STB Annual Report 03/04 - Singapore Tourism Board

STB Annual Report 03/04
Liberalising

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The Singapore tourism landscape is constantly evolving. Apart from
having to deal with international crises, Singapore faces increasing
competition from her regional neighbours. While these changes take place,
the STB’s core priority remains the same: To develop and champion
tourism so as to build the sector into a key driver of the Singapore economy.
In doing so, the STB has to effectively manage the opportunities and
challenges before us. The challenge is two-fold: On one hand, to provide
a more conducive environment for the private sector to operate through
rigorous review of the regulations guarding the industry to determine their
relevance. On the other hand, a keen eye must be kept on the industry
so as to encourage fair practices and raise service standards.
The STB has, in fact, started practising this balancing act. In 2003/2004,
bar-top dancing has been legalised and designated nightspots can now
operate 24 hours. The ban on the use of firecrackers has also been lifted
for specially-approved occasions, like the opening ceremony of the Lunar
New Year Light-Up 2004 at Chinatown. Simultaneously, the Board has
stepped up its actions against errant retailers who repeatedly subject
tourists to unethical practices.
Regulating