Building a stronger S'pore Inc

THE rapid growth of Singapore over the past 50 years has led the nation to punch far above its weight and earn a global reputation for economic success and strong governance. This Singapore "brand" has come to represent trustworthiness, economic success and reliability for business people around the world - "Asia for Beginners", as some have put it.

Yet even as the national brand thrives, brands of Singapore companies have not fared as well. Indeed, only two Singapore brands - Singapore Airlines and DBS - were named among the world's top 500 global brands in 2014. In contrast, China had 32 such brands, and Japan had 40.

Along with offering a superb opportunity to celebrate the nation's success, the year of Singapore's 50th birthday can also be a time for programmes to recognise successful local companies. At 50, we want to inspire the next generation of Singapore businesses that will underpin and propel the growth of the nation going forward.