PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

As I step into the role of President at DBCS, I’m reminded of how my own journey began, studying computer science and discovering the field of Human-Computer Interaction. That path revealed a fundamental truth: great design lives in the relationships between things.

A chair in a room,
a room in a house,
a house in an environment,
an environment in a city plan

This systems perspective continues to shape how I see design’s role in society—and how it can bridge divides between government, industry, and academia, between Singapore and the wider world, and between designers and the organisations they serve.

Today, design sits at the heart of progress. We see it in how businesses, services, and communities are rethinking what’s possible by placing people at the centre of innovation. We also see it in the quiet functionality of everyday objects. Good design doesn’t draw attention to itself; it simply works, often in the moments we need it most.

At DBCS, we champion purposeful design as Singapore’s creative catalyst. More than a professional network, we are nurturing an ecosystem where design talent can flourish. We recognise that creative careers grow in stages, and we are building stepping stones—platforms that help talent gain confidence, develop mastery, and grow their visibility, from local showcases to global conversations.

We also see incredible value in our middle managers, the diamonds in the rough, waiting to be uncovered and refined into the future leaders of design. As vital translators between vision and execution, they are well placed to drive meaningful change in design-led businesses. DBCS is committed to supporting them through targeted programmes that sharpen their skills and amplify their impact.

I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me, and I’m energised by the possibilities ahead. Together with our members, partners, and wider community, we will continue to elevate design as a force for systemic impact—one that strengthens every connection and empowers every designer to make a meaningful difference.

The future of design is ours to create. Let’s build this future together.

Thank you.

Hong Khai Seng
President, Design Business Chamber Singapore