Facilities management sector maps its future and recognises its best

Facility management (FM) is often invisible – until something goes wrong. Yet the sector plays a critical role in keeping buildings running safely, efficiently and sustainably.

The future of the sector took centre stage at the Facility Management Experts Summit (FMES) 2026, organised by the Singapore International Facility Management Association (SIFMA) and held at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore on July 31, 2026.

Themed “One Ecosystem, Symbiotic Outcomes”, the summit brought together building owners, facilities managers, service providers, government agencies, technology partners, and trade associations related to facilities management.

Guest of honour Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi, senior parliamentary secretary for National Development and Education and a Member of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC, highlighted how the role of FM is changing as operations become more connected and technology-enabled.

“Many have embraced Integrated FM, bringing together operations, workflows and data across multiple services for greater synergy,” he said.

He also announced three new Building and Construction Authority (BCA) initiatives to support the sector’s transformation.

These comprise the BCA Guide to Smart FM, featuring industry case studies and best practices; a revised guide on FM Procurement, which promotes progressive procurement, fair payment practices and stronger collaboration across the value chain; and the FM Value Chain Feedback Channel, a platform for stakeholders to share feedback and support continuous improvement.

“The success of FM transformation requires various parties to work together collaboratively, build trust and optimise workflows,” Dr Syed said.

Turning sustainability goals into action

SIFMA also unveiled two initiatives aimed at advancing the sector: a new AI Committee tasked with developing an industry roadmap the refreshed SNZO 2.0 sustainability framework.

The two initiatives launched at the summit reflected the industry’s growing focus on measurable sustainability outcomes and the practical use of AI.

The first was the formation of AI Committee, with SUTD as a key collaborator, which will work with Industry partners to develop an AI road map for Singapore FM’s sector.

“At SIFMA, we believe we must move beyond talking about AI and start applying AI,” said the association’s president Frank Ngoh.

The roadmap will identify practical uses of AI in areas such as energy management, predictive maintenance and service delivery. For instance, analysing building and equipment data could help FM teams identify unusual patterns, anticipate maintenance needs and deploy resources more efficiently.

The committee will also develop guidelines to help companies evaluate, test and adopt AI tools responsibly.

Another focus will be on the workforce. The roadmap will identify the capabilities that FM professionals may need as the sector becomes more digital, as well as possible pathways for employees to acquire these skills.

The initiative comes as FM companies face manpower constraints and seek ways to raise productivity while maintaining service standards.

Dr Syed noted that technology could help employees spend less time on routine work and take on more complex responsibilities.

It is organised around four key areas: leadership and organisational capability, carbon measurement and management, collaboration with service partners, and the integration of sustainability into everyday business practices.

“Tasks that were once manual and repetitive are increasingly automated and streamlined, allowing FM employees to focus on higher-value work, such as data-driven monitoring and optimising maintenance strategies,” he said.

SIFMA also announced SNZO 2.0, a refreshed framework that encourages organisations to move beyond broad green pledges by developing structured plans, setting measurable targets and tracking their progress over time.

These themes were explored further during the summit, with speakers from JTC Corporation, Sentosa Development Corporation, the Infocomm Media Development Authority, the Building and Construction Authority and the National Environment Agency sharing how they are responding to changing operational and workforce needs.

Discussions covered topics including digitalisation, integrated FM and outcome-based contracting.

Recognising excellence in facilities management sector

The summit concluded with the FMES Gala Awards, which recognised organisations and individuals that have contributed to the development of the FM sector.

Awards were presented across categories including technology implementation, sustainability, education, leadership, training and professional development.

The range of categories reflected the different capabilities needed to manage and improve today’s built environment, from adopting new technology and improving building performance to training workers and developing the next generation of FM talent.

Among the recipients was Kelvin Wong, group chief commercial officer and region head for Asia at Surbana Jurong Group and the immediate past chief executive officer of BCA.

Wong received the SIFMA APEX Award, which is presented to an individual who has contributed significantly to the association’s growth and success.

He was recognised for his support, contributions and mentorship during his tenure as BCA chief executive, as well as for encouraging SIFMA and its members to embrace digitalisation and innovation and push the boundaries of FM in Singapore.

Other recipients included organisations recognised for improving building performance, advancing sustainability initiatives and supporting the development of FM professionals.

Individual awards also honoured established leaders and emerging talent whose work has helped raise standards across the profession.

Beyond celebrating individual achievements, the awards provided a snapshot of how the sector is evolving. They showed that industry transformation is taking place not only through the adoption of new technology, but also through changes in leadership, workforce development, sustainability practices and collaboration.

“The future of FM is not something that will happen to us. It is something we will build together,” said Ngoh.

Source : https://www.straitstimes.com/business/facilities-management-sector-maps-future-recognises-best-sifma