Singapore, a small city-state located in Southeast Asia, has become an increasingly popular destination for visitors worldwide. While Singapore is known for its world-class food, shopping, and technology, many of its citizens have also made a name for themselves on the international stage. In a while, we'll consider some of the most famous Singaporeans who have made an impact abroad.
Singapore has seen many of its citizens leave the country to make their mark on the international stage. From entrepreneurs, investors and artists to academics and athletes, Singaporeans have gradually become some of the most renowned and successful individuals in the world. The list of famous Singaporeans abroad is growing quickly, and it's no surprise, given the country's impressive level of economic and social development since the 1960s.
The late Lee Kuan Yew, who was born in 1923, was a renowned Singaporean figure, known as the first Prime Minister of the nation. Under his leadership, Singapore underwent a remarkable transformation, emerging as a prosperous and modern state after gaining independence from Malaysia in 1965. Yew's impact on Singapore and its development cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by Singaporeans and people globally. As the founding Prime Minister of Singapore, he served the country for over three decades, securing his place as the architect of Singapore's economic success. Today, Lee Kuan Yew's achievements are acknowledged around the world, inspiring many individuals and countries.
Ho Ching - was CEO of Singapore's Temasek Holdings, Singapore's state-owned investment company, from 2004 to 2021. Ho Ching is a Singaporean businesswoman who has been serving as the director of Temasek Trust since 2021. She is the wife of incumbent Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. She was widely regarded as the most powerful woman in the country. Ho Ching's influence extends beyond Singapore, with many of the company's investments made abroad.
Joseph Schooling, a native of Singapore, rose to fame as an Olympic swimmer. He fulfilled his dream of competing in the Olympic Games when he won a gold medal in the men's 100m butterfly event at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. At the young age of 16, he moved to the United States to pursue his passion for swimming and has since become one of the most decorated athletes in Singapore's history. With his Olympic gold medal and numerous records, including the Asian and Commonwealth records in the 100-meter butterfly, Joseph Schooling has cemented his place as a national icon and source of inspiration for young athletes around the world.
Further, Singaporean fashion designer Prabal Gurung has gained international fame for his unique style and designs. Gurung, who was born in Singapore in 1979, is known for his use of bold colours and prints, as well as his commitment to sustainability and ethical production. Gurung's designs have been worn by a number of celebrities, including Michelle Obama, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Priyanka Chopra.
These are some of the most famous Singaporeans who have found success abroad. Whether they're entrepreneurs, athletes, actors, or fashion designers, these individuals have made an impressive impact on the international stage and are a source of pride for Singaporeans everywhere.
Here are other famous Singaporeans that have made a splash on the global stage:
Ravi Menon- Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore: Ravi Menon is the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) managing director. He has held the post since 2011 and is responsible for overseeing the country's monetary policy and financial stability. He is member of the Group of Thirty, an international organization of prominent bankers and economic thinkers.
Shanmugam Jayakumar- Former Minister for Foreign Affairs: Shanmugam Jayakumar was the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Singapore from 2011 to 2018. He was instrumental in forging diplomatic ties with several countries, including the United States, China, India and Japan. Jayakumar was also a key negotiator in a number of regional issues, such as the South China Sea disputes.