Novartis, Stats ChipPac receive awards for adding to Singapore's growth

SINGAPORE - Novartis and Stats ChipPac on Monday received the Distinguished Partner in Progress Award from the Singapore government, in recognition of their contributions to the country's economic growth.

Novartis started operating in Singapore 13 years ago and has about 1,500 employees here today.

The Swiss pharmaceutical giant has located its regional headquarters and four manufacturing facilities in Singapore, including a US$500 million (S$628 million) biologics facility which is set to be completed by the end of 2016.

Local semiconductor manufacturer Stats ChipPac began operations in Singapore in 1994 and has grown to become the fourth-largest outsourced semiconductor assembly and test company in the world.

Singapore is home to Stats ChipPac's three facilities, which house activities such as research and development, manufacturing and its global headquarters. The company employs about 3,000 staff in Singapore.

Mr Leo Yip, chairman of the Economic Development Board (EDB), noted in his welcome remarks at a ceremony at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel on Monday that the two companies have contributed significantly to creating good jobs in Singapore.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who presented the award to both companies during the ceremony, said: "Both (companies) exemplify the type of company that contributes to the betterment of Singapore and Singaporeans - companies that invest for the future and build lasting partnerships."

He added: "They both acknowledge and demonstrate the importance of innovation for business growth, and see Singapore as a home for their innovation endeavours."

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