2. Speeches
Speech by SMS Low Yen Ling at the Singapore International Jewelry Expo 2025
10 July 2025
Introduction
1. Good morning, everyone. I am delighted to join you at the Singapore International Jewelry Expo (SIJE) 2025.
2. This year, we celebrate SIJE’s 20th anniversary – a significant milestone that underscores its ongoing importance and influence in the jewellery world.
3. Over the past twenty years, SIJE has become a cornerstone event in Southeast Asia’s jewellery calendar. This year’s edition promises to be the largest and most impressive yet, showcasing the best in global jewellery and strengthening connections across the industry. Congratulations to Italian Exhibition Group Asia on delivering another successful edition.
4. I also want to warmly welcome the jewellers from over 25 countries who are here today. SIJE has grown into more than just a trade fair; it is a platform that fosters cultural exchange and opens up new possibilities for collaboration.
Singapore: A Vibrant Jewellery Hub
5. With more than 300 exhibiting brands, this year’s SIJE is the biggest to date. The jewellery on display, valued at over US$250 million, highlights the dynamism and innovation shaping the future of the jewellery sector.
6. Prestigious events like SIJE play a significant role in enhancing Singapore’s position within the region’s jewellery ecosystem, driving growth and fostering industry connections
a. In 2024, Singapore exported more than US$10 billion worth of jewellery to ASEAN countries.
b. Singapore’s jewellery and watches industry recorded about S$4.6 billion in operating receipts in December 2024.
7. Beyond jewellery, our MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector is poised for significant growth.
a. At the recent Tourism Industry Conference, we set an ambitious target to triple MICE tourism receipts by 2040.
b. SIJE plays a key role in this ambition, not only bringing in trade and tourism, but also reinforcing Singapore as a hub where business and creativity converge.
Honouring Craft, Preserving Heritage
8. Jewellery is more than just beautiful adornment. It carries with it history, sentiment, and craftsmanship.
9. That is why I am especially encouraged by the Singapore Jewellers Association’s initiative to explore the possibility of donating significant vintage jewellery pieces to the National Museum, ensuring they become part of Singapore’s national collection.
a. This will not only preserve our nation’s design heritage but also honour the generations of craftsmanship and culture shaped by our jewellers.
Supporting the Next Generation of Jewellers in Singapore
10. Singapore is committed to continue supporting platforms like SIJE, which give local brands and artisans the opportunity to showcase their designs and works on the global stage.
11. I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the talented winners of this year’s Singapore Jewellery Design Award, organised by the Singapore Jewellers Association.
a. The winning pieces will be exhibited here at SIJE. This reinforces the event’s tradition of nurturing emerging jewellery designers.
b. To the young designers here today – keep creating, keep pushing boundaries. Your work will shape the future of this industry.
12. Last year, the Singapore Jewellers Association signed an MOU with NTUC U SME to focus on skills development and training within the jewellery sector.
a. This partnership will provide invaluable support to businesses in the industry, contributing to the transformation of the workforce.
13. Through close collaboration between the Singapore government, industry players, and local jewellers, we can look forward to seeing even more homegrown brands making an impact on the global stage.
Conclusion
14. In conclusion, congratulations to all of you for your remarkable contributions to this showcase. Curating an event like SIJE is much like creating a fine piece of jewellery. Every participant is a unique gem – bringing something unique and valuable to the table. When brought together with vision and purpose, the result is something truly special, greater than the sum of its parts.
15. Your commitment to the jewellery industry is evident in every piece on display today. I am confident SIJE will continue to serve as a valuable platform for showcasing your artistry, gaining fresh perspectives, and fostering industry-wide collaboration.
16. To the Italian Trade Agency and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, grazie mille for your continued support. Your organisation of the Italian Pavilion has facilitated meaningful business exchanges between Singaporean, Italian and regional companies. This exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and trade that defines SIJE.
17. I wish everyone a successful and enjoyable experience over the next four days at SIJE 2025. Thank you.