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Wed, Nov 25, 2020 – 5:50 am
Singapore
There is a stereotype that business leaders come to Singapore only after they are successful. But Forrest Li, head of Internet giant Sea, emphasizes that this is not his story.
The 43-year-old businessman was named Entrepreneur of the Year at the 35th Singapore Business Awards (SBA) on Tuesday, organized by The Business Times and logistics firm DHL Express Singapore.
“Singapore took me in when I was nobody. I came here with just savings and a hundred thousand dollars in student loans. My wife and I could only rent one bedroom in a three-bedroom HDB apartment in Braddell,” he said. he recalled in his acceptance speech at the SBA dinner on Tuesday.
“Despite this, the Singapore community accepted me, for which I will always be grateful. Long before I was successful, I was made to feel welcome.”
Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat presented Li with the top award at the SBA dinner, held in the Singapore Press Holdings auditorium with safe entry and safe distancing measures.
The awards recognized Mr. Li, Sea Founder, President and CEO, for his vision to build a consumer Internet giant with a strong global presence. The New York-listed firm has three businesses: digital entertainment arm Garena, e-commerce platform Shopee, and financial technology unit SeaMoney.
“Business is a team sport, and I am fortunate to have over 3,000 excellent teammates here in Singapore, and thousands more around the world. Tonight this award does not belong to me, but to all of us.” Li said, while crediting Singapore. Economic Development Board introducing your company to tech giant Tencent, a sponsor of Sea.
Li also thanked his family, Sea co-founders Ye Gang and David Chen, and his clients.
The other award winners include Seah Kian Peng, Group CEO of NTUC Enterprise and NTUC Fairprice Co-operative, who was named Outstanding CEO of the Year.
Mr. Seah was commended for his leadership and dedication to assuring Singaporeans that daily essentials remain accessible and affordable during Covid-19, and for serving the community in times of need.
In accepting the award, Seah thanked his previous bosses, which included the late former President Ong Teng Cheong, as well as his colleagues and family.
“I think success is meaningless if you don’t bring people and your team together. In fact, it’s a privilege to be able to lead, serve and improve everyone’s lives,” he said.
Jessica Tan Sin Yin, Group Co-CEO of Ping An Insurance (Group) Company of China, was named Outstanding Foreign Executive of the Year.
Tan has risen to the top of the Chinese financial services giant and oversees its continued development as a technology-driven company.
“In truth, I am receiving this award on behalf of all of our Ping An people who worked hard to serve the community. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my family for their love and support throughout my career,” he said in a video message.
Semiconductor and electronics solutions provider AEM Holdings won the Enterprise Award for its ability to capitalize on emerging trends. The motherboard listed company has shown a consistent track record in financial performance.
Loke Wai San, CEO of AEM, said: “The Enterprise Award is an endorsement of the path and journey that AEM has traveled so far. There is still much to do. The future, for us, is exciting.”
Launched in 1985, the SBA has honored entrepreneurs who have made their mark in their industries.
Wong Wei Kong, Chairman of the SBA Organizing Committee and BT Editor, said: “The four winners of this year’s Singapore Business Awards have demonstrated incredible courage, persistence and style in their respective businesses and the SBA. has recognized the efforts and contributions to each of them. Their industries. Heartfelt congratulations to these well deserved winners. “
Christopher Ong, Managing Director of DHL Express Singapore added: “Leadership at its finest is often forged in a crisis. All of our winners this year demonstrated exemplary strength and ingenuity in directing their businesses through unprecedented waters.
“His extraordinary stewardship allowed his businesses to continue to prosper even in such a challenging climate. His success stories inspire us all.”
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