2 7 n ov e m b e r 2 0 0 8 Shangri-la Hotel, singapore
T h e i r R o ya l H i g h n e ss e s P r i n c e P h i l i p p e a n d P r i n c e ss M a t h i l d e o f B e l g i u m
foreword by H.E. ambassador Marc Calcoen It is an honour for me to welcome TT.RR.HH. Prince Philippe and
As such, Singapore will continue to offer an excellent platform for
Princess Mathilde to the Republic of Singapore. They have been invited
Belgian companies to establish a bridgehead for their Asian operations,
for an official visit by H.E. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. H.R.H. Prince
both trade and investment related.
Philippe is presiding over an important Belgian economic mission to
continues to offer many possibilities for Singaporean companies to set
the Lion City, together with H.E. Mr Vincent Van Quickenborne, Federal
up subsidiaries to explore the European market. The Belgian authorities
Minister for Economic Affairs and Reform.
warmly welcome Singaporean investors to join their counterparts such
On the other hand, Belgium
as PSA, Keppel Seghers and Singapore Airlines Cargo, who operate Notwithstanding the current turmoil in financial markets and the
successful operations in Belgium.
spectre of a recession in many parts of the world, the mission comes at an opportune time. Singapore is one of the most advanced economies
But relations between two countries are not only defined by economic
in Asia and has recorded an impressive average growth of more than 7%
ties. Belgium and Singapore also share the basic political views on
since its independence in 1965. It has a long history as a free trading
international matters. We are both international minded. We are united
port and is world champion for trade figures in relation to GNP, despite
in a common love for good food and entertainment, as proposed in this
its small size and population but because of its regional relevance. The
Gala Night. Therefore, this mission is timely to strengthen our bilateral
biggest container port in the world is located in Singapore. The country
ties. I wish all participants in the mission success in their aspirations
has also always been very open to foreign direct investment; more than
towards South East Asia and I hope that many fruitful contacts and
4.000 multinationals have a presence in Singapore. Singapore occupies
contracts will follow.
the top in many economic rankings. In the last few years, it has managed a remarkable transformation into a vibrant and cosmopolitan city.
Marc Calcoen Ambassador of Belgium to Singapore
MENU 2 7 N ov e m b e r 2 0 0 8
Gourmet
shangri-la hotel, singapore r Cream of Belgian Endive Soup
S e a f o o d Wat e r z o o i w i t h s h r i m p s , ro o t v e g e ta b l e s a n d creamed spinach
B r a i s e d D u c k w i t h C h e r ry s a u c e , F l e m i s h P o tat o a n d b r a i s e d E n d i v e
ava l a n c h e - t h e b e l g i a n c l a ss i c ‘ da m e b l a n c h e ’ r e v i s i t e d -
Emmanuel Stroobant - coming of age Chef Emmanuel Stroobant
styles and cuisine genres. Fortunately for Stroobant, his training stages
Nine months later, The Fig Leaf moved to a bigger and better location.
In addition to the books and TV show, Stroobant has also opened up
has indeed come a long way!
encompassed some of the very best restaurants in Belgium, including
In the mean time, the couple had grown fond of the hole in the wall
several outlets, San Marco, a fine dining modern European Italian
one, two and three star Michelin establishments.
concept. In addition, the cosiness of the restaurant meant that each and
restaurant sitting on top of the Fullerton Hotel is a partnership with
every customer was attended to in a personalised manner. Hence, the
Pastry Chef extraordinaire and good friend, Roxan Villareal. Opening
birth of Saint Pierre – The Restaurant in December 2000.
two years after San Marco, Brussels Sprouts, offers Belgian fare and
He started his career at a tender age of 16 – cleaning
At 23, he opened his first restaurant in his hometown, Liege. It was an
dishes in one of the best
over night success and after three summers, Stroobant wanted another
restaurants
adventure. He travelled to various places, and finally settling in Australia
Eighteen months on, Stroobant has clinched several more awards
addition to the family, Picotin, a family-style eatery situated at 100 Turf
for a period of five years.
– Wine and Dine ‘Best New Restaurant 2002’, ‘Most Innovative Menu
Club Road with talented and formidable Food & Beverage personality,
2002, 2004 and 2007’. World Gourmet Summit – Award of Excellence,
Sebastien Reullier and Jacky Stevens.
in
Belgium.
Hoping to save some money to pay his way through
a rich variety of beers at The Pier on Robertson and the most recent
university, Stroobant’s first
Following that, he made a decision, which changed his whole life. He
‘Best New Restaurant 2002 and 2003’, ‘Chef of the Year 2002 and 2006’
ambition was to be a lawyer.
decided to come to Asia. His first stop was in Kuala Lumpur in September
and his most recent achievement, ‘Restaurant of the Year 2007’. In 2008,
For more information please contact Edina Hong:
Whilst finishing high school
1997. During his two years in Kuala Lumpur, he quickly adapted to the
Saint Pierre became a member of Relais & Châteaux.
Tel. 6438 0887, Fax 6438 4887
and juggling between his
local scene and culture. Stroobant made it a point to understand the
night job, Stroobant took a liking to his working environment, and before
needs and wants of his patrons and soon after was duly awarded with
Saint Pierre moved to bigger premises in mid-2002 with better frontage
long he was on his way to peeling, chopping vegetables and making
the recognition of ‘Best Expatriate Chef 1999’ by World Asia Media.
and more room in the kitchen to facilitate Stroobant’s creative streak.
salads!
edina@emmanuelstroobant.com
Following that, Stroobant has moved on to writing two cook books, In that same year Stroobant and his wife Edina moved to Singapore to
‘Cuisine Unplugged’ and ‘Vine Dining – White’ which has won the
At 18, he well and truly decided to take the culinary path and enrolled
yet again experience another life changing episode. They both joined a
Gourmand World Media Award for “Best in the World Matching Food
at a hospitality institute in Belgium. For four years he was seconded
small café/restaurant located in an obscure part of Singapore called
and Wine”. Plus, he also has his own TV series titled, ‘Chef in Black’ and
to various parts of the country to experience different management
The Fig Leaf.
subsequently ‘Chef in Black II’.
Debailleul Debailleul creates and produces indulging taste experiences that linger
interpretations of classical products and ideas, our products should
and solicit repetition. Our products and services show a unique and
appeal to all senses; we strive to reach the perfect match in both taste
elegantly different style that is discreetly arrogant and never without
and texture combinations while maintaining our visual brand identity.
a touch of humour. Proud of our French heritage, we aim to achieve
At Debailleul we believe that we have the right people, competences,
harmony and finesse with a classical touch, creating contemporary
products, services and structures to introduce and grow our business in
traditionals that are targeted to a selected but worldwide group of
selected niche markets around the world, creating a strong brand that
connoisseurs.
is recognized as the quality standard for the sector by connoisseurs who are seeking to experience or share a moment of indulgence.
At Debailleul we apply traditional skills and techniques to a careful selection of the finest natural ingredients. We continue our worldwide
For more information please contact Hans Pauwels:
search for the very best of raw materials on an ongoing basis and
Tel. +32 2 433 31 90
evaluate selected products between harvest seasons, both on taste
hans@debailleul.com
and microbiologic quality. Our staff is passionately ambitious about
www.debailleul.com
setting the standard in hand-crafted dessert products and chocolates, while adhering to today’s business models in quality and production performance. Our team of Meilleur Ouvriers de France works together with stylists, fashion designers and graphic artists to develop products that are personal and unique in style as well as quality. Contemporary styled
Diamonds
Š Karl Bruninx
diamonds Diamonds love Antwerp
by the Netherlands, Germany and France, close to the coast of Great
A n t w e r p h a s a n e x c l u s i v e , u n pa r a l l e l e d
Th e D i a m o n d S q u a r e M i l e
Britain. Its port is one of the largest in the world. The city is only a half-
infrastructure
Antwerp’s diamond sector is mainly active around the Rijfstraat,
hour drive from Brussels, Belgium’s capital and headquarters of the
More than 1800 international diamond companies have their
Hoveniersstraat, Schupstraat, Vestingstraat and Pelikaanstraat adjacent
European Union and NATO. Antwerp is a city with a special charisma.
headquarters in a secured area, called the Diamond Square Mile with
to the Central Railway Station. There is a unique atmosphere in this area
Its impressive architectural heritage, museums and art, its location
its four diamond bourses, specialized diamond banks, diamond grading
with a mosaic of nationalities rubbing shoulders while maintaining a
in the heart of Europe, its harbour and its international reputation as
labs, insurance, security and transport companies, brokers, consultants,
deep respect for each other’s cultures and religions. It is a multicultural
a designer paradise. As a cosmopolitan business centre, open to free
schools, travel agents and of course hotels and restaurants are also a
hive of activity, buzzing with the business of import and export of
enterprise and all cultures Antwerp has become the world’s leading
part of this lively society.
rough and polished diamonds, as well as industrial diamond, in every
diamond centre.
possible colour, shape or form and quality. Antwerp has four diamond bourses. Beurs voor Diamanthandel, Diamantclub van Antwerpen, Vrije
Mastering the craft
Diamanthandel and Antwerpsche Diamantkring. They form an essential
Antwerp has the best diamond workers in the world. For more than
part of the commercial infrastructure of the diamond business, acting
500 years, Antwerp has been closely associated with diamonds. The
as meeting points for buyers from around the world.
resulting know how and technical expertise provides Antwerp with a Antwerp has a prosperous and lively commerce, rich history and deeply
unique craftsmanship. Today, Antwerp’s tradition of highly skilled
Antwerp World Diamond Centre,
rooted traditions. Diamonds form an integral part of the cultural history
master cutters is combined with modern technology developed by its
a u n i q u e o r g a n i s at i o n
of Antwerp, from its golden age until the present day… Antwerp and
local diamond research centres.
Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) acts as the spokesman and
diamonds have been closely linked since the 14th century. Since the rule of Charles V (1500 -1550), the city has become the cosmopolitan and cultural capital of Europe. Antwerp lies in the heart of Europe, bordered
coordinator for all activities in the diamond sector. AWDC is the official ‘Cut in Antwerp’, the trade mark for perfectly polished diamonds.
liaison with governments (national and international) and represents © Donald B. Woodrow
the collective interests of the Belgian diamond sector. AWDC is also
the marketing organisation of the Antwerp diamond trade and industry,
Th e f a c t s
responsible for the promotion of Antwerp as the world leading diamond
> 8 in 10 of all rough diamonds in the world are handled in
centre. AWDC is more than ever committed to maintaining a healthy
Antwerp
and prosperous diamond industry, spreading the quality image of the
> 1 in 2 of all polished diamonds pass through Antwerp
Antwerp diamond sector.
> Antwerp has the most renowned diamond polishers in the
Antwerp World Diamond Centre
> The highest international mark of approval for polished
world Hoveniersstraat 22, B-2018 Antwerp
diamond is the “Cut in Antwerp” label
Tel. + 32 3 222 05 11
> In 2007 the Antwerp diamond sector realised a total im-
info@awdc.be - www.awdc.be
and export of 42,3 billion US dollars > The diamond trade is responsible for 5% of Belgian exports and 8% of the Flemish region’s exports > More than 1800 international diamond companies are located in the Antwerp diamond square mile > 34,000 people are directly and indirectly employed by the Belgian diamond sector Antwerp has created an international commercial platform upon which producers, manufacturers and traders all over the world can meet. © Karl Bruninx
© Siegelson, New York
Fashion
Natan
n at a n Edouard Vermeulen
1983 Edouard Vermeulen took over the Natan fashion house and
Born in Ieper (Belgium) on 4th March 1957, his training as an interior
created the first Natan Couture collection unveiled at a
decorator (St. Luc Brussels) served as his initiation to work with volumes
prestigious show in 1984.
and materials. After three years of activity as a decorator, he discovered his love for fashion and began presenting his own collection in 1984.
1998 Opening of the Natan boutique in Luxembourg. 1999 Opening of the second Natan ‘prêt-à-porter’ boutique in Brussels.
1986 Creation of the luxury ‘prêt-à-porter’ collection under the Natan Edouard Vermeulen label.
2000 Creation of the Natan+ collection.
For years now, Edouard Vermeulen has created fashions for the Belgian 1986 Opening of the Natan boutique in Knokke (Belgium).
2000 Opening of the Natan boutique in Maastricht (the Netherlands).
1987 Opening of the first Natan ‘prêt-à-porter’ boutique in Brussels.
2000 Opening of the Natan boutique in Ghent (Belgium).
jet set personalities.
1988 Opening of the Natan boutique in Kortrijk (Belgium).
2001 Opening of the Natan+ boutique in Brussels.
Edouard Vermeulen has created a personal style of contemporary purity,
1988 Opening of the Natan boutique in Antwerp (Belgium).
2001 Opening of the Natan boutique in Paris.
1991 Creation of the Natan Knitwear and Natan Collection collections
2004 Opening of the Natan + boutique in Maastricht (the Netherlands).
royal family as well as for the royal courts of Sweden, The Netherlands, Denmark and the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg for which he has been honoured in March 2003 with the insignia of Officer of the Order of King Leopold II. His creations also appeal to performance artists and many
a source of femininity and refinement. The richness of the materials lends purity to the simplicity of the forms. A style resolutely suited to an active and refined woman of today.
for distribution. Presented at the Paris ‘Prêt-à-Porter’ show. 2008 Natan celebrates his 25th anniversary. 1993 Creation of the Natan Jeans collection (Natan Edition 5).
Music
T H IERRY CROMMEN - h a r m o n i c a Th i e r r y c r o m m e n
A new CD called « Versions Originales » was released in April 2007; in
H IG H LIG H TS
This Belgian harmonica player
the same time the trio upgraded to quartet with Achim Tang on double
w i t h J a c q u e s STOT Z EM
was born in 1958. As a self-taught
bass. Also featuring as very special guests: Sanseverino, Bill Barrett
1993 World Harmonica Championship – Trossingen* (D) – gala concert
musician, he was very early
and Karim Baggili.
1996 Festival International d’Harmonica de Berlin
players like, of course, the Belgian
Versions Originales
1997 Festival International de Jazz de Montreal
Master Toots Thielemans. But
Thierry Crommen’s latest show, entitled « Versions Originales », reveals
1998 Acoustic Café – Los Angeles – at legendary «Troubadour»
he was also loving the sound of
the eclectic side of this Belgian harp player. A combination of original
Blues Harp that much. So, unlike
compositions as well as some distinctive covers, the show’s material is
most harpists who favor one or
indeed reflective of its title.
Tuck & Patti
chromatic
With Chris DePauw on acoustic guitar, Erno on piano, and Achim Tang
and diatonic harmonicas. He was soon acclaimed as belonging to the
on double bass, Thierry leads the quartet and their audience to the
elite of the new generation of harmonica artists. He’s now for years
crossroads of Folk, Jazz and even Chanson Française (the genre made
w i t h Th i e r r y C r o m m e n T r i o / QUARTET
busy with studio sessions, workshops and concerts and he’s especially
popular by Edith Piaf a.o.). There is an energy and spontaneity to each
2003 Festival International d’ Harmonica de Vauréal (F)
fond of playing in small combos, as with the Trio he formed with Erno,
show made possible by the musicians’ mastery of their instruments as
2004 Festivals: Harmo sur Cher (F) / Harmo Liège (B)
and also …
keyboards and Chris DePauw, guitar, for his first project as band leader.
well as their repertoire.
2005 Francofolies de Spa - Liedernacht (B) / Harmonica World Festival
2005 recording of CD Live « Shlomit – In the Mood for Love »
© Ch. Charlier
both
(during Namm Show) 2001 Open Strings Festival – Osnabrück – (D) – opening act of 2004 Japan Tour with Isato Nakagawa
the other, Thierry became equally on
Marathon /Gaume Jazz / Jazz à Verviers / Harmo Liège (B)
1996 European Harp Festival – Trossingen
involved in listening to great harp
proficient
2008 Festivals: Francofolies de Spa / Frameries Jazz / Eupen Musik
This project issued on CD « La Nouvelle Donne » (2004) and revealed a
* hohner’s factory location
Trossingen (D)
finely-crafted, sensitive music - own compositions with latin, folk and
www.myspace.com/thierrycrommen
jazz influences.
Booking: carine.dethier@zone-arts.be
2006 recording of CD « Versions Originales» at homerecords.be studios (Liège)
2007 International Film Festival in Berlin : Thierry plays Jean de Florette’s soundtrack famous theme with Vlaams Radio Orkest, directed by composer himself Jean-Claude Petit
Jan De Nul Group, operating worldwide, is specialized in dredging and land reclamation, rock placing, trenching, rock dumping for oil and gas related offshore pipeline projects, quay walls, marine related projects, civil engineering and large-scale environmental remediation projects, with a solid reputation in turnkey projects. With a yearly turnover of 1.8 billion Euro, the company ranks amongst the international top of dredging contractors and the top of marine engineering contractors.
i n c o o p e r at i o n w i t h :
Jan De Nul Group Office Jan De Nul Singapore Pte. Ltd. 400 Orchard Road I # 18-06 Orchard Towers I 238875 Singapore T +65 6235 2790 I F +65 6235 2791 singapore.office@jandenul.com I www.jandenul.com
A t r a i n s p o t p u b l i c at i o n
www.trainspot.jp