A high-level industry exchange in Singapore brought together Finnish and Singaporean built environment leaders to strengthen collaboration in digitalisation, Lean practices and sustainable construction. The discussions reinforced both countries’ shared commitment to driving productivity, innovation and long-term partnerships across the sector.
Last month, a delegation of 25 participants from the BCA Academy Executive Development Programme embarked on an intensive learning journey to Finland, where they engaged with Finnish industry leaders to explore ecosystem transformation through Lean practices and digital innovation. The visit provided valuable insights into how Finland’s trust-based ecosystem fosters collaboration, innovation and productivity across the built environment sector, laying the foundation for deeper bilateral engagement.
Building on the momentum generated by the study visit, the Embassy of Finland in Singapore hosted the Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries RT on 25 June 2026 at the Residence of Ambassador Juha Markkanen. The gathering brought together Finnish and Singaporean stakeholders from the built environment sector to exchange ideas and strengthen professional networks. Ambassador Juha Markkanen welcomed the participants, while Singapore’s Ambassador to Finland, Professor Cheong Koon Hean, delivered the opening remarks. Professor Cheong also serves as Chair of the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and Chair of the Centre for Liveable Cities Advisory Panel under Singapore’s Ministry of National Development.
The programme featured presentations by Mr. Antti Aaltonen, Director of Construction Industry Development at the Confederation of Finnish Construction Industries RT, and Mr. Paul Juwono, Director of the School of Professional & Specialist Education at BCA Academy. Discussions centred on how digitalisation, artificial intelligence and data-driven construction are reshaping the built environment industry, enabling greater productivity, improved quality, reduced carbon emissions and more efficient project delivery. Participants also explored how Finland and Singapore are leveraging industrialised construction methods and technological innovation to address common industry challenges while supporting more sustainable urban development.
The event also showcased the breadth of Finnish expertise across the built environment value chain. Participating companies included ABLOY, Adicio, Halton Group, Jatke, JEKS Engineering Pte Ltd, Kempower, KONE, Konecranes and Normet Group, each demonstrating innovative solutions spanning intelligent access systems, AI-powered construction technologies, sustainable indoor environments, industrial engineering, electric mobility infrastructure, smart buildings, advanced lifting equipment and underground construction. Their presence highlighted Finland’s strong capabilities in delivering future-ready solutions for the global built environment.
As both countries continue to prioritise innovation, sustainability and digital transformation, the event reaffirmed a shared commitment to expanding collaboration beyond commercial opportunities towards long-term strategic partnerships. By bringing together industry expertise, government support and technological innovation, Finland and Singapore are well positioned to create impactful outcomes that will help shape a more productive, resilient and sustainable built environment.
Source: Embassy of Finland in Singapore
