SINGAPORE AND KEPRI TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT

Dr. Ismeth Abdullah, the Governor of Kepulauan Riau (Kepri), was in Singapore for a 2-day visit on 19-20 January, at the invitation of Singapore's Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Lim Hng Kiang.

While here, Governor Ismeth focused on industry, agriculture, tourism, and education and training - the key areas that the Governor has identified as priorities, and in which Kepri and Singapore have potential to strengthen cooperation.

Representatives of the business community operating in Batam and Bintan had the opportunity to dialogue and exchange ideas with Governor Ismeth on how to improve the investment climate in Batam and Bintan, at a dinner hosted by the Chairman of Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB), Mr. Teo Ming Kian.

Governor Ismeth also visited the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA) and NTUC Fair price Cooperative to explore ways to improve the supply of agri-produce to Singapore, and to discuss further means of cooperation in farming, aquaculture and marine fishing.

As part of Kepri’s intention to develop its human resources, Governor Ismeth’s delegation visited the Ngee Ann Polytechnic to learn about its education system and training courses, making particular stops at the precision engineering and chemical processing laboratories.

Affirming that tremendous benefits could be reaped from a strong relationship, Minister Lim and Governor Ismeth agreed on Singapore and Kepri enhancing engagement with each other to further the development of the young and promising province.

MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY
21 JANUARY 2006

Minister Lim Hng Kiang and Governor Ismeth Abdullah exchanging gifts after a lunch hosted by Minister Lim for the Governor and his delegation