In a world undergoing seismic shifts, whether through the relentless march of artificial intelligence or rapidly shifting global markets, the true strength of a community lies in its ability to adapt without losing its soul.
Looking through this week’s issue of tabla!, a striking common thread emerges across our lead stories: resilience, representation, and the quiet power of showing up.
In our cover story, Pradeep K. Menon steps back into the helm as chief executive officer of the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI).
Returning to a corporate landscape vastly different from his first stint, Pradeep’s core message for local businesses is clear: do not fear technology, embrace it.
Rather than letting AI-driven disruption freeze progress, SICCI’s new hands-on business clinics and digital transformations are designed to help local SMEs pivot from mere survival to sustainable growth.
This same spirit of determination against all odds echoes in the world of Singaporean cinema. Three years after tabla! highlighted its uphill battle to raise post-production funds, The Damned Ones – Asia’s first disability-led psychological horror feature – has officially been selected for the 13th Torino Underground Cinefest in Italy.
Written and directed by Singaporean filmmaker Reena Deen, the ultra-micro-budget project features talent both in front of and behind the camera with authentic, lived experiences of disability. Refusing to let conventional grant limitations or societal stereotypes define them, the team proved that authentic storytelling can break through international boundaries.
Meanwhile, grassroots community support proved its enduring worth at the 16th SIET-SINDA Charity Golf Tournament, which raised over S$436,000 for deserving post-secondary and tertiary students.
As SIET Chairman Jayaprakash Jagateesan aptly noted, supporting a student isn’t just about easing an immediate financial burden; it’s an investment in breaking poverty cycles and shaping Singapore’s future.
Whether it is navigating the frontiers of AI in business, bringing authentic representation to global film festivals, or ensuring no student is left behind due to financial hardship, our community continues to prove that adaptability and unity are our greatest assets.
