It can, for example, mean better environmental practices, or adopting more transparent corporate governance.

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have been urged to step forward to seek support for implementing CSR programmes.

Having a good CSR programme will help SMEs distinguish themselves to a generation of more discerning consumers.

These were some points raisedon Thursday at the two-day 7th Asian Forum on CSR.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports opened the forum by urging SMEs to get support and assistance from the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre in areas that range from planning to implementing CSR strategies.

A survey by the Ministry of Trade and Industry last month found that less than a third of SMEs are aware of CSR, while those that are, need support to implement their CSR plans.

Under the ComCare Connection Scheme, firms can get advice and be matched with non-profit organisations to make a significant difference, Dr Balakrishnan said.

Read the full story in Friday's edition of The Straits Times.