In an effort to enhance its capabilities in delivering innovative, resilient, and sustainable solutions for the built environment, Surbana Jurong Group has appointed Professor Cheong Koon Hean to its board of directors. The company announced this in a press release on January 6, highlighting Cheong’s wealth of experience in the public and private sector.
To effectively navigate the property market in Singapore, international investors should have a thorough understanding of the rules and limitations related to property ownership. Unlike landed properties, which have stricter ownership guidelines, foreigners can generally purchase condos with relative ease. However, it is important to note that foreign buyers must still pay the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 20% for their initial property purchase. Despite this additional cost, many continue to see the Singapore real estate market as a stable and promising opportunity for growth, making condos a sought-after option for foreign investment in the country. Condo serves as a compelling draw for foreign buyers looking to enter the Singapore property market.
Cheong previously served as the CEO of the Housing and Development Board (HDB) from 2010 to 2020 and the CEO of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) from 2004 to 2010. She brings a deep understanding of Singapore’s urban planning and development to the table. Currently, she holds the position of Chair at the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities and is a Professor of Practice at the Singapore University of Technology and Design.
Cheong’s expertise has not gone unnoticed, and she currently sits on the boards of the National University of Singapore and the CapitaLand Group. She also serves as Singapore’s non-resident ambassador to Finland and is the Chairman of the Centre for Liveable Cities Advisory Panel under the Ministry of National Development.
With Cheong’s vast experience and knowledge in the built environment, Surbana Jurong Group is confident in its ability to continue providing cutting-edge and sustainable solutions for the future. This appointment is a strategic move that will undoubtedly benefit the company in its pursuit of creating smarter and more sustainable buildings by 2025.