I would like to start by wishing everyone a Happy New Year! As we embark on another year filled with promise and possibilities, I want to take a moment to reflect on our journey together and share my aspirations for the year ahead.
First and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and hard work. 2023 has indeed presented us with unprecedented challenges, but it is your commitment that has propelled JEL Group to greater heights. This pivotal year has seen remarkable expansions in our EPC, construction, and maintenance businesses.
As the influx of projects increases with a multitude of significant projects secured from 682 MW Meranti Power OCGT to 600 MW Sembcorp CCP4 Banyan, it becomes increasingly vital for us to prioritize both safety, project execution and management. We must diligently focus on executing and managing projects with utmost care and efficiency, while also exploring and implementing innovative work approaches, thereby safeguarding the well-being of all workers and staff. Cash-flow management should also be emphasised whereby the adoption of effective financial strategies goes towards ensuring the financial stability and future growth of our organization.
Only through the collective effort and support from all management, subsidiaries, and employees can we navigate future obstacles and emerge stronger as a Group in the coming year. The immense value of our unified group, seamlessly collaborating across geographical boundaries, cannot be overstated. It is this exceptional asset that empowers us to consistently deliver exceptional projects like the SEWA 1,800 MW IPP Combined Cycle Power Plant in Hamriyah, the 200 MW Glow Phase 2 Replacement Cogeneration plant, and the 125 MW BCC2 Combined Cycle Power Plant in Thailand. These accomplishments stand as a true testament to our unwavering expertise and commitment to professionalism.
Furthermore, I am pleased to announce our remarkable completion of multiple solar power projects in Singapore, which has significantly fortified our solar portfolio. It is truly gratifying to have contributed to Singapore’s journey towards sustainable and greener energy. As we move forward, I eagerly anticipate further development and expansion of our solar capabilities.
I would also like to take a moment to highlight the outstanding response we received for the i- JEL Safety campaign held in 2023. The ideas and contributions from our employees showcase a genuine commitment to enhancing safety standards. Your dedication in realizing better safety measures is truly commendable. Let us continue to surpass our own expectations by constantly raising the bar in terms of safety standards, especially at all work sites and working towards zero safety accidents!
It gives me immense pride to share that Jurong Engineering Limited has once again been recognized as Singapore’s Best Employer. This accolade is a testament to the unwavering spirit and admirable teamwork of our people. This brings to my mind a quote from Simon Sinek:
“The ability for a group of people to do remarkable things hinges on how well those people can pull together as a team.”
Just as this quote, I believe the perseverance, adaptability, and collaboration of our people will continue to play a vital role in our collective success.
At this juncture, I would like to acknowledge and commend those of you who are amid the Career Development Program or pursued additional courses to enhance your professional skills. Your eagerness to grow and develop exemplifies the spirit of personal and professional growth that we strive to foster within the Group. Let us continue to nurture this culture where each individual can thrive and reach their full potential.
As we set foot into the New Year, I am filled with confidence and optimism for what lies ahead. Despite the uncertainties that may persist, let us continue to build upon our core businesses of EPC, construction, and maintenance. We will capitalize our robust regional network, anchored by the remarkable foundation of our headquarters in Singapore. Through this steadfast unity, we can better serve our clients, embracing the incredible opportunities that regionalization brings. By synergizing our efforts as one cohesive JEL Group, we will undoubtedly cement our status as a market leader in the power plant industry. With unity as our driving force, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
I would once again like to reiterate my sincere appreciation for the unwavering support we have received from our clients, partners, management, and subsidiaries. Your trust in our capabilities and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in our achievements, and we look forward to further strengthening these relationships in the years to come.
On behalf of the entire management team, I extend my warmest wishes to our clients, partners and last but not the least, employees, a prosperous and fulfilling New Year. May it bring you joy, good health, and continued success in all your endeavors!
Koichi Watanabe
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer
January 2024
