Why Regional Experience Matters for Young Singaporeans
Jeraldine Phneah
June 15, 2025
In today’s global economy, competition no longer stops at Singapore’s shores. Singaporeans are up against talent from across Asia and beyond.
With Asia now driving more than half of global growth, the region’s importance continues to rise. By 2030, two-thirds of the world’s middle-class families are expected to live here, accounting for over half of global consumption.
Asia has become a centre of innovation, consumption, and investment.
Through my experience expanding SaaS businesses across Southeast Asia and Greater China, I have seen how Singapore serves as a launchpad for these opportunities.
By immersing in neighbouring markets, Singaporeans can open new career possibilities and further strengthen our competitiveness.
As Sean Chiao, CEO of Surbana Jurong, aptly put it: “The future will be determined by those who can think globally and act locally, contributing to the global movement for change.”
If you’re thinking about venturing abroad, here are some reflections on why regional experience may matter more than ever.
1. Why Business Trips Are Not Enough for Regional Experience
Business trips can create a false sense of familiarity and reinforce blind spots. A typical 2–5 day visit offers a curated view, with polished boardrooms, conferences and rehearsed presentations.
While useful, business trips and client meetings often provide only surface-level insights. True understanding comes from sustained immersion.
During my work attachment in Hong Kong, I found that living in a place, engaging in its rhythms, and experiencing unfiltered interactions reveal the historical and cultural nuances that shape decision-making.
As Minister of Manpower Tan See Leng said, "To seize growth opportunities beyond Singapore, our companies require workers with experience in overseas markets, knowledge of the local environment, and the ability to work across multi-geographical teams."
True market understanding lives outside online meetings. It is built through consistent immersion.
2. Language Fluency Requires Way More Than Attending Classes
Despite years of formal education, many young Singaporeans struggle with professional conversations in their second language.
In Mandarin presentations or demos, it is common to rely on filler words like "那个", "因为", "所以", or "可以", switch between English and Mandarin, or pause mid-sentence searching for the right word.
This can distract from our message and reducing persuasiveness.
Even when stakeholders speak English, fluency in their native language helps build rapport, navigate meetings, and understand nuanced local needs.
While business Mandarin classes can expand vocabulary, true fluency requires more. Research shows that automaticity develops through real-world use and that immersion fosters neural adaptation for real-time communication.
Language becomes instinctive only through consistent immersion in authentic settings.
In today’s regional markets, relying solely on English can limit deeper engagement and understanding.
Imagine you are an investment manager evaluating a fintech startup in Indonesia. You have strong analytical skills but rely on English during due diligence.
Your colleague, Amy, engages local users in Bahasa Indonesia and uncovers insights that secure the investment and a board seat. You miss out, not due to a lack of capability, but because you lacked the linguistic and cultural access to add unique value.
3. Immersion Builds Character
According to Chng Kai Fong, former Managing Director at EDB, many Singaporeans hesitate to explore emerging markets.
"We have to be more adventurous and take on more overseas assignments, particularly in emerging markets. Spanish and Italian graduates are knocking on doors offering to go to second- and third-tier cities," he shared.
International experience has long been critical for business leadership. Singaporeans have a unique advantage in connecting with ASEAN, Greater China, and India — regions expected to drive global growth in the coming decades.
Many young Singaporeans understandably live with their parents well into adulthood, often due to high housing costs.
While practical, remaining in familiar environments can some times limit experiences that foster growth. Relocating resets routines and identities. It builds independence, resilience, and adaptability.
Chiao reminded us: “Competence alone is not enough. Singaporeans must combine professionalism with curiosity and the willingness to grow beyond what’s familiar.”
Navigating unfamiliar environments, building new networks, and managing challenges independently cultivates a broader world view.
Thinking About Gaining Regional Experience?
Here Are Some Practical Tips:
Choose a city: Visit it first to understand the environment and whether it feels right for you.
Set an active goal with a timeline: Clear deadlines encourage a bias to action. They turn "someday" into action. For example, "I plan to relocate to Ho Chi Minh by 1 November 2025."
Plan a baseline financial goal: A safety net can provide the confidence to take the first step and reduce the temptation to delay.
In an era where Asia is redefining the global economy, those who embrace its opportunities one step at a time may find not only new personal possibilities but also new ways to contribute to Singapore’s future.
On World Environment Day
In Buddhism and Taoism, we are taught that all things are connected. Our well-being is deeply tied to the world around us.
This truth feels especially clear to me when I am underwater, surrounded by marine life that thrives or suffers based on choices we make above the surface.
As I reflected on World Environment Day, I share five everyday ways we can try to live out metta (loving-kindness) towards nature.
These small acts are not separate from the spiritual path. They are part of it.
Jeraldine Phneah focuses on the challenges working adults face - rising costs, burnout, job insecurity, and caregiving - and offers reflections to drive meaningful change.