3M unveils various new facilities in Singapore

Global science company 3M yesterday (27 June) unveiled new initiatives to strengthen its commitment to its operations in Singapore. These include a brand-new headquarters (HQ) at Ang Mo Kio, a new the 3M Customer Technical Center (CTC), and the launch of one of Singapore’s largest rooftop solar installations at its Tuas manufacturing plant.

According to a media release, housed inside Techpoint at Ang Mo Kio the new HQ spans 10,000 square meters in floor space across three floors - about twice the size of the previous HQ at Yishun. The HQ currently houses more than 500 employees from 3M's Singapore, regional, functional, and supply chain operations.

3M has not responded to queries from Human Resources about headcount expansion at the time of publication.

Notably, the new HQ has been designed with teamwork in mind. It features many collaboration spaces that encourage networking and interaction among its employees and customers. The spaces are also designed to improve productivity levels among 3M staff.

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Realistic training scenarios

Housed within the new HQ is a new S$1.3 million 3M Singapore Customer Technical Centre (CTC). Designed to bring science and innovation closer to its customers, the facility showcases the science of the company’s 46 technology platforms across 25 stations.

The facility is the first of 3M's CTC in Southeast Asia to feature virtual reality technology that simulates realistic work-at-height training scenarios.

Other noteworthy installations include the Curved Dark Tunnel showcasing 3M retroreflective solutions such as sign sheeting and pavement markings that improve traffic safety and mobility. Locally-developed solutions such as the 3M™ Rinse-Clean Coating RC-1000 will also be on display.

One of Singapore's largest rooftop solar installations

Also unveiled at the launch of the new HQ is the 3M Rooftop Solar Farm, located at the 3M Tuas manufacturing plant. The new solar farm is said to be amongst the largest rooftop solar installations in Singapore.

It is capable of generating an average of 2,400 MWh of electricity yearly – equivalent to the annual electricity usage for around 506 units of four-room HDB flats – and supports 3M’s 2025 Sustainability Goal to increase renewable energy to 25% of electricity use.

3M Rooftop Solar Farm

“Our Singapore footprint has grown significantly over the last 52 years”, said Yuko Nakahira, managing director, 3M Singapore. “As we expand our presence in Singapore, 3M is looking into ways to foster more collaborations with local and regional partners, and develop Asia-centric solutions that addresses our customers’ sustainability challenges. This complements our growth in the region while supporting the government’s push for a more liveable city.”

Present to witness the launch were Guest-of-Honour, Dr Amy Khor, Senior Minister of State for the Environment & Water Resources and Health; representatives from the Economic Development Board (EDB), Ministry of the Environment & Water Resources (MEWR), and the United States Embassy in Singapore; as well as 3M customers.

Cindy Koh, director of energy and chemicals, EDB, said, “3M’s expansion reflects the growing importance of Singapore as a strategic business hub to capture opportunities brought about by Asia’s demand for new and sustainable solutions. We look forward to 3M leveraging our ecosystem of talent and innovation partners to support the needs of its customers.”

These new initiatives reinforce 3M's operations in Singapore as an important business hub. Since 1966, 3M has invested over S$1 billion into its facilities across the country in the districts of Ang Mo Kio, Woodlands and Tuas spanning in operations across business, R&D, manufacturing, and supply chain.

Scroll through the gallery to check out photos from the launch.

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Photos / 3M