Prologue July 2008
by our President Jan de Vegt

Dear members,

With a successful barbeque and networking drinks in June, it is now time to take a break. With the numerous events in April and May we had busy party months. For a lot of us the parties continue. As June is traditionally a month for farewells. Unfortunately we have to say goodbye again to a lot of friends.

But that’s the way it goes. New challenges, sometimes new countries and a lot of times back to the Netherlands.

In a lot of cases, and I speak out on my own experience, coming back to the Netherlands is similar to going to a different country. You have to get used again to the weather (constantly having cold hands and feet) for at least a year and get used to being in meetings and gatherings during the major part of your day. Live your life by the agenda and get used to the fact that everyone thinks they can do the job better than you do. But do not fear, it will wear off, you will adjust (although hesitating) and all will work out. There will be moments that you think: why did I leave Singapore. But that proves that we enjoy life here business and social wise. I wish all outgoing members all the
best, good luck in their new challenges and thanks for your contributions, in whatever form, to the ADB.

Those who are staying, I wish you all very good and relaxing holidays and a safe return to Singapore. Rest assured that the board of ADB will keep working on the black tie dinner and all the other events to follow. This year the black tie dinner will be at a very special location, which you probably have not seen before. More news will follow.

Finally if anyone of our members knows a company or organisation which would like to advertise in this very well set-up and interesting magazine, please let us know.

Enjoy reading this month’s magazine

Jan de Vegt

ADB mission:
‘To share meaningful and business-related information amongst the Dutch business community in Singapore, whilst networking in a fun environment’

Welcome to the ADB

ADB, Your key to the Singapore business community!

The "Association of Dutch Businessmen in Singapore" is THE business organization for men and woman, living and working in Singapore with the ability to speak Dutch. Every month the members convene after working hours to share their thoughts and experiences over a drink. This get-together is followed by a presentation, forum discussion, or company visit.

The ADB was formally established in November 1990. Several Dutch businessmen in Singapore were of the view that communication, understanding and, where possible, cooperation among Dutch businessmen and women could be much improved. Accordingly, it was felt that a business association had to be established and presently the ADB counts approximately 350 members (all natural persons rather than companies).

The members represent all layers of Dutch business activities in Singapore: from director to entrepreneur, from researcher to trainee, from legal advisor to sales manager. All share a common interest in the business environment of Singapore and its surrounding countries.

The ADB does not contemplate to be a Chamber of Commerce or a trade institution, seeking to formally represent the interests of Dutch business in Singapore. The ADB, however, constitutes a platform for Dutch businessmen to share their thoughts and experiences. Thus the ADB provides an easy and friendly entrance to the Singapore business community.