The 8th Winsemius Awards highlights enduring business ties and shared values between Singapore and the Netherlands in innovation, sustainability, and community impact.
Singapore, 26 May 2025 – The 8th DutchCham Winsemius Awards took centre stage at a commemorative event celebrating the strong and enduring relationship between Singapore and the Netherlands, attended by distinguished guests, diplomats, and business leaders. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu, delivered a keynote address that paid tribute to a decade of recognition for companies driving progress in business, innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Established in 2015 to mark Singapore’s 50th year of independence, the Winsemius Awards were inspired by Dr Albert Winsemius, a Dutch economist who played a vital role in guiding Singapore’s early industrialisation. The 2025 edition, held in conjunction with SG60, was particularly significant as it also marked 60 years of diplomatic ties and 35 years of DutchCham’s presence in Singapore.
Minister Fu lauded the nearly 2,000 Dutch businesses operating in Singapore, contributing across diverse sectors including healthcare, semiconductors, maritime, food, and renewable energy. She highlighted key milestones in bilateral cooperation, such as the renewed Singapore-Rotterdam Cooperation Agreement on maritime sustainability and expanded efforts in semiconductors and high-tech innovation.
In her speech, Minister Fu also outlined future directions for bilateral cooperation, including deepening ties in green and digital transitions, climate adaptation and water management, circular economy, and resilient supply chains. These priorities reflect both nations’ shared commitment to sustainability, openness, and innovation.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Winsemius Community Impact Award, which recognises organisations that go beyond commercial success to uplift communities and foster inclusion. Speaking on the importance of social responsibility, Minister Fu remarked:
“True leadership lies not just in profit, but in purpose. It is about uplifting communities, leading with integrity, and creating meaningful contributions to our society.”
The event served as a reflection of the strength of Dutch-Singapore ties — built not only on commerce but also on mutual trust, shared values, and people-to-people connections. Minister Fu concluded by reaffirming Singapore’s commitment to being a regional hub for business, innovation, and collaborative growth, echoing the visionary spirit of Dr Winsemius and the values that continue to shape the nation today.
Source: DutchCham Press
