Asia has become one of the most dynamic regions in the global economy, moving from consumer to creator of innovation, business models and investment flows. For executives, this means immense opportunity but also complexity that demands agility and global perspective.
As Alyssa Toh, Vice President at Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) and an INSEAD Global Executive MBA (GEMBA) participant, explains:
“Asia is increasingly evolving from being a consumer of technology to a creator of new ideas, new models and new platforms.”
Here are five reasons why Asia, and Singapore in particular, have become the classroom for global success.
1. Asia is a region on the rise
Asia is no longer just a manufacturing powerhouse. It is now a driver of global innovation, setting trends in entrepreneurship, digital transformation and artificial intelligence. For leaders, the region presents vast opportunities for building ventures, attracting talent and shaping strategies that connect local markets to global impact.
“Asia is where the future of global leadership is being shaped,” Alyssa says.
2. Singapore as a trusted base for global business
At the centre of this transformation lies Singapore, a hub where innovation, business and talent converge. The city’s forward-looking policies, strong research investment and openness to global talent have made it one of the world’s most trusted business hubs.
• Nearly S$28 billion has been invested to strengthen Singapore’s R&D ecosystem.
• Initiatives such as the EDB’s Corporate Venture Launchpad help large firms build their new ventures from Singapore
• For experienced founders, the Global Founders programme offers opportunities to launch and scale their next venture from here.
“By bringing the elements together, infrastructure, innovation and talent, Singapore is actively helping to shape Asia's innovation future by being a launchpad for the region and also the world.”
3. Learning from within: The INSEAD GEMBA Advantage
The INSEAD Global Executive MBA (GEMBA) places participants directly in the heart of this ecosystem. INSEAD's Asia Campus in Singapore connects executives to one of the most dynamic business regions in the world. It enables participants to engage directly with a thriving ecosystem that connects business, talent, and innovation.
Through multi-campus learning across Singapore, Fontainebleau, and Abu Dhabi, participants gain exposure to different strategic and cultural environments, exactly the kind of diversity that defines global leadership today.
The programme’s Leadership Development Programme (LDP) and modular structure allow executives to keep working while building self-awareness, agility, and global networks that last a lifetime.
“I thought it would be helpful to learn from established faculty, but also from peers from different industries who are navigating complex challenges every day. GEMBA checked all the boxes.” Alyssa reflects.
4. A global classroom rooted in Asia
What stood out most for Alyssa was the diversity of the classroom. With more than 70 nationalities represented, the programme provided a forum where ideas were challenged, strategies debated, and leadership styles tested.
“It created a very rich environment where I could stress test ideas and hear perspectives I would not encounter back at work.”
Participants not only learn from global peers but also engage with Asia’s fast-growing markets and industries, making their leadership skills directly relevant to the region driving global growth.
5. A catalyst for leadership from Singapore to the world
Reflecting on her experience, Alyssa explains that GEMBA was not only about sharpening her leadership skills but also about expanding her vision of what is possible. She found the mix of academic rigour, peer learning and international exposure deeply rewarding, both personally and professionally.
“GEMBA was not only about sharpening my leadership skills but also about expanding my vision of what is possible.”
“I will encourage anyone who is considering to really just come with a very open mind and be curious about the journey. You will be very surprised at how inspiring and rewarding it is", says Alyssa.
Beyond the classroom, the INSEAD alumni network offers Alyssa access to a global community of more than 72,000 professionals across 180 countries, strengthening her ability to contribute to Singapore’s economic future while preparing her for leadership challenges on a global stage.
As Asia continues to shape the trajectory of global business, Alyssa’s journey highlights the unique advantage of experiencing the INSEAD GEMBA in Singapore. It provides a vantage point that connects executives directly to the forces of innovation, growth and opportunity driving the region.
