Obama arrives in Singapore for APEC summit
By Imelda Saad, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 14 November 2009 2149 hrs

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SINGAPORE: US President Barack Obama has arrived in Singapore for the APEC Leaders Summit.

Air Force One with Mr Obama on board touched down at the Paya Lebar airbase at close to 8pm on Saturday.

Mr Obama brought forward his departure from Japan to arrive in Singapore just in time to join the other APEC leaders at the Singapore Evening at the Esplanade.

Greeted by Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Esplanade, Mr Obama joined world leaders for a glittering dinner.

In keeping with APEC summit tradition, the leaders wore custom-made tops reflecting the host economy's culture.

This year, the colourful Peranakan-inspired designer shirts were crafted by Singaporean designer Wykidd Song.

Male leaders were given long-sleeved linen shirts with mandarin collars, a style inspired by the blend of Chinese, Malay and Indian culture found in Singapore. They chose from blue, red or green variants.

Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Philippine President Gloria Arroyo, the two female leaders, were supplied with V-necked blouses in red silk, with elaborate embroidery and lace.

Mr Obama's early arrival in Singapore also meant that the leaders' group photo taking ceremony was held on Saturday evening, as planned. APEC organisers had said on Friday that they would scrap the traditional group photo on Saturday in favour of Sunday when leaders would simply be dressed in their business suits instead of the custom-made attire.

Themed "Our World, One World", the Singapore Evening was one that showcased Singapore's creative talents and unique culture.

The key highlight was a half-hour musical and multimedia extravaganza, featuring local artists like Singapore Idol winners Taufik Batisah and Hady Mirza as well as homegrown songbird Kit Chan.

After the show, they enjoyed their evening by the Marina Bay waterfront, tucking into local and Western dishes that represent multi-cultural Singapore - made less spicy and pungent than usual to cater to the foreign taste buds.

- CNA/ir