Tuesday 9 August 2011 www.shanghaidaily.com SUPPLEMENT SSINGAPOREINGAPORE B4

Relations between China and are multi-faceted at business, government and people level. Yao Minji meets the consul general responsible for maintaining close ties between the two countries — in an area which extends beyond Shanghai and into neighboring provinces. Maintaining a healthy relationship

ingapore Day is an annual one-day carnival for overseas Singaporeans Singapore to stay connected with the coun- Stry, and it is set in a different city by the numbers around the world each year, often a big city with a sizeable Singaporean community. In April, Singapore Day took place in China for the first time, with plenty of ac- 8,000 tivities and traditional Singaporean cuisines on offer in Shanghai’s Century Park. The Shanghai is home to almost city is home to almost 8,000 Singaporean 8,000 Singaporean people, not people, not including the large number of including the large number of visiting travelers. The number goes beyond visiting travelers. 10,000 when it includes Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui provinces, all covered by the consulate general in Shanghai. Tourism between China and Singapore is US$79b amazingly huge, with more than 1 million The total value of trade in 2010 Chinese tourists visiting Singapore every was US$79 billion, a 25 percent year, and close to 1 million Singaporeans increase from that of 2009. China coming to China on an annual basis. has maintained the second or third- “The absolute number is high, and the largest trading partner for Singa- percentage is even more. We have about pore in the past three to four years. 5 million residents in Singapore, among whom just over 3 million are Singaporeans. This means that every year, one in three Singaporeans make a trip to China,” says 20% Yip Wei Kiat, consul general for Singapore in Shanghai. As of the end of 2010, more “This figure and percentage presents than 3,000 Singaporean invest- a very revealing picture of the interac- ment projects are in Shanghai, tions between the two countries, not only accounting for more than 20 at government and business level, but at percent of total investment from people level.” Singapore to China. The 42-year-old diplomat calls China the place that he feels deepest about since he has spent six-and-a-half years here among his 18-year career. Yip was in Beijing 1 million for three years before taking his post in Shanghai, which he has been in for three- Tourism between China and and-a-half years. Singapore is amazingly huge, “China is a very interesting place, where with more than 1 million Chinese you have a vast country with long history tourists visiting Singapore every and rich culture. If you study further, it is year, and close to 1 million Sin- also very interesting to see the great variety gaporeans coming to China on an annual basis. of different cultures in different parts of the Yip Wei Kiat, consul general for Singapore in Shanghai, calls China the place that he country,” Yip says. feels deepest about among his 18-year career. “I have adjusted quite well to my position in Shanghai, as this international financial billion, 7 percent up from the same period “And in the future, I would also like to past few years, which has been extending center with advanced economy is rather last year. see the investment expanding and extending into many different sections including the similar to Singapore.” As of the end of 2010, more than 3,000 to more areas, with more diversity.” infrastructure development projects. As this year enters the 21st year since Singaporean investment projects are in Considering the diversity among the “I hope that many Chinese companies the establishment of the diplomatic tie Shanghai, accounting for more than 20 different regions in China, Yip suggests can take full advantage of Singapore’s Free between the two countries, Yip sees that percent of total investment from Singapore that Singapore companies who plan to start Trade Agreement that we have established “the cooperation and relations between to China. business here should conduct detailed mar- with most major economies around the Singapore and China have been growing Unlike in other parts of China, Singa- ket research and studies about the different world including the US, India, China, Japan steadily and healthily. We are currently on a pore’s investment in Shanghai focuses more markets in various parts of China in order and Australia. And we are also in positive very comfortable trajectory.” on the services and retail section, which to choose the best location. negotiations with the European Union,” Yip The total value of trade in 2010 was traditionally also includes logistics, consult- “The different regions here offer various says. US$79 billion, a 25 percent increase from ing, financial services, environmental opportunities for different types of Sin- He adds that taking advantage of the that of 2009. Close to US$9 billion was services, among many more. gapore companies. For example, we tend strong network of the FTA can help the completed in Shanghai. China has main- And more than 30 percent are invested in to have more service-related business in Chinese companies in their development tained the second or third-largest trading the nearby Jiangsu Province. Shanghai, while I will suggest to manufac- strategy for going global. partner for Singapore in the past three to “Together, the East China region that turers to take advantage of lower overall As host to many multinational compa- four years. this office covers accounts for more than business costs in other parts of China,” Yip nies, Singapore can also offer opportunities And the most recent statistics show the half of Singapore investment in China, re- explains. for Chinese companies based there to trade value between the two countries from vealing a very vivid picture of the bilateral He has also seen an increasing presence establish networks and cooperation with January to May of this year was US$34 relations,” Yip says. of Chinese companies in Singapore in the these companies. SShanghaihanghai DDailyaily Tuesday 9 August 2011 B5 Club keeps a closer relationship

Wang Yanlin s the largest Singapore business commu- nity outside of the Acity-state country, Shanghai Singapore Business As- sociation-Singapore Club Shanghai (SSBA-SCS) plays an active role in fostering closer business ties between Singapore and China. Established in 1988, the SSBA- SCS has developed more than 1,000 members. With a kaleido- scope of events from monthly seminars, business tours to large forums, the association serves as a nurturing conduit for networking Singaporeans, other expatriates and the local communities. On Saturday, the SSBA-SCS hosted a grand event to celebrate today’s Singapore National Day, and Shanghai Daily had an exclusive interview with its club president Darren Wong Chong Nam. Energetic and polished, Darren is an experienced businessman with many years of exposure in Yip Wei Kiat (fifth from left), consul general for Singapore in Shanghai, Darren Wong Chong Nam (third from right), president of Shanghai manufacturing. In the past two Singapore Business Association-Singapore Club Shanghai, and other people from Singaporean communities toast at a weekend event to decades, he has visited many cities celebrate Singapore National Day, which falls on today. — Zhang Suoqing in the Chinese mainland. Two years ago, Darren settled down in Singapore and China have Shanghai as a senior executive in different economic and business Shanghai Daily: Can you a die-casting firm, and served as strengths that can complement each describe a distinctive characteristic active volunteer in the association. other, Wong said. He also elaborat- of Singapore investors? Having elected as the president ed on what benefits and challenges Darren: We are cautious and of SSBA-SCS for a year, Dar- lay head with closer cooperation. kiasu. Before making big deci- ren expects to reach out to more sions, we tend to consider twice or Singaporeans in Shanghai, as there Shanghai Daily: What role more till we are ready for all pos- are more than 2,500 Singapore-in- does SSBA-SCS play in Singapore- sibilities. It is a good merit because vested firms in this metropolis and China business dealings? being conservative can help us roughly 8,000 Singaporeans living Darren: The SSBA-SCS is one avoid making huge mistakes. But here. Also, he hopes to continue of the oldest Singapore business at certain times, it deters us from to work closely with the Singapore communities in China. With a grabbing opportunities in timely Consulate General in Shanghai, the history of 23 years, our associa- manner. International Enterprise Singapore, tion has grown into an influential Singapore Chinese Chamber of group that can connect Singapore Shanghai Daily: What areas Commerce and Industry and sister investors with potential Chinese can be further explored to boost A flea market is set up at a weekend event to celebrate Singapore Singapore communities, such as partners, and help them establish cooperation between Singapore National Day. — Zhang Suoqing Singapore clubs in Suzhou, Wuxi, links with other Singapore firms and China? Guangzhou and Ningbo, as well who came earlier to share business in China, and the country gave a two countries can work together. There are great op- as Singapore Chamber of Com- Darren: resources and experiences. good return with the rising pur- Since Singapore has developed its portunities out there. The industry merce Beijing and its affiliates to For many Singapore investors, chasing power of Chinese people. capability in urban planning, we establish the close link. of MICE (meetings, incentives, Shanghai is where their busi- However, higher production and have signed contracts with Chinese Being neighbors, Singapore conventions and exhibitions), nesses in the Chinese mainland get labor costs have threatened the partners to initiate the construction and China have developed a close finance, property, designing, started. It’s always the preferred well-being of many manufacturers of an eco-friendly city in Tianjin business relationship since early advanced engineering, dining … city when they travel to China. in China. Although Singaporeans and a similar one in Nanjing, 1980s. China was Singapore’s and many more. That’s why our association has mainly invest in advanced engi- Jiangsu Province. As builders of a second-largest trading partner in continued to gain influential posi- neering to stay competitive and garden city, we are confident that 2010, and the spreading impact of Shanghai Daily: Can you tion. We have a humble beginning provide more added value, we we can introduce and share the the China-Singapore Free Trade comment on China’s current busi- since 1988, and grew to a sizable faced the threat of lower profit latest environmental protection and Agreement (CSFTA) is expected ness climate for foreign investors? Singapore club. We combined both margin. Some companies have energy preservation technology to further boost the trading volume Darren: China’s foreign in- responded by relocating their and concepts with China. between the two. Business Association and Social vestment climate is improving. The production factory to rural areas Inked in 2009, the CSFTA Club in 1997. I strongly believe government officials welcome for- or even to other countries. In my Shanghai Daily: As many enhanced Singapore companies’ we will continue to obtain weight eign investments, and are actively opinion, Singapore companies global investors are keeping an access to 44 service sectors in the in a closer business tie between assisting investors to start business. Chinese market. With effect from Singapore and China. should continue sharpening their eye on China for business oppor- Recently, officials in Shenyang, January 2010, 95 percent of Singa- edge in research and development tunities, how do you differentiate Liaoning Province have had con- pore’s exports to China worth more Shanghai Daily: How does ability, and maintain high efficien- Singapore investors from the tacted us to seek cooperation. They than US$18 billion were exempt SSBA-SCS cope with the fast- cy to counter this challenge. After others? see great potential from Singapor- from tariffs. Key exports such as changing China? all, China’s business infrastructure Darren : Because we belong ean companies, and hope to attract petrochemicals, processed foods Darren: The rapid economic is getting much better, and the to the same skin type and have investments from Singapore. With and electronics benefited the most. evolution in China has offered overall costs remain low. similar source of culture, Singa- China’s market becoming more It also facilitated the movements many opportunities for Singapore pore investors have a competitive transparent, regulated and mar- of goods, services and business- investors. Back in the 1980s, we Shanghai Daily: Can you edge in conducting business in ketized, investors from Singapore men between the two countries, came mainly for cheaper labor tell us about the latest business China. Many Westerners thought are increasingly confident with according to documents by the costs and exported products cooperation between Singapore they could accomplish in this their choice with China. International Enterprise Singapore. manufactured here. But now, a vast and China? country if they could speak Chi- But there are further room for As a result of the agreement, Chinese market has attracted many Darren: There are many nese. However, it is not the case at improvement. For example, Chi- bilateral trade between Singapore investors in the non-manufacturing examples of successful coopera- all. Learning the local language nese authorities had better provide and China grew to US$95.3 billion sectors. For example, bankers, tion. Suzhou Industrial Park, after is important, but to understand tax incentive schemes to attract in 2010, up from US$75.7 billion commercial property developers experiencing some difficult times, the local culture and think like foreign investors and offer more a year earlier despite a stumbling and providers of food and beverage it’s now well operated and profit- locals is the key success for many friendly approach toward expatri- global economic recovery. in Singapore increasingly invested able. It sets a good model for how Singapore investors in China. ates working in China as well. SShanghaihanghai DDailyaily B6 Tuesday 9 August 2011 Savor a taste of Singapore cuisine

Nie Xin Western comfort foods is offered are just that, especially in terms of gravy and a level of spice that’s just Tel: 6401-3303 at this restaurant, treating diners to flavor, and great value. right. Opening hours: 10am-11pm ny mention of Singa- fresh, healthy and delicious dishes, Address: 208 Xinle Rd Address: 1788 Xinzha Rd porean cuisine should reminiscent of authentic Singapor- Tel: 3461-5657 Tel: 6218-1792 begin with laksa. This Marlin Bay ean delights. Opening hours: 11am-11:30pm Opening hours: 10am-2pm spicy is The newly opened Marlin Bay The laksa is a pleasantly fragrant A features some fine Singaporean normally considered a product of coconut fish featuring the Peranakan, the Chinese im- Orchard CRC cuisine among its grand spread hard-, fish sticks, Amazing Grace migrants who came to the British of Asian, Cantonese and Western puffs, cockles and prawns. Restaurant and Pub Straits Settlements at the end of the This relaxed, Southeast Asian- dishes. While its setting among Their steamed chicken with soy If you’re after decent chai tow 15th century. style dining room provides the Cool Docks of the South Bund, sauce is also a great choice. It’s kway (savory carrot ), hokkien In Shanghai, there are many authentic Singaporean food. might not transport you to Singa- boiled in a and mee (seafood ) and worshippers of laksa and other On the first floor is the dining pore, their tasty treats certainly will. and the meat is served with sliced chicken rice, head to this venue on , which also area, upstairs is a cozy floor-seat- cucumber, chili sauce with garlic, Xinzha Road. enjoys popularity around much of ing area and an outdoor bar serving ginger sauce, smashed The place has a comfortable Southeast Asia. Singapore’s renowned Tiger beer ginger and thick, dark soy. retro feel, making it an ideal At the following restaurants and BBQ . Address: 11 Novel Place, 133 in Shanghai you can find this The Singapore Hainanese Tianyaoqiao Rd quintessential example Singapor- chicken rice and the assam Tel: 3368-8938 laksa are both worth trying, while ean cuisine, as well as other typical Opening hours: 11am-11pm Singaporean dishes. their tahu telor, deep-fried bean curd topped with shredded cucum- Mo’ Laksa ber, bean sprouts, chopped My Dining Place Singapore pepper crab The name says it all at this con- and sweet sauce, is amazing. A selection of fine modern Sin- temporary little cafe serving the Address: Unit 105, Block 16, 388 Located inside Shanghai Yacht gapore and Cantonese cuisines and Singaporean curried . Hongzhong Rd Club, the restaurant offers an unmatched ambience of table- Also on offer are other Southeast Hainan chicken rice Asian staples such as otak and side, waterfront dining, and the stir-fried morning glory. destination to savor a Singapore chance to sample mouth-watering Seven variations of laksa are coffee. treats from an eclectic menu while available, including chicken, But it’s the food that is the real sipping a perfectly chilled glass prawn, and lobster. Each draw, such as the Hainan chicken of wine, making it one of the best is served with a choice of rice rice. Deliciously tender chicken is waterfront dining venues on the , vermicelli or egg noodles, served on a bed of rice and cucum- Bund. and come either spicy or hot. ber with a bowl of soup. Address: 1162 Waima RdTel: Mo’ Laksa’s large portions The is equally 3310-0580, 3310-0581 Laksa at My Dining Place costing 58-118 yuan (US$9-18.32) satisfying with a rich and creamy Penang assam laksa Opening hours: 11:30am-12am SShanghaihanghai DDailyaily Tuesday 9 August 2011 B7 Super summer fun in Singapore

ingapore offers Splenty to do and Singapore Flyer provides great see. Since it’s warm views of Sentosa Island. year-round, a vaca- tion can be planned at any time, which gives holiday planners tons of flexibility. If you want action, there are the roller coasters at Universal Studios Singapore and the Singapore Flyer. For more leisurely pursuits, check out the beaches on Sentosa Island or the orchids at the botanic gardens. (Pan Zheng)

Places to go:

• Singapore Flyer • Singapore Botanic Gardens Similar to a giant ferris wheel, It’s one of the most popular des- each module on the Flyer can hold tinations for Singaporean families 28 people. It provides great views on weekends. There are more than of Sentosa Island and on a clear 6,000 orchids and other plants. The day they say you can see Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and . As for lovers, it’s teaches children about plants. believed that if you make a wish when the Flyer reaches the top, the • East Coast Park gods will hear your wish and your This is an ideal place for picnics lover will be blessed. and barbecues as the park features tennis courts, a bowling alley, • SkyPark at Marina Bay water sports facilities and a beach Sands game zone for children. Along Sitting on the rooftop of Marina the beach there is a bicycle path Bay Sands hotel, SkyPark is about stretching 12 kilometers and a 200 meters high and gives splen- footpath that meanders for 15 Two visitors feed giraffe at Singapore Zoo. Universal Studios Singapore is a popular venue for kids. did views of Singapore. It’s big kilometers. enough to park four-and-a-half membrane (via microfiltration and based on movies such as “Shrek” institutes in Singapore for parents A380 jumbo jets. The park also • Chocolate Research Facility reverse osmosis) and ultraviolet and “Jurassic Park.” Guaranteed to to choose for their children. These features sightseeing platforms, lush This modern chocolatier offers technologies, as well as conven- be a hit with children. include the popular Lasalle Art gardens, upscale restaurants and an more than 100 colorful chocolates. tional water treatment processes. College and Nanyang Art College. infinity-edged swimming pool. Humans can NEWater. • Henderson Waves • Singapore Zoo At the center, visitors can see The bridge is about 12 stories • Wave House • Beaches of Sentosa Aside from the usual collection how the wastewater is purified and high and provides beautiful views This wave pool produces Sentosa Island has three beaches of animals, reptiles and birds, the taste NEWater. of the city. It’s also used frequently 3-meter-high waves and you can — Tanjong Beach, Palawan Beach Singapore Zoo is the only one in in romance scenes for local TV learn to surf here. There are special and Siloso Beach. You can take a the world that allows tourists to • Philatelic Museum series. zones for beginners to learn how silent walk at Tanjong Beach, or dine with orangutans. Hard to be- Singapore Philatelic Museum is to stand on a surfboard and other enjoy the sea view at Palawa Beach lieve, but true. Advance bookings the first stamp museum in South- • Universities and Colleges simple skills. or try various water sports at Siloso are recommended to avoid being east Asia. Learn about the history Singapore has three famous Beach. disappointed. of Singapore and stamps. Besides public universities — the Na- • MINT Toy Museum that, you can also pick a postcard tional University of Singapore, MINT Toy Museum displays • Mount Faber • NEWater Exhibition Center and mail it from the museum. Nanyang Technological Univer- a lot of antique toys, including At only 105 meters, it’s not really NEWater is the brand name sity and Singapore Management souvenirs from Disneyland. The a mountain, but it still offers good given to reclaimed water produced • Universal Studios Singapore University. All three are open to collection also boasts popular toys views of the city. Mount Faber is by Singapore’s Public Utilities Universal Studios Singapore the public. such as Astro Boy, Spiderman and also a quiet retreat from the hustle Board. It is waste water that features everything from roller Besides public universities, there Popeye, as well as Japanese toys and bustle of the city below. has been purified using dual- coasters to various other attractions are also plenty private education made before World War II. Where to eat:

• PS Cafe • Cafe Del Mar Primal Scream. Every Wednesday is Mambo • Cornery Popcorn PS Cafe in Dempsey Hill is famous for its Cafe Del Mar is at Siloso Beach on Sen- Jambo night. Cornery is a famous popcorn seller. With hearty brunch, featuring everything from tosa Island and is sometimes compared with colorful and unique flavors, it’s always bacon and eggs to asparagus Ibiza in Barcelona. You can sit back, relax • The Cliff popular with children and teenagers. and great . The nice setting provides and slowly sip some great cocktails and try With soft lights, delicate decoration and good views of the hill. some Spanish food, or you can mingle with perfect service, the Cliff can be considered • Ben & Jerry’s others and make new friends. one of the most romantic restaurants on Sen- It’s hard to top ice cream on a hot day. • Telok Ayer Market tosa Island. Ask for a table on the balcony Ben & Jerry’s ice cream features a bunch of Telok Ayer Market was first established in • Zouk and enjoy the view of the seascape. flavors such as Chunky Monkey. 1894. These days, more than barbecue sellers If you can only go to one bar during your line the street after 7pm every day. You stay in Singapore, Zouk is a good choice. • II Lido never need to worry about going to bed on It grooves to the beat, and its international This famous Italian restaurant attracts a Keep in mind that you can design your an empty stomach after a late night as some reputation attracts top DJs such as Carl Cox, fair amount of celebrities as regular guests. own vacation at www.yoursingapore.com. stalls stay open for 24 hours. Paul Oakenfold, the Chemical Brothers and A meal at sunset is highly recommended.