SINGAPORE – Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) will from 1 June 2020 be led by a new leader, as current CEO Quek Swee Kuan steps down on 31 May, citing wishes to pursue personal interests.
With a career spanning 26 years in the public sector, including stints at EDB and Singapore Tourism Board, Mr Quek was named CEO of SDC in 2015. Under his leadership, Sentosa’s destination appeal and value grew, even as local and foreign visitor numbers followed.
The development of the Sentosa-Brani Masterplan and other key initiatives – such as rolling out year-round experiences to elevate the island to be a “day-to-night” destination was also the brainchild of the far-sighted leader. In 2020, the island launched its latest night offering: Magical Shores at Siloso, Singapore’s first multi-sensory, interactive beach light art attraction, offering island visitors a relaxing and ‘Instagrammable’ getaway any day of the year.
Last year, Travel Weekly Asia’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards which recognises industry contributions across 10 key segments, including destinations, accommodation, airlines, cruise lines, travel agencies and service providers, saw Sentosa winning the title for Best Attraction, tourism experience.
Following on the strong foundation and longstanding strategic partnerships laid by Mr Quek for Sentosa’s next chapters, Ms Thien Kwee Eng, who currently serves as executive vice president at Singapore’s Economic Development Board, will start her new position at SDC on 1 June, as well as begin appointments as members at both the SDC and STB.
While at EDB overseeing global customer experience, marketing & public affairs and investment facilitation activities, Ms Thien has held leadership roles across sectors including Consumer and Lifestyle businesses, Health and Wellness as well as Infocomm and Media.
Her other key initiatives include championing the digital transformation of the consumer and health and wellness sectors, crafting EDB’s new marketing infrastructure, and repositioning Singapore’s strength as the Home in Asia for Business, Innovation and Talent for global consumer and lifestyle companies.
On top of work, Ms Thien also serves on the boards of Women’s Forum Asia, DesignSingapore Council, and Singapore Food Agency.