SINGAPORE, May 27, 2025 – The Dutch Chamber of Commerce (DutchCham) held the 8th edition of the prestigious Winsemius Awards on Monday evening at the Fairmont Singapore, recognising outstanding Dutch businesses and their contributions to innovation, sustainability, and community impact in Singapore.
This year’s event carried special significance, honouring not only the enduring legacy of Dr. Albert Winsemius – the Dutch economist who played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s economic development – but also celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations between Singapore and the Netherlands.
Gracing the evening were Guest of Honour Ms. Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, as well as Her Excellency Mrs. Anneke Adema, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Singapore and Brunei. Distinguished guest Petri Hofsté, Chair of the Nyenrode Foundation and supervisory board member at Achmea, ING, and FrieslandCampina, was also in attendance.
Celebrating Excellence in Business, Innovation and Impact
Three companies were recognised for their exceptional achievements:
- Walraven Pte Ltd received the Winsemius Business Achievement Award 2025 for its consistent business growth, innovation, and contributions to Dutch enterprise in Singapore. The Dutch multinational, known for its mechanical and fire protection fixing systems, has enhanced project efficiency and sustainability through advanced technology adoption. Walraven also contributes to local talent development by offering internships to students from Singapore’s polytechnics.
- Fairmont Singapore & Swissôtel The Stamford were awarded the Winsemius Community Impact Award 2025, honouring their integrated and purpose-driven approach to sustainability and social responsibility. As part of the Accor Group, the hotels have led initiatives that combine ethical leadership with tangible community engagement, setting a benchmark in luxury hospitality that extends beyond service to societal impact.
- Haskoning, a Dutch engineering consultancy, clinched the Winsemius Red Orange Award 2025. Their ongoing work in Singapore, which includes water management, coastal protection, and climate adaptation projects, showcases the strength of bilateral collaboration in tackling climate resilience. Since 2010, Haskoning’s presence has reflected the vital intersection of Dutch expertise and Singapore’s urban sustainability ambitions.
Deepening Bilateral Collaboration
Delivering the keynote address, Minister Grace Fu underlined the importance of partnerships in a rapidly changing global environment. “As we stand at the crossroads of a new global era – defined by digital transformation, decarbonisation, and geopolitical uncertainty – our cooperation as like-minded partners has never been more relevant,” she noted. “It is not just about economic growth, but about building societies where people feel included, valued, and empowered.”
Ambassador Adema echoed the sentiment, highlighting four traits that underpin the strong Singapore–Netherlands relationship: innovation, entrepreneurship, trust, and a global outlook. “Both countries are small in size, yet we share a big vision,” she said.
A Night of Legacy and Forward Vision
Named in honour of Dr. Albert Winsemius, the awards serve as a tribute to the close relationship he cultivated with former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew, reflecting the depth of historical and economic ties between the two nations.
Godelieve van Dooren, President of DutchCham, called on businesses to continue embodying the pioneering spirit of Winsemius. “The challenges of our time – from climate action to digital transformation – demand the same pioneering spirit that Dr. Winsemius championed. The nominees and winners tonight exemplify how Dutch and Singaporean innovators continue to lead the way,” she said.
The Winsemius Awards have become a cornerstone celebration of the Netherlands–Singapore partnership, recognising how cross-border collaboration can drive innovation, resilience, and shared prosperity in an interconnected world.