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Corporate Governance

Extracted from Annual Report 2024

The Board of Directors (the "Board" or the "Directors") and the management (the "Management") of Yongmao Holdings Limited (the "Company") recognise the importance of sound corporate governance in protecting the interest of its shareholders as well as strengthening investors' confidence in its management and financial reporting.

The Company, together with its subsidiaries (the "Group"), continue to be committed to setting in place corporate governance practices to provide the structure through which the objectives of protection of shareholders' interests and enhancement of longterm shareholders' value are met.

This report outlines the Company's corporate governance practices with specific reference made to the Code of Corporate Governance 2018 (last amended 11 January 2023) (the "Code") and accompanying Practice Guidance, undertaken with respect to each of the principles and guidelines; and the extent of its compliance with the Code. The Company has complied in all material aspects with the principles and guidelines set out in the Code and any deviations from the Code are explained in this report.

BOARD MATTERS

The Board's Conduct of Affairs

Principle 1: The company is headed by an effective Board which is collectively responsible and works with Management for the long-term success of the company.

The Company is headed by an effective Board comprising seven Directors of whom three Executive Directors, one Non-Executive and Non-Independent Director and three Independent Directors. Their combined wealth and diversity of skills, experience, gender and knowledge of the Company enables them to contribute effectively to the strategic growth and governance of the Group.

The Board assumes responsibility for stewardship of the Company and the Group, and is primarily responsible for the protection and enhancement of long-term shareholders' value and returns for the shareholders. It strives to achieve this by providing the leadership and guidance to the Management to develop and drive business directions and goals. The Board also sets the tone for the Group where ethics and values are concerned.

Besides its statutory responsibilities, the Board also:

Independent Judgement

The Board provides shareholders with a balanced and clear assessment of the Group's performance, position and prospects on a semi-annually basis. All Directors exercise due diligence and independent judgment and are obliged to act in good faith and consider at all time the interest of the Company. The Directors have the appropriate core competencies and diversity of experience that enable them to contribute effectively. They are able to objectively raise issues and seek clarification as and when necessary from the Board and the Management on matters relating to their area of responsibilities and actively help the Management in the development of strategic proposals and oversees the effective implementation by the Management to achieve the objectives set. The Board puts in place a code of conduct and ethics, sets desired organisational culture and ensures proper accountability within the Group.

Conflict of Interest

Every Director of the Company is required to disclose any confl ict or potential confl ict of interest, whether direct or indirect, in relation to a transaction or proposed transaction within the Group as soon as practicable after the relevant facts have come to his/her knowledge. On an annual basis, each Director is also required to submit the details of his/her associates for the purpose of monitoring interested person transactions. When there is confl ict or potential confl ict of interest, the concerned Directors shall, abstain from voting, and recuse themselves from discussion or decision making involving the issue of confl ict and related matters.

Director Induction, Training and Development

The Company conducts briefing and orientation programs for new Directors to familiarise themselves with the Company's organisation and business structures, operations and governance policies. Upon appointment, each newly appointed Director will be briefed by the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") and/or Senior Management of the Company on the business activities of the Group and its strategic directions, as well as setting out their duties and responsibilities as Directors. The aim of the orientation program is to give Directors a better understanding of the Company's business and allow them to assimilate into their new roles. New Directors are also informed about matters such as the Code of Dealing in the Company's shares. Changes to regulation and accounting standards are monitored closely by the Management. The Board as a whole is updated regularly on risk management, corporate governance, insider trading and key changes in the relevant laws and regulations, changing commercial risks and business conditions to enable them to make well-informed decisions to properly discharge their duties as Board or Board Committee members. The Independent Directors are also engaged full time in their respective profession and keep updated in their fields of knowledge.

Mr Soh Chun Bin was appointed as the Non-Executive and Independent Director during the financial year. He has been familiarised with the various businesses and operations of the Group. Mr Soh Chun Bin has taken up similar positions in other companies listed on the Exchange over the years and has more than 20 years' experience as a practising corporate finance lawyer and as such is familiar with the roles and responsibilities required as a Director of the Company.

Directors also have the opportunity to visit the Group's operational facilities, including overseas offices, and meet with the Management to facilitate a better understanding of the Group's business operations. This is typically done on an annual basis.

New releases issued by Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited ("SGX-ST") and Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority ("ACRA"), which are relevant to the Directors are circulated to the Board. The Company Secretaries and/or their representatives also inform the Directors of upcoming conferences and seminars relevant to their roles as Directors of the Company. The External Auditors would update the AC and the Board on new and revised financial reporting standards annually.

The Company has an on-going budget for all Directors to attend appropriate courses, conferences, exhibitions, fairs and seminars for them to stay abreast of relevant business developments and outlook. These include programmes conducted by the Singapore Institute of Directors or other training institutions.

The Company had arranged for all the Directors to undergo training on sustainability reporting. All Directors of the Company have attended and completed the sustainability training courses conducted by providers that represent different constituencies in the capital markets.

Matters Requiring Board Approval

The Company has adopted internal guidelines setting forth matters that require the Board's approval which has been clearly communicated to the Management. Matters that specifically require Board's approval are those involving annual plans, major funding and investment proposals, mergers and acquisition transactions, release of financial results announcements and any other announcements, appointment of Directors and key management personnel and all other matters of material importance. The Board will review the guidelines on a periodical basis to ensure their relevance to the operations of the Company.

The Management is responsible for the day-to-day operation and administration of the Company in accordance with the objectives, strategies and policies set by the Board. The Company has adopted a set of Approving Authority and Limit, setting out the level of authorisation required for specified transactions, including those that require the Board's approval.

Board Committees

The Directors recognise the importance of good corporate governance and in maintaining high standards of accountability to the shareholders. In order to provide an independent oversight and discharge its responsibilities more efficiently and to ensure that specific issues are subject to considerations and review before the Board makes its decisions, the Board has delegated certain functions to the Board Committees. The Board Committees consist of Audit Committee ("AC"), Nominating Committee ("NC") and Remuneration Committee ("RC") (collectively "Board Committees"). These Board Committees are chaired by Independent Directors and operate within clearly written terms of reference and operating procedures, compositions, authorities and duties, including reporting back to the Board and play an important role in ensuring good corporate governance in the Company and within the Group. These terms of reference of the Board Committees are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure their continued relevance and to enhance the effectiveness of these Board Committees. The Chairman of the respective Board Committees will report to the Board on the outcome of the Board Committees' meetings and their recommendations on the specific agendas mandated to the Board Committees by the Board. Please refer to the relevant section in this report on the composition of the Board and Board Committees for FY2024.

The Board is free to request for further clarification and information from the Management on all matters within their purview. The schedule of all the Board Committees' meetings for the financial year is usually given to all the Directors in advance. The Board conducts at least four meetings on a quarterly basis to review the Group's financial results and where necessary, additional board meetings are held to address significant issues or transactions.

Presentations are also made by senior executives on performance of the Group's business and business strategies at the meetings. This allows the Board to have a good understanding of the Group's operations and be actively engaged in robust discussions with the Group's senior executives.

The Company's Constitution (the "Constitution") provides for Directors to conduct meetings by tele-conferencing or by means of similar communication equipment whereby all Directors participating in the meeting are able to hear each other clearly. When a physical meeting is not possible, timely communication with members of the Board can be achieved through electronic means. The Board and Board Committees also approve transactions through circular resolutions, which are circulated to the Board and Board Committees together with all the information relating to the proposed transactions.

The agenda for meetings is prepared in consultation with the Executive Chairman and the Executive Directors and/or the Chairman of the respective Board Committees. The agenda and meeting materials are circulated to the Board and Board Committees in advance of the scheduled meetings.

The Directors will make enquiries on any aspects of the Company's operations or business issues from the Management. The Executive Chairman or Non-Executive Deputy Chairman and CEO or the Company Secretaries will make the necessary arrangements for briefings, informal discussions or explanations, as and when required.

During the financial year, the Board members had met four times. The number of meetings held by the Board and Board Committees and attendance of each board member at the meetings are disclosed in the table refl ected below:

* By invitation
1 Son of Sun Zhao Lin and Tian Ruo Nan and Alternate Director to Sun Zhao Lin

2 Retired as Non-Executive and Lead Independent Director, Chairman of Remuneration Committee and Member of Nominating Committee and Audit Committee on 28 July 2023

3 Appointed as Non-Executive and Independent Director, Chairman of Remuneration Committee and Member of Nominating Committee and Audit Committee on 1 October 2023

The Directors were appointed based on their experience, stature and potential contribution to the proper guidance of the Group and its business. As such, we believe that each individual Director's contributions can be refl ected in ways other than the reporting of attendances at board meetings and/or Board Committees meetings.

Despite some of the Directors having multiple board representations, the NC had reviewed the directorship of the Directors and is satisfied that these Directors are able to ensure that sufficient time and attention are given to the affairs of the Company and have adequately carried out their duties as Directors of the Company after taking into consideration the number of listed company board representations and other principal commitments of these Directors.

Currently, the NC and Board do not limit the maximum number of listed board representations which any Director may hold, as long as each of the Board members is able to commit his/her time and attention to the affairs of the Company. The NC and Board believe that each individual Director is best placed to determine and ensure that he/she is able to devote sufficient time and attention to discharge his/her duties and responsibilities as a Director of the Company, having regard to his/her other commitments.

Access to Information

The Directors are provided with board papers and related materials, background or explanatory information in advance of each board meeting to enable them to be properly informed of matters to be discussed and/or approved, as well as ongoing reports relating to operational and financial performance of the Group. Directors are also informed of any significant developments or events relating to the Group. In addition, the Directors are provided with additional information as needed to make informed decisions to properly discharge their duties and responsibilities. Management ensures that any additional information requested is provided to the Directors in a timely manner.

Independent Access to Management, the Company Secretaries and Other Professional Advisers

Board members have separate and independent access to Management and the Company Secretaries and where required, can obtain additional information to facilitate informed decision-making. Information provided includes background or explanatory materials related to matters to be reviewed and matters under review by the Board, copies of disclosure documents, budgets, forecasts and internal financial statements. Any material variances between the projections and actual results in respect of budgets, is also disclosed and explained.

Minutes of all Board and Board Committee meetings which provide a fair and accurate record of the discussions and key deliberations and decisions taken during the meetings, are circulated and made available to the Board so that Directors are aware of and kept updated as to the proceedings and matters discussed during such meetings.

The Company Secretaries and/or their representatives attend all meetings of the Board and Board Committees and assists in ensuring that relevant procedures are followed and reviewed such that the Board and Board Committees operate effectively. The decision to appoint or remove the Company Secretaries is made by the Board as a whole.

Should Directors, whether as a group or individually, need independent professional advice to enable them to discharge their duties, the Company subject to the approval of the Board, will appoint a professional adviser to render advice at the cost of the Company.

Board Composition and Guidance

Principle 2: The Board has an appropriate level of independence and diversity of thought and background in its composition to enable it to make decisions in the best interests of the company.

The Board comprises seven Directors, three of whom are Non-Executive and Independent Directors, one Non-Executive and Non-Independent Director and three Executive Directors. Majority of the Board is made up of Non-Executive Directors which is in compliance with Provision 2.3 of the Code. Although the Chairman is not independent and the Independent Directors of the Company do not make up a majority of the Board as recommended by Provision 2.2 of the Code, the Board and the NC are satisfied that the Board has substantial independent elements to ensure that objective judgment is exercised on corporate affairs. There is no individual or small group of individuals that dominate the Board's decision-making process. Matters requiring the Board's approval are discussed and deliberated with participation from each member of the Board and all major decisions are made collectively. The NC will continue to review the board composition and size as and when the circumstances arise and make appropriate recommendations to the Board.

As at the date of this report, the composition of the Board is as follows:

Executive Directors
Mr Sun Zhao Lin Executive Director and Chairman
Ms Tian Ruo Nan Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer
Mr Sun Tian Executive Director and Group General Manager
(Alternate Director to Mr Sun Zhao Lin)
Non-Executive Directors
Mr Ng San Tiong Non-Executive Director and Deputy Chairman
Mr Hoon Chee Wai Non-Executive and Lead Independent Director
Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook Non-Executive and Independent Director
Mr Soh Chun Bin Non-Executive and Independent Director

The profiles of the Directors including their academic and professional qualifications, Board Committees served, directorships or chairmanships for present and past held over the preceding three years in other listed companies and other appointments are set out on pages 15 to 17 and pages 30 to 31 of this Annual Report.

The Board's structure, size and composition are reviewed annually by the NC with a view to determine the impact of its number upon effectiveness. The NC is of the view that the Board is of the appropriate size and with the right mix of skills and diverse expertise and experience given the nature and scope of the Group's operations. The Executive Directors have extensive experience in the crane manufacturing industry while the Non-Executive Directors are well established and competent in their respective professions. This balance is important in ensuring that the overall direction and strategies proposed by the Management are fully discussed and examined, taking into account the long-term interests of the Company.

The NC has adopted the criteria on an Independent Director given in Provision 2.1 of the Code and Rule 210(5)(d) of the SGX-ST Listing Manual. All Directors are required to disclose any relationships or appointment which would impair their independence to the Board in a timely manner. The NC reviews annually the independence of each Director in accordance with the Code's definition of what element constitutes an Independent Director. The NC has reviewed the “Confirmation of Independence” forms completed by each Independent Director and is of the view that the three Independent Directors (who represent at least one-third of the Board) are independent, i.e, they have no relationship with the Company, its related companies, its substantial shareholders with shareholdings of 5% or more in the voting shares of the Company, or their officers that could interfere, or be reasonably perceived to interfere, with the exercise of the Director's independent business judgement with a view to the best interests of the Group, and they are able to exercise objective judgement on corporate affairs independently from the Management and the substantial shareholders with shareholdings of 5% or more in the voting shares of the Company.

None of the Non-Executive and Independent Directors and their immediate family member are a substantial shareholder of or partner in or an executive officer of or a Director of, any organisation to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries made, or from which the Company or any of its subsidiaries received, significant payments or materials services aggregated over any financial year in excess of S$50,000 (to an individual) or S$200,000 (to a firm), which may include auditing, banking, consulting and legal services, in the current or immediate past financial year.

Although Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook has served on the Board for more than nine years from the date of his first appointment, the NC had rigorously reviewed his past contributions and there have been no changes to the circumstances since his previous declarations presented to the Company, and considered that he is independent in character and judgement and there was no circumstance which would likely affect or appear to affect his independent judgement. Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook who has served the Board beyond nine years had sought his continued appointment as Independent Director from the shareholders at the Annual General Meeting ("AGM") of the Company held on 28 July 2021.

The opinion was arrived at after careful assessment by the NC and the Board and the rigorous review comprised a review of, but not limited to, the following factors:

  1. The considerable amount of experience and wealth of knowledge that the Independent Director brings to the Company.
  2. The attendance and active participation in the proceedings and decision making process of the Board and Board Committees' meetings.
  3. Provision of continuity and stability to the Management at the board level as the Independent Director has developed deep insight into the business of the Company and possesses experience and knowledge of the business over the years.
  4. Whether the Independent Director's qualification and expertise provide reasonable checks and balances on the Management.
  5. Whether the Independent Director has provided adequate attention and sufficient time has been devoted to the proceedings and business of the Company, including whether he is adequately prepared, responsive and heavily involved in the discussions in meetings.
  6. Whether the Independent Director provides overall guidance to Management and act as safeguard for the protection of Company's assets and shareholders' interests.
  7. Whether the Independent Director has led the Board Committees effectively in making independent and objective decisions.
  8. The abilities of Independent Director to continue exercising independent judgements in the best interests of the Company and to express their objectives and independent views during Board and Board Committees' meetings.

The NC with the concurrence of the Board has reviewed the suitability and assessed the independence of Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook, and is satisfied that there are no relationships which would deem him not to be independent. Each member of the NC has abstained from participating in the discussion and voting on any resolution related to his independence.

Similarly, the NC has reviewed the independence status of Mr Hoon Chee Wai and Mr Soh Chun Bin as the Independent Directors for FY2024, and is satisfied that Mr Hoon Chee Wai and Mr Soh Chun Bin are independent in accordance with Provision 2.1 of the Code and Rule 210(5)(d) of the Listing Rules of SGX-ST. As NC members, Mr Hoon Chee Wai and Mr Soh Chun Bin have abstained from participating in the discussion and voting on any resolution in relation to their independence.

In view of the new requirements that impose hard tenure limit for Independent Directors, Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook has expressed his intention not to seek for re-election and will be retired upon the conclusion of the forthcoming AGM of the Company. The Board and the NC will endeavour to search for new replacement Independent Director and reconstitute the composition of the Board Committees in due course.

Board Diversity

All Directors have an equal responsibility for the Group's operations, the Independent Directors play an important role in ensuring that the strategies proposed by the Management are constructively challenged and developed by taking into account the longterm interests of the shareholders. The Non-Executive and Independent Directors actively participated during the Board and Board Committees' meetings to discuss matters such as the Group's financial performance, corporate governance initiatives, board processes, succession planning, as well as leadership development and the remuneration of the Executive Directors. Where necessary, the Company would coordinate at least one informal meeting sessions for the Non-Executive and Independent Directors to meet without the presence of the Management and feedback on issues discussed is thereafter provided to the Chairman of the Board.

The Board has adopted a Board Diversity Policy on 3 February 2023 to assist the NC and the Board in identifying prospective candidates for directorship that meet the criteria as determined by the NC and that support the diversity's objectives. The Board Diversity Policy promotes the diversity among the Directors in order to improve performance and to avoid groupthink and foster constructive debate and ensure that composition is optimal to support the Group's needs in the short-term and long-term goals. The diversity includes the appropriate mix of complementary skills, business and industry experience, gender, age, ethnicity, geographic background, length of service and other distinctive qualities of the board members. The Company recognises that an effective Board requires Directors to possess not only integrity, commitment, relevant experiences, qualifications and skills in carrying out their duties effectively but also include right blend of skills, industry knowledge and diverse background towards promoting good corporate governance.

The Board comprises business leaders and professionals with financial, legal, business management and relevant industry experience. The Executive Directors have extensive relevant industry experience, strategic planning experience and customer-based knowledge and the Independent Directors have extensive experience in accounting, finance, legal and corporate governance. In concurrence with the NC, the Board has reviewed its composition, taking into account the size and nature of the operations of the Group, and is satisfied that the current size and structure of the Board are appropriate and allows for effective decision making, providing the necessary core competencies to meet the Group's needs and to allow for diverse and objective perspectives on the Group's strategic direction and growth.

Currently, the Board comprises one female and six male Directors in the age group of his or her forties to seventies respectively. Each Director has been appointed based on the strength of his and her calibre, experience, grasp of corporate strategy and potential contribution to the Company and its business.

The NC has not set a specific target for board diversity as it may detract from the fundamental principle that the candidate must be of the right fit and meet the relevant needs and vision of the Company. The NC has assessed the current level of diversity on the Board to be satisfactory and the Company takes the approach that maintaining a satisfactory level of diversity as an ongoing process. The targets to ensure the existing skill sets and core competencies of the Board are complementary and enhances the efficacy of the Board and to achieve diversity on the Board are assessed from time to time by the NC, based on the composition of the Board and operations of the Group at the relevant time.

To-date, none of the Independent Directors of the Company has been appointed as Director of the Company's principal subsidiary, which is based in Singapore and overseas.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Principle 3: There is a clear division of responsibilities between the leadership of the Board and Management, and no one individual has unfettered powers of decision-making.

There is a balance of power and authority in the Company, such that no one individual represents a concentration of power. In line with Provision 3.1 of the Code, the roles and responsibilities between the Chairman and the Chief Executive Officer ("CEO") are held by separate individuals to ensure an appropriate distribution of power, increased accountability and greater capacity of the Board for independent decision-making.

Mr Sun Zhao Lin, one of the founders of the Group and the Executive Chairman of the Company, is responsible for the formulation and execution of overall business strategies and policies and future directions, as well as the overall management of the Group. As the Executive Chairman, he is also responsible for representing the Board to shareholders, ensuring that board meetings are held when necessary and board members are provided with adequate and timely information. He approves the board meeting agendas in consultation with the CEO, Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") and Company Secretaries, who act as facilitators at the board meetings, ensures the agenda items are adequately debated at board meetings and maintains regular dialogues with the CEO on operational matters. He also takes a leading role in promoting high standards of corporate governance.

Ms Tian Ruo Nan, spouse of Mr Sun Zhao Lin, is holding the position as CEO of the Company. She is one of the founders of the Group and is responsible for and oversees the day-to-day operations of the Group. As the CEO, she is involved in the day-to-day business of the Group and leads Management in setting strategies, objectives and implementations and is also responsible for the development and financial performance of the Group.

In view that the Chairman and the CEO are immediate family members and part of the Executive Management team, all decisions made by the Board are subject to majority approval of the Board and are reviewed by the relevant Board Committees, whose members comprise of all Non-Executive and Independent Directors. The Board believes that there are adequate safeguards in place to ensure an appropriate balance of power and authority within the spirit of good corporate governance.

Pursuant to Provision 3.3 of the Code, the Board should have a Lead Independent Director to provide leadership in situations where the Chairman is confl icted, and especially when the Chairman is not independent. On 1 October 2023, Mr Hoon Chee Wai has been appointed as the Lead Independent Director of the Company. The Independent Directors, led by Mr Hoon Chee Wai, meet amongst themselves without the presence of the Executive Directors and Non-Independent Directors to discuss matters of significance when required, which are thereon reported to the Chairman of the Board accordingly. Where a situation arises that may involve confl ict of interests between the roles of the Chairman and the CEO, it is the Lead Independent Director's responsibility, together with the other Independent Directors to ensure that shareholders' rights are protected. As the Lead Independent Director of the Company, Mr Hoon Chee Wai is the principal liaison on board issues between the Independent Directors and the Chairman of the Board. Mr Hoon Chee Wai also led and coordinated the meetings and activities of the Independent Directors. Mr Hoon Chee Wai is available to shareholders where they have concerns, or when contact through the normal channels to the Chairman, the CEO or the CFO is unsuccessful or inappropriate.

The Board believes that notwithstanding the close family ties between the Chairman and the CEO with the current composition of the Board, it is able to make objective and prudent judgement on the Group's corporate affairs. The Board is of the view that there are sufficient safeguards and checks to ensure that the process of decision making by the Board is independent and are based on collective decisions without any individual exercising considerable concentration of power or infl uence.

Board Membership

Principle 4: The Board has a formal and transparent process for the appointment and re-appointment of Directors, taking into account the need for progressive renewal of the Board.

The Board has delegated to the NC the functions of developing and maintaining a transparent and formal process for the appointment and re-appointment of Directors, making recommendations for Directors who are due for retirement by rotation to seek re-election at a general meeting and determining the independence of each Director.

As at the date of this report, the NC comprises of three members, all of whom including the Chairman, are Independent Directors. The Lead Independent Director, Mr Hoon Chee Wai is also a member of the NC:

Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook Chairman
Mr Hoon Chee Wai Member
Mr Soh Chun Bin Member

In accordance with the definition in the Code, the Chairman of the NC has no relationship with the Company, its related corporations, its substantial shareholders with shareholdings of 5% or more in the voting shares of the Company or its officer that could interfere, or be reasonably perceived to interfere, with the exercise of his independent judgement in the best interest of the Company. The NC is established for the purposes of ensuring that there is a formal and transparent process for all board appointments. It has adopted written terms of reference defining its membership, administration and duties.

The NC meets at least once a year and at other times as required. The NC is regulated by its written terms of reference and its key functions include:

Regulation 117 of the Constitution requires the number nearest to one-third of the Directors to retire by rotation and subject themselves to re-election by the shareholders at the AGM of the Company. In addition, each Director of the Company shall retire from office once every three years. Directors who retire are eligible to stand for re-election. Regulation 121 of the Constitution provides that additional Directors appointed during the year shall only hold office until the next AGM and shall be eligible for re-election at that AGM. The Board and the NC have developed a process of evaluation of performance of the Board and Board Committees through establishment of quantifiable performance criteria.

The NC has recommended and the Board has approved the NC's nomination of the retiring Directors who have given their consents for re-election at the forthcoming AGM of the Company. The retiring Directors are Mr Sun Tian, Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook and Mr Soh Chun Bin who will retire pursuant to Regulations 117 and 121 of the Constitution. Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook, while eligible for re-election, has expressed his intention not to seek for re-election at the forthcoming AGM. Pursuant to Rule 704(8) of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST, the Company is in the process of sourcing for suitable candidate and shall endeavour to find the replacement of Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook and reconstitute the composition of the Board Committees within two months, but in any case not later than three months from his date of cessation. Details of the Directors seeking re-election are found in Table A set out on pages 46 to 48 of this Annual Report.

Each of these Directors, being interested in the matter, had abstained from voting and making recommendation and/or participating in any deliberations in respect of his re-nomination as Director of the Company.

As at the date of this report, the dates of initial appointment and last re-election of each Director are set out below:

The NC decides how the Board's performance is evaluated and proposes objective performance criteria, subject to the approval of the Board, which addresses how the Board has enhanced long-term shareholders' value. The Board also implemented a process to be carried out by the NC to evaluate the effectiveness of the Board as a whole and its Board Committees annually.

The NC has also adopted internal guidelines addressing the commitments that are faced when Directors serve on multiple boards. During the financial year, the NC has reviewed the multiple directorships disclosed by each Director of the Company and their other principal commitments. The NC is satisfied that each Director has allocated sufficient time and attention to the affairs of the Group to adequately discharge their duties as Director of the Company.

The Group has in place, policies and procedures for the appointment of new Directors, including the description on the search and nomination procedures. Where a vacancy arises, the NC will consider each candidate based on the selection criteria after consultation with the Board and taking into consideration the qualification, experience, ability to contribute effectively to the Board and to add value to the Group's business, in line with its strategic objectives before recommending the suitable candidate to the Board for approval.

Candidates may be suggested by Directors and Management or sourced from external sources. The NC will interview the candidates and assess them based on objective criteria approved by the Board such as integrity, independent mindedness, possession of the relevant skills required to complement the existing board members, ability to commit the time and effort to carry out his/her responsibilities, good decision making track record, relevant business and management experience and financial literacy. The NC will make a recommendation to the Board on the appointment. The Board appoints the most suitable candidates who must stand for election at the next AGM of shareholders.

The NC does not have a practice of appointing Alternate Directors to Independent Directors except for limited periods in exceptional cases such as when a Director has medical emergency. There were no Alternate Directors appointed in this financial year except that Mr Sun Tian, the Executive Director and Group General Manager, is the Alternate Director to Mr Sun Zhao Lin, the Executive Director and Chairman.

Board Performance

Principle 5: The Board undertakes a formal annual assessment of its effectiveness as a whole, and that of each of its board committees and individual Directors.

The NC reviews the criteria for evaluating the Board's performance and recommends to the Board a set of objective performance criteria focusing on enhancing long-term shareholders' value. Based on the recommendations of the NC, the Board has established a formal process for assessment of the effectiveness of the Board as a whole, its Board Committees and individual Directors annually.

The NC undertakes a process to assess the effectiveness of the Board as a whole, its Board Committees and individual Directors for FY2024. The appraisal parameters focus on evaluation of factors such as the size and composition of the Board and its Board Committees, the Board's access to information, Board's processes and accountability, Board's performance in relation to discharging its principal responsibilities, communication with the Management and the standards of conduct of the Directors. The performance measurements ensure that the mix of skills and experience of the Directors continue to meet the needs of the Group.

During the financial year under review, each Director was required to complete the evaluation form and individual Director's assessments adopted by the NC for annual assessment on the overall effectiveness of the Board, its Board Committees and each Director's contributions, and the results have been collated by the Chairman of NC for review or discussion. The results of the individual, Board and Board Committees' assessments are reviewed and discussed by the NC and, any recommendation and suggestion arising from the evaluation exercise are circulated to the Board for consideration on the appropriate measures to be taken.

The NC, in considering the re-nomination of any Director, had considered factors including their performance in the Board as a whole, its Board Committees and individual performance including his/her attendance, preparedness, participation and contribution in the proceedings of the meetings.

The evaluation of Board's performance is conducted annually to identify areas of improvement and as a form of good board management practice. The last Board of Directors' evaluation was conducted on 29 May 2024 and the results have been presented to the NC for discussion. The NC is satisfied that the Board has been effective as a whole and that each Director has contributed to the effective functioning of the Board. In addition, the NC is also satisfied that sufficient time and attention has been given by the Directors to the affairs of the Company, notwithstanding that some of the Directors have multiple board representations.

No external facilitators were used in the assessment of the Board as a whole, its Board Committees and the individual Directors. However, if need arises, the NC has full authority to engage external facilitator to assist the NC to carry out the evaluation process at the Company's expense.

REMUNERATION MATTERS

Procedures for Developing Remuneration Policies

Principle 6: The Board has a formal and transparent procedure for developing policies on Director and executive remuneration, and for fixing the remuneration packages of individual Directors and key management personnel. No Director is involved in deciding his or her own remuneration.

As at the date of this report, the RC comprises of three members, all of whom including the Chairman are Independent Directors:

Mr Soh Chun Bin Chairman
Mr Hoon Chee Wai Member
Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook Member

The RC is established for the purposes of ensuring that there is a formal and transparent procedure for fixing the remuneration packages of individual Director. The overriding principle is that no Director should be involved in deciding his/her own remuneration, except in providing information and documents if specifically requested by the RC to assist in its deliberations.

The RC meets at least once a year and at other times as required. The RC is regulated by its written terms of reference and its key functions include:

The RC has reviewed the framework of remuneration for the Directors and key management personnel, and has determined specific remuneration packages for the Executive Directors, as well as for the key management personnel. The recommendations of the RC are made in consultation with the Non-Executive Directors and submitted for endorsement by the Board.

All aspects of remuneration, including but not limited to Directors' fees, salaries, allowances, bonuses and benefits-in-kind shall be covered by the RC. Each member of the RC shall abstain from voting on any resolutions and making any recommendations and/or participating in any deliberations of the RC in respect of his/her remuneration package.

In structuring and reviewing the remuneration packages, the RC reviews the interests of Directors and key management personnel to align with those of shareholders by linking rewards to corporate and individual performance, as well as roles and responsibilities of each Director and key management personnel. The RC will also review the Group's obligations arising in the event of termination of these service agreements, to ensure that such service agreements contain fair and reasonable termination clauses which are not overly generous. The RC aims to be fair and avoids rewarding poor performance.

The RC is knowledgeable in the field of executive compensation, in considering the remuneration of all Directors, has not sought external professional advice nor appointed independent remuneration consultants.

The Directors' fees to be paid to the Directors are subject to shareholders' approval at the forthcoming AGM for FY2024.

Level and Mix of Remuneration

Principle 7: The level and structure of remuneration of the Board and key management personnel are appropriate and proportionate to the sustained performance and value creation of the company, taking into account the strategic objectives of the company.

The annual reviews of the compensation are carried out by the RC to ensure that the remuneration of the Executive Directors and key management personnel commensurate with their performance and that of the Company, giving due regard to the financial and commercial health and business needs of the Group. The performance of the Executive Directors (together with key management personnel) is reviewed periodically by the RC and the Board.

The Non-Executive Directors receive Directors' fees in accordance with their level of contributions, taking into account the factors such as efforts and time spent, as well as responsibilities and obligations of the Directors. Directors' fees are recommended by the RC and submitted to the Board for endorsement, subject for approval by the shareholders at the AGM of the Company. The Non- Executive Directors should not be over-compensated to the extent that their independence may be compromised and no Director is involved in deciding his/her own remuneration.

The Executive Directors do not receive Directors' fees. The remuneration of the Executive Directors and the key management personnel comprise primarily basic salary component and variable component which is inclusive of bonuses and other benefits. The RC has reviewed and approved the service agreements entered into with the three Executive Directors namely Mr Sun Zhao Lin, Ms Tian Ruo Nan and Mr Sun Tian unless otherwise terminated by either party giving not less than six months' notice in writing for Mr Sun Zhao Lin and Ms Tian Ruo Nan and three months' notice in writing for Mr Sun Tian.

Having reviewed and considered the variable component of the remuneration packages of the Executive Directors and key management personnel, which are moderate, the RC is of the view that the Executive Directors owe a fiduciary duty to the Company. The Company should be able to avail itself to remedies against the Executive Directors in the event of such breach of fiduciary duties. Therefore, there is no necessity for the Company to institute contractual provisions in the service agreements or employment agreements to reclaim incentive components of remuneration paid in prior years from the Executive Directors and key management personnel in exceptional circumstances of misstatement of financial statements, or of misconduct resulting in financial loss to the Company.

The Company currently has no employee share option scheme or other long-term incentive scheme in place. The RC will explore a suitable incentive plan/scheme as and when it deems necessary.

Disclosure on Remuneration

Principle 8: The company is transparent on its remuneration policies, level and mix of remuneration, the procedure for setting remuneration, and the relationships between remuneration, performance and value creation.

A breakdown of the remuneration of the Directors and key management personnel (who are not Directors or the CEO), in percentage terms showing the level and mix, for FY2024 falling within the bands of S$250,000 is set out below:

Note:
1 Retired as Non-Executive and Lead Independent Director on 28 July 2023

2 Appointed as Non-Executive and Independent Director on 1 October 2023

3 Resigned as Production and Quality Control Manager on 30 June 2024

4 Resigned as Deputy General Manager (Research & Development & Purchasing) on 30 June 2024

5 Appointed as Group Sales and Marketing Manager on 14 June 2023

6 Retired as Group Sales and Marketing Manager on 14 June 2023

The aggregate total remuneration paid/accrued to the key management personnel (who are not Directors or the CEO) for FY2024 is approximately S$614,000.

The Board is of the view that the remuneration of each individual Director and CEO of the Company and the Group is kept confidential due to its sensitive nature and the long-term performance of the Group, especially in a highly competitive industry. Similarly, the remuneration of the key management personnel was shown in bands of S$250,000 due to the Company's concern over poaching of these executives by competitors.

Notwithstanding the deviation from Provision 8.1 of the Code, the Company is transparent on its remuneration policies, which has been disclosed not only as part of compliance with Principle 8 but also in respect of Principle 7 of the Code. In particular, the Company has elaborated on the remuneration policy governing the remuneration of the Executive Directors and the factors taken into account for the remuneration of the Non-Executive and Independent Directors. The Company has also disclosed the remuneration paid to each Director and key management personnel using percentage terms and remuneration bands, as well as the breakdown of the components of their remuneration, for transparency. Accordingly, the Board is of the view that the non-disclosure of the exact quantum of the remuneration of each Director and key management personnel will not be prejudicial to the interest of shareholders and complies with the intent of Provision 8.1 of the Code.

Notwithstanding, taking into consideration the Rule 1207(10D) of the Listing Rules of the SGX-ST, the Company will disclose the exact amounts with breakdown of remuneration paid by the Company and its subsidiaries to each individual Director and the CEO on a named basis in its annual report in respect of the financial year ending 31 March 2025 onwards.

The RC has reviewed and approved the remuneration packages of the Executive Directors and key management personnel, having regard to their contributions as well as the financial performance and commercial needs of the Group and has ensured that the Executive Directors and key management personnel are adequately but not excessively remunerated. The RC will consider and deliberate on the performance conditions to which Executive Directors' and key management personnel's entitlement to short-term and long-term incentive schemes and will make the necessary disclosures as and when it deems necessary.

The Board is of the view that the disclosure of the indicative range and percentage of the Directors' and key management personnel's remuneration provides a reasonable amount of information on the Company's remuneration framework to enable the shareholders to understand the link between the Company's performance and the remuneration of the Directors and key management personnel.

Shareholders' approval will be sought at the forthcoming AGM of the Company on 29 July 2024, for the payment of Directors' fees proposed for FY2024 amounting to an aggregate of S$188,550.

Save for the resignation of (i) Mr Liu Xiao Ming as Production and Quality Control Manager; and (ii) Ms Wang Lian as Deputy General Manager (Research & Development & Purchasing) on 30 June 2024, there were no termination, retirement and post-employment or other long-term incentive granted to the Directors or key management personnel.

There is no employee of the Group who is a substantial shareholder of the Company, or an immediate family member of Directors, the CEO or a substantial shareholder of the Company and whose remuneration has exceeded S$100,000 during FY2024.

ACCOUNTABILITY AND AUDIT

Risk Management and Internal Controls

Principle 9: The Board is responsible for the governance of risk and ensures that Management maintains a sound system of risk management and internal controls, to safeguard the interests of the company and its shareholders.

The Board recognises the importance of sound internal controls and risk management practices to good corporate governance. The Board affirms its overall responsibility for the Group's systems of internal controls and risk management, and for reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of those systems on an annual basis. The internal control and risk management functions are performed by the Group's key management personnel and reported to the AC for review.

It should be noted, in the opinion of the Board, that such system is designed to manage rather than to eliminate the risk of failure to achieve business objectives, and that it can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance against material misstatement of loss, and include the safeguarding of assets, the maintenance of proper accounting records, the reliability of financial information, compliance with appropriate legislation, regulation and best practice, and the identification and containment of business risk.

The Board understands its accountability to shareholders on the Group's position, performance and progress. The Board will update shareholders on the operations and financial position of the Company through half year and full year financial results announcements, as well as timely announcements of other matters as prescribed by the relevant rules and regulations to provide the shareholders with a balanced and understandable analysis and explanation of the Group's financial performance, position and prospects. The Management provides the Board on a quarterly basis, financial reports and other information on the Group's performance, financial position and prospects for their effective monitoring and decision-making.

The Board has also taken steps to ensure compliance with legislative and regulatory requirements. In line with the SGX-ST Listing Rules, the Board provides a negative assurance statement to the shareholders in respect of the interim financial statements. For the financial year review, the CEO and CFO have provided assurance to the Board on the integrity of the Group's financial statements.

The Directors and executive officers of the Company have provided undertakings of compliance with the requirements of the SGX in accordance with Rule 720(1) of the Listing Manual of SGX-ST.

It is the Board's policy to provide the shareholders with all important and price sensitive information on a timely basis, through SGXNet in the form of half-yearly announcements, or as and when necessary in order to discharge their duties effectively.

The Board with assistance from the Enterprise Risk Management Committee ("ERMC") and the AC, is responsible for the governance of risk by ensuring that Management maintains a sound system of risk management and internal controls to safeguard shareholders' interests and the Group's assets, and determines the nature and extent of the significant risks which the Board is willing to take in achieving strategic objectives.

The ERMC, which comprises of key management of the Group, was formed in year 2012 to assist Management in its role of managing risks, as part of the Group's efforts to strengthen its risk management processes and enable accountability for its adequacy and effectiveness. The ERMC reports to the AC which, in turn, reports to the Board.

An Enterprise Risk Management ("ERM") programme has been implemented to identify, prioritise, assess, manage and monitor key risks. The risk management process in place covers, inter alia, financial, operational (including information technology) and compliance risks faced by the Group. From year 2012 to year 2015, the Management with the assistance of the Internal Auditors has enhancing the ERM programme over the identification, prioritisation, assessment, management and monitoring of key risks. The Management continued to adopt the risk management framework established. Key risks identified are deliberated by key management, and reported to the AC on a regular basis. The AC reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the ERM programme against identified significant risks vis-à-vis changes in the Group's operating environment.

Relying on the reports from the Internal Auditors and External Auditors, the AC carried out assessment of the effectiveness of key internal controls during the financial year. Any material non-compliance or weaknesses in internal controls or recommendations from the Internal Auditors and External Auditors to further improve the internal controls were reported to the AC. The AC will also follow up on the actions taken by the Management on the recommendations made by the Internal Auditors and External Auditors.

For FY2024, the Board has received assurance from:

  1. the CEO and CFO of the Company that the financial records have been properly maintained and the financial statements give a true and fair view of the Company's operations and finances; and
  2. the CEO and other key management personnel who are responsible, regarding the adequacy and effectiveness of the Group's risk management systems and internal control systems in addressing financial, operational, compliance and information technology risks are operating effectively.

Based on the internal controls in place, the reports from the Internal Auditors and External Auditors, as well as reviews conducted by the Management, the Board with the concurrence of the AC, is of the opinion that the Group's system of internal controls and risk management procedures in addressing the financial, operational, compliance and information technology controls, and risk management systems maintained by the Group during the FY2024 are adequate and effective.

The Board recognises that the risk management and internal control systems established by the Group provides reasonable, but not absolute, assurance that the Group will not be adversely affected by any event that can be reasonably foreseen as it strives to achieve its business objectives. The Board also noted that all internal control systems contain inherent limitations and no system of risk management and internal controls can provide absolute assurance against the occurrence of material errors, poor judgement in decision-making, human error, losses, fraud or other irregularities.

Audit Committee

Principle 10: The Board has an Audit Committee which discharges its duties objectively.

As at the date of this report, the AC comprises of three members, all of whom are Independent Directors:

Mr Hoon Chee Wai Chairman
Mr Soh Chun Bin Member
Dr Steve Lai Mun Fook Member

The AC is established to assist the Board with discharging its responsibility to safeguard the Company's assets, maintain adequate accounting records and develop and maintain effective systems of internal control. The Board is of the view that the members of the AC are appropriately qualified in that they have sufficient accounting or related financial management expertise and experience to discharge its responsibilities properly.

The AC is governed by its terms of reference, which was reviewed and amended, where appropriate, to adopt relevant best practices set out in the Guidebook and the Code. The terms of reference is used as a reference to assist the AC in discharging its responsibilities and duties, which include:

Apart from the above functions, the AC shall commission and review the findings of internal investigations into matters where there is any suspected fraud or irregularity, or failure of internal controls or infringement of any Singapore laws, rules or regulations which has or is likely to have a material impact on the Group's operating results and/or financial position. Each member of the AC shall abstain from voting on any resolutions and/or participating in any deliberations of the AC in respect of matters in which he is interested.

The AC has full access to and cooperation of the Management, External Auditors and Internal Auditors. It also has the discretion to invite any Director and/or key management personnel to attend its meetings. The AC has adequate resources to enable it to discharge its responsibilities properly.

The AC has reviewed all Interested Person Transactions for FY2024 and is of the opinion that Chapter 9 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST has been complied.

For FY2024, the AC met once with the External Auditors without the presence of the Management. The AC, having reviewed the scope and value of non-audit services provided to the Group by the External Auditors, which comprise of the tax advisory services and is satisfied that the nature and extent of such services will not prejudice and affect the independence and objectivity of the External Auditors. The audit paid/payable to the External Auditors for FY2024 would be S$202,000.

The Company has complied with Rule 715 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST as all principal subsidiaries of the Company are audited by Messrs Foo Kon Tan LLP. All other foreign-incorporated subsidiaries are audited by suitable auditing firms for the purposes of the consolidated financial statements of the Group and audited by Messrs Foo Kon Tan LLP for consolidation purposes.

The AC undertakes a review of the scope of services provided by the External Auditors, the independence and the objectivity of the External Auditors on an annual basis. Messrs Foo Kon Tan LLP, the External Auditors of the Company, has confirmed that they are a Public Accounting Firm registered with ACRA and provided a confirmation of their independence to the AC. The AC had assessed the External Auditors based on factors such as performance, adequacy of resources and experience of their audit engagement partner and auditing team assigned to the Group's audit, the size and complexity of the Group. Accordingly, the AC is satisfied that Rule 712 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST is complied. The retiring auditors, Messrs Foo Kon Tan LLP will not be seeking for re-appointment at the forthcoming AGM of the Company. For the benefit of fresh perspectives and in view of cost efficiencies for the Group, Messrs PKF-CAP LLP will be nominated as the External Auditors of the Group for the ensuing year. The appointment of Messrs PKF-CAP LLP is subject to the shareholders' approval at the forthcoming AGM of the Company. Further information on the proposed change of External Auditors of the Company is set out in the appendix A to the Notice of AGM dated 12 July 2024.

The AC had reviewed and evaluated the performance of the External Auditors based on the key indicators of audit quality and guidance, where relevant, as set out in the Guidance to Audit Committee on Evaluation of Quality of Work performed by the External Auditors and Audit Quality Indicators Disclosure Framework published by ACRA such as performance, adequacy of resources and experience of their audit engagement partner and auditing team assigned to the Group's audit, taking into account the size and complexity of the Group.

Changes to accounting standards and accounting issues which have significant impact on the financial statements were reported to the AC, and highlighted by the External Auditors in their meetings with the AC. In line with Provision 10.3 of the Code, no former partner or Director of the Company's existing auditing firm has acted as a member of the AC.

In the review of the financial statements, the AC has discussed with Management and the External Auditors the accounting principles that were applied and their judgment of items that might affect the true and fair view of the financial statements. In particular, the following key audit matters impacting the financial statements were discussed with Management and the External Auditors and were reviewed by the AC.

Key audit matters How the AC reviewed these matters and what decisions were made
Impairment of trade receivables The AC is regularly updated on the status of trade receivables and their aging. The collectability of long outstanding debts and the reasonableness of impairment provisions made were reviewed by the AC and the Management.
Revenue recognition on sale of manufactured tower cranes The AC reviewed Management's approach and assessment of the internal controls over the recognition of revenue. The AC was satisfied that Management's approach and assessment of internal controls over revenue recognition were appropriate.

Whistle-Blowing Policy

The AC had reviewed, approved and implemented an independent whistle-blowing framework which provides well-defined and accessible channels in the Group through which employees of the Group may, in confidence, raise concerns about possible improprieties in matters of financial reporting or other matters within the Group. The framework includes arrangements for independent investigations and appropriate follow-up of such matters. Details of the whistle-blowing policies and arrangements have been made available to the employees. The whistle-blowing policies are designated to investigate whistleblowing reports made in good faith and ensures that the identity of the whistle-blower is kept confidential and the Group is committed to ensure protection of the whistle-blower against detrimental or unfair treatment. As at the date of this report, there was no report received through the whistle-blowing mechanism.

The AC had reviewed the Company's key financial risk areas and noted that apart from the foreign exchange rate differences which arise when transactions are denominated in foreign currencies, the Group has not entered into any financial derivatives contracts which will give rise to financial risks.

The AC has explicit authority to investigate any matter within its terms of reference. The AC has, within its terms of reference, the authority to obtain independent professional advice at the Company's expenses as and when the need arises.

Internal Audit

The Board recognises the importance of maintaining a system of internal controls in order to safeguard the shareholders' investments and the Company's assets. The Company has outsourced its internal audit functions of the Group to Baker Tilly Consultancy (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., a professional firm to perform the review and test of controls of its processes. As recommended by the AC, the Board approved the re-appointment of Baker Tilly Consultancy (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. as Internal Auditors of the Group. The internal audit function is expected to meet the standard set by internationally recognised professional bodies including the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing set by The Institute of Internal Auditors. The Internal Auditors has unfettered access to all the Company's documents, records, properties and personnel, including access to the Board, the AC and Management, where necessary, and has the right to seek information and explanation.

The appointed Internal Auditors reports directly to the AC and is responsible for assessing the reliability, adequacy and effectiveness of the system of internal controls to protect the fund and assets of the Group. The Internal Auditors also ensure that control procedures are complied, by assessing that the operations of the business processes under review are conducted efficiently and effectively and identifying and recommending improvement to internal control procedures, where required.

The Internal Auditors plans its internal audit schedules in consultation with, but independent of, the Management. The internal audit plan is submitted to the AC for approval prior to the commencement of the internal audit. The AC will review the activities of the Internal Auditors, including overseeing and monitoring the implementation of improvements on identified internal control weaknesses.

For FY2024, the AC met once with the Internal Auditors without the presence of the Management. The AC is of the opinion that Baker Tilly Consultancy (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. is adequately resourced with qualified personnel to discharge its responsibilities. The AC has reviewed the internal audit reports based on the controls in place and is satisfied that the internal audit functions has been (i) adequately resourced, (ii) staffed by suitably qualified and experienced professionals with the relevant experience and has the appropriate standing within the Group, and (iii) in accordance with the standards set by professional bodies. Baker Tilly Consultancy (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. has provided a confirmation on their independence to the AC.

SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS AND ENGAGEMENT

Shareholder Rights and Conduct of General Meetings

Principle 11: The company treats all shareholders fairly and equitably in order to enable them to exercise shareholders' rights, and have the opportunity to communicate their views on matters affecting the company. The company gives shareholders a balanced and understandable assessment of its performance, position and prospects.

All shareholders are treated fairly and equitably to facilitate their ownership rights to participate effectively in and vote at general meetings. Shareholders are also informed on the procedures for the poll voting at the general meetings. The Constitution allows a member of the Company, who is unable to attend the general meeting in person, to appoint up to two proxies to attend and vote at the meeting in place of the member.

The Company believes in high standards of transparent corporate disclosure, in line with the continuous obligations of the Company under the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST and the Companies Act 1967. The Board's policy is that all shareholders should equally and on a timely basis be informed of all major developments that impact the Group. Half yearly financial results and news releases (if any) will be published through the SGXNet. Where there is inadvertent disclosure made to a selected group, the Company will make the same disclosure publicly to all others as soon as practicable.

The forthcoming AGM in respect of FY2024 will be held in a wholly physical format. The arrangements relating to attendance and voting at the AGM, appointment of proxies, submission of questions in advance of the AGM, addressing of substantial and relevant questions at the AGM and access to documents, will be set out in the Notice of AGM. The Notice of AGM and the Proxy Form will be sent to shareholders by mail prior to the AGM within the prescribed statutory period. As part of the Group's commitment to conserve the environment, the Company will provide the shareholders printed copies of the Annual Report and circulars (if any) via post upon specific request by them for it. All these documents will also be made available to shareholders electronically at the Company's website at http://www.yongmaoholdings.com/.

The Board noted that there should be separate resolutions on each substantially separate issue that may be tabled at the general meeting. Notices of general meetings are announced via SGXNet within the mandatory period prior to the meetings (or as otherwise disseminated in accordance with such laws and regulations as may be applicable), together with explanatory notes or a circular on items of special business (if necessary), at least 14 clear calendar days before the meeting for ordinary resolutions and/or at least 21 clear calendar days before the meeting for special resolutions, so as to enable shareholders to exercise their voting rights on an informed basis.

At the AGM, under usual circumstances, shareholders are given opportunities to express their views and the Board welcomes the views of shareholders who wish to raise issues concerning the Company, either informally or formally before or during these general meetings. Board members, Senior Management and the Company Secretary are present and available to address questions from shareholders at general meetings. Furthermore, the External Auditors are invited to attend the meeting to assist the Board in addressing any relevant queries raised by the shareholders relating to the conduct of the audit and the preparation of content of the auditors' report.

In usual circumstances, the Constitution allows corporations and members of the Company to appoint one or two proxies to attend and vote at general meetings. A relevant intermediary may appoint more than two proxies, but each proxy must be appointed to exercise the rights attached to a different share or shares held by him/her (which number and class of shares shall be specified). An investor who holds shares under the Central Provident Fund Investment Scheme ("CPF Investor") and/or the Supplementary Retirement Scheme ("SRS Investors") (as may be applicable) may attend and cast his/her vote(s) at the meeting in person. CPF and SRS Investors who are unable to attend the meeting but would like to vote, may inform their CPF and/or SRS Approved Nominees to appoint the Chairman of the meeting to act as their proxy, in which case, the CPF and SRS Investors shall be precluded from attending the meeting.

The Constitution does not allow for absentia voting methods such as voting via mail, email or fax, until security, integrity and other pertinent issues are satisfactorily resolved.

For greater transparency and fairness in the voting process, voting at shareholders' meetings were conducted by poll since 2013. This allows all shareholders present or represented at the meetings to vote on a one-share-one vote basis. The voting results of all votes cast for or against each resolution is announced at the meeting and broadcasted via SGXNet after the meeting.

The Company prepares minutes of general meetings incorporating the substantial and relevant queries from shareholders relating to the agenda of the meeting and responses from the Board and the Management. These minutes are available to shareholders upon their request and will be available on the Company's website at http://www.yongmaoholdings.com/. Pursuant to Practice Note 7.5 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST, the Company will be publishing the minutes within one month after the AGM on SGXNet.

The Company does not have a fixed dividend policy. The form, frequency and amount of dividend paid will depend on the Company's earnings, general financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, cash fl ow, general business condition, development plans and other factors as the Directors may deem appropriate.

Although declaring and recommending dividend is not fixed, the policy is to recommend dividend consistent with the Company's objective, inter alia of maximising shareholders' value. The Board will carefully consider and evaluate the aforementioned before proposing any dividend.

In compliance with Rule 704(24) of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST, the Company is mindful to disclose the reason(s) for the decision together with the announcement of the financial statements, in the event that the Board decides not to declare or recommend a dividend.

Engagement with Shareholders

Principle 12: The company communicates regularly with its shareholders and facilitates the participation of shareholders during general meetings and other dialogues to allow shareholders to communicate their views on various matters affecting the company.

The Company recognises the importance of actively engaging with stakeholders to promote effective and fair communication. The Board acknowledges that the Company has to fulfill its obligation to furnish timely and material information to shareholders and to ensure full and appropriate disclosure of such information is made for complying with statutory requirements, as well as rules prescribed under the Listing Manual of SGX-ST. Any price sensitive information will be publicly released in a timely manner through SGXNet.

The Company does not have a dedicated investor relations team. However, the Company's CEO and CFO are responsible for the Company's communication with shareholders. The Board also acknowledges its obligation to furnish timely information to shareholders and ensure that full disclosure of material information to comply with statutory requirements and the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST is made. Any price sensitive information will be publicly released on SGXNet first before being announced to any group of investors or analysts.

Although the Company has not adopted a formal investor relations policy to regularly convey pertinent information to the shareholders, the Board acknowledges its obligation to furnish timely information to shareholders and ensures that full disclosure of material information in its Annual Report to comply with statutory requirements and the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST is made. By supplying shareholders with reliable and timely information, the Company is able to strengthen the relationship with its shareholders based on trust and accessibility. The Company focuses on facilitating the communications with all stakeholders, shareholders, analysts and social media on a regular basis, attending to their queries or concerns, as well as keeping the investors publicly apprised of the Group's corporate developments and financial performance.

MANAGING STAKEHOLDERS RELATIONSHIPS

Engagement with Stakeholders

Principle 13: The Board adopts an inclusive approach by considering and balancing the needs and interests of material stakeholders, as part of its overall responsibility to ensure that the best interests of the company are served.

The Board considers the Company's obligations to its shareholders and also the interests of its material stakeholders as the relationships with material stakeholders may have an impact on the Company's long-term sustainability. Stakeholders are parties who may be affected by the Company's activities or whose actions can affect the ability of the Company to conduct its activities. The Board has identified and engaged its material stakeholder groups as customers, constructors, suppliers, employees, landlords, investors, social media, government, institutions and the communities.

In addition to the Company's material stakeholders, sustainability efforts (including its strategy and key areas of focus) and performance can be found in the Company's sustainability report. This is to keep the stakeholders informed on the commitment made by the Company in fostering the creation of long-term value for the stakeholders and a sustainable development of the global economy.

To keep all stakeholders of the Company updated, the Company maintains on its corporate website the latest announcements, press releases and stock details of the Company. Stakeholders have 24-hour access to the Company's website at http://www.yongmaoholdings.com/.

DEALINGS IN SECURITIES

The Group has adopted its Code of Best Practices on dealing in securities by setting out the implications of insider trading and its regulations with regard to dealing in the Company's securities by its Directors and officers, that is modeled, with some modification, on Rule 1207(19) of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST. The Group's Code of Best Practices provides guidance for Directors, officers and employees on their dealing in the Company's securities.

The Group's Code of Best Practices prohibits the Company and its officers and employees who have access to unpublished material price sensitive information from dealing in the Company's securities. The Company and its officers and employees are advised not to deal in the Company's securities during the period commencing one month immediately preceding the announcement of the Company's semi-annually financial results and full year financial results and ending on the date of the announcement of such results on the SGX-ST, or when they are in possession of any unpublished price sensitive information of the Group. In addition, the Directors, key management personnel and employees are expected to observe insider trading laws at all times even when dealing in securities within the permitted trading period. They are also discouraged from dealing in the Company's shares for short term considerations.

INTERESTED PERSON TRANSACTIONS

The Company has established internal control policy to ensure that transactions with interested persons are properly reviewed, approved and conducted at arms' length basis.

The AC has reviewed the Interested Person Transactions ("IPTs") for FY2024 and noted that the transactions have been conducted in accordance with the IPT Mandate obtained at the Company's AGM held on 28 July 2023 and that the transactions were on normal commercial terms and not prejudicial to the interests of the Company and its minority shareholders.

The following is the aggregate value of all transactions with interested persons (as defined in Chapter 9 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST) for FY2024:

The current IPT Mandate will be expiring on 29 July 2024, being the date of the forthcoming AGM of the Company. The Company is proposing to seek shareholders' approval at the AGM of the Company to be held on 29 July 2024 to renew the IPT Mandate pursuant to Chapter 9 of the Listing Manual of the SGX-ST. The IPT Mandate shall, unless revoked or varied by the Company in a general meeting, continue to be in force until the next AGM of the Company.

MATERIAL CONTRACTS

Save as disclosed in the Directors' report and financial statements, there were no material contracts entered into by the Company or any of its subsidiaries, involving the interest of the CEO, any Director or the controlling shareholder subsisting at the end of FY2024.

RISK MANAGEMENT

The Management reviews regularly the Group's business and operational activities to identify areas of significant business risks as well as appropriate measures to control and mitigate these risks within the Group's policies and strategies. In addition, both the Internal and External Auditors conducted the annual review of effectiveness of the Company's material internal controls, including financial, operational and compliance, and information technology controls and risk management. Any material non-compliance and internal control weaknesses noted during their audit are reported to the AC together with their recommendations. The Management will follow up on the auditors' recommendations so as to strengthen the Group's risk management procedures.

Information in relation to the risks arising from the Group's financial operations is disclosed in the notes to the accompanying Audited Financial Statements on pages 63 to 140.

TABLE A

INFORMATION ON DIRECTORS NOMINATED FOR RE-ELECTION

The Directors named below are retiring and being eligible, offer themselves for re-election at the upcoming AGM:

The retiring Directors have responded negative to items (a) to (k) listed in Rule 720(6) of the Listing Rules of SGX-ST except for item (b) that Mr Soh Chun Bin has had liquidation applications or petitions filed in Triyards Holdings Limited (compulsory winding up on grounds of insolvency) and Victoria Medical Beauty Group Pte. Ltd. (compulsory winding up on grounds of insolvency).


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