More job opportunities expected with Changi's Terminal 5

More job opportunities expected with Changi's Terminal 5

    By Dylan Loh
    POSTED: 30 Aug 2013 11:34 PM

Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) said good job opportunities are expected with Changi Airport's expansion plans. However, the board said it is not just about that, as what is important is also enabling the aviation industry to be more productive.

SINGAPORE: Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) said good job opportunities are expected with Changi Airport's expansion plans.

However, the board said it is not just about that, as what is important is also enabling the aviation industry to be more productive.

Observers added that the airport expansion means positive spin-offs for Singapore in business and tourism-related areas.

With transport links to the region set to be improved with the air hub's future plans, more businesses may be lured into setting up shop in Singapore.

Lim Kok Kiang, executive director of transport engineering with the EDB, said: "An increasing number of third-party logistics providers and air express companies have chosen Singapore as their base to manage their growing Asian demand. And this due to primarily our strategic location."

Observers said plans to site Terminal 5 close to aviation and aerospace businesses is a good move that will draw investments to grow the sectors.

Beyond that, experts added that improved connectivity will likely boost Singapore's position as a cargo and logistics hub.

Selena Ling, head of treasury research and strategy at OCBC Bank, said: "When foreigners come and invest in Singapore, they will not only look at cost, or even manpower availability, they will also look at the efficiency of the infrastructure. Especially, how easy and affordable it is to get people and also goods in and out of the country."

Tourism-wise, economists estimate that Singapore can see in excess of 20 million visitors per year with a larger air hub.

Within Southeast Asia, airports in Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok are gunning to service 100 million passengers every year. Singapore's plans for airport expansion will take it well beyond that number -- spelling opportunities galore for the country.

However to seize the opportunities, experts said that expanding an airport is not enough. They said Singapore will have to continually market itself as a must-visit destination for tourists.

- CNA/ac

- wong chee tat :)