Julie Quek Channel NewsAsia 6 Jun 11;
SINGAPORE: Singapore's air quality has come out tops in Asia, beating business powerhouses like Hong Kong and Shanghai.
That's according to a research survey from workplace solutions provider Regus, which polled more than 220 business leaders in Hong Kong, and 250 in China.
Regus said this speaks well for Singapore's plan to attract top international business talent, and maintain a 'liveable city' reputation.
The report found three out of four companies believe the air quality in a city affects the company's ability to attract and retain international talent.
When asked to rank a number of Asian cities in terms of the air quality, respondents ranked Singapore as tops.
Coming in at second spot is Hong Kong followed by Bangkok.
Meanwhile, Shanghai and Beijing were judged to have the poorest air quality.
Regus regional vice-president for Australia, New Zealand and South East Asia William Wiillems said: "These results show that Hong Kong and China's business decision makers rank Singapore far above the competition (when) it comes to air quality".
Mr Wiillems added he can foresee further growth in the short term, as Singapore asserts itself as the cleanest and best place for international businesses in Asia.
-CNA/wk
