Asia Magazine #24 by CITO

asiamagazine #24 | FALL 2014

BY CHALMERS STUDENTS IN ASIA

Chalmers International Taiwan Office

asiamagazine WHAT IS THE CHALMERS INTERNATIONAL TAIWAN OFFICE? Chalmers International Taiwan Office, CITO, was opened in March 2003 and is the result of a bilateral exchange agreement between National Chiao Tung University, NCTU, and Chalmers University of Technology. CITO is strategically located at NCTU, near the Hsinchu Science Park. PURPOSE OF THE ORGANIZATION - Increase awareness at Chalmers about the development in East Asia, with focus on Taiwan. - Support mobility of students and staff between NCTU and Chalmers. - Enhance Chalmers’ visibility in Taiwan and the neighbouring region. - Act as a hub at NCTU for Chalmers students in East Asia. - Further develop cooperation with Swedish companies in Taiwan and Asia. A part of CITO’s mission is to enhance opportunities for Chalmers students in Asia. To do this we search for internships, master theses or other cooperation. If you are looking for assistance to grab the opportunities in Asia, do not hesitate to contact us today! THE CHALMERS ASIA MAGAZINE The purpose of this publication is to increase the awareness of Asia among the students and the staff of Chalmers. The articles are written by Chalmers’ exchange students within the World Wide Programme in Asia. EDITOR IN CHIEF | ALEXANDER REDENKOVIC alexander.radenkovic@chalmers.se ART DIRECTOR | VICTOR PETERSSON victor.petersson@chalmers.se ADRESS CITO National Chiao Tung University, 1001 Daxue Rd., Hsinchu 300, Taiwan, R.O.C. WEB www.asia.chalmers.se PHONE +886 (0) 979 18 44 30 +46 (0)31 772 10 00 OTHER CHALMERS STUDENTS IN ASIA CONTRIBUTING TO ASIA MAGAZINE 2014/2015 CHINA: Karl Bohlin | bokarl@student.chalmers.se

Mattias Engström | mattias.@gmail.com

Ellen Simonsson | astridparinder@hotmail.com

Emelie Joelsson | emeliejoelsson88@hotmail.com HONG KONG: Mikaela Bengtsson | mikben@student.chalmers.se

Dag Fahlin Strömberg | fdag@student.chalmers.se

Maja Fahlen | maja.fahlen@live.se JAPAN: Robert Edström | robert.edström@gmail.com

Martin Wange | martin.wange@bredband.net

Eva-Lotta Holby | evalottaholby@hotmail.com

Jakob Christer Thordson | jacob.thordson@gmail.com SOUTH KOREA:

Pontus Dahlberg | dpontus@student.chalmers.se

SINGAPORE: Sarah Blake Elmvall | sarelm@student.chalmers.se Sara Frisk | frsara@student.chalmers.se

Matilde Bengtsson | tilde_bengtsson@hotmail.com

Simon Wessberg | simonwessberg@gmail.com

Justin Saler-Ramberg| justin.saler.r@gmail.com

Johan Gustafsson | johan.gusten@gmail.com

Sebastian Djerf | djerfs@student.chalmers.se

Lennart Lundberg | lennart.lundberg91@gmail.com

Jeanna Fahlin Strömberg | fahlin@student.chalmers.se

Mattias Kristiansson | matkri@student.chalmers.se Victor Sellman | vicsel@student.chalmers.se

Rickard Wendeberg | ricwend@student.chalmers.se

Henrik Wallenius | henwall@student.chalmers.se

Daniel Weidenmark | danweid@student.chalmers.se

Front cover: Umbrella man | photo by Maximilian Ludvigsson Back cover: Dining by the coast | photo by Kasper Westman Content page photo: Taroko river | photo by Victor Petersson

asiaLetter Step into Asia

ne year ago I held the same magazine as you do now, not

Asia Magazine is distributed twice every year and it’s made by

fully decided whether I should take the opportunity of

students from Chalmers on exchange via the WorldWide ex-

going on exchange or not. At the time I had no idea what either

change program. If you’re currently studying your third year and

CITO or Asia Magazine was, and much less aware that it was

have thought of studying abroad in Asia, you could be one of

made by students from Chalmers. Skimming through the

those writers next year. Each student writes an article about

magazine I felt that Asia would be a great place for exchange

their experiences and thoughts of Asia. CITO edits, produces

studies – a feeling that lingered. It took, however, up until the last

and distributes the magazine, sending it to Chalmers, its writers

day of application for me to apply, and then only by pressing

and companies around Asia.

encouragement from my beloved sweetheart. I am incredibly glad I did apply and thankful for the opportunity of this year in

I would like to thank all our writers, whose great observations

Asia.

and reports have made this issue possible. The following pages will let you look upon Asia from their point of view – and I am

It’s a rare chance to tryout life in another country, and it’s

sure you will enjoy reading every one of them.

something I believe everyone should try. You will meet people from parts of the world you never have nor ever will visit. New friendships will spring, and new tastes and smells will be savoured. I will be honest with you though; it’s not all a dance on roses. Homesickness has sharp claws, and they bury inside you quicker than you think. You miss your family and your friends, your bed and your local grocery shop. But it’s all worth it – the experiences you have living abroad easily make up for the few tears shed in your hard and empty bed. Adapting to another culture cannot really be compared to anything else you’ve ever done. It’s far from backpacking or going on a sunny trip to some beach-ridden place. Merging your entire daily routine with another environment is something beyond describing.

CITO, Chalmers International Taiwan office CITO is operating out of National Chiao Tung University in Hsinchu. The office is a product of strong friendship between Chalmers and NCTU, and acts as the central hub of Chalmers’ exchange programs in Asia. CITO aims to update information about the development in South East Asia, encourage Chalmers’ students to apply for exchange, and increase the awareness of Chalmers in this rapidly growing part of the world.

Alexander Radenkovic | Editor-in-chief

asiaStaff Kasper Westman Head of Office

Linn Hantoft Deputy Head of Office

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Applied Physics.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Instrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management.

Email: kasper.westman@chalmers.se

Email: linn.hantoft@chalmers.se

Alexander Radenkovic Editor-in-Chief

Victor Petersson Art Director

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechological Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Industrial Design Engineering.

Email: alexander.radenkovic@chalmers.se

Email: victor.petersson@chalmers.se

Maximilian Ludvigsson Academic Exchange and Alumni Contacts

Ludvig Barrehag Academic Exchange and Alumni Contacts

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Economics of Innovation.

Email: maxlud@chalmers.se

Email: ludvig.barrehag@chalmers.se

Johan Rydberg Academic Exchange and Alumni Contacts

Johnny Ngu IT Responsible

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management. Email: johan.rydberg@chalmers.se

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics. Email: johnny.ngu@chalmers.se

Tommy Engqvist Corporate Relations

Love Carlson Corporate Relations

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Economics of Innovation.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Email: tommy.engqvist@chalmers.se

Email: love.carlson@chalmers.se

You can read more about the Chalmers International Taiwan Office on page 40.

South Korea

- transformation in one generation T

he first half of the twentieth century was a difficult

vestment projects in the rural areas.

period for Korea. The country was under Japanese

As South Korea became wealthier, salaries increased and the

occupation and took part in several wars, the last one being the

manufacturing industry struggled to compete internationally

Korean War from 1950-1953 that took place after the division

with continuingly low prices. This caused a shift in the South

of Korea into North- and South Korea.

Korean economy. In 1990 South Korean manufacturers had a meeting together with politicians and business leaders to dis-

The Korean War left South Korea ravaged, and in the following

cuss different strategies to deal with the issue. The result was a

decade the South Korean economic growth was low, corruption

focus on high-tech industries, a field where South Korea is one

was high and government spending focused on restoring the

of the leading actors in the world as of today.

country. In 1957 the Korean income per capita was lower than that of Ghana.

The growth is still ongoing in the 21st century where Korea displays one of the highest growth rates in Asia, together with

The turning point came in the 1960s, when the country was

Singapore, Taiwan and Hong Kong. What makes this significant

industrialized and modernized. This was achieved by focusing

is that South Korea hardly has any natural resources. Despite

on South Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most significant resource, labor. The country

this, South Korea is the sixth largest exporting country in the

shifted to an exporting economy centered on labor-intensive

world. It is the only developed country in the world that is being

manufactured products. The manufacturing sector became a

part of the Next Eleven countries, a list consisting of the eleven

competitive advantage for South Korea, surpassing neighbor-

countries with highest economic potential in the forthcoming

ing countries in economic growth rate. During the period from

century.

1960 to 1990 the South Korean economy was one of the fastest growing economies in the world, with an average yearly economic growth of 10 percent. Although the high growth was desirable, it led to problems for the country. Since the growth originated in industries that were mainly located in the larger cities, income differences increased between these cities and the rural areas which were left poor and underdeveloped. This was compensated for by the government through several in-

As of 2014 the South Korean GDP is number 15 in the world

second reason discussed is the importance of the South Ko-

and the economy is number 12 in purchasing power, making

rean education system. In South Korea education is seen as an

it one of the wealthiest countries in the world. It was one of

essential requirement for social and financial success, resulting

the few countries in the world that was hardly affected during

in a large proportion of government expenditure being spent

the recent global financial crisis. The economic growth during

on education to make the education system modern and high-

the crisis was reduced due to declining exports; however, the

tech. This has yielded in South Korea developing the first digi-

unemployment rate stayed low, averaging around 2-3 percent

tal textbooks, which are distributed for free to every primary

during the period.

and secondary school in the nation via high-speed fiber optic broadband. The investments in national education have paid off,

This remarkable economic development is somewhat unique for

as South Korean students now score among the very highest

Korea, although other Asian countries also display high growth.

in the world rankings in areas of problem solving, mathematics

This raises the topic of how Korea could develop so rapidly and

and science.

relatively smoothly in such a short period of time. The development has gained widespread attention worldwide and several

Although it is impossible to distinguish one unique factor as the

attempts have been made to identify the key factors behind the

key behind South Koreas success, it rather makes the develop-

growth - how a nation with barely any natural resources could

ment more interesting. The home of gigantic corporations such

undergo such a transformation in such a short period of time.

as Samsung, Hyundai and LG has more than one success story to share with the rest of the world, and are more than willing

The recurring factors in literature about the South Korean

to do so.

economic growth are the national education system and the culture. The culture in South Korea is in many aspects similar to that of neighboring countries, China and Japan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; countries that have displayed similar growth during the twentieth century.

Lennart Lundberg

Researchers argue that the Asian working mentality and the

Studying at Seoul National University, South Korea.

pride affiliated with working is one of the main reasons behind the development in these countries. This alone does not constitute the answer since there are several Asian countries with

Text and Photo

Holds a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree in Management and Economics of Innovation.

similar culture and characteristics as China, South Korea and Japan which do not show the same economic development. The

lennart.lundberg91@gmail.com

IN SEARCH FOR THE KNOWN I

think that most of us believe that the purpose of going abroad is about embracing new cultures, discover new things, and broaden your horizons.That’s exactly what I thought my trip was going to be like – I was wrong. I’ve always made fun of people travelling to places where there are more Swedes than natives; a trip with all-inclusive, where you are being served continental breakfast and buffet with European food. I understood that the goal with those trips was to relax and get away from everyday life, but I thought that I was different. The sad truth is, however, that my behavior is just the same. That became very clear during my first days in Beijing. My stay started with one goal – to get myself a cup of coffee. After a long search I finally found a place, three kilometers from my dormitory. When I ordered they asked me if I wanted the coffee hot or cold. Of course I want it hot, what a stupid question, I thought to myself. I drank my hot coffee and continued settling down on campus. The second day me and some other students went to a bar street outside campus. They served cold beer, played western music and had a pool table – we had the time of our lives. On the way home we found Subway and I ate my first western meal in China. This became my best experience in China so far. The third day I met a Chinese girl studying journalism. We started talking about the Chinese government and how they’re controlling the history books, media and the internet. She told me that she didn´t like it, but that it wasn´t that big of a problem since you just don’t trust everything that´s written.

We left it there and I thought to myself that this girl has to be brainwashed, even though I knew she was brighter than me. Afterwards we went together to the only burger place on campus, at my request. The fourth day I got a fever. Presumably because of all the Chinese impressions and the fact that I missed the trip to IKEA that all the other exchange students did. I went to comfort myself at the only restaurant that served pizza. What I realized after a while was that everywhere I went I was looking for people with the same opinion as me, for the same food I usually eat, and

My conclusion is that the biggest reason people group together isn´t reasons like personalities, interests or social status. It´s the sense of security they get when they meet someone from their own culture, with the assumption that they are alike. Therefore I´m glad I haven´t met Swedes yet, since I probably would be in the same situation as the Germans. So if I really want to embrace another culture I probably will have to force myself to do things even though it makes me uncomfortable – and see the differences as something fascinating.

for places that looks like I´m used to. And all the time I looked at the unfamiliar things as something strange; is that really embracing the culture? I think the fact that we think of our own culture as superior can explain why it´s so hard to adapt to another culture. Even though the intention is to be a part of it, your own culture and habits are building barriers for that adaption to happen.

Looking at my desperate search for Western culture I have to admit one thing; the only difference between me and people traveling with all-inclusive, is that they already know that they want what’s known, and I´m living in some kind of illusion that I want to change and embrace other cultures. So whether it´s me trying to live like a Chinese, or if it´s someone trying to adapt to the Swedish culture – our habits and culture will probably make it difficult to get all the way. So even though I thought I was going to become a bit Chinese, I have to realize that I´m still a Swede, and I certainly haven´t been trying to change that – yet.

“

...everywhere I went I was looking for people with the same opinion as me, for the same food I usually eat, and for places that looks like I ́m used to.

On campus you can also see that people tend to group themselves together just because they have one thing in common – nationality. Everywhere I go I´m meeting groups of Germans speaking their mother tongue. They group together in order to not get eaten by the big Chinese culture.You could say that the campus in this university works a lot like the suburbs in bigger cities with special restaurants and cafés for foreign students.

Karl Bohlin

Text and Photo

Studying at Tsinghua University, Beijing. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering and Building Technology.

karlolofbohlin@gmail.com

THE FIRST DIVING EXPERIENCE T

he air runs easily through the regulator to fill my lungs; it’s cold and dry. I’m just one meter below surface but even so, it takes some minutes before I start to feel comfortable breathing through the regulator. I have been told to breathe deep and slow and I do my best to calm down. I’m attending a course arranged by NUS (National university of Singapore) dive club that will make me a certified Open Water SCUBA Diver. This is the first grade of many available courses provided by PADI, the world largest network of dive educators. Two theory sessions are followed by a first practical training in NUS’s swimming pool. We then go for a weekend to Tioman Island in Malaysia for training dives under real conditions. We are about 15 students on the boat leaving Tioman Island early in the morning to reach our first dive spot. On the way the equipment is set up and controlled; the air should be fresh, the seals should be tight and the hoses should be tested. Well in water I’m the first to descend. This first dive is five meters and will be a repetition of the training earlier done in the swimming pool. But there’s one major difference – now I can’t just raise my head above water if something goes wrong.

The first minutes are a bit stressful; it’s hard to control the buoyancy so that I neither rise to the surface nor sink too fast. The bubbles when I breathe swirl around my mask and in the beginning I completely forget everything about deep and slow breaths, but then I slowly start to regain control. Everything is about to feel comfortable and prepared for any troubles. We are training to take the masks on and off and to help each other if someone runs out of air. Everything under water gets more complicated due to the fact that we can’t talk to each other. We have to rely on signs and motions. After nearly one hour it’s time to ascend back to surface. At this time I have started to get a bit cold even if I have my wetsuit and the temperature shows 29°C. There is also a slight feeling of sea sickness since it’s hard to really feel what’s up and down when floating around neutrally buoyant in the middle of the blue. Even if diving is kind of a slow activity it’s rather exhausting; maybe it’s the pressure or maybe just all the new impressions. Anyway we go back to shore for a well needed lunch break. The following two dives in the afternoon include emergency ascend and finning training. Ascending from a deep dive to fast can be really dangerous and the diver’s rule number one is to never hold your breath. If you do so during ascension, your lungs will expand as the

surrounding pressure decreases and they risk exploding. There is also a risk that the extra nitrogen in your blood expands and gets trapped in your veins, before it has time to leave the bloodstream. Therefore the training is done from just a few meters. By giving a constant aaa sound through the regulator the air can expand out of the lungs while performing emergency ascends. The evening comes and I get another point of why people get addicted to diving. It’s not just about the dive itself but also about the stories and exchange of experiences that follow. Some groups have seen sea turtles and another tells about the barracudas by the shipwreck. The whole atmosphere from sitting with new friends with similar interests on a beach where just the waves from the sea can be heard is wonderful – and completely different from the city life in Singapore. Day two rises and for this day we have saved the deep dive that has to be included to get the certificate. We are going to try the maximum depth for Open Water divers of eighteen meters. Just before descending it feels a bit scary. Eighteen meter is really deep and when ascending from that depth a safety stop is needed to get the nitrogen in your bloodstream to leave as the pressure drops. As mentioned, a quick ascend can be fatal. Well under water though, the calmness is back. For me as a diver, the feeling at this depth is about the same, except for the sight. This day the visibility at this particular place is really poor but our educators have good knowledge about the area. Actually it’s exciting to swim around just seeing a few meters; in

such conditions you feel extra trust to the friends around you. Only they can help you if something goes wrong. At this stage most of us do feel comfortable with the equipment and conditions though. It’s no longer a problem to just let the regulator out of mouth to have a nice picture. So far the dive spots have been most like training places but we have now gained good control in the water and are ready to explore the real reefs. The final dive is really amazing; the fish and corals are beautiful and the colors are really intense. We see triggerfish, sea turtles and anemones with clown fish, or “Nemos” that seems to be the new name. My previous experiences of diving have only been snorkeling. Doing that you can usually see most of the beautiful life under surface but to come close and float around weightless is something really special that enhance the experience. Attending this course and getting the certificate has given me new opportunities – especially here in Southeast Asia where there are several beautiful diving resorts. So now, Borneo is next to be explored.

Daniel Weidenmark

Text and Photo

Studying at National University of Singapore. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Product Development.

dweidenmark@hotmail.com

The Golden Town of Mathematics launched in 2000.The result speaks for itself and the question is no longer weather Hong Kong is a leading centre for learning mathematics or not, the question is why. An interview with two local students, both studying to become math teachers, will hopefully shed some light on the query. The PISA test is an international measurement, aiming to evaluate educational systems by testing the skills and knowledge of 15-year-old students. The most recent test result is dated from 2012 when around 510,000 students, from 65 different economies, participated in the survey which consists of three main categories: reading, mathematics and science. In the last assessment, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Singapore were top three in all of these categories. So how come the East Asian countries are doing so well in these kind of tests? The math teacher students, Winnie and Yoyo, explain that there are three main features that make the education in Hong Kong stand out in comparison with the European. First of all is it the ambition among the students; already from an early age do school and studies play an important role in children’s everyday life. The parents are generally very engaged and interested in their children’s learning progress, always wanting to know the last exam results and pushing them to do their homework as soon as they come home. Children here seem to get raised with the feeling of school being important.

“

The parents are generally very engaged and interested in their children’s learning progress, always wanting to know the last exam results and pushing them to do their homework as soon as they come home.

“

Kong – top five in the categories mathematics H ong and science ever since the first PISA test was

Not only the parents, but the school system itself also plays an important role in forming the children’s attitude towards the studies.The students are graded already from primary school, where high grades are needed in order to attend the secondary schools with high national ranking; all secondary schools are divided into three bands, with band one being considered as the best of them. With this early grading system, the students immediately get to see the benefits of working hard and how their performance in class actually impacts their lives. All of this contributes to a learning environment where the large majority of students find studies important and necessary. “Even though my parents weren’t too tough on me, I felt like all other students were working incredibly hard on their studies – so I just had to pay the same effort in order to keep up with them”. That the students here are hard-working can easily be seen; walking down the streets of Mongkok you spot advertisement for tutorial classes everywhere and the demand seems endless. Every class seats around 100 students who all have gathered there during their spare time to get some extra lectures within the subjects they find

hard. According to a study from 2005, as many as 70% of all upper secondary school students attend tutorial classes, and the trend seems to increase. Another example of how you’ll see the ambition is by trying to find a place to sit in any of the school libraries. It’s impossible, whether the finals are close or the courses just started. And no, it’s not because they are lacking tables and chairs there.

“

...as many as 70% of all upper secondary school students attend tutorial classes, and the trend seems to increase.

“

The second big difference between the school system here and in Europe is the high focus on exams. While the goal in Sweden, along with other European countries, is for students to learn basic concepts and theories in mathematics the goal here is mainly problem solving. The math lessons are often an hour of counting problems from the course literature, with a homework for every class. As for the students who finish quickly, there are always more books with new exercises of the same kind to find in the bookstore.You simply never run out of problems to solve in mathematics. One of the reasons for this exam-oriented education is that the major way into a university is a public exam. In her future profession as a math teacher Winnie hopes to give her students a well balanced mix of this exam-oriented education along with a good portion of motivation. “In Hong Kong there is a really high concern about the exams since the students need the exam grades for further studies. But for me it is also important to motivate the students. If they don’t find the subject interesting, or if I haven’t expressed it interesting, the students won’t pay attention to my lesson. So I think the motivation is just as important as the exams for learning mathematics.” The enthusiasm that shines through the girls as they speak about their future profession leads us to the final thing that makes Hong Kong students so good in mathematics:

good teachers. Being a teacher is considered as a good and noble job, with a reasonable salary that increases with experience. With these conditions Hong Kong succeeds to attract great students with a burning interest for the teaching profession. After getting a slightly deeper insight into why Hong Kong is doing so great in the international surveys of mathematics, you cannot do anything but admire these hardworking students. Their effort really is remarkable. My only concern is that the young students might miss out on all other things there are to do while they sit with their nose in the books. Both Winnie and Yoyo express that it was a relief to start collage, where you finally don’t have to worry too much about the grades anymore and have time to do a lot more social activities than before. So Hong Kong is doing great, but at what cost? That is a completely different question.

Maja Fahlén

Text and Photo

Studying at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics and Computational Science. faha@student.chalmers.se

Southeast Asia

– a continent with contrasts S

ingapore – smaller Asia at its finest. Although young, at only 49 years old, Singapore reflects an inspired growth from the western world, with its international atmosphere and bustling streets. Five million people from all over the world reside here where the businesses are flourishing. Known as a key hub, for global companies to do business, Singapore is ranked number one for investment potentials and location. The location is also a huge reason as to why students choose Singapore for their exchange studies. When I first moved here, about two months ago, this was set to be my first time in Southeast Asia. With limited ideas of what to expect, I came knowing that people eat a lot of chicken and rice, and that my 180 cm would make me taller than most.

The first thing I noticed when I arrived was, of course, the overwhelming heat and humidity, which was exotic for a freezing Swede. But to adapt to the life here was actually not as hard as it looked. The public transport system is extremely efficient and there are plenty of surveillance cameras everywhere, making you feel safe and secure at any time of the day. My Singaporean friends actually think that I’m quite fussy when I don’t want to leave my computer and iPad alone when we go for coffee. The truth is that you can actually feel secure and protected at most places around the city. Singapore is a country of law and order; there are exhortations and warnings everywhere stating what you should and should not do. For example, it’s forbidden to eat and drink on the subway or even chew gum, and if you are caught doing so it will result in high fines. Once used to the everyday life in Singapore, you almost want to provoke this by opening your water bottle on the metro train, just to see what happens and how your fellow passengers react. Fortunately, the neighbouring countries just steps away are not so strict with their laws. One of the best things that Singapore has to offer is its fantastic location. It is one of the most important harbours in the world with lots of opportunities and easy access to the rest of Asia, through flight or ferry. Only a couple of hours away you reach countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia. These countries have a lot of things in common, not just the friendly Asian welcome you receive wherever you go, but also that people are very helpful, despite the often huge language barrier. By ferry you can reach several islands in Malaysia and Indonesia; one of the closest is Indonesian Bintan, where I took a cab across the countryside and got to see how gas is refilled by hand.

In Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, the well-organized subway has gone and has been replaced by bubbling chaos, with more mopeds than cars and non-existing traffic rules. Every time a street is crossed it feels like a “YOLO”- moment. It’s fascinating to just stand by the street and watch all random things people pack on their vehicles: stairs, furniture, bananas or a whole family of five. When crossing the border to Cambodia you quickly realize that it’s a country under construction – the infrastructure is extremely bad and the expression “bumpy ride” gets a totally new dimension. The streets are dirty and garbage disposals are almost non-existing. Cambodia is most famous for the Angkor Wat temples, but even though tourism is up and coming, Cambodia is still one of the world’s poorest countries. During the Pol Pot regime in the late ‘70s, two million people were killed here, many of whom were very well educated. The country is still suffering from its past, not just emotionally; only a quarter of the population was born before that era and the country has therefore a remarkably young population. Even though they have horrible memories in mind, a smiling face always greets you. It is a real privilege to get the opportunity to travel Asia, to discover new cultures, meet new people and to see things from others perspective. Often things do not turn out as you expect, but entirely different and amazing in their own unique way. This charm is what makes the experiences abroad extraordinary, and I have to confess that Asia is so much more than just chicken and rice; however, as a tall Swede, you do get a lot of attention.

Sara Frisk

Text and Photo

Studying at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Quality and Operations Management. frsara@student.chalmers.se

asiaPhotos How is Asia best represented in a single picture? Below you can ďż˝ind the photos that we thought best answered this question! The two winning photos, in this issue submitted by Kasper Westman and Victor Petersson, are featured as the back cover and content page picture, respectively. Both these photos, three runner ups and a collage of the best of the rest is presented here.

Back cover photo

Content page photo

Title: Dining by the coast Location: Taiwan Photographer: Kasper Westman

Title: Taroko river Location: Taiwan Photographer: Victor Petersson

Runner Ups

Location: Cambodia Photographer: Tommy Engqvist 16

Location: Hong Kong Photographer: Mikaela Bengtsson

Location: Singapore Photographer: Sarah Blake Elmwall

History of Hong Kong I

n many ways, the rise and fall of Hong Kong as a British

the core industry, and where the GDP per capita was as high as

colony is a tale of the ever shifting power balance

the skyscrapers. By the early 80s, it was considered to be one

between East and West. When Hong Kong Island was ceded to

of the four Asians tigers together with Singapore, South Korea

Britain in 1842 in the wake of the First Opium War, the British

and Taiwan.

Empire was at its height and did truly rule the waves. From a Chinese view, on the other hand, the war marked the beginning

Although Hong Kong finally had found its place among the fi-

of what some call the century of humiliation — a period when

nancial centres and cosmopolitan cities of the world, the ques-

China was subjected to the yoke of Western and Japanese impe-

tion of its future status could not be ignored. While Hong Kong

rialism. When Hong Kong finally was returned to China in 1997,

Island and the Kowloon peninsula had been ceded to Britain

the situation was radically different. For Britain, the handover

perpetually, the New Territories had been loaned in 1898 for 99

was the end of the last major remnant of a long gone empire.

years. This largely rural area made up the majority of the Hong

For China, it was yet another milestone on the long road back

Kong landmass, and the rapid growth of the city necessitated

to its lost position as Asia’s foremost power.

the construction of urban areas and vital infrastructure in the

“

territories. There was no meaningful way to separate this area from the rest, and the future of Hong Kong was thus intimately

... the handover was the end of the last major remnant of a long gone empire.

tied to the fate of the New Territories. In the late 70s the expiration date of the lease, the 1st of July 1997, was only two decades away and concerns about the fate of the city began to mount. In a partial relief for Hongkongers, the latter half of the 70s also

“

Whereas the aftermath of the Second World War triggered a

marked significant changes in the Chinese leadership. The death

rather rapid decolonisation of most imperial possessions, Hong

of Mao Zedong put Deng Xiaoping at the helm of China, and

Kong came to stay under the influence of Britain for much

far-reaching economical and political reforms followed. Hoping

longer.Although temporarily ousted by the Japanese, swift action

that the new administration would be more amenable in settling

by the British ensured that their rule of Hong Kong resumed

the future status of Hong Kong, the British had several meetings

immediately following the surrender of Japan. Despite this, it

with the Chinese in the last years of the decade. From the very

was clear that there would be no return to the pre-war order;

start, however, Bejing made it clear that a British Hong Kong

Britain was a world power on decline and the 1949 victory of the

beyond 1997 would not be accepted. The talks continued into

communists in the Chinese Civil War left a fiercely anti-western

the 80s and culminated in the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declara-

regime in power of China. The turmoil of civil war and burden

tion.The agreement promised that Hong Kong would become a

of communist dictatorship drove large amount of refugees from

Special Administrative Region (SAR) when transferred to China

the mainland into Hong Kong, rapidly increasing the population.

on the 1st of July 1997, a status it would come to share with the

Hong Kong underwent rapid industrialisation in the 1950s,

nearby Portuguese colony of Macau. Under the slogan of “one

mirroring the later rise of mainland China as a manufacturing

country, two systems”, this would mean that Hong Kong would

giant. In the coming decades, economic development and wide-

be allowed to keep its legal and economic systems for at least

ranging reforms gave rise to the modern Hong Kong — a global

50 years. The responsibilities of Beijing were to be limited to

city where the financial sector had replaced manufacturing as

defence and foreign affairs.

Despite the promises entailed in the declaration, there were

Still, saying that all fears have gone away would be far from the

naturally many Hongkongers who still treated the intentions of

truth. Throughout the entire post-handover period, protests

mainland China with suspicion. The violent crushing of the 1989

against any government measure perceived as a threat to Hong

Tiananmen Square protests caused additional fear for the fu-

Kong’s way of life have been a regular occurrence. The most

ture of the city.When Chris Patten became the last governor of

recent example is the controversy regarding the upcoming 2017

Hong Kong in 1992, he addressed these worries by accelerating

Chief Executive election. As the position of chief executive re-

the democratic reforms that had begun in the wake of the Sino-

placed that of the British Governor, the planned election would

British agreement. Up to this point, the territory had freedom of

give the people unprecedented power over the Hong Kong gov-

the press and many other liberties associated with the western

ernment. An August 2014 announcement that only candidates

world, but the average citizen had little direct influence over

nominated by Beijing would be allowed to stand for the election

Hong Kong politics. The original reforms had given the general

caused activists to take to the streets in large numbers. In what

population the right to elect some seats in Hong Kong’s legisla-

came to be known as the Umbrella Revolution, key parts of the

tive council, but the majority of the seats were in effect chosen

city were occupied by protesters in late September and early

by the business elite and other special interest groups. These

October.

tended to be heavily pro-stability and thus wary of causing any conflict with the mainland. The 1994 reforms by Patten gave a

But despite the ongoing conflicts about the future political sys-

significantly greater say to the average citizens, an unexpected

tem of Hong Kong, its most fundamental challenge might lie

move that infuriated the Chinese leadership.

elsewhere. In a time when China was shut-off from the world, Hong Kong’s prosperity was founded on its role as the gateway

The years leading up to 1997 were obviously not free of conflict,

between East and West. As a result of the economical liberalisa-

but the handover took place as planned. After a ceremony on

tion of China, this position can no longer be taken for granted.

the evening of the 30th of June, the sovereignty of Hong Kong

Therefore, the greatest worry of Hong Kong should perhaps

was transferred to the People’s Republic of China at midnight.

not be that it will be assimilated into the mainland, but rather

The departure of Chris Patten and other British officials that

that its economic system is being replicated by the mainland to

night was both a symbolic end to a once mighty empire and

the point of Hong Kong becoming redundant.

the beginning of a new and uncertain future for Hong Kong. Today, more than 17 years since the handover, it is clear that the worst fears present before the handover did not materialise; the population still enjoys freedoms unheard of in mainland China, and the city remains a major financial centre and the location of choice for many corporate headquarters.

Dag Fahlin Strömberg

Text and Photo

Studying at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Physics and Astronomy. fdag@student.chalmers.se

FIGHTING DISASTERS WITH ACTION AND THOUGHT Tzu Chi – a future place for you as an engineer?

ne of Asia’s largest non-governmental organisations, the

the arrival of the Dharma Master at any minute, and they want

Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation, has its

to greet her with respect. She is coming down from her abode

base of operation in Hualien at Taiwan’s east coast. Its work is to

to conduct a speech for the volunteers that are currently in

provide relief during disasters – both man-made and natural –

training in this venue.

and was started in 1966, by the now 73 year old Dharma Master Cheng Yen in the aftermath of the American aid programme

Although the arrival of the grandmaster indeed lives up to many

coming to an end. Starting out as a monastery for nuns it has

of our prejudices about religious organizations, our interviewee

since evolved alongside Taiwan’s economic miracle into an or-

Chad Liu, public relations responsible at the Tzu Chi headquar-

ganisation with 2 million volunteers worldwide, and an annual

ters, presents us with a different perspective. He explains that

income from donations of more than 269 million USD (2006

the Buddhist part plays a minor role in the work that is done. As

figure).With this in mind it is not strange that Master Cheng Yen

an example he tells us that anyone is welcome to join as a vol-

qualified as one of the world’s most influential people according

unteer, regardless of religious beliefs. Chad himself has worked

to TIMEmagazine in 2011. However successful, with continuous

in the organization for 19 years; as a catholic he is living proof

development the organization is constantly facing new challeng-

that Tzu Chi puts little emphasis on the religious background

es – many of them having an engineering or academic nature.

of its members. Also, he points out, the organisation is strictly unilateral in its work, doing no missionary work nor conversion

We arrive to Hualien by train early in the morning. On the sta-

in the process of helping. Having said this, we are directed to sit

tion we’re met by the warm air of Taiwan’s east coast. After

down in the hall’s bookshop and café that is filled with toddlers

taking a cab a couple of kilometres we can immediately spot the

and teenagers helping to serve coffee and tea. We sit down and

venue where we are going to conduct the interview – JingSi hall

turn to our first couple of questions regarding the core values

is a massive building with distinct temple-like features. Finding

of Tzu Chi.

our way to the lobby we are surprised to be met by two rows of employees, one with men and one with women, lined up right beyond the entrance. It soon turns out that the staff is expecting

People from all age groups are involved in Tzu Chi’s work

have a collective responsibility to prevent them from happening”. The three of us reflect on this seemingly interesting view for a couple of minutes. During this summer, Taiwan has experienced two traumatic events. The first – a gas explosion in Kaohsiung – cost 27 people their lives and caused almost 300 injuries. The second – a plane crash on Penghu Island – cost 48 people their lives. Neither is hard to blame on individual or collective mistakes. However, Chad mentions that natural disasters also should be incorporated in this collective responsibility. When he sees that we don’t understand his meaning he elaborates and explains that the meaning of this statement is rather a question about definitions. What is considered a disaster is not only the event itself – for example a typhoon or an earthquake – but more importantly, the fact that people suffer. Here people can do a lot to prevent other people’s suffering at any catastrophic event.

This seems to be the philosophy of Tzu Chi; disasters are caused

by people not intervening against bad things happening and prevented by people who do. Therefore they seek to intervene. As an engineer you have a chance to play a big role in this mission, Chad tells us. During the 2010 floods in Pakistan one Tzu Chi engineer named Marshall Siao started developing a low portable bed. The construction allowed refugees to sleep comfortably a few inches over the waterlogged ground. With continued improvement the low plastic bed was developed into a multipurpose folding platform that was awarded the prestigious Red Dot Design Award in 2014. The design goes above and beyond, using food grade Polypropylene for the construction to ensure

“Disasters are man-made”, Chad states in a calm voice.

“

What is considered a disaster is not only the event itself – for example a typhoon or an earthquake – but more importantly, the fact that people suffer.

“

“Disasters are man-made”, Chad states in a calm voice. “We

the bed will not irritate even a baby’s skin. The will to not only restore status quo in disaster areas but also improve the situation, is a goal that has had huge effect on the organization’s success in China. For 25 years, in the wake of floods and earthquakes, Tzu Chi has been in China, building schools in rural areas.When Sichuan was struck by a devastating

We are told about other engineering problems encountered by the organization. Chad explains the importance of designing aid-equipment in a durable and sustainable way. Two examples come to mind. The first is the challenge of designing prefab houses, like those currently used in Indonesia for restoration after the typhoon Yolanda. The houses have to be designed in such a way that they provide better cover and standard of living than a tent, while at the same time being non-permanent and modular so that they can be disassembled and reused at a different location. Further improvement of the structures are still being sought and those with viable ideas have an opportunity to contribute. The second example mentioned is that of providing portable methods to purify water while minimizing residual, non-renewable bi-products. For this task the organisation has sub-contracted a Taiwanese firm driven by a local entrepreneur. The firm produces water filtration equipment made from recycled plastic bottles. The product is too cheap to be commercially viable but fits the organization’s philosophy well. Thus, Tzu Chi pays the company a price high enough for it to continue its operation. In this case the engineer behind

Chad Liu

the company can make a difference while still making a living.

earthquake in 2008, many schools built by the local government

We’re coming to the end of the interview as we start to discuss

were destroyed, taking the lives of thousands of children. But

the future. “Looking forward we face even bigger challenges”

all the Tzu Chi schools remained; the Tzu Chi in-house con-

Chad states. Elaborating that the changing climate and increas-

struction division promoted the use use of a different kind of

ing urbanisation will give us more and bigger disasters. We all

reinforced concrete – not as cheap, but much more sturdy. This

must be ready to act, and we need new solutions in order to

adherence to long-term solutions coupled with a strict non-

avert future disasters. One message is clear: As engineering stu-

political agenda has opened up relations with China. In 2010 Tzu

dents you have the chance to play a future role in improving the

Chi was the first and only foreign NGO in China allowed to set

work of this organisation, independent of your own definition

up a nationwide charity foundation.

of the word disaster.

Love Carlson

Text and Photo

Kasper Westman

Text and Photo

Studying at National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Applied Physics.

love.carlson@chalmers.se

kasper.westman@chalmers.se

UMBRELLA MOVEMENT Hong Kong

Thousands of people have gathered in the streets outside the financial and governmental centre in Hong Kong. When the Chinese government announced that they wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow civil nominations in the Hong Kong chief executive elections in 2017, some students responded by protesting outside the government headquarters. That was the beginning of the largest demonstrations in China since Tiananmen square in 1989. The protesters started using umbrellas for protection against pepper spray, making it the symbol of the movement. People from all over the city are donating umbrellas, tents and time for the cause â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it is no longer only students who are protesting.

meet up with Tiffany, one of the protesters, at the W ecentral station in Hong Kong. She takes us along the main road through the barricades and into the centre of the protest area. There are things and people everywhere: rows of tents next to blankets to sit on at the street, signs and posters with aphorisms and slogans, works of arts, and of course umbrellas - lots of umbrellas. Tiffany tells us how the protesters have completely overtaken the huge crossway by simply staying there in large numbers. She is herself sleeping there three to five nights a week. When we ask her what she thinks about the risks she is taking she replies that this area is quite peaceful. It’s the smaller protest areas where the streets are narrower that are the most violent. Outside the government headquarters, the main region for the demonstrations, the protesters are to some extent protected by their large numbers. In the smaller regions the police are able to clean up the barricades and move people more easily; hence, these regions are more often subject to clashes between protesters and police. Tiffany has been in the front, close to the police forces, several times. “I was there during september 28th when it all started. The eyes of the police are different now.”, she

says. “Before they were calm during the confrontations, now they have crazy eyes. They say that our umbrellas are weapons.” Although a serious undertone, the mood at the demonstration area is quite peaceful and people are keen to help each other. There is no centralized organization, but instead, groups of people take own initiatives and organize stations for handing out supplies such as tents, blankets and food for free. There are also medical tents and a wellequipped public toilet. Tiffany shows us the study area – a place where some people have built wooden benches and desks for students to sit down and study at by the light from small desk lamps during the evenings. Later that night we eat dinner with a group of acquaintances from mainland China. When we ask what they think about the demonstrations, they laugh and say that they are the people the protesters are demonstrating against. “The young people don’t know what they are doing. They don’t have a goal and they only cause trouble for ordinary people.“ They all work in the finance district where the main protest area is located; it takes them over one and a half hour

extra to get to and from work. One of them tells us that they understand why people are upset, but also emphasises that China is not ready for democracy yet, and that Hong Kong is still a part of China. She says that change will come, but that it has to take its time.

Before we leave, we take a last look at the area. One wall is completely covered with post-it notes with slogans, wishes and messages. On a banner close by, they have cited a worn quote from John Lennon’s Imagine.There is a sense of anticipation in the air; still, the road ahead seems long and winding.

Everyone we talk to seem to think the protests won’t change the Chinese government’s decisions, including the protesters themselves. The people of Hong Kong seem surprised that this is happening; no one expected the demonstrations to carry on for this long, and this is the first time the city has experienced anything similar. One girl tells us that she still believes the demonstrations are important. They serve as a statement to the Chinese government officials that they can’t do whatever they want in Hong Kong without the citizens reacting against it. She says that protests like these are a first step on the way toward a more democratic environment. Ludvig Barrehag

Text and Photo

Maximilian Ludvigsson

Text and Photo

Studying at National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Ecnonomics of Innovation.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics.

ludvig.barrehag@chalmers.se

maxlud@chalmers.se

Food Paradise Often referred to as The Little Red Dot, Singapore is a master in the art of multi-cuisine despite its small size.

Southeast Asian guidebooks often rank Singaporean food as one of the top experiences in the region. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no wonder though; through the history Indian, Chinese, Malay and Indonesian cuisine have mixed into a characteristic Singaporean fusion of delicious delights. Later influences from western cuisine, such as Portuguese and British, also left its marks. Food is a forever interesting topic of conversation and a crucial part of the Singaporean identity. The multi-cuisine unifies people across cultural borders. It is very common to see Indian

egg noodles and rice noodles and in the Singaporean version

chefs use Malay spices in their dishes and Chinese chefs use

it usually comes with egg and pork slices, squid and prawns.

Indian spices. Singaporeans often eat at hawker centres rather

It is served with vegetables, sambal, lime juice and lard pieces.

than at home. A hawker centre is a type of food court consisting of several food stalls. These centres are famous for hav-

In the Malay cuisine you will find food being spicy at the same time

ing a wide range of dishes for a very cheap price. You can find

as the coconut milk makes the spiciness bearable.A famous dish is

Hawker centres wherever you go, especially in the heartlands.

nasi lemak; a rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves

A heartland is a small district consisting of government owned

served with a spicy sambal and fried anchovies.The Singaporean

flats; where you also find everything you need in everyday life.

version can also be served with fried drumstick, chicken franks, fish cake and curried vegetables. From the Indonesia cuisine the

Singaporeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s small area in combination with the high population

famous dish is nasi goreng, which simply means fried pre-cooked

density makes it difficult to satisfy the grocery demand.Therefore

rice spiced with sweet soy sauce, shallot, garlic, tamarind and

almost all grocery is imported, making the prices for cooking your

chilli. It often comes with sides such as egg, prawns and chicken.

own food almost as expensive as eating at the hawker centres. The Peranakan cuisine is a mix between Malay and Chinese The Chinese cuisine found in Singapore offers dishes from dif-

cuisine and its most famous dish is laksa: a spicy noodle soup.

ferent regions of China. From the Cantonese cuisine you can en-

Laksa is ranked as the 7th out of the 50 most delicious foods in

joy dim sum, roasted meat and double-boiled soups.The famous

the world, so it should not be missed. Another common cross

Singaporean dish chicken rice has its roots in the Hainan prov-

cultural dish is Mee goreng; stir fried yellow egg noodles with

ince and yong tau fu is from the Hakka region. Many Chinese

ghee, tomato sauce, egg and chilli mixed with a variety of meats.

dishes are based on different kind of noodles, for example char kway teow which contains flat rice noodles fried in soy sauce

If you look for Indian food in Singapore, you will find both

with prawns, shrimp paste, cockles, bean sprouts, and chopped

southern and northern cuisine. From the southern you can

Chinese chives. Hokkien mee is a dish consisting of stir-fried

find crispy dosa, spicy curries and seafood, while from the

many people and considered a delicacy. The architecture of the Esplanade theatre was in fact inspired by the durian fruit. So if you have munched through a delicate meal and had your coffee at a Hawker centre, what can you find for dessert? The dessert selection is almost as wide as the main dish selection. Many desserts are based on beans, jelly and fruit. Also the dishes do not necessarily have to be sweet to be considered as desserts. Singaporeans love their ice desserts; most famous are chendol and ice kachang. Chendol is a drink based on coconut milk consisting of green jelly noodles, shaved ice and palm sugar. It may also include red beans, glutinous rice, grass jelly and creamed corn. Ice kachang is a tall icy dessert coming in bright colours and with a mix of fruit and dressings. It often contains red beans, sweet corn, grass jelly and cubes of agar agar. The mountain of shaved ice and fruit is finally topped with evaporated milk, coconorthern you find tandoori dishes, naan breads and milder

nut milk, red rose syrup and sarsi syrup making it a colourful sight.

curries. There is also the local Indian-Muslim cuisine where you find the delicious murtabak, roti pratas and nasi biriyani.

Whatever kind of food and dining you’re looking for, Singapore has it all: expensive, cheap, Asian, western and everything in be-

In Singapore you will mostly find a fork and spoon to use for

tween. Singapore is without question the paradise for gastro-

eating your meal, so forget about the knife! So how will you cut

nomes. Visiting Singapore, you will find many more local dishes

the food? It’s simple, use the spoon! As a country being sur-

than mentioned in this article and discovering those should be a

rounded by sea, sea food is also a common treat. Popular dishes

part of the Singaporean experience, shouldn’t it?

are sambal stingray, black pepper crab and oyster omelette. Ordering coffee and tea in English is not the norm; actu-

Coffee and tea guide

ally, coffee and tea are usually ordered in Singlish terms at the local hawker centres. It is very convenient to

A few common choices of coffee are:

learn what your favourite coffee type is called in Singlish.

•

Kopi: Coffee with condensed milk.

•

Kopi-C: Coffee with evaporated milk and sugar.

What are the popular beverages in Singapore though? When

•

Kopi-O: Coffee with only sugar.

it comes to tea you have teh tarik. The name means pulled

•

Kopi-kasong: Coffee without milk and sugar,

tea and refers to the preparation in which the tea is being tossed between two cups in order to create a thick froth.

literally means coffee with nothing inside. •

Kopi-C-kasong: Coffee with evaporated milk.

You can also find bubble tea which basically is jelly like boba balls added to black tea with milk. When it comes to alco-

Tea is ordered in the same way, but replacing kopi with tea.

holic beverages you have the famous Tiger beer, which is one of the less expensive alcohol alternatives in Singapore. A wide variety of fruits are available all around the year, but the most famous one is definitely the durian. Well-known for its characteristic smell, every bus, underground-station, hotel, and public place strictly forbid carrying durians in-

Jeanna Fahlin Strömberg

Text and Photo

Studying at National University of Singapore. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree Systems, control and mechatronics.

side. Still, the fruit is often referred to as the king of fruits by jeanna.fs@gmail.com

asiaInterview

Working Nine to Five, in Singapore... nine to five, in Singapore… W orking “There are no kids in Singapore”. This, a friend of mine

derdressed standing in the high-speed elevator in the middle of suits in different shades of dark colours.

told me when we were talking about the fact that I just had been admitted for exchange studies at the Nanyang Techno-

When entering the relatively small bank office, it was a pleas-

logical University in Singapore. He confidently explained that

ant surprise to meet another Swede. Charlotta Pedersen, or as

the reason behind this is that everyone living there are focused

she calls herself, Lottis, welcomed us warmly and asked us to

on accelerating their career, and does not have time for raising

sit down in one of the meeting rooms. Not yet really used to

children. When arriving after an 18-hour flight, jet lagged and

Singlish (the Singaporean accent of English), the relief to be able

underfed since the last nine dishes consisted of airplane food, I

to carry out banking transactions in my own native language

was deeply disturbed by a platoon of crying children – my friend

could hardly be described. Also, my new acquaintance was kind

had been wrong.

enough to let me interview her about her experience of living and working in Singapore.

Singapore is, however, one of the world’s major commercial hubs. The multicultural and highly populated island country on the tip of the Malay Peninsula is the fourth biggest financial centre, and one of the five busiest ports in the world. With its ad-

Could you tell me some things about your background; your education and how you started working at Handelsbanken?

vantageous geographical location, there are also excellent travel opportunities. For the weekend, one must choose between

I have got a degree in Business Law & EU-law from the Univer-

surfing at the beaches of Bali, trekking on Borneo or perhaps

sity of Sussex, England. I started working at Handelsbanken early

celebrating Saturday night in a skyscraper in Kuala Lumpur. The

on during high school and got the opportunity to keep work-

short distance to some of Southeast Asia’s most beautiful places,

ing there during university studies. Consequently, it felt natural

in combination with the flourishing financial atmosphere, makes

to continue within Handelsbanken, where I have been working

Singapore a very attractive workplace.

since 1998.

The first time I came in personal contact with the financial

Why did you move to Singapore?

world of Singapore, was when opening a local bank account at the Singapore branch of the Swedish bank Handelsbanken.

I appreciate the opportunity to broaden the horizons within the

Arriving at 65th Chulia Street, after navigating between sky-

concern. For instance, I have been working in London as well as

scrapers and food courts, I found the office at the 21st floor

New York on behalf of Handelsbanken. Also, living in Asia during

of the 50-floor building. Still not used to the intensive heat and

a limited period had been a long-term plan for me; Singapore

humidity, wearing shorts and t-shirt, I was feeling extremely un-

was suitable for that purpose.

What is the biggest difference between working in Sweden and working abroad? There is mostly no specific difference, but the fact that Handelsbanken is not that known outside Sweden requires the employees to explain to customers how the firm is conducting banking more than usually. I reckon this is quite different from home where the bank could be found in (almost) each and every street corner.

Are there any speciﬁc advantages of working abroad? There are too many to tell. One benefit from leaving the comfort zone is that you grow as a person and therefore as an employee. I cannot think about any specific disadvantages, but I have to clarify that one has to cherish relations with friends in the home country. “Prepare for returning

Name: Education:

home as soon as you get there”, I once heard, meaning that one should not underestimate how distance affects relations.

“

One beneﬁt from leaving the comfort zone is that you grow as a person and therefore as an employee.

“

How do you cure possible homesickness?

Works at:

Charlotta Pedersen Business Law & EU-law from the University of Sussex, England Handelsbanken

Will you keep working abroad in the future? Yes, that it is very likely. Handelsbanken is growing a lot in Great Britain which, in combination with the fact that my husband is British, seems quite suitable as a long-term plan. As for me, working in Singapore in the future does not seem that far-fetched. Since I enjoy living here, I may be able to get used to working here too, even though I might not be able to raise any children due to lack of time.

I would say that Skype and telephone calls are important tools to cure it. Also, going to IKEA could solve missing the Swedish

Anyway, when leaving Singapore, it will not be a goodbye – it will

cuisine, since they offer their famous ‘Swedish Meatballs’ as well

be a see you later...

as Swedish candy worldwide.

Rickard Wendeberg

Text and Photo

Studying at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Economics of Innovation. ricwend@student.chalmers.com ricwend@student.chalmers.se

臺灣

Taiwan W

hen we first told people that we were going to Taiwan,

with a lot of the streets transforming into night markets where

we got a lot of puzzled looks. Many didn’t know very

one can find different examples of Asian cuisine as well as mis-

much, or in some cases nothing at all, about the place. There

cellaneous clothes, accessories and other trinkets.

were grandparents who were quite certain it was somewhere in China and friends who only remembered the Made in Taiwan

The food culture is one of the best parts of life in Taiwan. There

stamp from childhood. First of all, Taiwan is not the same thing

are restaurants everywhere and the food is so cheap that you

as China and it has definitely more to offer than just plastic toys.

never cook by yourselves. Eating is a big part of how you socialize with friends and the traditional way of enjoying a meal,

About half of Taiwan’s area consists of a great mountain range.

where everyone share dishes, is great for exploring different

The mountains in the central and east part of the island are

tastes together. As Taiwan has such a diverse population, with

steep and covered with jungle. Hence, most of the population

people emigrated from many different parts of China and the

lives in big cities by the coastline. The western part of Taiwan is

rest of Asia, there is a large supply of different styles and dishes.

the most urbanized region and when travelling from the north to the south it feels like you’re just going through one large con-

When the Chinese government fled from the communists to

tinuous city. This is the part of Taiwan, the industrial and tech-

Taiwan, they brought a lot of old treasures from the Forbidden

nological hotspot, that some western people are aware of and

City in Beijing with them. The artefacts spans more than 10 000

associate the country with. However, this view of Taiwan doesn’t

years of Chinese history and was mainly collected by China’s

provide the whole picture. After being here for some months we have come to realise that Taiwan is much underestimated by most people in the west. In this article we aim to give a brief picture of our experiences of this beautiful island. In the north of Taiwan lies Taipei, the capital of Taiwan and home to the world’s second highest building, Taipei 101. From having been scarred by both the Japanese rule in the first half of the 1900s and of the martial law during the second half, Taipei has recently started to flourish. The city core is modern with lots of fashionable clothing stores, nightclubs and the majestic skyscraper dominating the view. Closer to the riverside, the city instead spreads out in narrow streets packed with people and shops. During the evening the activity gets even more intense

ancient emperors. Since 1965 the collection is for display at the National Palace Museum in Taipei and is well worth a visit. Just one hour southwest from Taipei lies a town called Hsinchu, or new bamboo, which is where we live. It’s an industrial city almost the same size as Gothenburg. A lot of microconductor companies are based here and Asus, Acer and Benq all have roots in Hsinchu. The city is also home to two famous universities, NCTU and NTHU. Together with National Taiwan University in Taipei, these three are the most prestigious in Taiwan. The city looks like most smaller Taiwanese cities we’ve been

Further down to the south lies Kenting, a place with great op-

to. It consists mostly of endless streets lined with flashing neon

portunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Unfortunately we

signs, scooter workshops, restaurants and various small stores.

went there during an incoming typhoon, so all of the beach-

There are hardly any sidewalks and if they exist, they’re already

es were closed to the public. The beaches looked really nice

full of scooters or cars. It is hard to go anywhere by foot; in-

though and Kenting is a place we are sure to revisit.

stead, everyone drives a scooter. Old people drive fully loaded with large boxes of food, guys with girls clinging on their backs,

One of the most distinguishing features of Taiwan is its people.

and families with kids standing between the parent’s legs on the

The Taiwanese are remarkably friendly and always very keen to

cargo space. The entire road system is built with driving scoot-

help confused and strayed foreigners. The only problem though

ers in mind.When 23 million people are huddled at the western

is that most Taiwanese, especially in the rural areas, don’t speak

edge of a country as large as Denmark, there is no space for

much English. Instead we get to practice our non-existing Chi-

everyone to have a car.

nese and our only slightly better body language. Eventually everything tends to work out fine despite the language barriers,

The middle and eastern part of Taiwan is mountainous. Some-

much because of the Taiwanese’s helpful attitudes. It also pro-

times considered East Asia’s highest peak – depending on how

vides a more colourful experience.

you define East Asia – Yushan, or Jade Mountain, rises 3952 m above sea level right in the middle of Taiwan. There are also

This is just a brief flash of what Taiwan has to offer.We have only

several large national parks with lots of hiking trails along and

been here for a couple of months, and we still have much left

up the steep mountainsides. One of the most famous national

to do and explore – climbing Yushan is among the things on the

parks is Taroko gorge. We spent a day walking along the huge

top of that list. There is so much more to say about Taiwan; we

gorge that the river had created over thousands of years. Just

haven’t written about the mysterious religious traditions, the

east of this national park, by the foot of the mountain lies the

colourful aboriginal people or the peculiar bubble milk tea. That

coastline. Here you can find a lot of beaches with great waves

is all up to you to experience.

for surfing – which we would have liked to say we tried successfully but that wouldn’t be entirely true.

Ludvig Barrehag

Text and Photo

Maximilian Ludvigsson

Text and Photo

Studying at National Chiao Tung University, Taiwan.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Ecnonomics of Innovation.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Physics. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Engineering Mathematics.

ludvig.barrehag@chalmers.se

maxlud@chalmers.se

HOMELESS IN TOKYO hat it’s difficult to find affordable housing in Tokyo is, I

Staying at someone elses place

would say, a platitude and the reality is more relative to

Can be the best or the worst, depending on you and the per-

what you’re used to. Coming from Gothenburg, I find homes in

son you’re staying with. Be aware that Japanese people generally

Tokyo reasonably priced, however small they may be. Available

don’t invite people over in the same way that western people

apartments are abundant, so expats moving in shouldn’t feel

might be used to; some feel a great deal of integrity about their

overly concerned about difficulties of finding housing. Even so,

home.

there can be a lot of reasons why one would like to have immediate short- or medium-term budget options. Salarymen

Manga café

with homes far away from the city looking for places to sleep

Generally, you can find at least one close to almost every subway

during the weeks seem to be very commmon. Add to the mix

station. It’s basically like an Internet café, but with tons of manga

travelers, people thrown out in the cold by their significant oth-

books and a private booth with a sofa and a gaming computer.

er, and plain homeless people and you have a viable market for

Most have reasonably priced food and many even have showers.

short-term residence. Personally, I came to Tokyo three weeks

It’s not too comfortable and the lights stay on throughout the

prior to my apartment moving-in date and found that the ar-

night. Cost: About 2000 yen per night

rangements I had made were not valid anymore. Capsule hotel Fear not, because there are several alternatives. Below, I outline

Not as abundant as the manga cafes, but can be found in the

the ones I loooked into. Save for hostels, all of the alternatives

central areas like Ueno and Shinjuku. They’re similar to big hos-

below offer per-hour prices if you don’t want to stay the entire

tels, but you get your own private cell (super comfy as long as

night.

you’re shorter than about 185 cm) and the other guests are generally old unsociable Japanese men rather than chatty for-

Hostel

eign backpackers. Capsule hotels usually come with a bathing/

Not that different from backpackers’ lodges and hostels

sauna space to freshen up after a hard day’s work.

worldwide. Cost: From about 2200 yen per bed per night.

Cost: About 2500/3000 yen per night. 3900 for the futuristic, Star Trek Enterprise-feeling 9h establishment at Narita Airport.

Urban camping Homeless people in Japan are not like homeless people anywhere else I’ve been. They keep to themselves, build small shelters of cardboard boxes and I have never seen anyone beg. The pride and shame in Japanese culture is obvious here as much as anywhere. In Japan, there is no allemansrätt. Still, propping up a tent in a small park or similar should be no problem as long as you don’t bother anyone, stay out of the way, and clean up after yourself. Japan is also generally a very safe place. This is the only alternative I didn’t try, mainly because all the camping gear I could find in stores was a bit on the expensive side to be worth it for such a short time. Proper preparation is key here; Tokyo summer is going to be hell and the winter might be a bit cold, but spring and fall should be good. Obviously you want to stay aware of the occasional typhoons. Cost: From free to whatever you want to spend on gear.

“

They keep to themselves, build small shelters of cardboard boxes and I have never seen anyone beg. The pride and shame in Japanese culture is obvious here as much as anywhere.

“

Love hotel

All in all, there are a lot of different ways to be creative about

As I initially said, people generally don’t invite each other home

getting some shut-eye and freshen up in a city like Tokyo. Sleep-

in Tokyo. So what you do when you find the love of the night at

ing in a sauna, in karaoke boxes, at rental offices, or even at

an intoxicated night out in sparkling Kabukicho or Roppongi, is

McDonald’s is not unheard of. Just be sure to use your creativ-

to head to one of these installments. Pricey (expect about 8000

ity, be prepared, have a backup plan if it doesn’t work out like

yen) if you just want to have a good night’s sleep on your own

expected, and stay safe!

on a weekend. Find someone to share it with for some hours and it doesn’t have to be that expensive, though. Cost: Varies greatly.

“

Sleeping in a sauna, in karaoke boxes, at rental ofﬁces, or even at McDonald’s is not unheard of.

Robert Edström

Text

Studying at The University of Tokyo, Japan. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Computer Science – Algorithms, Languages and Logic. robert.edstrom@gmail.com

Chaebols

– The elephant conglomerates of South Korea

he South Korean economy is dominated by huge business

Korea early implemented a policy know as guided-capitalism

conglomerates called chaebols. The chaebols (재벌) are

which helped the chaebols to move with the times into new and

typically family-controlled with the families of the major

more advanced industries. The chaebols moved from consumer

chaebols being extremely wealthy and having huge influence and

goods into heavy industry and onwards into high-tech electron-

power in Korea.The Samsung family group is the biggest chaebol

ics. The transformation and expansion into new businesses has

with assets of 325 billion USD. Other important chaebols are

been crucial for the development of the chaebols. One Samsung

the family groups Hyundai and LG. Sales from the top ten chae-

boss once said that you should be willing to change everything

bols equal 80 percent of the Korean economy and the four big-

except your wife and children.

percent alone. History – From noodles to Galaxy S5 Several of the chaebols spring from Korean companies that obtained assets from Japanese firms as the 35 year long Japanese

“

The companies were accused of being received special treatment from the government and for wide spread corruption.

occupation of Korea ended with the Second World War in 1945. Many of these companies had close links to the government of

“

gest (Samsung, Hyundai Motors, LG and SK) accounts for 30

the First Republic, lasting between 1948 and 1960. The compa-

Growing criticism and scandals

nies were accused of being received special treatment from the

Since 1990 the heads of seven of the ten biggest chaebols have

government and for wide spread corruption. After the military

been convicted for bribery, tax-evasion or embezzlement. Even

seized power in 1961 with the aim to eradicate corruption and

though the court found them guilty, the government could not

industrialize the country, the government gave some of the ma-

allow the powerful leaders to go to jail because of the impact

jor companies massive contracts and guaranteed foreign loans.

it would have on the economy. Therefore all seven of them got

Following the earlier accusations of corruption, many of the

a presidential pardon and returned to management positions

leaders from the big companies were charged with corruption,

within the chaebols. In 2008, Lee Kun-Hee, Chairman of Sam-

but since the government’s major industrialization plans could

sung Group and the wealthiest man in Korea with a net worth

not be fulfilled without these companies, the leaders got away

of 11.6 billion USD, was found guilty of bribery and fined 100

with vast fines. Even though the military took actions against

million USD. He was later given a presidential pardon.

corruption the chaebols continued to be deeply connected to

The chaebols are accused of suppressing entrepreneurship due

the government and corruption was widely spread. In 1987 Ko-

to the difficulties of taking on chaebol subsidiaries. Because

rea adopted democracy and as a chaebol leader became presi-

of the overwhelming positions the chaebols possess and how

dent, the deep connections between government and the chae-

deeply they are entwined in the Korean society, students are

bols continued.

encouraged to work there instead of starting their own businesses. The chaebols are also accused of putting smaller companies and local street-sellers out of business; this has led to

an increasing public anti-chaebol movement that has forced the government to take actions to suppress the chaebols’ dominating position. To save local businesses, the chaebols are prohibited by law from entering many different industries, including making tofu, bottles, toys, soap and sunglasses. Further criticism regard the poor working conditions; the workers in South Korea have the longest working hours of all developed countries, working 70 days more per year than the average Swedish worker. The long working hours and the extreme pressure on students is believed to be the reason behind Korea having the second highest suicide rating in the world. Students study on averaged 14 hours a day and two percent of Koreas GDP is spent on private tutors after school.

“

Part of the cross-ownership in Samsung

To save local businesses, the chaebols are prohibited by law from entering many different industries, including making tofu, bottles, toys, soap and sunglasses.

“

The future

The growing anti-chaebol community and politicians put increasing pressure on the chaebols. Laws against cross-ownership are discussed to begin to dismantle the chaebols. The importance of innovation and entrepreneurship with new small businesses is of increasing value, shifting the economy from being based on high academic grades, political connections and special treatment towards individuals’ merit and value in the market. One problem the families running the conglomerates face, is keeping the power over the chaebols. The total number of shares held by the controlling family is usually very low, around two percent, but through advanced networks with cross-ownership they keep control over the chaebols. One delicate issue arises when it’s time to pass on the control from one family

Your future employer? Even though the chaebols have dominated the Korean economy for a long time they have previously not attracted students from Korean top universities for executive positions, much because the chaebols focus on manufacturing. Students from the more prestigious programs have historically aimed for a career at banks, consulting firms or law. This is about change as the percentage of students from Seoul National University, often referred to as Koreas Harvard, that went to work at a chaebol have increased drastically in just a few years. Samsung electronics is the exception that has attracted students for a long time, but the rising star among the major companies is Hyundai Motors which is the fastest growing global automobile company. Hyundai Motors is now the biggest employer of business grads from SNU.The reasons behind this change are primarily that the chaebol jobs provide the opportunity to travel, competitive salary and job security.The chaebols are also changing their way of recruiting from just waiting for students to apply, towards more advanced head-hunting to find students with more attractive background. A previous problem within the chaebols has been the company culture, where young executives were forced

member to another, something Samsung is about to do in the near future. The inheritance tax in the Samsung case is believed to exceed six billion USD, which might force the family to sell

Pontus Dahlenborg

Text and Photo

shares to free cash – and by doing so, lose some control over

Studying at Seoul National University, South Korea.

the company.

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Engineering and Management. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Management and Economics of innovation.

pontus_dahlenborg@hotmail.com

ELMS

English Language Mentoring Scheme Social English the fun way A

s the City University of Hong Kong celebrates its 30th

ELMS is not the only initiative taken by the ELC. Since the unit’s

year around, pennants and festive decorations surround

establishment in 1997, its deliberate mission has been to help

us when we meet up at the University Circle in the middle of

students become competent and confident communicators in

campus. Kirk, Antony, Jayden and I have gathered here quite a

English. Thus, the ELC offers a wide range of free classes and

number of times now during the past few weeks.We are all part

optional tutorials to the entire student body, all year around.

of ELMS, short for English Language Mentoring Scheme, which is

Interactive guidance sessions and student-centred teaching ap-

an initiative that aims to help 1st and 2nd year students improve

proaches stimulate a positive atmosphere where it is okay to

their English communication skills in various social settings. It is

make mistakes and where everyone is encouraged to think criti-

also a great platform for cultural exchanges and increased un-

cally.

an interesting concept that I am proud to be part of. ELMS is a program based on voluntary grounds. ELC, the English Language Centre at CityU, invites Western exchange students and students with English as their mother tongue to join the scheme as mentors. Each mentor is responsible for a group of

“

... providing Chinese and Hong Kong born students the opportunity to communiate in English outside of the classroom.

a maximum of seven students in total; students have applied for this program as an optional activity outside their regular school

“

derstanding between borders. With that said, ELMS constitutes

schedule. One hour, once every week, this group devises activi-

Charlie Lockhart, manager of the ELC’s language support ser-

ties based on interests and initiatives by its own members. The

vices, and the current ELMS coordinator, Gilbert Wong, are

goal is to create relaxed settings and opportunities for everyone

more than happy to set up a meeting with me when I tell them

to practice English in different social contexts. Such group activi-

about my on-going ELMS essay. They describe ELMS as the flag-

ties could range from having lunch, playing sports, sightseeing,

ship of their working environment – as a scheme that stays put

cooking, playing board games or just hanging out in a park dis-

when other circumstances change, a scheme that grows larger

cussing school assignments or the latest updates in The Premier

and more popular for each and every year that passes.

League. At the moment, 130 students are enrolled together with apIt is important to emphasize that ELMS activities are not Eng-

proximately 35 volunteering mentors. Gilbert says that previ-

lish lessons, but a fun way of providing Chinese and Hong

ous questionnaires have shown great appreciation from al-

Kong born students the opportunity to communicate in Eng-

most everyone involved. Students and mentors alike seem to

lish outside of the classroom. Active participation should en-

develop into more confident individuals as the scheme comes

able each participant to interact in a variety of situations.

along. The students improve their English simultaneously as

So far, Kirk, Antony, Jayden and I have dined together and

the mentors practice their leadership and coordination skills.

played various sports. Today, we are going to the movies!

The overall key word is communication. On the improvement

From my point of view as a mentor, I find the concept of ELMS

side, the questionnaires conclude that smaller groups are some-

very appealing. I highly enjoy hanging out with “my” guys, my

times preferred, combined with more frequent meetings and

new friends. And I am sure I benefit just as much as they do

additional intergroup activities. Such an intergroup event is actu-

from our regularly meetings, as I constantly gain valuable insights

ally happening quite soon. All participating ELMS members are

and new aha-moments. Our group of four has formed a great

invited to a Halloween Party hosted by the ELC by the end of

team. We share a number of common interests simultaneously

this month. That is something to look forward to.

as everyone is keen on contributing with personal favourite activities that might be new to the rest of us. Last week, for exam-

In terms of financial support from the University, the ELC pro-

ple, Antony and Jayden kicked my butt at the badminton court.

vides each ELMS group with 1000 HKD to spend on optional

Today, we had a good discussion about the movie we watched

activities during the semester. Some restrictive advice on how

together. Next week Kirk might lead the way hiking to the top

to use the money comes with the deal. So far, however, my

of the Lion Rock, and I think they have got plans on taking me

group has enjoyed several sponsored meals and sports activi-

to a local restaurant serving chicken feet – huh, that is a new

ties, which have been very much appreciated.

one. I might invite the guys to the ice skating rink in the nearby shopping mall, once it is my turn to host an activity. None of

When I ask Charlie if he has any intent on making changes or

them have ever skated before, but I hope they will accept my

alterations to the ELMS program, his smiling response is quite a

“Swedishy” challenge and agree to try it out.

telling one: “If it isn’t broken, don’t try to fix it”.The truth is that ELMS is a very successful scheme, and both Charlie and Gilbert

Eating chicken feet might be equally as discomforting for me

agree on the continuous importance of up-to-date quality main-

as ice skating or expressing one’s opinion in English may be for

tenance and out-reaching promotion. But no big game changers

someone else. We all come from different backgrounds and

are likely to occur in the nearby future - in other words, deliber-

thus, we experience things from various viewpoints. To me, this

ate business as usual!

is what ELMS is all about; it is a scheme, in which we practice on stepping out of our comfort zones. We challenge ourselves, we sometimes even face our fears, and we always help each other out. The more time we spend together, the stronger our confidence grows. And in the meantime, we have fun. Marie Curie once said: “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” I am actually looking forward to those spicy chicken joints!

Mikaela Bengtsson

Text and Photo

Studying at City University of Hong Kong. Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and Engineering. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Industrial Ecology.

mikben@student.chalmers.se

Shape the nation A reďŹ&#x201A;ection on the effects of disciplinary hierarchy in the Singaporean educational culture.

am waiting for the bus to take me to University Town, my home during the year.The bus is uncharacteristically late

and I realize I am getting frustrated. Another bus passes and I manage to read two quotes sprawled across the vehicle: “Of all the careers that lies ahead, take one that makes a difference.” I assume that I am seeing an ad for a university or a specific program; however, underneath this, in capital letters, I depict: “SHAPE THE NATION”. This is the government of Singapore reaching out to its future workforce and I realize that this is what the nation is about – individuals striving to contribute to the prosperity of the country. This is founded in the fact that Singaporeans have a strong group

The leader of these studio sessions is naturally the professor

mentality, displayed everywhere you move in the city: shopping

or tutor for the studio. After having presented our project,

with friends, eating dinner at a hawker center, playing games in

which we do formally once or twice a week, my group will lis-

the park or helping a tourist. For me, the strong group mentality

ten and comment on the work of other groups. At Chalmers

really surface in the work of the studio. That is where I, as an

this would only occur during final presentations and midterm

architect student, spend most of my time. At my home univer-

reviews. The idea is that you learn by listening to and under-

sity we have lectures, full days of working on your own project

standing the work of others, and that you help each other as

and private meetings with a tutor once a week. In Singapore, the

a group to establish the fundamental features for the project.

schedule is characterized by lectures scattered over the week and sometimes full days of classes. In addition to this there are

This way of working gives insight in other people’s processes and

two to four hour studio sessions, twice a week; however, they

ideas, and you do learn a great deal by trying to solve problems

often turn out to be six to eight hours of discussions.The reason

in other projects. However, I kept asking myself: why it is that

for this is that the discussion is always carried out in a full group.

these students were willing to do two or more hours of overtime every session whereas in Sweden, students would storm out after 30 minutes with or without a legitimate excuse? The answer is discipline. I believe that the great level of discipline that you find in Singapore is closely related to respect for authority. You do not question the authority of the professor upfront,

MALAY 13.3

CHINESE 74.2

something that I as an exchange student had difficulties to understand. I wanted to announce loudly that we were running late and that I needed to go to the pool or do homework or just be somewhere else. I had many frustrated discussions with my professor during the first weeks, balancing on a delicate line towards arguments. I struggled to accept this level of authority watching my fellow students fall asleep while trying to take notes, due to

OTHER 3.3

INDIAN 9.1

late hours working on submissions requested by the professor.

Many times the submissions are announced on a short notice but nevertheless with expected high quality of work.As I am only here for a year I do not have a previous or future relation with my tutors, allowing me to be a bit more distanced to their impact of authority. I also have friends from other faculties forcing

me out of the studio.This unfamiliar hierarchal system fascinated

believe that the same way of working applies to a great deal of

me, but mostly frustrated me before I understood the level of

areas and activities in the Singaporean nation and culture, being

interest and engagement the tutor had in the work of the group.

one of the reasons behind its success and prosperity as a nation.

After a couple of weeks our tutor took the initiative to start a

Being from Sweden, where a lot of our work and actions is

WatsApp group with the whole studio, as well as with the individ-

beneficial purely on an individual level, it is interesting to see

ual groups. Initially I found this as an intrusive gesture and did not

this level of cooperation. I still find it frustrating not being able

want him to be a part of my life outside of the classroom. However,

to express differing views to my professor without being wor-

as he showed a never ending interest in our project, constantly

ried about my final grade. However, I believe that discipline and

giving feedback and sharing new ideas, he eventually became a

respect is a great contributor to the level of quality our final

natural part of the group and his attentive nature impressed me.

project will have. In relation to this, discipline and great respect for the authority creates a nation that functions peacefully and

The relationship between the students and the professor has

efficiently despite, or thanks to the great varieties of ethnicity

an interesting nature by being both formal and informal. The

and religion. I find this mindset of working as a group inspiring

authority of the professor prevents the students from being

and an important part of the Singaporean culture.

completely honest with their ideas, requiring their flexibility and acceptance of a tutor that can have demanding ideas and work forms. On the other hand, the tutors tend to be involved in the work of the students to a greater extent than I have ever experienced, creating a sense of informality and close connection. The work in the studio shows a great will to help members of the group to reach the common goal.There is a friendly atmosphere

Sarah Blake Elmvall

regarding sharing of ideas and work that I have not encountered

Studying at National University of Singapore.

in the work as an architect student previously. I believe that one reason for this attitude towards the individual’s work is that in the end it is beneficial for the whole group.That is, the common

Text and Photo

Holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Architecture.

goal of making an interesting and substantial project – and this cannot be done without sharing ideas and helping each other. I

sarelm@hotmail.com

asiaApply Chalmers International Taiwan Office - Part of the Chalmers’ World Wide Programme

he economies in East Asia have showed a remarkable development during the end of the 20th century. Japan

has become accompanied by China among the world’s economic giants. The region is interesting, dynamic and challenging. Among

Chalmers International Taiwan Ofﬁce staff 2014/2015.

those with technical education, an increasing portion will have contacts in the whole region from Singapore to Japan within their professions. With this in mind, Chalmers has developed a special exchange programme based in Taiwan, giving students an opportunity to study in and gain experiences from these economies. The exchange programme is called “The Asia Programme” and is located at the National Chiao Tung University (NCTU), which is among the foremost technological university in Taiwan. NCTU is specially profiled within electronics and information technology; however, in cooperation with the neighbouring National Tsing Hua University, the exchange covers all engineering programmes at Chalmers. Courses held in both English and Mandarin can be chosen.

How to apply for WorldWide

ou apply on the MoveOn-portal (http://chalmers. moveonnet.eu/moveonline/outgoing/welcome.php)

before the 1st of December. Attach a motivational cover letter in Swedish along with a photo of yourself. If you are a student of architecture or architecture and technology you need to submit an additional portfolio as well. Choose two universities but do not forget to find courses that match your master programme and double check this with the coordinator of you master programme.

Main requirements for World Wide Have reached your third year of studies at an

Parallel to the studies at NCTU the students maintain the Chal-

engineering or architecture programme

mers International Taiwan Office, CITO. The work at CITO in-

Have the minimum average grade of 3.7 credits

cludes arranging representation events for Taiwanese students

Have finished at least 120 hp by the 1st of December

at NCTU as well as visiting companies and representing Chalmers throughout East Asia.

Contents of the Asia Programme Intensive course in Mandarin, 4 weeks in July August at NCTU in Hisnchu, Taiwan

The selection of which student that will be nominated for which university is based on the grades and study pace of the students – the motivational cover letter is used to distinguish between students with the same average grade. In February you are informed whether or not you have been nominated for a univer-

Full academic year of engineering or architectural

sity or not. If you are not nominated, for any of the universities

studies at NCTU

you applied for, you still have a chance to study abroad by ap-

Maintenance of the Chalmers International Taiwan

plying in the second selection for the universities that still have

Office at NCTU

vacancies to fill.

Company visits throughout East Asia For more information, visist www.chalmers.se.

CHALMERS IN ASIA Studying at Chalmers does not limit you to Gothenburg, Sweden. Through many exchange programs Chalmers students are given the opportunity to study at a range of Asian universities. Likewise, students from many different countries are invited to study at Chalmers in Sweden. Sendai, Japan Tohoku University Beijing, China Tsinghua University

Tokyo, Japan The University of Tokyo Tokyo Institute of Technology

Shanghai, China Tongji University Shanghai Jiaotong University Seoul, South Korea Konkuk University Seoul National University

Dehli, India Indian Institute of Technology Dehli

Hsinchu, Taiwan National Chiao Tung University

Hong Kong, China City University of Hong Kong Chinese University of Hong Kong The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Singapore Nanyang Technological University The National University of Singapore

Chalmers University of Technology

SE-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden Phone: +46 (0)31 772 10 00 www.chalmers.se