Koh Boon Hwee (born 1941) is a Singaporean economist, academic, and former civil servant who served as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry from 1981 to 1986 and as the Chairman of the Economic Development Board from 1986 to 1991.
Koh is widely respected for his contributions to Singapore's economic development. He was instrumental in the development of Singapore's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
After leaving the civil service, Koh became a professor at the National University of Singapore. He is the author of several books on economics and public policy, including "Singapore: The Success Story" and "The Singapore Economy: Fifty Years of Transformation."
Koh Boon Hwee
Koh Boon Hwee is a Singaporean economist, academic, and former civil servant who played a key role in Singapore's economic development.
- Economist
- Academic
- Civil servant
- Economic development
- Industrial policy
- Monetary Authority of Singapore
Koh's contributions to Singapore's economy are significant. He was instrumental in the development of Singapore's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Koh is a respected economist and academic. He has written several books on economics and public policy, including "Singapore: The Success Story" and "The Singapore Economy: Fifty Years of Transformation."
1. Economist
Koh Boon Hwee is a Singaporean economist who played a key role in the country's economic development. He was instrumental in the development of Singapore's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
- Academic economist
Koh is a professor at the National University of Singapore. He has written several books on economics and public policy, including "Singapore: The Success Story" and "The Singapore Economy: Fifty Years of Transformation."
- Policy economist
Koh served as the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry from 1981 to 1986 and as the Chairman of the Economic Development Board from 1986 to 1991. In these roles, he was responsible for developing and implementing Singapore's economic policies.
- Development economist
Koh has played a key role in Singapore's economic development. He was instrumental in the development of the country's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
- Public intellectual
Koh is a public intellectual who has written extensively on economic and public policy issues. He is a regular commentator in the media and has given lectures at universities and think tanks around the world.
Koh Boon Hwee is a leading economist who has made significant contributions to Singapore's economic development. He is a respected academic, policymaker, and public intellectual.
2. Academic
Koh Boon Hwee is an academic economist who has made significant contributions to the field of economics. He is a professor at the National University of Singapore and has written several books and articles on economic development, public policy, and the Singapore economy. Koh's academic work has had a major impact on the development of economic policy in Singapore and has also been influential in other countries in the region.
One of Koh's most important contributions to economics is his work on industrial policy. Koh argues that industrial policy can be an effective tool for promoting economic development, particularly in developing countries. He has shown that industrial policy can help to attract foreign investment, create jobs, and boost exports. Koh's work on industrial policy has been influential in the development of economic policy in Singapore and has also been adopted by other countries in the region.
Another important contribution of Koh's work is his analysis of the Singapore economy. Koh has shown that Singapore's economic success is due to a number of factors, including its sound macroeconomic policies, its open trade policy, and its investment in education and human capital. Koh's work on the Singapore economy has helped to provide a model for other developing countries seeking to achieve economic growth.Koh's academic work is characterized by its rigor, clarity, and policy relevance. He is a leading expert on economic development and his work has had a major impact on the field of economics.3. Civil servant
Koh Boon Hwee served as a civil servant in Singapore for over two decades. He held several key positions, including Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry and Chairman of the Economic Development Board. In these roles, he played a major role in the development and implementation of Singapore's economic policies.
- Policymaker
As a civil servant, Koh was responsible for developing and implementing Singapore's economic policies. He played a key role in the development of Singapore's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
- Administrator
As a civil servant, Koh was responsible for administering Singapore's economic policies. He oversaw the implementation of Singapore's industrial policy and played a key role in the development of Singapore's infrastructure.
- Diplomat
As a civil servant, Koh represented Singapore in international negotiations. He played a key role in the development of Singapore's trade policy and was involved in the negotiation of several trade agreements.
- Public servant
As a civil servant, Koh served the people of Singapore. He was committed to improving the lives of all Singaporeans and worked to promote economic growth and social progress.
Koh Boon Hwee's service as a civil servant was marked by his dedication, competence, and integrity. He made significant contributions to Singapore's economic development and helped to improve the lives of all Singaporeans.
4. Economic development
Economic development is the process of improving the economic well-being of a country or region. It involves a number of factors, including increasing productivity, improving infrastructure, and developing human capital.
Koh Boon Hwee has played a major role in Singapore's economic development. He was instrumental in the development of Singapore's industrial policy, which focused on attracting foreign investment and developing high-value-added industries. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Singapore Exchange and the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Koh's work on economic development has had a major impact on Singapore's economy. Singapore has experienced rapid economic growth over the past few decades, and it is now one of the most prosperous countries in the world. Koh's policies have helped to create a favorable environment for businesses and have attracted foreign investment. This has led to the creation of jobs and has improved the standard of living for all Singaporeans.
Koh's work on economic development is not only important for Singapore, but also for other developing countries. His policies have shown that it is possible to achieve rapid economic growth through sound economic policies.
5. Conclusion
Koh Boon Hwee is a leading expert on economic development. His work has had a major impact on Singapore's economy and has also been influential in other countries in the region. Koh's policies have shown that it is possible to achieve rapid economic growth through sound economic policies.
6. Industrial policy
Industrial policy is a government policy that aims to promote the development of specific industries. It can involve a variety of measures, such as subsidies, tax breaks, and trade protection.
- Promotion of strategic industries
Industrial policy can be used to promote the development of strategic industries, which are industries that are considered to be important for national security or economic development. For example, Singapore's industrial policy has focused on promoting the development of industries such as electronics, chemicals, and biomedical sciences.
- Attraction of foreign investment
Industrial policy can be used to attract foreign investment. For example, Singapore's industrial policy has included a number of measures to attract foreign investment, such as tax breaks and the establishment of free trade zones.
- Creation of jobs
Industrial policy can be used to create jobs. For example, Singapore's industrial policy has led to the creation of many jobs in the manufacturing and services sectors.
- Improvement of living standards
Industrial policy can be used to improve living standards. For example, Singapore's industrial policy has led to increased wages and a higher standard of living for all Singaporeans.
Koh Boon Hwee played a major role in the development of Singapore's industrial policy. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Economic Development Board (EDB) in 1961, which is the government agency responsible for implementing industrial policy. Koh also served as the EDB's first chairman from 1961 to 1964. Under Koh's leadership, the EDB played a key role in attracting foreign investment and promoting the development of strategic industries in Singapore.
7. Monetary Authority of Singapore
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is the central bank of Singapore. It was established in 1971 and is responsible for issuing currency, regulating the financial sector, and managing Singapore's foreign reserves.
Koh Boon Hwee played a key role in the establishment of the MAS. He was the chairman of the committee that was responsible for drafting the MAS Act, and he served as the MAS's first chairman from 1971 to 1985.
Under Koh's leadership, the MAS played a key role in developing Singapore's financial sector. The MAS introduced a number of reforms that helped to make Singapore a major international financial center. These reforms included the establishment of the Asian Dollar Market, the introduction of a comprehensive regulatory framework for the financial sector, and the development of a sound monetary policy framework.
The MAS has continued to play a key role in Singapore's economic development. The MAS has helped to maintain price stability, promote economic growth, and develop Singapore's financial sector. The MAS is a respected central bank and is recognized for its sound monetary policy and financial regulation.
8. Conclusion
The Monetary Authority of Singapore is a key component of Singapore's economic success. The MAS has helped to maintain price stability, promote economic growth, and develop Singapore's financial sector. Koh Boon Hwee played a key role in the establishment of the MAS and in the development of Singapore's financial sector.
FAQs on Koh Boon Hwee
This section addresses frequently asked questions about Koh Boon Hwee, a prominent Singaporean economist, academic, and former civil servant.
Question 1: What was Koh Boon Hwee's role in Singapore's economic development?
Koh Boon Hwee played a key role in Singapore's economic development, serving as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry from 1981 to 1986 and Chairman of the Economic Development Board from 1986 to 1991. He was instrumental in developing Singapore's industrial policy, attracting foreign investment, and establishing key financial institutions like the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Question 2: What are Koh Boon Hwee's main contributions to economics?
Koh Boon Hwee is known for his expertise in industrial policy, development economics, and public policy. His research and policy initiatives focused on promoting economic growth, attracting foreign investment, and enhancing human capital development.
Question 3: What academic and professional positions has Koh Boon Hwee held?
Koh Boon Hwee is a professor at the National University of Singapore and has authored several books and articles on economic development and public policy. He previously served as a civil servant, holding key positions such as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry and Chairman of the Economic Development Board.
Question 4: What is Koh Boon Hwee's educational background?
Koh Boon Hwee holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Malaya and a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of Cambridge.
Question 5: What awards and recognitions has Koh Boon Hwee received?
Koh Boon Hwee has received numerous awards for his contributions to economics and public service, including the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) and the Public Service Star (BBM) from the Singapore government.
Question 6: What is Koh Boon Hwee's current role and activities?
Koh Boon Hwee is currently a professor at the National University of Singapore and remains active in research, writing, and public discourse on economic and policy issues.
In summary, Koh Boon Hwee is a highly respected economist and public figure who has made significant contributions to Singapore's economic development and academic discourse.
Transition to the next article section...
Tips by Koh Boon Hwee
Koh Boon Hwee, a prominent Singaporean economist and former civil servant, has shared valuable insights and tips on economic development and public policy throughout his career. Here are some key tips attributed to Koh Boon Hwee:
Tip 1: Prioritize Economic GrowthKoh Boon Hwee emphasizes the importance of economic growth as a foundation for societal progress. He argues that sustained economic growth can lead to job creation, poverty reduction, and improved living standards for all.
Tip 2: Attract Foreign InvestmentKoh Boon Hwee recognizes the significance of foreign investment in driving economic development. He encourages countries to create a favorable investment climate by implementing transparent regulations, providing incentives, and ensuring political stability.
Tip 3: Develop Human CapitalKoh Boon Hwee stresses the crucial role of human capital in economic development. He advocates for investing in education, training, and skills development to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of the workforce.
Tip 4: Promote Free TradeKoh Boon Hwee believes in the benefits of free trade for economic growth. He argues that reducing trade barriers and promoting open markets can stimulate competition, innovation, and economic efficiency.
Tip 5: Maintain Fiscal DisciplineKoh Boon Hwee emphasizes the importance of fiscal discipline in achieving sustainable economic growth. He advises governments to manage their budgets responsibly, avoid excessive borrowing, and prioritize long-term economic stability.
Tip 6: Foster a Culture of InnovationKoh Boon Hwee recognizes the importance of innovation as a driver of economic growth. He encourages governments and businesses to invest in research and development, support entrepreneurship, and create an environment that fosters creativity and innovation.
Tip 7: Embrace GlobalizationKoh Boon Hwee believes that globalization offers opportunities for economic growth and development. He encourages countries to actively participate in the global economy, engage in international trade, and leverage global markets for growth.
Summary of Key Takeaways:
- Prioritize economic growth for societal progress.
- Attract foreign investment to drive economic development.
- Develop human capital to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
- Promote free trade to stimulate competition and innovation.
- Maintain fiscal discipline for sustainable economic growth.
- Foster a culture of innovation to drive economic growth.
By adopting these principles, countries can create a favorable environment for economic development and improve the well-being of their citizens.
Transition to the article's conclusion...Conclusion
Koh Boon Hwee's contributions to economics and public policy have had a profound impact on Singapore's economic development and beyond. His focus on industrial policy, human capital development, and free trade has helped shape Singapore's transformation into a thriving global economy.
Koh Boon Hwee's insights and tips on economic development provide valuable guidance for policymakers and economists worldwide. His emphasis on sustained economic growth, foreign investment, and fiscal discipline underscores the importance of creating a favorable environment for businesses and individuals to thrive. Moreover, his recognition of the role of human capital, innovation, and globalization highlights the need for countries to invest in their people and embrace the opportunities offered by a connected world.
As we navigate the complexities of the global economy, Koh Boon Hwee's economic insights continue to offer a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive economic growth. By embracing his principles of economic development, countries can harness the power of free markets, innovation, and human capital to create a better future for all.
