We outline the reasons for defining Singapore as a key market for our portfolio and why you should consider a move there.
Singapore has a long-established reputation as an excellent place for building and growing your career or business. Its strong economy, vibrant culture and position as a doorstep to Asia draws in thousands of entrepreneurs and expats year after year. Nicknamed the Lion City, Singapore ranks the number one country for doing business, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit.
Here at Four Pillars Group, we agree that Singapore is a fantastic place for starting your own recruitment business or expanding your current operations.
HR & Operations Director for the Four Pillars Group, Melissa Chadwick, explains why FPG have made a commitment to a Singapore, and we define the region as a key country for opportunity and investment.
“Over 10 years ago, I myself lived in Singapore. It was my first official move overseas and was where my expat life began. The country is built on multiculturalism and is groundbreaking for safety, environmental measures and the culinary scene.”
As a portfolio of recruitment businesses who work global markets on behalf of global clients, Four Pillars Group is experienced in moving candidates across the globe. We also practice what we preach when it comes to a global presence – many of our internal team members have helped drive our success by moving to international locations like Singapore.
Here are 10 reasons why Singapore should be a place that you should seriously consider for yourself, or even your new business.
1. High Safety and Liveability
With low crime and excellent infrastructure and facilities, Singapore ranks as one of the top ten countries in the world for safety and this often cited as one of the main attractions of relocating to the region.
For professionals and their young families, the city offers independence and a comfortable lifestyle in a protected environment.
2. Amazing Cuisine
As home to many nationalities, Singapore’s rich and diverse cuisine makes it a haven for foodies. From traditional spicy Singapore crab to European cuisine, Singapore caters to all taste buds.
For those who love authentic local flavours, hawker centres are a must-visit. These bustling food courts serve up iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow. On the other end of the spectrum, Singapore is home to an impressive number of Michelin-starred dining establishments, including French and Japanese restaurants.
3. A World-Class Education System
Singapore prides itself on offering world-class education facilities. It’s a country which is forward thinking in its approach to learning, with an array of international institutions setting up shop in the region.
Alongside the Singaporean educational system, there are schools from all over the world, including the US, Britain, Australia, France and Canada, with incredible alumni networks giving young people many opportunities to make friends for life.
4. English Is Widely Spoken
As a gateway to a wider South-East Asia network, Singapore makes life easy with its native language being English. In fact, Singapore ranks first in English proficiency in Asia and third globally among 116 countries.
This makes settling in, building networks and making the country home much easier for an expat or entrepreneur. It’s another reason why recruitment companies in Singapore can flourish, as they can easily connect with English-speaking clients and candidates in the country and abroad.
5. Architecture and Urban Planning
Singapore hosts some seriously impressive architecture. From the stunning Marina Bay Sands to the futuristic Gardens by The Bay, Singapore wows from the moment you step off the plane.
From a more practical perspective, the public infrastructure is second to none. The hospitals are world leading and its public transport systems run like clockwork.
As a compact city, you are always within walking distance of all life’s necessary amenities such as pharmacies, parks, schools and restaurants. One study found that Singapore is the fifth most walkable city in Asia – Orchard Road is a great place to see this for yourself!
6. Reduced Pollution and Traffic
With its world-class public transport system, Singapore eliminates the need for owning a car. As a result, the city experiences less traffic congestion and reduced pollution, making it easier for residents to enjoy a clean and sustainable lifestyle.
7. Favourable Tax Rates
Financial incentives are often a key factor in an expatriate’s decision to move, and Singapore’s tax system is a major draw. With a progressive tax structure and relatively low rates, the country is a tax-friendly destination for foreign investors.
People working for recruitment companies in Singapore get to keep more of their billings. In the 2024 tax year, the highest income tax bracket was just 24%, applicable only to earnings exceeding $1 million SGD.
8. Multiculturalism
Singapore is a multicultural city formed at the crossroads of Chinese, Indian, Malay, and European cultures. Tolerance and respect for other ethnic groups, religions and cultural traditions is in Singaporeans’ blood. Locals live harmoniously and embrace each other’s traditions.
Nationalities with hugely varying beliefs live in harmony together and celebrate each other’s festive holidays. Expats get to experience and celebrate a wide range of festive holidays, from Diwali and Lunar New Year to Christmas. This makes for a truly inclusive culture and also provides a rewarding educational experience for those living in the country.
9. The Window to Asia
Singapore is often referred to as the “window to Asia”, a description applicable from both a business and tourism perspective. China, India, Australia, the UK, Dubai and Abu Dhabi and many other business hubs and holiday destinations are accessible by direct flight, which makes globe-trotting never easier.
Changi Airport receives more than 55 million tourists a year and is known for minimal delays, fast baggage control and a positively zen airport setting.
From a business perspective, travelling to nearby Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia can be done on day trips, which means client and candidate meetings across South East Asia are highly accessible.
10. Limitless Business Opportunities
Singapore offers significant opportunities for international business development and warmly welcomes new enterprises. With access to the broader ASEAN market, low tax rates, strong government support, and business-friendly regulations, setting up a company in Singapore is easier than ever.
Four Pillars Group CEO, Darren James says “Singapore has been at the leading edge of international development within the region, and it is showing no signs of slowing down soon. Any business that is serious about having a meaningful presence in the region, needs to have an offering in Singapore”.
Excited About a Singapore Experience? Talk to Us
If this article has inspired a change of scenery, we’d love to chat with you about your next move. Whether you’re an experienced recruiter or thinking about starting your own recruitment agency, Four Pillars Group can help you start a new chapter in Singapore. Get in touch with us today for an obligation-free discussion to discuss the possibilities.
