Ms. Asako Habuki
Frasers Hospitality Regional Sales Manager
1.How did you end up deciding to go to Singapore?
I was introduced to the idea by my boss in Jakarta, who had worked in Singapore before. At the same time, I wanted experience in a field other than hotel services, so I decided to transfer.
At first, I felt that it was an environment that was overly prepared and left something to be desired, but you get used to living anywhere, and now I completely love it.
2.What kind of work are you doing now?
Is there anything you want to do in the future?
Based in Singapore, Frasers is developing serviced residences all over the world. I’m the only Japanese employee, and I’m in charge of all of the business interactions related to Japan for properties all over the world. Also, when there is a new project, I go to the site, set up a business department, and if there is talk of taking it to the Japanese market, I provide support to the business development team.
In the future, I want to work in a job that acts as a bridge through which Niigata interests overseas can be broadened.
3.What are the good things about were you are now and how is it different from Japan?
Everyone is energetic and positive. Also, there are many different nationalities and cultures mixed together in Singapore, but there isn’t any incompatibility or discrimination.
Other than that, it’s an environment with many career women, so it’s possible to increase your skills if you want to. By the way, all of my superiors are women, and they are all powerful.
4.What do you think should be done deepen exchanges between Singapore and Niigata?
I think there should be proactive promotion. Niigata is full of wonderful things and places. Lately many people from Singapore are taking an interest in Japan and travelling there, but all of the information available is limited to large cities. I also think it would be good to bring in students on school trips, and have exhibit booths about study abroad and travel.
5. Do you have anything to say to people who want to go to Singapore to study or conduct business?
Not only has Singapore become the No. 1 place chosen for foreign residence, but it’s also an easy environment to live in. You can study Chinese and English, and there are lots of opportunities for employment. If you think you want to work abroad, you should definitely try visiting.
You only live once. Meeting all kinds of people, expanding your horizons, and experiencing other cultures are very valuable things.
（July,2010）