Outgoing STB chief proud of promoting local talent

Tourism board's role is greater than getting more tourists to come here and spend, he says

On where he would be going next, outgoing Singapore Tourism Board chief Lionel Yeo said: "My first thought is to take a break, maybe be a tourist in my own country, then explore opportunities where I can contribute in the private sector."
On where he would be going next, outgoing Singapore Tourism Board chief Lionel Yeo said: "My first thought is to take a break, maybe be a tourist in my own country, then explore opportunities where I can contribute in the private sector." ST PHOTO: SEAH KWANG PENG
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In his early days as the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) chief executive, Mr Lionel Yeo's attempts to convince business leaders to feature more local talent were sometimes met with looks of puzzlement and the refrain: "Singapore got meh?"

But the last several years saw a surge in support for local creative talent and, combined with a hunger from travellers for more authentic experiences, presented a new opportunity for the board to market "our little red dot", he told The Straits Times in an interview.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 28, 2018, with the headline Outgoing STB chief proud of promoting local talent. Subscribe