06/08/2026
One of the most meaningful moments of my week happened on Wednesday, when I was invited by TARUMT to participate in an interview session for students taking the subject Human Resource Management.
The session formed part of their academic assignment, giving them an opportunity to connect the theories learned in class with actual HR practices and challenges in the workplace.
We had a thoughtful discussion covering talent acquisition, performance management, employee engagement, leadership development and the impact of AI and digital transformation on the workplace.
I shared that, in an SME, talent acquisition is not simply about filling vacancies. We also need to think about how to attract young professionals, provide meaningful learning opportunities and develop employees from within.
At KTP, internships and collaboration with universities and professional bodies such as ACCA form part of our efforts to build a future talent pipeline.
Some employees began their journey with us as interns before joining the company permanently.
We also discussed performance management. In practice, it should not only take place during an annual appraisal. Employees need clear expectations, regular communication, practical coaching and timely feedback throughout the year.
Another important topic was employee engagement.
For SMEs, engagement does not always need to involve large or costly programmes. Listening to employees, recognising their contributions, creating opportunities to learn and involving them in meaningful projects can also make a genuine difference.
Leadership development is another challenge faced by many organisations. Strong technical ability may help an employee progress, but managing people requires additional qualities such as patience, communication, empathy, coaching and the ability to guide different personalities.
We also spoke about AI and digital transformation. At KTP, we are exploring how AI and automation can reduce repetitive work, improve access to information and support employees in working more efficiently.
However, technology should remain a tool to assist people. It should not replace professional judgement, proper review, accountability or responsibility.
What impressed me most during the session was how attentively the students listened.
They came prepared, asked thoughtful questions and showed genuine curiosity about how HR works beyond textbooks and theories. Their follow-up questions made the interview feel less like an assignment and more like a meaningful exchange of ideas.
Thank you to TARUMT and the students for the invitation and the enjoyable interview.
A meaningful experience to reflect on as I end the week.
The future of HR is not only about policies, systems or technology. It is also about people who are willing to listen, learn, adapt and grow together.
PS : Authored by Ms Angela Fong, our group HR manager, in her personal LinkedIn post