Achievements of Overseas Singaporean Unit Since Formation in 2006
Ministry of Trade and IndustrySpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Mr Cedric Foo Chee Keng’s inquiry regarding the achievements of the Overseas Singaporean Unit (OSU) since its formation in 2006. Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing highlighted that the OSU’s programs and digital channels have reached over 100,000 overseas Singaporeans globally. The unit developed a network of community leaders and clubs that coordinate more than 100 annual events, including National Day celebrations and networking gatherings. On 1 June 2019, the OSU was integrated into the Singapore Global Network (SGN) within the Economic Development Board to further broaden connections with overseas Singaporeans and international friends. Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing emphasized that this move aims to bolster Singapore’s economic interests and fellowships in an increasingly fragmented world.
Transcript
18 Mr Cedric Foo Chee Keng asked the Minister for Trade and Industry what are the achievements of the Overseas Singaporean Unit (OSU) since its formation in 2006.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: Singaporeans are our family, no matter where they are in the world. As with family members around the world, we keep in touch regularly and stay connected. The Overseas Singaporean Unit, or OSU in short, was formed in 2006 to coordinate the Government's efforts to engage overseas Singaporeans.
Since 2006, OSU's suite of face-to-face programmes and online engagement channels have reached out to more than 100,000 overseas Singaporeans. OSU has successfully cultivated an extensive network of overseas Singaporean clubs and associations, as well as community leaders who take an active role in galvanising the overseas Singaporean communities around the globe. Cumulatively, these overseas Singaporean communities organise more than 100 events annually, such as National Day or festive celebrations, social gatherings, and networking events.
On 1 June 2019, OSU became part of the Singapore Global Network – SGN in short – within EDB. SGN's mandate is to broaden and deepen our overseas Singaporean network with friends and fans of Singapore. This stronger and wider network will serve Singaporeans and Singapore well, for economics, fellowships and friendships. This is especially important in the increasingly tumultuous and fragmented world today. I look forward to what the SGN can do for Singaporeans and for Singapore.