In this challenging economic climate, design has become more important than ever before. Design solves problems, balances priorities and interests to create new values and markets, and ultimately improves the quality of life. The pursuit of top quality design will enable Singapore and Singapore designers to remain globally relevant and competitive in the midst of growing regional and international competition.

Established in 2006, the President’s Design Award recognises the key role that design plays in enhancing the value of products and driving business. More importantly, it acknowledges the fact that design gives our material culture its value, meaning and balance.

Over the years, the President’s Design Award has recognised outstanding work such as the high quality, and holistic design, of 1 Moulmein Rise; the well-executed functionality of the HP Deskjet 460 Mobile Printer; the ingenuity of the Eubiq Power Outlet System; and the creativity and problem-solving skills of graphic designer Edmund Wee. These winning designs and designers are testament to the fact that design is about innovation and moves us beyond pure aesthetics to true functionality.

In one way or other, I am sure that design has impacted all our lives. This is why the President’s Design Award is such a key platform for design in Singapore. This is an opportunity for us not only to celebrate outstanding design, but it is also to showcase Singapore’s unique creativity and innovation. It is also an opportunity for us to acknowledge, thank and put the spotlight on designers who have contributed significantly to improving the lives of Singaporeans and global communities through good design.

It gives me great pleasure to invite you to submit your nominations for President’s Design Award 2009. I urge you to join me in celebrating outstanding Singapore designers, and designs that contribute not only to raising the bar on design, but also to changing society as we know it. Your nominations will showcase Singapore design values, motivate and inspire designers, and also encourage businesses to leverage design to remain competitive.

Mr. Robert Tomlin
Chairman, DesignSingapore Council