Exploring Singapore’s blueprint for economic and social success

From June 16 to June 20, 2025, Executive MBA students (EMBA22) from Nyenrode Business University embarked on a dynamic international immersion in Singapore - a nation long regarded as a model for economic transformation, policy innovation, and strategic foresight. The program, titled “Singapore’s Pillars of Success”, offered students an in-depth look at how a small city-state emerged as one of Asia’s most competitive and sustainable economies.

Led by Prof. Haico Ebbers, the program connected three major themes: the role of government in economic development, the intricacies of Singapore’s business environment, and the cultural complexities of doing business in Asia. Through visits to key institutions and engaging dialogues with leaders in both public and private sectors, the week gave students a front-row seat to Singapore’s strategic balancing act between state intervention and market forces.

Innovation, infrastructure, and international Business

Throughout the week, students engaged with executives and policymakers from organizations like Leaseweb, FrieslandCampina, Dell Technologies, and SGX (Singapore Exchange). These sessions revealed why so many Western firms choose Singapore as their regional base; thanks to its transparent legal environment, pro-business policies, and digital readiness.

The visit to the Embassy of the Netherlands highlighted the importance of bilateral trade and innovation ties, while workshops at the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) emphasized leadership development in multicultural and rapidly evolving environments.

Power of policy and the pursuit of purpose

A key takeaway was Singapore’s remarkable rise from poverty to prosperity; a feat accomplished through deliberate government policy, disciplined planning, and a clear vision for national identity. Once poorer than many African nations in the 1950s, Singapore now ranks among the world’s wealthiest and least corrupt countries. Its sovereign wealth fund, Temasek, its entrepôt trade model, and its push for digitalization underline how state-led capitalism can function in harmony with global market dynamics.

The program concluded with a forward-looking discussion on renewable energy at Flo Energy and insights from Arjen de Boer, a Nyenrode alumnus and former executive at Indosuez Wealth Management, offering reflections on wealth, leadership, and sustainability in Asia.

Where global meets personal

This journey to Singapore is just one example of how Nyenrode’s MBA programs will challenge you to grow beyond the classroom. If you're ready to expand your worldview, sharpen your leadership skills, and make a meaningful mark on business and society, Nyenrode and the Impact MBA is where your next chapter begins.