MBOs
We promote confidence and prudence in Mutual Benefit Organisations.
Last updated 3 February 2026
What we do
Mutual Benefit Organisations (MBOs) are membership-based entities which provide relief to their members. There are currently 61 MBOs in Singapore.
The MBOs are regulated by the Registry of the Mutual Benefit Organisations, under the Mutual Benefit Organisations Act 1960 and the Mutual Benefit Organisations Rules. As a regulator, the Registry seeks to protect the collective interests of MBO members by promoting prudence and accountability for the use of the MBO funds by the office bearers in the MBOs.
The Registry also promotes sound management and governance of MBOs. This way, people in Singapore will have greater confidence in the MBOs to meet their needs, and lead to some volunteering their time in the governance or administration of the MBOs, thus building a gracious and caring society we call home.
Did you know?
While MBOs may be affiliated with clans or associations, MBOs and clans or associations are separate legal entities.
Latest news
3 July 2023
Cessation of Alternative Arrangements for Meetings on 1 July 2023
The COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Alternative Arrangements for Meetings) Orders (the “Meetings Orders”) which temporarily enabled entities (including mutual benefit organisations “MBOs”) to hold meetings through electronic means during the COVID-19 pandemic, has ceased on 1 July 2023.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Meetings Orders provided entities with a temporary option to hold virtual or hybrid meetings even if this was not allowed under the applicable laws or legal instruments.
If an MBO wishes to have the option to hold virtual or hybrid meetings from 1 July 2023, the MBO is advised to amend its rules to expressly provide for such meetings.
For further information or queries, please contact us at MCCY_Regmbo@mccy.gov.sg.