event an unforgettable night at the italian riviera!
TRANSCRIPT
www.adb.org.sgdecember 2016/january 2017
dutch news
Creating one Dutch Business Platform in Singapore... page 5
business
International Commercial Dispute Resolution in Singapore… page 20
event An unforgettable night at the Italian Riviera!... page 2
Singapore Management University, Executive Development 81 Victoria Street, Level 10, Singapore 188065 Tel: +65 6828 9095 Email: [email protected]
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CHANGE MANAGEMENT
DIRECTORSHIP PROGRAMME
EXCEL LEADERSHIP
FINANCE FOR NON-FINANCE
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08
02
09
10
03
MARKETING
11
04
05
STRATEGY EXECUTION1207
WOMEN & LEADERSHIP14
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GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENTSkillsFuture Study Award
13 WINNING BUSINESS IN ASIASkillsFuture Study Award
CUSTOMISED CORPORATE PROGRAMMES
2016 HIGHLIGHTS
EXECUTIVE PROGRAMMES
The Future Ready Forum is designed as a buffet of leading authors and thinkers, allowing busy executives to personalise their learning journey with a multi-disciplinary approach. From a total of 24 bite-sized sessions in 6 business areas, participants
can select topics that best addresses their learning objectives and the business challenges they face in their organisation.
SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY
EXECUTIVE DEVELOPMENT
All customised corporate programmes are individually designed to address organisation-wide competencies and relevant business issues. Designed for the purpose-driven organisation and its executive cohort, the expertise and insights of more than 300 faculty members from
our six schools, supported by external experts, bring the best of deep global management thinking into the Asian context.
OPEN AND CUSTOM PROGRAMMES DELIVERED
TRANSFORMED APPROXIMATELY OVER
DIVERSE SENIOR EXECUTIVES
165 5000
FUTURE READY FORUM20–21 FEBRUARY 2017
RETURN CUSTOM CLIENTS FROM 2015
65% 65%
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
LEADERSHIP COMMUNICATION
LEADERSHIP COACHING
HOSPITAL MANAGEMENT NEGOTIATION STRATEGIES
1
° ° ° ° A new year, ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° Board Members
Daniël Heerkens Chief Editor Digital Marketing Strategy Director 2Stallions
° ° °The ADB connects
Dutch Professionals in Singapore.
° ° °
Joep OttervangerPresidentAttorney at Law and Partner Loyens & Loeff
Tom SmeenkHonorary TreasurerBusiness Development Manager LNG AsiaRoyal Vopak
Wenneke Vrugt-Repko General Manager Graphic DesignerTriple You Design
Aleid de Savornin Lohman Board Member CommunicationsLegal ConsultantICBC Standard
Peter Paul BloemsmaSecretary / Board Member EventsPartner 2Sherpa
Reinder PeekVice President / Board Member SponsoringGeneral Manager Salvage (Asia)SMIT Singapore Pte Ltd
With the year coming to a close, it is time to reflect but also to look ahead and start making plans for the new year. For ADB this is no different. One of the new year plans is quite significant, which is why I would like to discuss this with you in more detail. As previously communicated, it is the ambition of the boards of the ADB and DutchCham, to consolidate the two organisations into one Dutch business organsiation as a merger of equals. I would also like to bring to your attention that there is an article in this magazine which will go into more depth about this merger.
One may ask “why would we consider changing the current organization?” Indeed, when looking back at the past years, we have seen a flourishing ADB. Despite the rough economic seas, we continue to have a solid membership base with an increasing number of female members. Furthermore, we have many well attended and interesting events.
On the organizational side, things have also significantly improved. Our activities have become much more manageable because of the efforts of many enthusiastic committee members. The committees have truly become a driving force in our organization. As a token of appreciation for all their efforts we have decided to organize a festive outing for all committee members and their spouses. You will hear more about this in due course!
Although not always visible, we have had our challenges too. Sponsoring, as always, remains difficult and another area of concern are the continuous issues we encounter with the IT infrastructure (website and email). A particular worry that we had to overcome was the sudden relocation of Thomas (our fellow-board member and Chief Editor) to the Netherlands. Without a Chief Editor, the production of our Magazine was suddenly in danger. Luckily Daniel Heerkens was quickly found and was willing take over. He saved the day.
Having said that, matters like these show the vulnerability of our organization. And we feel that in a broader set up such issues may be avoided or better addressed. I can imagine that you may have questions or concerns and I am most happy to discuss these with you. To that end, I hope to see you soon at one of our year-end events!
Your sincerely,
... Joep Ottervanger ...
a new start, a new ADB?
2
... Text Joep Ottenvanger ... ... Photos by Emile Leus, tvworkshop ...
What a Night on the Italian Riviera!
2
On 24 September, we celebrated our annual party at Sofitel Sentosa. It was a vibrant evening, which lasted till the early hours. The location was beautiful, food was wonderful but - most importantly - the crowd was phenomenal!
Cocktails and live music to kick-off the evening
° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° ° °In this issue1 Prologue
2 What a Night on the Italian Riviera!
5 Creating one Dutch Business Platform in Singapore?
6 Can you invite a Dutch intern to work for your company?
8 StartUp & SME Academy: Connecting the Dutch Startup & SME community in Singapore
10 SMU/ADB Masterclass: Big data meets big brother
12 A big THANK YOU for your generous donations!
14 Interview with Walter van der Boor
15 From the Dutch Embassy: Young professionals and students: Adding sustainable value to your company
16 Orange Nest: Your springboard to ASEAN
18 Personal Finance – Rising health care cost and affordable insurance
20 International Commercial Dispute Resolution; Singapore’s international muscle strength
22 Having computer issues? Don’t worry Robbert will solve them
24 When going home feels odd
25 ADB News – Announcements, member info and more
28 Sinterklaas Arrival in Singapore
SINTeRkLAAS ARRIVAL IN SINgAPORe
Cover photo: Inge Kuipers
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What a Night on the Italian Riviera!
We kicked-off the evening with some cocktails at the Vespa decorated poolside. Many guests made use of the photo opportunity. Our very own Marte & Cindy took to the stage and delighted the crowd with some jazzy songs.
After the champagne, cocktails and a beer (or two) it was time to head for dinner. Our president opened the sumptuous buffet, which was followed by a prize-filled raffle. At about 10pm, DJ Max opened the floor and got the crowd pumping and we didn’t stop until 2am.
As always, organizing something like this takes great effort. We would like to thank all the volunteers and all others who contributed: Heineken – for beers & bars, Emile Leus (http://tvworkshop.com) for photos & film, Max van der Pols for DJ & sound equipment, Piaggio Asia Pacific Pte Ltd for the Vespas, Marte Verhoeven & Cindy Rouwhorst for the live music, Ribato for the cocktails, Ferrari Food+Wine Pte Ltd for even more cocktails, Ergo Travel (www.ergo-travel.com) for Italian decorations, the Hollandse Club, for decorations & equipment and last but not least Anne, Job, Tessa, Niek, Carmen en Rutger for their festive contribution as living statues! • Our president’s opening speech was strong – as ever
Very special thanks to Angela, Charlie & Jeroen who - together with Peter - worked so very hard to make
this evening a success!!
Over 180 party-minded people made it a wonderful night!
4
CELEBRATE YOURChristmas gatherings
WITH RUBATO!
Good company, Good food...
RUBATO is a friend and sponsor of the Dutch community activities in Singapore
Reservations: 6252 3200RUBATO Italian Kitchen + Wine Bar, 12 Greenwood Avenue 289204
Early Merry Christmas, from RUBATO to all Dutch businesses in Singapore!
We have a winner!
Cheers!
The food, drinks & company were a good mix.
Peter “Don Pietro” Bloemsma, godfather of the Dinner & Dance presided over the NCA lucky draw with his natural charm
And another lucky one!
With such a big red flower – you stand to win a prize! Time to hit the dance floor!
Creating one Dutch Business Platform in Singapore?
Dear Member,
As previously communicated, we have been in discussion with DutchCham (“DC”) for the past year about the possibility of further cooperation between our two organisations. We have done that in view of the outcome of the members’ survey (which we conducted prior to the 2015 AGM) and the outcome of the discussions at that AGM about the possibility of further cooperation with other Dutch organisations and DC in particular. Both the survey and the discussion at the AGM showed that our member base broadly supports further cooperation.
As you may have noticed, in the past year there has been increased interaction between the ADB/DC which has resulted in some mutual events (of which the “SME Academy” series is the most prominent).
At the same time, we have kept close contact with other Dutch organisations such as the Embassy, NCA and Dutch drinks. The experience working together with DC has been good and following the various meetings between members of our board and the board of DC, we arrived at the conclusion that if we want to make meaningful progress, we should try to create one Dutch business platform in Singapore.
The reason for consolidating the organisations is to create a broader base thereby increasing relevance, effectiveness and efficiency. We feel that in today’s environment, with fewer and fewer expats in Singapore, consolidating our efforts is the right thing to do.
The goal is to create a new organization through which the current activities will be conducted (i.e. no changes on “output”/no changes for current members). The positioning, internal organization, branding, style and culture of the new organsiation should be reflective of those of ADB & DC.
What will change?
In essence, only the internal organization and name will change as the combination’s activities are a sum of the current two sets of activities. The goal is that both ADB and DC will continue to deliver the same value to their members (so no re-positioning or changes in membership fees) given the overlapping activities, and that ADB events/activities may become available for “DC members” and DC events/
activities may become available for “ADB members”. This means capturing synergies.
What do both parties bring to the table?
The new organization should capitalize on the key strengths of each of ADB/DC with the goal of making those even more attractive for all involved. Some of ADB’s key attributes are its active member participation and bi-monthly magazine, whilst DC is well connected in the Singapore business community & politics and has broad professional support.
It is proposed that the merger will be on an utterly equal footing and the new entity should be reflective of an equal balance of cultures and atmosphere of both organisations. Financially, the parties will share resources as well. (i.e. also a financial merger).
What’s next?
As for any merger, it is important to closely monitor the implementation to safeguard the objectives and conditions. To this end, we will prepare a detailed blue print for the new organization including a joint plan for the 1st year including activities & funding (budget). The key principles of the agreed cooperation and operational structure should be laid down in the Charter (memorandum of incorporation) of the new organization.
In the coming months, the boards of ADB/DC will further fine-tune the details of the proposed merger and we will keep you informed in order to solicit your input and thoughts. It is important to stress that at this point in time, this is still a proposal and nothing has been formally decided (not from DC’s side either). Obviously, any decision of this kind will require members’ approval, which will be subject to a members’ vote, most probably in the upcoming AGM at the end of March.
We can imagine that you may have questions or concerns and we would appreciate hearing your views. Please feel free to reach out to any of us by email or at any of our upcoming events.
On behalf of the ADB Board
Your sincerely,Joep OttervangerPresident
6
Can you invite a Dutch intern to work for your company?... By Alexis van Dam ...
The can’s and cannot’s for interns in Singapore
The Singapore government has certain rules and guidelines. This article elaborates on what is possible and what isn’t. Please note, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore can change guidelines and rules so these are correct at the moment of writing, November 2016. Always check the website of the MOM prior to hiring an intern.
The intern from overseas
The MOM website is very clear and has 3 passes suitable for interns from overseas.
The first is the Work Holiday Programme (WHP)This program is designed for foreign undergraduates and graduates aged between 18 - 25 of all nationalities studying in universities in the following nine countries/ territories: Australia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States. Please note the Netherlands is not listed, therefore it is not possible to have a Dutch intern working in Singapore.
This Pass allows an intern to live and work – in every field – in Singapore for up to 6 months. The undergraduates must have been a resident and a full-time student of the university for at least 3 months before applying for the pass.
In addition to that, the University must be recognised by the government and ranked among the top 200 for overall
academic performance. Once the visa is obtained, the intern has to travel to Singapore within the following 12 months. The WHP has a maximum capacity of 2,000 applicants at any one time. There is no need to pay for CPF since the intern is only in Singapore for a maximum of 6 months.
The second program is the Training Work Permit (TWP) and is only suitable for: Semi-skilled or unskilled employees from related overseas companies to undergo training in Singapore, or for foreign students studying in educational institutions in Singapore.
The third program is the Training Employment Pass. This pass is only valid for three months. It is meant for trainees from foreign offices or subsidiaries. They need to earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $3,000.
It also applies to undergraduates wherein the training attachment in Singapore must be part of the undergraduate’s degree programme from an acceptable Dutch institution, including: Design Academy Eindhoven, Erasmus Universiteit in Rotterdam, Rijksuniversiteit in Leiden, Rijksuniversiteit Utrecht, Technische Universiteit Delft, Technische Universiteit Eindhoven, Tilburg University, Universiteit van Amsterdam, Universiteit Twente, Universiteit Maastricht and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. They also need to earn a fixed monthly salary of at least $3,000.
We all know that Singapore is a vibrant
business community. The Singaporean
government recognises the importance of
business, and tries to stimulate new business
ventures and start-ups by offering interesting
benefits. The government also recognises
existing businesses and offers benefits to them
as well. Many Dutch people living in Singapore
work for (multinational) companies or they
start their own venture. Either way, there could
come a time when you might consider hiring
an intern to work for your company or team.
This could be either a Singaporean or maybe
someone from overseas.
SOuRCeS:• Website lists over 27.000 internship jobs:
https://www.internsg.com/corporate/ • The website www.anyintern.com/sg/
internships-in-singapore/ has a list of all internships available at companies in Singapore.
• MOM: work holiday programme: http://www.mom.gov.sg/passes-and-permits/work-holiday-programme
• MOM: http://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-replies/2013/interns-are-protected-under-the-employment-act
• Article in Strait Times: http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/companies-offer-hot-shot-interns-top-dollar
The local intern
Hiring a local Singaporean or PR means an opportunity for them to learn and experience what working is all about. Don’t see an intern as a substitute for cheap labour. For the company, there is also a benefit as you get to experience someone who is fresh and not clouded by judgement and who can bring some new ideas to the table.
It is important that they can learn and experiment and make (some) mistakes.
According to experts, on average an intern gets a salary of $600 up to $1000. Sometimes companies can also choose to reward interns with non-monetary benefits such as network expansion, conferences, how to start your own business, concert tickets and so on.
Usually the company does not have to pay for CPF, since there is no employer-employee relationship. Do note that an intern is covered under The Employment act. This means an employer is obliged to accord statutory benefits prescribed under the Act to an intern, as long as the intern performs work and has work arrangements similar to that of a regular employee in the organisation.
Conclusion
It is possible to have an intern working for your company or team if you follow the guidelines. If you want a Dutch intern/ trainee, he or she needs to come from one of the listed institutions and needs a monthly salary of at least $3000 and can only stay 3 months. •
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This second event of the Startup & SME Academy was once again sold out. The participants worked on business cases and business canvases to get relevant answers and insights to improve their product, service or strategy. This, coupled with the various peer-to-peer discussions, gave the evening a truly interactive character.
Key note speakers, Jon Hoel and Max van der Pols, kicked off with brief presentations grouped around three stages of a product/service launch, i.e. Experimentation (better business design), Market research (increased understanding of the demand and needs),
and Strategy (improved execution of your business).
After these presentations, each participant took part in one of two mini-workshops: (i) How to optimise & test-drive your idea/product/service? or (ii) How to optimise & fine-tune your strategy?
The business canvassing session let participants focus on narrowing down their range of ideas to a very specific plan, establishing the importance of some initial basic market research. The strategy workshop covered a business case example of a Startup
Connecting the Dutch Startup & SMe community in Singapore
On Thursday 27 October, 50 enthusiastic business owners and entrepreneurs rolled up their sleeves to work on the evening’s topic: “How to optimise your idea - product and strategy for growth”.
... Text Patrick Nelissen . Photos by Mirjam Hansen ...
STARTuP & SMe ACADeMy:
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• Laagste eigen risico • Geen extra verzekeringen bij aankomst • No nonsense voorwaarden
Autohuur tarieven vanaf € 24,- per dag
business owner offering a (mobile) application to reserve, order and pay for food, drinks and entrance fees for events and parties. Participants discussed whether and why (or why not) they would invest in such a business, what they would advise on the marketing, sales budget and expansion plans, and what they would need to know about the potential growth markets to make informed decisions. The event concluded with networking drinks.
About the StartUp & SME Academy:The goal of the Startup & SME Academy (SSA) is to provide relevant content and peer-to-peer knowledge-sharing for Dutch professionals who are part of the Startup and SME community in Singapore and for local stakeholders keen on working together with Dutch Startups and SMEs.
Regular events (approximately every six weeks) will be led by one or more experts on
a specific topic. Each session has the same structure; speakers sharing their knowledge and experience, interactive group sessions and networking. There will be time for Q&A, discussion, pitching of business ideas and receiving on-the-spot feedback.
Recent testimonials include:
The SSA’s website (www.ssa.sg) offers a complete overview of the program for 2016/2017. •
“A great, interactive event to meet like-minded
innovators in Singapore, and to pick up valuable tools
and insights from the experts.”“great set-up. Really like the combination of speakers
and workshops and the opportunity to zoom in on your
own business and challenges, instead of theoretical
examples or best in class examples.”
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Big data meets big brother
... By Reinder Peek . Photos by SMU ...
Earlier this year, Singapore Management University (SMU) and ADB joined forces in offering to ADB members the wide range of courses at SMU’s Executive Development center (SMU ExD) (see inner cover page) and in jointly organizing a yearly Masterclass at SMU’s downtown campus.
The start of something new
We met fellow Dutchman, Stijn Welkers, who is SMU ExD’s Head of Public Programs and responsible for the selection of the University’s courses on the topics relevant to today’s business executives in Singapore. ‘Executives are interested in understanding the knowledge, but the immediate question is always “how do I use this?”, which translates to “how can I get value out of this for my organization?”.
Therefore, we ensure that a large part of our courses is focused on using models and frameworks in group work, followed by a discussion between the participant executives in which they can challenge each other as well as share experiences.’ A proven pedagogic model is used of ‘Knowledge, Application, Empowerment’ with a strong focus on Application.
‘SMU ExD connects with a number of professional organizations in Singapore’ adds Stijn ‘specifically to deliver relevant knowledge and share that with the organizations’ members. This can be in the form of talks, courses or a masterclass.’ In cooperation with ADB a ‘double handed’ masterclass is chosen, bringing together a Dutch expert and one of SMU’s professors around a current topic.
Business Data Analysis & Cyber Security Masterclass
To kick-off the SMU/ADB cooperation, a masterclass was organized with SMU’s Associate Professor of Information Systems, Michelle Cheong and Interpol’s Timo Kansil
SMu/ADB MASTeRCLASS:
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(seconded to Interpol by the National Police of the Netherlands) on ‘Opportunities & Threats in the Use of Cyber Data’. The two leading experts spoke from their respective angles and expertise on the subject of the use of business data analysis and cyber security. Data analytics are used creatively to achieve competitive advantage in several business examples and Interpol is working with the international business community to protect societies and companies against cybercrime.
It was a great evening, downtown at Victoria Street in SMU’s auditorium attended by over 50 ADB members and SMU alumni. The vast and - for some of us - elusive world of Big Data was opened up by Michelle and Timo who gave us a peek into the abyss of the Dark Web with the accompanying challenges for the international law enforcement agencies. The event was warmly hosted by SMU in a fine ambiance with drinks and food afterwards. We are looking forward to SMU/ADB’s next masterclass early 2017.
Future Ready Forum 2017 - 20 & 21 February
In the meantime, you can attend SMU ExD key event of the Future Ready Forum 2017 this coming February. Stijn Welkers proudly sets out what this two-day event is all about ‘The Future Ready Forum 2017 is our way of ‘giving back’. It is a 2-day-program with 20 SMU professors delivering short presentations on a number of subjects, which you can select from. The cost is 10% of the normal cost of a 2-day-program at SMU ExD.’ The subject areas are digitalization, business strategy, innovation, human capital development, leadership & management.
‘The idea is to get executives up-to-speed with the latest trends and knowledge in an area of interest to them in a relatively short time and at low cost. It is ideally suited if you want to explore subjects with which you don’t work on daily, but feel you need to know more about. Check out the program on exd.smu.edu.sg’.
We are proud to have launched the cooperation with such an energetic knowledge-powerhouse as SMU and look forward to seeing you in Victoria Street at our next joint Masterclass. Keep an eye on our agenda! •
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Almost $4,500 was raised in the NCA Lucky Draw at ADB’s smashing Riviera Party. A wonderful result and congrats to the lucky winners!
These proceeds go towards domestic helpers in need. Unfortunately, there are still many cases where domestic workers are abused, wrongly accused of a crime or ‘held hostage’ and not paid. Apart from that, there are also other serious human and labour rights violations in Singapore.
A big THANk yOu for your generous donations!
The NCA supports several Singaporean organizations that work with the victims, such as HOME and Good Shepherd. They offer shelter and professional (legal and psychological) support. Furthermore, they teach the domestic helpers new skills, such as cooking, English, computer skills etc. and empower them to rebuild their lives and improve their job prospects. We would also like to thank the Lucky Draw sponsors (KLM, Aava Resort & Spa, Nespresso, Champions Golf, The Body Firm, Philips, Picotin Express, The Past Perfect Collection, Hollandse Club, Adecco and Edrington) for their continued support. •
... By Sheila Bouwman, NCA . Photos by Emile Leus, tvworkshop ...
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Interview with Walter van der Boor... By Rob Lamers . Photo by Walter van der Boor ...
What are you known for?
I help people to protect their families and plan for retirement. I like being on the water which is why we live on a sailing boat. People know me for that. There is a lot of wisdom in nautical terms and I like to use these types of metaphors while helping people to make wise decisions regarding their finances.
What were you like in high school?
Focussed, that’s probably the best way to describe me during these years. I still am today, working hard to achieve whatever goals I have set. Focussed has a double meaning as my original study was optics. At age 32, I made a career switch and have never stopped studying.
What inspires you?
I switched career after a colleague’s family was destroyed by his passing. Coming from a family in the financial world, I could not believe what I saw. His family, and especially his children, paid a hefty price for not having protection or a will in place. I decided that helping people to safeguard their families financially should be my goal.
Why are you working in Singapore?
Making money is often not so difficult, it’s keeping it safe that’s the hard part. So often it says: “good bye” even before it is managed. When it comes to expats, they often think that their foreign plan can continue as it is, or they lack the time to review and handle their investments. In Singapore, it’s not easy to arrange finances without an adviser. Therefore, having the knowledge of other countries as I do, gives clients an advantage when working with me. Wouldn’t it be sad if expats worked here for several years and then went home empty handed? We can help to set up plans that work really well and are very effective.
How would you convince someone to do something they
didn’t want to do?
I hope that, if you are well informed, you will know what the right things are that you should do. But if you do not want to do something, I would never try to convince you otherwise. If you have not understood that life is more than just money or your immediate needs, then I have much better things to do than convincing someone to do something against their will. Convincing is what sales people do. I am on the other side of the coin and help select and arrange what is most favourable for the client.
What’s the last thing you watched on TV and why
did you choose to watch it?
It’s a series about the history of Islands of Singapore. For me it’s the area where we go boating, it’s recognizable and nice to know more about. We like to get involved with local Singaporeans. Knowing more about their history also brings us closer together. •
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15
FROM THe DuTCH eMBASSy
... By Margarita Roxas & Sebas Eliens (with approval from TheRockGroup) ...
young professionals and students: Adding sustainable value to your company
Orange Factory
15
company to convert its by-products and wastes into profitable products and they identified suitable markets for the product. Another team developed new product lines and a marketing approach for a social enterprise that use discarded plastic bags.
What makes the Orange ASEAN Factory different from taking in interns or entry-level employees is that it offers clients fresh, independent and bolder ideas, enhanced by the diverse disciplines of the multicultural team, and turns these ideas into concrete output. As attested by a multinational company, “the younger generations offer so many different options which we couldn’t think of.” A Singapore-based consulting company for startups and SME companies keen on business expansion was very pleased with the final product of the team and decided to hire one of the participants who will continue the work and take it to the next level.
The next edition of Orange ASEAN Factory will be held in Singapore on May 2017 with the theme Sustainable Urban Development. This topic is very timely given the growing population and rapid urbanization of cities and rural areas in Southeast Asia. Institutions and companies interested in taking part in the next edition are invited to contact TheRockGroup at [email protected]. •
How can young professionals and students bring sustainable value to your company? Orange ASEAN Factory gives the youth and private business or public sector a unique experience to foster skills development and inter-cultural solidarity among participants while delivering tangible and high quality output for companies under a three-week intensive program.
From 19 September to 7 October 2016, 10 Dutch and 14 Southeast Asian youth gathered in Kuala Lumpur to work together with 7 multinational companies, small-medium enterprises and public institutions to develop innovative and sustainable business development solutions. For this third Orange ASEAN Factory edition, solutions centered around the theme of the Circular Economy. Guided by international sustainability professionals, each team functioned as a research, consultancy and business development team delivering new sustainable business cases for its clients. Analysis and recommendations developed by the 7 teams include raw materials maximisation, waste-to-resource options, and process/system optimisation. For example, one group designed processes that allows a beer
1616
Program 2016-2017
The challenges and opportunities for startups and
SMEs in the digital age
Join forces as startup and large company in order
to co-create and realize new businesses from
scratch
Accelerating your business
growth
Operational and cultural
challenges of Human Resource Management in
Singapore
Improve your Brand
Positioning to attract more
(loyal) customers
Expanding your business from Singapore to
APAC
Be financially healthy and
compliant as a Startup and SME
Networking dinner for
startups, SMEs and large
companies
How to optimise your idea,
business plan and strategy for
growth
Launching innovative products in
Singapore from Europe and US
An inspiring evening full of Information
about how to grow your business
and insights by entrepreneurs - for
entrepreneurs.
During this event key aspects of hiring local and overseas employees shall be
discussed.
Learn more about the impact on the
sales of your product or service by having clarity on your target
market, frame of reference, point of
difference and reason to believe. During the event you will
also gain knowledge about how to protect
the brand.
Now that your business has
reached a [certain] size / has established
in Singapore, how about expanding
into the Asia Pacific region in an effective
manner?
Digital disruption in Asia, how technology is driving consumer engagement in the
world’s most exciting markets and is
changing the entire business landscape.
Startups, SMEs and large companies are struggling to
realise new, scalable businesses. Learn
how this can be done smarter and faster by joining forces to build tomorrow’s ventures.
An event about the ‘sweet’ and ‘sour’ of your financial
position. Learn more about understanding business financials is the basis of your business success. Don’t be baffled
by P&Lstatements, balance sheets
or cash flow statements, make them work for you.
A selection of the SSA participants will
be invited to meet large companies
during an exclusive dinner. The goal of the evening is to discuss potential
partnerships.
Every entrepreneur has a story; what were their starting struggles, how did
they react, what was the outcome and
what are the lessons learned.
Learn from experiences of entrepreneurs
that succeeded in Singapore and from
your peers.
An event where knowledgeble
speakers share there experience
about oppertunities and challenges in
launching innovative produdcts in
Singapore from Europe and the US.
8 September 2016
20 April 2017
24 November 2016
29 June 2017
19 January 2017
14 Sept 2017
2 March 2017
Sept 2017
27 October 2016
25 May 2017
FROM THe DuTCH eMBASSy
... By Bernhard Kelkes ... Orange Nest: your springboard to ASeAN
The Netherlands Ambassador to Singapore, Mr Jaap Werner, explains, “Southeast Asia is facing growing societal and environmental challenges, which require innovative solutions. Dutch businesses have a lot to offer in these areas. For example on flood prevention, on sustainable agriculture, on clean energy or on reusing waste.” But identifying and seizing opportunities can be challenging in many parts of the region. To support Dutch entrepreneurs focusing on sustainability, the Orange Nest was established. It offers workstations and office facilities at the Dutch Embassy in Bangkok, but also provides excellent opportunities to connect to the expert knowledge, networks and business support services of all Dutch diplomatic missions throughout the region.
The initiative is part of the Orange ASEAN initiative, which also includes the Orange Factories.
Several companies already used the Orange Nest in Bangkok to see if Thailand could be an interesting market. “Ms Silvia ten Houten of the Dutch start-up GoodHout is a great example”, Ambassador Werner explains. “This company is developing a bio-based wood alternative made from coconut waste. An Orange Factory team provided her with an overview of the possibilities to set up a supply chain in Thailand and a list of 75 potential Thai business partners. To further explore the opportunities, Silvia used the Orange Nest.”
Ambassador Jaap Werner – who has been involved in the Orange ASEAN initiative from the start - is convinced that Nest could be used by many more companies. “So far, the Nest has been used mostly by Dutch companies already active in the region. However, the Nest was also established for companies based in the Netherlands, in particular for start-ups. Therefore, we will continue our efforts to inform Dutch entrepreneurs, business associations and start-up platforms about it and in the meantime we hope to increase the number of Orange Nests in the region, including one in Jakarta.”
For more information about the Orange Nest and Factory, please visit www.orangeasean.com or contact the Netherlands Embassy in Bangkok ([email protected]). •
After years of economic turmoil, Dutch entrepreneurs are exploring new markets again. With its emerging markets, manufacturing opportunities and large consumer base, ASEAN is a favorite destination. To support innovative Dutch entrepreneurs focusing on sustainability, the Dutch Government established the Orange Nest: an incubator at the Netherlands Embassy in Bangkok. The Netherlands Embassy in Bangkok
Work stations in the Orange Nest Bangkok
17
Program 2016-2017
The challenges and opportunities for startups and
SMEs in the digital age
Join forces as startup and large company in order
to co-create and realize new businesses from
scratch
Accelerating your business
growth
Operational and cultural
challenges of Human Resource Management in
Singapore
Improve your Brand
Positioning to attract more
(loyal) customers
Expanding your business from Singapore to
APAC
Be financially healthy and
compliant as a Startup and SME
Networking dinner for
startups, SMEs and large
companies
How to optimise your idea,
business plan and strategy for
growth
Launching innovative products in
Singapore from Europe and US
An inspiring evening full of Information
about how to grow your business
and insights by entrepreneurs - for
entrepreneurs.
During this event key aspects of hiring local and overseas employees shall be
discussed.
Learn more about the impact on the
sales of your product or service by having clarity on your target
market, frame of reference, point of
difference and reason to believe. During the event you will
also gain knowledge about how to protect
the brand.
Now that your business has
reached a [certain] size / has established
in Singapore, how about expanding
into the Asia Pacific region in an effective
manner?
Digital disruption in Asia, how technology is driving consumer engagement in the
world’s most exciting markets and is
changing the entire business landscape.
Startups, SMEs and large companies are struggling to
realise new, scalable businesses. Learn
how this can be done smarter and faster by joining forces to build tomorrow’s ventures.
An event about the ‘sweet’ and ‘sour’ of your financial
position. Learn more about understanding business financials is the basis of your business success. Don’t be baffled
by P&Lstatements, balance sheets
or cash flow statements, make them work for you.
A selection of the SSA participants will
be invited to meet large companies
during an exclusive dinner. The goal of the evening is to discuss potential
partnerships.
Every entrepreneur has a story; what were their starting struggles, how did
they react, what was the outcome and
what are the lessons learned.
Learn from experiences of entrepreneurs
that succeeded in Singapore and from
your peers.
An event where knowledgeble
speakers share there experience
about oppertunities and challenges in
launching innovative produdcts in
Singapore from Europe and the US.
8 September 2016
20 April 2017
24 November 2016
29 June 2017
19 January 2017
14 Sept 2017
2 March 2017
Sept 2017
27 October 2016
25 May 2017
Startup and SMe Academy Program 2016/2017
18
° ° ° ° RISINg HeALTH CARe COST ° ° ° °AND AFFORDABLe INSuRANCe
PeRSONAL FINANCe
... By Freddy Meindertsma ...
Freddy Meindertsma is Senior Financial Consultant with Professional Investment Advisory Services (PIAS). He has over 20 years of experience in banking and wealth advisory, 11 of which have been in Singapore. He can be reached at: [email protected]
During the summer of this year, a conference was held by relevant stakeholders of healthcare in Singapore, on the issue of rising healthcare costs. Spending on healthcare for this year is budgeted at $ 11 billion, a remarkable rise compared to a figure of $ 4.7 billion back in 2012. The medical inflation rate globally is 10% while in Singapore this stands at 15% as measured by 2015.
(In 2015) Global SingaporeGeneral Inflation Rate 4% 2.6%Medical Inflation Rate 10% 15%
Source: Aon Hewitt
The importance of a personal health plan
Those of us with medical expenses covered by our employers in a group plan, do not take up a personal insurance for their family. This might make sense with the expectation of having duplication in coverage.
However, once we change jobs or take a sabbatical, the private plan will serve us well. Any unforeseen job loss or early retirement scenario provides us with a more sudden need to look for a personal solution. At an older age the chances of a more expensive medical journey are to be expected. This translates to a possible higher occurrence of underwriting hick-ups such as exclusions or even an outright rejection. Insurance premiums increase by ascending age brackets. This is not surprising with some statistics suggesting that up to 80% of medical costs arise during the last 2 years of our lives.
Local versus global health plans
Those of us who are Permanent Resident in Singapore are covered by MediShield Life, the basic health insurance plan administered by the CPF Board. The benefit basis is public hospitals pegged to Class B2/C wards and includes pre-existing conditions, albeit at a possible extra premium.
Additional private insurance, run by private insurers, typically cover Class A/B1 wards in public hospitals or private hospitals. These plans are dubbed ‘Integrated Shield Plans’ and provide cover for in- and out-patient treatments with higher limit benefits for hospitalization or as charged. These private plans are also available to foreigners who are not P.R. even though there will be no Medishield Life to integrate with. Integrated shield plans can be suitable to foreigners residing in Singapore.
Global healthcare plans are well known to most of us and frequently used. The main advantage of these plans is the portability, which keeps the plan in place wherever we reside in the world. On the contrary, a Singapore integrated shield plan, understands the insured to be residing in Singapore, with hospitalization in Singapore unless in case of an emergency abroad. Thus, local plans are not portable if you move to another country. Local plans provide lifetime cover recognizing the rising life expectancy of the population. Not all global plans provide lifetime cover. Affordability of global plans usually improves by raising the out-of-pocket expense element. Some global plans improve affordability by lowering the yearly pay-out limit. The Singapore plans use deductibles and co-insurance by default. So-called ‘riders’ can be added to the local plans eliminating deductible and co-insurance at extra premium.
What is adequate?
Governments in the developed world and to some extent the developing nations, acknowledge the rising health care costs and offer a basic healthcare system aiming for inclusivity and affordability. Inclusiveness however refers to all residents and not so much to all types of benefits. An inclusive cover still needs a private medical plan. One thing is for sure, we are living longer, facing larger medical bills and those medical bills will continue to rise. •
19
At home in the
Netherlands.At home across the world.
More than 700 foreign offices in 40 countries. Also in Singapore. International business? With more than 700 foreign offices and twenty International Desks Rabobank is at home across the world – also in Singapore. We know the market, the right networks and laws & regulations. Therefore we know where you come from, but also understand where you are going.
www.rabobank.nl/international, [email protected]
20
International Commercial Dispute Resolution; Singapore’s international muscle strength... By Henneke Brink ...
International commercial conflict resolution is booming business in Singapore. For arbitration, this has been true for a while now; the International Chamber of Commerce reported this summer that in 2015, Singapore was the most preferred seat for Arbitration in Asia, ranking fourth worldwide. Most of these arbitrations are administered by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (or SIAC), which has been in business since 1991 and still enjoys an ever-growing popularity.
However in recent years, Singapore made impressive investments to promote two newly established institutions that specialize in two alternative types of dispute resolution. The Singapore International Mediation Centre (SIMC) was launched in November of 2014 - fully equipped to offer mediation services to the international business community
- and just a few months later the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC) was established, offering formal adjudication with an international flavour. With the SIAC, SIMC and SICC working alongside each other, Singapore now offers the full spectrum of formal and informal dispute resolution services. The challenge in hand for the two youngest institutions – the SIMC and the SICC - is how to tempt the international business community to try something different from the familiar route to arbitration.
In this article, I will focus on the qualities of international arbitration and those of litigation at the SICC. In a later issue of this magazine I will discuss the option of mediation at the SIMC, and why this informal method of dispute resolution can be such an excellent choice.
Arbitration at the SIAC - party autonomy and the
benefit of international enforceability
Arbitration is often seen as an attractive means for commercial dispute resolution because it leaves room for the parties to pick their preferred arbitrator and to set procedural rules, and because the arbitration process often provides a speedier - and therefore less costly - resolution than court proceedings. However arbitration’s popularity also has a lot to do with the benefits of the so-called New York Convention.1 With 156 state parties, this treaty guarantees almost universal enforceability for arbitral awards.
No such effective, broad-ranging instrument exists as of yet for judicial judgments or for mediated settlements. This means that the enforcement of a court order or a settlement agreement in a foreign country may in some cases prove troublesome. This at least partly explains why court adjudication and mediation are not more widely opted for in international contracts.
Litigation at the SICC - procedural predictability and
increasing international muscle power
Court adjudication offers the general advantages of a predictable procedure, the ability to join third parties in the procedure and the option of appeal. Moreover, for judgments issued by the Singapore International
21
1 Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards (New York, 1958)2 By virtue of the Reciprocal Enforcement of Commonwealth Judgment Acts of 1921 (rev.in 1985) and the Reciprocal Enforcement of Foreign Judgments Act of 1959 (rev. in 2001) respectively.3 Christophe Bernasconi, “What to Expect from the Choice of Court Convention,” International Financial Law Review (Sept. 22, 2014)
Commercial Court, concerns about international enforceability are somewhat mitigated by the benefits of the Hague Convention on Choice of Court Agreements. Singapore signed this treaty earlier this year, and it came into force for the country on of October 1st.
In short, this Convention helps ensure that forum selection clauses in international commercial agreements are recognized, and that Singapore court judgments are enforceable in other member countries to the Convention. Before October 1st, the recognition of Singaporean court judgments abroad was only secured in Commonwealth countries and China’s Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.2 The EU countries (with the exception of Denmark) and Mexico have now been added to this list. This means that in international disputes between parties who are all from (and have their assets in) countries within these regions, it can make perfect sense to bring a case to the SICC.
Moreover, it is reasonable to expect a significant increase of the Convention’s importance in the near future. The treaty was already signed and is waiting for ratification by
the United States (which is pondering over how it should be implemented at the federal and state levels) and the Ukraine, and the Convention is under consideration in Argentina, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Paraguay, the Russian Federation and Turkey.3 Ideally, the Choice of Court Convention will develop into an instrument as efficient and encompassing as the 1958 New York Convention has proven to be for arbitral awards.
With the excellently equipped SICC in operation, Singapore has positioned itself perfectly to capitalize on this promising prospect. In this process, the SIAC may relinquish some of its dominion as the most sought-after provider of international dispute resolution services, but it will be for the good of enhanced access to justice. And that, of course, is a great cause. •
Photo: wikipedia
22
Having computer issues? Don’t worry Robbert will solve them
Robbert Gelissen, electro-technician by training, had been working in customer relations and technical roles for 15 years, before starting his own business in 2003, GelissenComputers.
His heart and strength lies with solving computer issues, no matter how big or small. That is why the services offered by ICTSTART are so diverse.
How can I help you / your business?
DATA ReCOVeRy
IctStart can recover your lost data. You can definitely influence the success-rate of data recovery. For instance a key indicator of data loss, or upcoming data loss due to failing hardware is a repeated tick or rattle sound from your computer. When you hear this, you are advised to NOT repeatedly restart the computer. Please remember that the sooner you act on this, the better.
Reasons for data loss:
• viruses or other malware can definitely damage your files;• human error can do the same damage;• failing hardware, due to humidity, mould, dust, lightning
and age.
Data loss is extremely frustrating: emotional or financial damage occurs, such as when you’re midway through writing an important report or when you lose pictures of your child’s first steps. Therefore, the most important take-home message is to prepare back-ups regularly, have a good quality antivirus software package installed and active on all your computers and make sure the antivirus software is updated.
Read more on how to prevent loss of documents or pictures here.
IT MANAgeMeNT
As an experienced IT manager, Robbert will be able to help your company with a successful office start-up or to manage the relocation of a complete (office) IT network, whether your business is relocating from outside of Singapore or within Singapore itself.
... By Robbert Gelissen . Photo by Jordy Bish ...
Offered services include:• collecting all requirements and planning of optimal
IT infrastructure• liaise with global IT departments and office managers• advice on hardware and software and liaise with suppliers• connect with local contractors and relocation company• arrange internet connection• installation and configuration of all computer equipment,
from smart phone to server.• maintenance and trouble-shooting
IT relocation is not limited to desktops and laptops only, but includes the installation and configuration of internet, servers, network printers, smart phones, desk phones and fax.
Even cable works can also be arranged by IctStart. With a network of reliable and knowledgeable contractors, we can ensure timely finalisation of both smaller and larger projects.
Internet in the whole house
In Singapore, a big issue is the wireless internet throughout your home. IctStart can solve this issue so you can enjoy (wireless) internet in every room of your home. Call Robbert to discuss the options. •
23
Call 24/7 for an appointment: +65 8189 5747
ICTSTART SingaporeIT PROJECT M AN AGEMENT & SERVICE
Corporate and home network.InstallatIon
Liaison between providers and external IT department.ConsultanCy
Laptop, desktop, data recovery, reinstallation.MaIntenanCe
Applications, e-mail and cloud services, Apple, Windows, Linux and advanced wireless solutions.ConfIguratIon
www.ictstart.com [email protected]
24
No-one prepares you for repatriation. Everyone thinks it’s easy to slip back into your former life. That ain’t necessary so, as Australian, Jacinta Noonan and her Dutch husband, experienced recently when they returned to Haarlem.
I remember clearly our first night in Singapore, walking from our short stay apartment on Orchard Road to our first food court experience. The sights, smells and sounds of Singapore in December bombarded our ‘fresh-off-the-boat’ Dutch senses. With child-like wonder, we explored our new home, soaking up everything on offer and embracing our new identities as expats. It was a bit of an emotional roller-coaster adapting to the heat, the language, the culture and a bit lonely for me as the partner left at home each day while her husband went off to work.
To help with our integration, we were sent on a Cultural Awareness course where we met others like us. Being adventurous by nature, we soon built a new and exciting life in Singapore. The expat life-style is quite a unique experience that no-one who hasn’t lived it can truly understand. You get to rub shoulders with incredible people, such as the Dutch Ambassador; you get amazing job opportunities, like teaching at the top of the Petronas Towers for the Malaysian government; or you suddenly find yourself on the back of a motor-bike with no protective clothing riding through Thailand. In this exciting and sometimes challenging bubble, you hang out with fellow expats whose lives are just as fascinating.
And one day, you choose to go home.
I thought moving back to Haarlem would barely create a ripple in the fabric of my life. Same house, same street, same everything. Easy right! Oh, how wrong was I. Few of
When going home feels odd... Text & photos by Jacinta Noonan ...
25
All new ADB membersAngelique Roeten West@HomeAnnemiek Kuijsten Hollandse ClubAnne-Marie Willems I Am MedicalAkshay Chaturvedi ABN AMRO BankBenk Visscher KatalystMBert Stegink ABN AMRO Bank N.V.Camiel weijenberg WEIJENBERG pte ltdCharlie van Eeden Mr.PrezidentDennis G W Schäfer Loyens & Loeff Singapore LLPDirk Peter (DP) van Leeuwen Red Hat Asia PacificEline Vermeulen Looking for a jobEric Timmermans FrieslandCampinaEwoud Schut ABN AMRO BankFrank van der Meulen Asia Management House Pte LtdFrederique spannenburg Courage11Gijs van Popta Air France KLMGlenn van der Veen UFITGhislaine Nadaud ABN AMRO Bank NVHyronimus Brands OrangePine LtdJaap Doornbos IKANO (IKEA SEA)Jack Van der Velde Unit4Jacqueline van Baal Looking for a jobJadranko Dovic VDL Enabling Technologies Group Singapore Pte. Ltd.Jeroen Lubbers Dolby Singapore Pte LtdJeroen van Holstein CBRE Joost Welzen ABN AMRO Bank NV
us prepare as well for repatriation as we do for expatriation. Our expat lives have enriched and changed us, but we don’t realise this. We have experiences that our families cannot even begin to relate to. They treat us as we were, not how we are, so there’s a strange disconnect as we try to become Dutch again.
On a practical level, it’s disconcerting to find you’ve forgotten how things work in your own country. I was sick one night recently, so I went to the nearby hospital. Silly me, that’s not what you do. They looked at me like I was a weirdo and it cost me an arm and a leg as insurance wouldn’t pay. I should have called the doctor service. Oh, how I miss the health insurance, the ease of the medical service and the low taxes of Singapore.
Horror of horrors, my stunning Asian antique desk won’t fit up the Dutch staircase and has to go. My precious wooden boxes are starting to warp because of the dry winter climate. My husband can’t get his head around the fact that wearing only a jumper is not enough in zero temperatures and he misses the swimming pool, wearing shorts every day and laughing with the locals who tease him for being a giant. We miss the wild adventure of expat life, while at the same time relish the comfort of our own culture.
Moving home is a big deal and we owe it to ourselves and our children to prepare well. It’s great to be home but don’t underestimate the amount of time and energy needed to
adjust both physically and emotionally. You might experience sleeping problems, mild depression, tiredness and a sense of not being grounded. This is normal and it will pass. It has taken us a full year to feel okay again, so if you are moving home, go easy on yourself and allow time to adjust. There are many great blogs on the web, so I encourage you to do some research before you leave for home. •
Judith Dijkhuis We Are PerspectiveJulian de Vries Andries SPARC International Pte LtdLaura Stiekema De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek, Singapore Pte LtdLaurens van den Brule International BaccalaureateLeon van Mullekom BASF Leon Verweijen BesiLiesbeth Kanis Brill Asia Pte LtdLotte De Vlaming Bamboo Lane Pte. Ltd.Lourens Reijgersberg KPN Marloes Schoonenberg Hollandse ClubMarjolein Janmaat XeroMax Van der Pols SPARC International Pte LtdNiels Bouwman NN Investment PartnersPaul Bloemendal Finex Commodities Asia Pte LtdPeter Arnoud Bensen PABensen Pte.Ltd.René Janssen Lazada GroupRoosmaryn Burgers-Spliet &samhoudSara Veerman VariousSita Doornbos DAMCOThomas Lameris Novartis Tom van Breda BAM International bvTim Smits InterContinental Hotels Group AMEAWei Wei Jiang Medtronic SingaporeWilbert Poot ABN AMRO
Jacinta Noonan, Life Coach, specialises in helping people in transition. She lives in Haarlem and coaches via Skype. She is part of the ADB editorial team and maintains her connection with Singapore. www.jacintanoonan.com
26
New membersMax Van der Pols After various stints across the globe, it was time to let my family decide where we would move next. They picked Singapore, a place rather close to our then place of residence.
As my wife landed her dream job here, I also got to chase my dream: setting up a company in Asia. I founded SPARC, a company that helps to accelerate growth by providing in-depth insights from solid and innovative market research and translating them to real, actionable outcomes. As a hobby, I DJ at weekends and night time.
Paul Bloemendal After 3 years in Mumbai my family and I recently returned to Singapore where we have lived before from 2006-2013. I am self-employed in a Fintech startup focusing
on commodity price-risk management solutions. Being a returning member of the ADB I hope that it will give me a similar platform for networking as I enjoyed here in the past. The various events are just an easy way to meet new and interesting people. The ADB 2016 annual party for sure showed that things have improved a lot while we were out of town!
Roos Spliet Exciting times! Working for &samhoud Asia I got the opportunity to build our Singapore office. We help organizations in accelerating change and entrepreneurship. Our expertise
is in the areas of vision & strategy, culture & change and leadership- & team development. On top we develop and integrate innovative tools in our approach to accelerate behavioral change like online serious gaming and Virtual- and Augmented Reality. Some of our regional clients are Montblanc, Mercedes, Ericsson, Axiata, Sime Darby, Hong Leong and Rabobank
Marloes SchoonenbergMy name is Marloes and I head the Sales, Events and Marketing Departments of the Hollandse Club, an international family club that offers sports and recreational facilities
for adults and kids.It’s an exciting role with many responsibilities and
new things to explore. As the Club is set amidst tropical surroundings, it feels like a mini holiday at the office every day.
I am a world traveler having lived in Paris, Guatemala, Kuala Lumpur and now Singapore where I arrived 2,5 years ago. I am a fanatic yogi and just discover Muay Thai! I love cooking and having fun with friends!
Peter Arnoud Bensen After 21 years working in the Oil and Gas industry as a subsea engineer I landed in Singapore 5 years ago. Together with my partner we started PABENSEN Pte. Ltd.
“Where Art and Science Design” located at the Innovation Centre in NTU. I invented a revolutionary locking and joining device called CUBE-IT which has many different applications such as: Building&Construction, Military&Areospace, Furniture&Toys. I’m currently looking for partners and investors to bring CUBE-IT to the market. I hope to find and look forward to meet ADB members who can advise me in that search.
Anne-Marie Willems2 years ago I moved together with my husband and daughter to Singapore for my husband’s work. After 25 years in a hospital, I now want to use my experience here in
Singapore. Therefore I started my own business: I AM Medical. I provide First Aid, CPR and AED or tailor made training for different organizations and companies. I really like to share my knowledge because I AM convinced: Anyone can make the difference in case of an emergency!
Liesbeth kanis I moved to the Singapore in April 2015 to set up the Asian regional office for Koninklijke Brill NV, an international academic publisher headquartered in Leiden. I am the Managing
Director of Brill Asia Pte Ltd and is responsible for business development in the Asian region. Brill publishes academic research in the Humanities, Social Sciences and International Law. My husband, Fredrik Knoeff works for Access Health, an international NGO specializing in innovation in Healthcare and aging in society.
Wilbert Poot After living and working in Amsterdam, we moved to Singapore early this year. I was asked by ABN AMRO to relocate and join our team in Singapore. It is a great place to live
and we are enjoying the opportunities of travelling around in Asia. From a professional perspective it comes with both opportunities and challenges, but never a dull moment! I look forward to joining the ADB events and meeting the other ADB members soon.
Stemmen vanuit het buitenlandWoensdag 15 maart 2017 vindt de verkiezing plaats van de leden van de Tweede Kamer der Staten-Generaal. Verblijft u tijdens deze verkiezing als Nederlander in het buitenland dan kunt u toch uw stem uitbrengen! Om vanuit het buitenland te kunnen stemmen voor deze verkiezing moet u zich eerst registreren als kiezer. Dat kan tot en met 1 februari 2017. Op de website www.stemmenvanuithetbuitenland.nl vindt u informatie over de registratie en over het stemmen vanuit het buitenland.
27
NeW yeARS ReCePTION
17 JANuARy 2017, TueSDAy
New year’s reception 2017 at the Ambassador’s Residence
Ambassador Jacques Werner and Mrs Soraya Werner have the pleasure of inviting members only to the ADB and DutchCham New Year’s reception at the Residence. The reception will take place on Tuesday 17 January 2017. Address: 23 Ridout Road, 248416 Singapore
SAVe THe DATe. MORe DeTAILS WILL FOLLOW!
STARTuP AND SMe ACADeMy
19 JANuARy 2017, THuRSDAy
The challenges and opportunities for startups and SMes in the digital age
Date : Thursday, January 19, 2017Time : 7:00pm 10:00pm
Digital disruption in Asia, how technology is driving consumer engagement in the world’s most exciting markets and is changing the entire business landscape.
SAVe THe DATe. MORe DeTAILS WILL FOLLOW!
upcoming events
eDITORIAL COMMITTeeDaniël Heerkens, Chief Editor
Rob Lamers & Alexis van dam, EditorsJacinta Noonan
eMAIL [email protected]
geNeRAL MANAgeR ADBWenneke Vrugt-Repko
ADB Singapore, c/o 541 Orchard Road #13-01 Liat Towers, Singapore 238881
[email protected], www.adb.org.sg
BASIC DeSIgNEdenspiekermann Pte Ltd
DeSIgN & PRePReSSJennifer Phua
PRINT PRODuCTION Words Worth Media Management Pte Ltd
© ADB (UEN: S90SS0097D). The contents of this magazine are partly based on information received from third parties
and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of ADB. The Committee does not take responsibility
for the correctness of the articles.MCI (P) 148/05/2015
DuTCH DRINkS SINgAPORe
14 JANuARy 2017, SATuRDAy
Dutch New year’s Dive
Date : Saturday, January 14, 2017Time : 3pm till late, official dive @ 3.30pmLocation: 920 East Coast Parkway, #01-28/32 Parkland Green Singapore 449875
MORe INFO: See DuTCH DRINkS SINgAPORe ON FACeBOOk OR OuR LINkeDIN gROuP FOR MORe INFO AND THe MONTHLy eDITIONS IN 2017.
28
Sinterklaas Arrival in Singapore
... By Alexis van Dam ...... Photos by Inge Kuipers ...
On Saturday 19 November at 10 o’clock sharp, Sinterklaas arrived at the Marina Bay Sands Promenade Bayfront South Jetty. The Jetty was packed with more than 1000 enthusiastic adults and children, who thoroughly enjoyed the typically Dutch festivity. Dutch ambassador, Jacques Werner, officially welcomed Sinterklaas to Singapore and congratulated him on the perfect arrival from Spain. Sinterklaas then shifted his attention to the kids, and together with his colourful Pieten, he made his way into the crowd to talk to the children. Noteworthy is that the Pieten seemed to have changed colour on their way from Spain to Singapore. After the arrival and welcome celebrations at Bayfront Jetty, Sinterklaas and his Pieten continued their journey by bus to the Hollandse Club for a Sinterklaas party, including present giving and lunch. Most children behaved well enough this past year and were allowed to stay in Singapore! A Big Thank you to the Hollandse Club and Hollandse School organizing committees for hosting Sinterklaas’ arrival! •
Singapore Management University, Executive Development 81 Victoria Street, Level 10, Singapore 188065 Tel: +65 6828 9095 Email: [email protected]
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