG - a national movement for sport. We hope to encourage Singaporeans to participate in sports by offering sports facilities and services at subsidised and affordable rates.  
   

6. This year, PropNex is honouring 104 outstanding salespersons who have exemplified service excellence and commitment to the industry. Besides the positive attitude and loyalty, I would also like to commend these PropNex Ambassadors who go beyond pursuing sales and commissions. I understand, these ambassadors also pledge to contribute a portion of their commission earned for every deal closed to charity, playing their part for the community!
   

7. Indeed, PropNex is also a firm believer of giving back to the society. Over the years, PropNex has been involved in numerous charity events and championed many meaningful causes. For example, in 2011, more than 40 PropNex staff and salespersons volunteered to have their hair shaved for the “Hair for Hope” initiative to raise funds for the Children's Cancer Foundation. Through their effort, PropNex managed to raise $50,000 to help these cancer-stricken children. In 2012, PropNex Ambassadors raised $60,000 through the “Building a LovingSG” charity project in support of The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund. Besides local community projects, PropNex also raised $70,000 to build a school in Cambodia in 2009. With a 35-man strong contingent and 13 students from Victoria Junior College, the team also travelled to Cambodia to build the school itself!
   

8. And just two Sundays ago, PropNex donated $200,000 during the ComChest Care & Share Charity Show 2014. The charity show was part of the Care & Share Movement - a nationwide drive to encourage donations and volunteerism in the run-up to Singapore's 50th birthday next year.
   

9. PropNex's leadership in shaping a compassionate culture at work and being supportive of their employees contributing to the community is what we hope to see practised in more organisations. I hope that as a leading organisation, PropNex can continue to share these giving experiences with your business partners, family and friends, so that we can continue to grow a culture of contribution in Singapore, and to make Singapore a truly compassionate and inclusive society.
   

10. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth hopes to work with our partners in the people and private sector in Singapore, to see how best we can support the growth of corporate giving in Singapore. I believe the spirit of giving is innate in each and every one of us, but it needs to be further encouraged. If we continue to nurture this spirit of giving, Singapore will be a place we are all happy to call home. 
    

11. Congratulations once again to all the PropNex Ambassadors! You have done your company proud! And to all present, let me also wish you happiness, prosperity and good health.
    

12. Thank you.