BUS558: Singapore Corporate Governance Worse than in Neighbors Malaysia and Thailand: Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility Essay, SUSS, Singapore

An article “Singapore corporate governance worse than in neighbors Malaysia and Thailand more transparent than a financial hub, study finds” references a study that assesses corporate governance areas covering business ethics, including internal and external commitments against corruption, as well as reporting and monitoring.

A key statement for students to consider, out of the article, is “In Singapore companies — and I’m not so sure how to put this — there seems to be a reticence, a reluctance, to make disclosures”. The articles above make uncomfortable reading, as it poses significant reputational damage. For this assignment, put yourself in the position of being an external advisor or consultant, appointed by a medium-sized, non-listed Singapore-owned company with regional manufacturing links.

As part of this consultancy brief, you have been directed to investigate whether concepts of Corporate Social Responsibility may provide future direction. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is generally understood to mean that companies have a degree of responsibility not only for the economic consequences of their activities but also for social and environmental implications.

Students are to write a researched report, reframing this situation through the perspective of Corporate Social Responsibility to set a higher-order agenda for Corporate Governance. In this report, devote thought and well-grounded arguments to the company, drawing on Stakeholder Salience.

Reflecting on the course, draw upon their learnings from this semester, the theories which have been discussed, to consider why Singapore companies seem to be reluctant to make disclosures. Identify the strengths and weaknesses of the different perspectives.