Dear SCL(S) members,

At the time of writing this message, Anil Changaroth (SCL(S)’s “International Liaison”) and myself have just returned from Sao Paulo, Brazil, where we were privileged to represent SCL(S) at the SCL International Conference 2016. The international conference was a special occasion in which Anil, as a speaker, and myself, as a session moderator, were able to showcase the sophistication of Singapore construction law on a world stage. This is highly relevant considering the development of construction law (and corresponding contractual and technical aspects of construction practice) throughout South America in general. It is also pleasing that SCL(S) can play an active role in the growth of the global SCL community.

Of particular note is that the SCL-International Committee held its traditional biennial meeting in Sao Paulo, and SCL(India) was selected to host the next SCL International Conference in 2017. It is exciting that the next conference will return to Asia.

On a related topic, I am also pleased to inform that SCL(M’sia) has recently confirmed that they will support the development of a tradition of biennial “Focus on Asia” construction law conferences. Following the inaugural “Focus on Asia” construction law conference in Singapore last year, SCL(M’sia) has confirmed their intent to host the next one in Kuala Lumpur, although this will be in mid/late 2019 to tie in with the SCL International Conference in India in 2017. Considering the interest in SCL from other Asian countries generated by last year’s “Focus on Asia” conference in Singapore, the India conference and the continuation of an Asian conference bodes well for the growth of the construction law community in the Asian region.

Continuing on the theme of conferences, I’m also pleased to reflect on a very successful SCL(S) Annual Conference held on 4th August 2016. A separate report on the conference will be published, suffice to say that it was received well by the healthy number of attendees. With a focus on ‘specialisation’, the conference included addressing the forthcoming accreditation of lawyers, with construction lawyer being the pilot scheme. SCL(S) will press for active involvement in the accreditation scheme, in line with the objects of the Society.

On a final note, it was pleasing to see so many members attend the AGM and Annual Dinner on 24th August. This AGM saw the end of my tenure as Chairman. Accordingly, my Annual Chairman’s Report expressed my deep gratitude to the Council of 2014-16, for their extensive achievements upon which an overall success was built. I also expressed my confidence that the coming Chairperson, Alex Wong, and the new Council will likewise be successful, and the Society will continue to encounter growth and substantive relevance in the promotion of construction law.

I am now Immediate Past Chairman, a role I look forward to justifying with continued commitment and effort. I can now reflect on my past appointment as Chairman, of which I am proud. It has been my pleasure and privilege to serve. Thank you. Darren Benger

Thank you.

Darren Benger