It’s not every day that you find yourself dining just feet away from one of the richest people in the world. But that’s exactly what happened to surprised diners at Newton Food Centre on Tuesday evening (May 6) during the Bill Gates Singapore visit.
The Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist was seen enjoying a spread of Singaporean hawker favourites — including chicken rice, satay, roti prata, and the famously divisive durian.
Accompanied by a small entourage and a film crew, Gates appeared to be filming content while experiencing Singapore’s vibrant food scene.
Durian Reaction: “Not Too Impressed”
Videos circulating on social media captured Gates’ candid reaction to trying durian, often dubbed the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia. While trying the fruit is a rite of passage for many visitors, Gates didn’t appear too fond of the experience — a moment that drew laughter and commentary online.
In another clip, Gates is seen being interviewed while tasting a wide variety of dishes — a true showcase of Singapore’s rich hawker culture.
Gates Foundation to Open Office in Singapore
The Bill Gates Singapore visit wasn’t just about food and culture. Gates was in town for the Philanthropy Asia Summit 2025, where he announced that the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will be opening a new regional office in Singapore.
The move underscores the foundation’s growing engagement with Asia and its commitment to advancing global health and development from a regional hub.
Meetings with Singapore Leaders
During his two-day visit, Gates met with top Singapore officials, including:
- Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
- President Tharman Shanmugaratnam
- Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong
These discussions focused on philanthropy, innovation, and global health, aligning with the summit’s core themes.
A Memorable Visit for Singaporeans
For the many locals who witnessed Bill Gates enjoying hawker food firsthand, the visit was a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. From viral durian reactions to deep discussions on philanthropy, the Bill Gates Singapore visit left a lasting impression.
Where He Was Seen:
📍 Location: Newton Food Centre, Singapore
📅 Date: May 6, 2025
🍽️ Dishes Tried: Chicken rice, satay, roti prata, durian
