On November 10, 2022, the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) hosted nearly 160 public relations professionals and industry experts at the inaugural PRISM Summit 2022. The event provided a platform for discussions on the evolving challenges facing the PR industry, including adapting to new technologies, integrating ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices, and navigating global disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ambassador-at-Large Professor Tommy Koh opened the summit with a Fireside Chat, where he highlighted the importance of PR in government communications during the pandemic and drew parallels between the roles of PR practitioners and diplomats. He stressed that the profession must continually evolve to remain relevant.

The summit featured 32 speakers, including Ms. Su-Yen Wong, Chairperson at the Singapore Institute of Directors, and Mr. Jacob Puthenparambil, Founder and CEO of Redhill. Speakers addressed topics such as leadership, ESG, technology, and the critical role of PR in shaping the future of businesses.

Ms. Wong emphasized the strategic value of PR professionals, helping Boards navigate crises, curate narratives, and coach teams. Meanwhile, Mr. Puthenparambil pointed out that economic changes are reshaping the media landscape, calling for PR practitioners to act as multifaceted professionals, bridging business and communication.

The summit underscored the growing importance of ESG in PR strategies, with Mr. Tham Kok Wing, Director at Robertsbridge Stonehaven Singapore, urging companies to embrace sustainability and use “Design Thinking, Systems Thinking, and Futures Thinking” to drive change.

As IPRS continues to support Singapore’s PR community, President Koh Juat Muay expressed pride in the summit’s success, highlighting its role in refreshing the industry’s purpose. Vanessa Wan, Chairperson of the PRISM Summit, added that the profession must expand beyond media relations to become ESG leaders, risk managers, and more.