IHG Hotels & Resorts has further cemented its commitment to promoting inclusion and empowering individuals with disabilities by renewing its three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with APSN, a leading social service organization in Singapore. This extended partnership, building upon their previous successful collaboration, will focus on a range of initiatives, including philanthropy, advocacy, volunteering, and employment opportunities.
Under the renewed agreement, IHG’s Singapore hotels will offer full-time employment, hands-on training, internships, and regular social events to APSN students and trainees. These individuals will have the chance to explore various roles within the hospitality sector, from front office positions like concierge and bellman to operational duties in the kitchen, housekeeping, and service staff. This partnership aligns with IHG’s global Giving for Good initiative, a program held annually in September that encourages colleagues to volunteer in their local communities. The initiative also ties into IHG’s “Journey To Tomorrow” strategy, a 10-year plan aimed at creating a sustainable future for travel while improving the lives of 30 million people by 2030.
The announcement of the renewed MOU coincides with IHG’s annual Giving For Good relay, a 34-kilometer event that spans all 13 IHG hotels in Singapore and its Support Centre. This event has been taking place for the past three years and raises funds for APSN.
Rajit Sukumaran, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, East Asia & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts, stated: “I am proud at IHG to be a pioneer in building and supporting an inclusive culture and society, a mission that is closely aligned with Singapore’s Enabling Masterplan 2030 goals. Last year in Singapore, colleagues dedicated over 2,500 hours to community partnerships and impacting over 6,500 lives. Diversity, equity and inclusion is an integral part of IHG’s culture and we are committed to serving the communities in which we operate.”
He further emphasized IHG’s longstanding commitment to supporting the hiring of people with disabilities, stating, “Over the last 30 years, IHG has supported the hiring of people with disabilities by providing full-time employment opportunities, on-the-job training and internships. Our strong partnership with organisations like APSN has strengthened our workplace culture and we have seen a shift in our colleagues’ perceptions and embracing diversity in the workplace.”
“I’m confident that our partnership with APSN will grow from strength to strength as we work together to make a positive impact in our community and an environment that is truly understanding of others.”
Founded in 1976, APSN has dedicated itself to uplifting individuals with mild intellectual disabilities (IQ ranging from 50 to 70). Their comprehensive approach, emphasizing education, skill development, and ongoing support, has enabled APSN to assist more than 6,000 individuals in reaching their full potential. With services provided across four schools and three specialized centers, the organization offers tailored programs to support people at every stage of life.
Royce Seah, Chairman, APSN Ltd. said: “IHG has been a wonderful partner and a great supporter of APSN over the years. Our strong collaborative partnership has made a significant impact on the lives of many of our beneficiaries, opening new doors of opportunity on various fronts for students and trainees with special needs. It is with partners like IHG where we can further our mission of empowering and guiding them into an inclusive society.”
The history of this partnership dates back to 1989 when Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre made history in Singapore by being one of the first hotels to employ individuals with disabilities. Today, 5% of IHG’s full-time employees in Singapore are people with disabilities. With a team of more than 1,600 staff across 13 properties in Singapore, fostering an inclusive and caring workplace remains a key priority for IHG. A recent company survey highlighted the benefits of volunteering, with all Singapore-based employees reporting a stronger connection to IHG’s mission. Additionally, 100% indicated they would recommend IHG as an exceptional place to work. This dedication to supporting both people and communities has earned IHG the prestigious title of Kincentric Best Employer for 2024.
