At the same time, the structure had to be brought up to code. For example, the existing parapet walls did not meet current height regulations; to circumvent this, railings were added. “We needed to make sure that we didn’t compromise on safety standards, while ensuring that the new building retained its charm, flavour and taste.”
WASTE NOT, WANT NOT
Tan’s concerns over sustainability stems from witnessing wastefulness firsthand. Construction and demolition waste (CDW) accounts for around 30 per cent of waste produced globally, although in Singapore the construction sector recycles 99 per cent of CDW. With ESG now a primary objective for many corporations, and cost reduction a key priority for Tan, he set himself the challenge of driving a mindset shift within the organisation.
When the firm moved to its present eight-storey, S$30 million headquarters in Sungei Kadut in 2015 – where this interview and photoshoot took place – Tan and the rest of the senior management decided to use discarded building materials and furniture to fit out the spaces. On a tour of the premises, Tan pointed out ceiling, wall and floor finishes that once adorned banks and shopping malls. Surplus furniture is often given away to staff as lucky draws. AR technology and 3D models are used to create product mock-ups for clients, saving time and cost.
Tan’s father, Tan Teng Huat, established Sunray in 1987. From its base in Ang Mo Kio Industrial Park II and later Bukit Batok, the firm started out doing small carpentry and joinery jobs. A major fire in December 1999 reduced the Bukit Batok factory to ashes, but fortunately the firm was able to bounce back.
“With my parents’ generation, it was all family and friends helping in the business. We didn’t want them to lose their jobs – and that wasn’t a good time to find a job too – so we decided to push through. We didn’t have much insurance, so we had to mortgage everything we had. With the support of the bank, we were able to bounce back,” explains Tan.
“Through every single disaster, we got stronger, we grew bigger,” he adds. “From the Asian Financial Crisis to the fire, to the Global Financial Crisis, to COVID-19, we were able to tide through. I think that speaks to who we are as a company.”
