SINGAPORE: Singapore will focus not just on being a good investment destination, but also a good business partner, said the incoming managing director of the Economic Development Board (EDB).

Dr Beh Swan Gin takes up his new position on August 1, replacing Ko Kheng Hwa who has left to join the private sector.

Dr Beh said the relatively new industry of water solutions is one example of what the EDB will focus on.

The sector falls under urban solutions, which, together with personal wellness and healthcare, and lifestyle products and services, are the three areas the board will emphasise on.

For example, for personal wellness and healthcare, it could look at how to make the systems more effective.

Dr Beh, incoming managing director, EDB, said: "It's important for Singapore but equally important is what companies in the region and all over the world will be looking for. So we can develop this solution through things like process re-engineering - maybe through better use of tech or IT."

Then, EDB would be able to work with the companies and take it overseas.

Geographically, Dr Beh said the board will focus on the Asia Pacific region for now, in particular, Southeast Asia, China, India and the Middle East. This is in addition to its traditional emphasis on the US, Europe and Japan.

Dr Beh continued: "As you know, Asia is the fastest growing region in this world. China, India, lots of rising middle-class. MNCs all over world want to access these, and the question is 'can we position Singapore to be a partner for companies to create this new solution and business?'"

He said potential partners outside Singapore will include not only companies, but also research institutes and universities. - CNA/vm