The AlumNUS Oct-Dec 2011 by NUS Alumni Office

A L U M N I M A G A Z I N E O F T H E N AT I O N A L U N I V E R S I T Y O F S I N G A P O R E

THE

ISSN: 0129-3583 OCTOBER â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DECEMBER 2011 ISSUE NO. 87

Commencement 2011 Thank you President S R Nathan NUS amongst Top 30 Universities

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

First Word This issue captures a number of ‘firsts’ and ‘lasts’: Commencement 2011, which signifies the beginning of working life and lifelong learning for many, also marked the 100th anniversary of the very first cohort of medical students who graduated in 1911, and saw the pioneering class of Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School obtain their medical degrees. It was also the last that President S R Nathan graced as NUS’ Chancellor after 12 memorable years. University Town, or UTown, opened its doors on 1 August 2011, offering for the first time, a model of living and learning on campus never before experienced in Singapore’s higher education landscape. A grateful NUS thanked the founding benefactors of UTown in a ceremony that also saw Mr Lee Kuan Yew receive an Honorary Membership from the NUS Society. Mr Lee, already a recipient of the inaugural NUS Eminent Alumni Award in 2005 when NUS celebrated its Centenary, reflected on the importance of the friendships he had formed when he studied at Raffles College, the predecessor institution of NUS. Friendship between the University of Malaya (UM) and NUS again flourished on the fairway at the annual UM-NUS Golf Tournament, this year held from 19 to 22 June in Kuala Lumpur. Camaraderie was rekindled and celebrated when on 8 July, Alumni Day @ Bukit Timah drew a record number of 650 alumni to the Lower Quadrangle of the Bukit Timah campus for a rousing ‘homecoming’ dinner. On 30 July, Alumni Day @ Kent Ridge drew over 800 alumni to a full-day carnival of events catering to all ages, at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House. This issue of The AlumNUS Magazine is in some ways a ‘last’ too. Besides being the last issue for 2011, it is appearing in its current format for the last time. So come January 2012, you can expect a fresh look and reading experience. Lastly, to the graduating Class of 2011, the NUS Alumni Relations Office wishes you a happy and fulfilling future.

OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2011 ISSUE NO. 87

Director Assoc Prof Lim Meng Kin (Medicine, ‘74)

Managing Editor Yvette Thomasz (Arts and Social Science, ‘89)

Design & Layout

Contents

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS 2 Commencement 2011 3 Mr Philip Yeo Receives Highest Honour 4 Thank You President S R Nathan, Chancellor, NUS, 1999 to 2011 5 A Warm Welcome to Our New Chancellor 6 Appreciating the Founding Benefactors of University Town 8 UTown Opens 10 NUS Among Top 30 Universities ALUMNI CONNECTIONS 12 New School Named After Alumnus Saw Swee Hock 14 Friendship on The Fairway 16 Back to Bukit Timah 18 A Carnival on Campus 20 Spiritual Art 22 Finding the Soul of Singapore 23 Do Asians Believe in the Rise of Asia? 24 Singapore and Me 26 Arts on Campus 28 A Friendly Gathering of Sharp Minds 30 Largest Gathering of Alumni in Shanghai 32 NUS Rag Day 2011 @ The Promontory, Marina Bay 34 A Very Special Trust 36 An Extraordinary Haircut 37 A Strong Sense of Purpose 38 Game Over ’86-91 40 Yale Alumni Leaders Share Best Practices 42 Alumni Buzz 48 AlumNUS Card Merchants Listing 49 Dates to Remember

Jerlyn Lim

Contributors: Ian Tsou (Medicine ‘91), Leong Pik Yin, Lo Tuck Leong (Public Policy ‘95), Low Hong Guan (Engineering ‘98), Prof Peter Lancaster, Valerie Vincent (Business Administration ‘10), Yong Yung Shin (Design and Environment ‘06), Zalina Gazali (Arts and Social Sciences ‘94)

Office of Alumni Relations • National University of Singapore 11 Kent Ridge Drive Singapore 119244 Tel: +65 6516 5775 / Fax: +65 6777 2065 Email: oarconnect@nus.edu.sg / www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd 57 Loyang Drive Singapore 508968

Dear NUS Alumni, Faculty, Staff, Students and Friends, I would like to warmly welcome the graduating Class of 2011 to our alumni family. NUS values its alumni. Beyond providing our students with an excellent educational experience, NUS strives to ensure that their needs as alumni continue to be met and their connections with NUS remain strong and relevant. I am always heartened to see so many alumni from different cohorts returning time and again to participate in our varied events on campus. I sense growing warmth in the ties that bind alumni to their alma mater. I am encouraged that many alumni I speak to feel the same way too. Commencement 2011 was particularly poignant for NUS as it was the last time that President S R Nathan graced the occasion as Chancellor. President Nathan is an eminent alumnus who brings much pride to his alma mater. As Chancellor of NUS from 1999 to 2011, he has gone far beyond what might be considered the official duties of the Chancellor, taking a personal interest in and extending his strong support to many University programmes and student activities. He has visited many of our departments, spoken to large numbers of our students and faculty, hosted us to countless lunches and dinners at the Istana, and also graciously helped our fund-raising efforts. On behalf of the entire NUS community, I would like to express our deepest appreciation to former President Nathan. We are delighted that succeeding President Nathan is another eminent alumnus. Over many years and in myriad ways – first as a brilliant student, then academic, then Vice-Chancellor, Education Minister and Deputy Prime Minister – President Tony Tan has been very much involved in the growth and

Professor Tan Chorh Chuan (Medicine ’83) NUS President aspirations of his alma mater. The University is indeed most privileged to have in President Tony Tan another wise and caring Chancellor to provide steady guidance to NUS. I believe that the lives and achievements of our two eminent alumni, President S R Nathan and President Tony Tan, will inspire every member of the NUS community to serve society selflessly and well. And in the process, to excel and contribute to our University’s vision of becoming a global university centred in Asia.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

News Highlights

Commencement 2011 A ceremony packed with good advice Commencement 2011 is significant in so many ways. This year marks the 100th year of NUS’ first medical school graduation in 1911 and the first commencement of the Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School. It was also the last that President S R Nathan graced as NUS Chancellor. And, Mr Philip Yeo, Chairman of SPRING Singapore, was conferred the Honorary Doctors of Letters for his outstanding contributions to the University and Singapore’s development. With so many eminent leaders present at the ceremony, the Class of 2011 had the privilege of varied advice on what makes for success and happiness.

“No matter what you elect to pursue, if you do so with commitment, imagination and courage, you will find fulfilment in your work and lives”, was NUS President, Prof Tan Chorh Chuan’s advice to some 9,772 students who received their degrees over 21 commencement ceremonies from 4 to 12 July. Of these, 6,502 students received bachelor degrees while another 3,270 students received higher degrees. Thirteen new degrees were awarded at the ceremonies this year. Amongst them was

the Doctor of Medicine by the Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School. Prof Richard Brodhead, President of Duke University, whose leadership has propelled the University to rank amongst the top of the world, was present at the graduation of the inaugural class of 24 students. The eminent leader in higher education took the opportunity to reflect on the Duke-NUS partnership, “I ask myself what Duke has learned in five years? Our researchers have gained knowledge of conditions and disease patterns that are different from the ones in the US. Our experts in public health and health services research have been able to see first-hand how the Singapore healthcare system provides high quality care for its population while keeping cost low. We apparently have a great deal to learn from you.” On a more personal note to the graduates he said, “Don’t be afraid to try a new approach. Connect with people. Collaborate. Never stop learning. Be thankful to those who have helped you along the way.” Mr Philip Yeo’s contributions to Singapore’s development spans industries ranging from biomedical sciences and information

To the Class of 2011, I hope you will be inspired by President Nathan’s example to contribute, to do good and to serve society well. Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, President, NUS

Mr Philip Yeo Receives Highest Honour Mr Philip Yeo, Chairman of SPRING Singapore, was conferred the Honorary Doctors of Letters, one of the University’s highest forms of recognition for individuals whose contributions have made great impact on the community and the University.

Chancellor, President S R Nathan, congratulates graduates

technology to the chemical and semiconductor industries. In Prof John Wong’s (Dean of the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine) citation on Mr Yeo, he refers to Mr Yeo as someone who has ‘created thousands of high quality jobs’, and Prof Tan remarked that that Mr Yeo ‘lives life at a pace that leaves the rest of us breathless’. Many wonder what drives Mr Yeo. In his acceptance speech of his honorary degree, he said, “In short, my advice to you is if you do what you love, create opportunities for others and boldly make new friends, you will certainly succeed and be happy.” At the Commencement Dinner on 15 July 2011, Prof Tan paid tribute to President S R Nathan who graced his final Commencement ceremony as Chancellor after 12 years.

Said Prof John Wong, Dean, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, in his citation on Mr Yeo, “It is fitting that the National University of Singapore today honours one of its most illustrious alumni: someone who has transformed our economy, created thousands of high quality jobs, inspired so many of us to believe that individuals do make a difference, and that Singapore’s destiny is in our hands.” Prof Wong also credited Mr Yeo as “being one of the key civil servants who helped transform Singapore from Third World to First.”

computerized the Ministry of Education for Dr Goh Keng Swee. In 1985 and at the age of 39, he led the Economic Development Board in the midst of one of its worst recessions since Independence. He went on to attract multinational companies in the chemical, aerospace, and semiconductor industries,

It is fitting that the National University of Singapore today honours one of its most illustrious alumni: someone who has transformed our economy, created thousands of high quality jobs, inspired so many of us to believe that individuals do make a difference, and that Singapore’s destiny is in our hands.

Universities, and recruiting some of the best faculty in the world. Mr Yeo developed academic medicine by supporting the link between the National University Hospital, the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, and the Faculty of Dentistry into a health system that combines clinical excellence with effective education and translational research.

Mr Yeo was born in 1946 and attended St Joseph’s Institution. He went on Prof John Wong, Dean, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine to obtain a degree in Applied Science (Industrial Engineering) as including the biomedical science industry. He Currently, as Chairman of SPRING a Colombo Plan Scholar at the University was behind the Batam and Bintan Industrial Singapore, and Special Advisor for of Toronto; a Master of Science (Systems Park developments in Indonesia, the Wuxi Economic Development at the Prime Engineering) degree from the University and Suzhou Industrial Parks in China, the Minister’s Office, Mr Yeo is developing of Singapore; and a Masters in Business Bangalore IT Park in India, and the Vietnamnew economic opportunities for Administration as a Fulbright Scholar at Singapore Industrial Park in Vietnam. Singapore. Harvard Business School. Prof Wong noted, “Any one of these In his acceptance speech, Mr Philip At just 24, and as part of the newly formed projects would have been the highlight of an Yeo humbly said, “As I look back on Ministry of Defence, he equipped the individual’s career.” my career, what is memorable for me is Singapore Armed Forces with what a not the achievements. Neither are the modern fighting force needed then. By the In 2001, as Chairman of the National advancements. What is memorable is the age of 33, he became Second Permanent Science and Technology Board, he changed fun I had in all the jobs I held! What is Secretary of Defence. the name of the Board to the Agency fulfilling to see is what new opportunities for Science, Technology and Research my work has generated for others. He had also formulated Singapore’s (A*STAR). In this capacity, he developed Finally, the friendships I have built first computerization plans as Chairman biomedical sciences as Singapore’s along the way have made it an enjoyable of the National Computer Board, and next economic pillar by linking up with journey! That is what lasts.”

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

News Highlights

Thank You President S R Nathan

A Warm Welcome To Our New Chancellor

Chancellor, National University Of Singapore, 1999 to 2011

Mr S R Nathan served as Singapore’s second elected President from 1999 to 2011 and was at the same time, the Chancellor of the National University of Singapore. Each Chancellor brings to his position his unique experiences and distinctive character. In Mr Nathan’s case, his campus experiences moulded him and being an alumnus also provided him with a special connectedness in the way he interacted with the NUS community. Mr Nathan enrolled at the University of Malaya in 1952 and was among the pioneer batch of eight students in Social Studies. He impressed his teachers and peers by his deep

University marked the beginning of my intellectual development. University education restored to me all that I had missed in my early schooling. I began to know how to learn and developed a habit of learning that has kept me in a continuous quest for knowledge, be it about current affairs, contemporary political developments and about social and political life. In the University, I realised that there was so much that I did not know. My interest in reading and studying even after my university days has put me in good stead in the several careers that I subsequently embarked on. Very often, I had to take up responsibilities quickly without a properly defined “brief”. The ability to read quickly, study, learn and understand were vital skills that have helped me tremendously. I am grateful to the University for giving me the experience. If not for the education that I received from the University, I would have become a “has been”. I made many life-long friends in the University and I have often been touched when I recall how much these university friends have done for me in later life.”

Over its illustrious 100-year history, alumni have contributed to nation-building in Singapore and its neighbouring countries. Mr S R Nathan interest in the underprivileged as well as his humility about his intellectual ability and achievements. Describing his campus experience at a unique period in the history of Malaysia and Singapore, he said: “We learned to live with and appreciate one another’s differences and idiosyncrasies. We developed sensitivity towards others of different faiths and racial origins. These experiences ... as a hostelite moulded me and proved most helpful in my working life.” He also said that “coming to the

Dr Tony Tan was sworn in as Singapore’s seventh President on 1 September 2011. President Tan is NUS’ new Chancellor. His association with the University spans over decades - as a student, as a lecturer, as the University’s youngest Vice Chancellor, as Minister of Education and as Minister-incharge of the university sector.

Graduating in 1954 with a Diploma in Social Studies with Distinction, Mr Nathan joined the civil service as a medical social worker. This marked the beginning of a distinguished career in Singapore’s public service spanning more than five decades. His diverse and

Photo credit: The Straits Times © Singapore Press Holdings Limited. Reprinted with permission

impressive portfolio in the civil service included senior appointments in the Ministries of Home Affairs and Defence culminating with his appointment as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. As Chancellor, Mr Nathan extended his strong support to University initiatives and student activities. He has graciously hosted countless University events at the Istana and his regular presence as Guest-of-Honour for student activities such as the annual Rag and Flag Day has been greatly appreciated by the campus community. He provided strong support for the University’s efforts to raise funds for its education and research. Under his distinguished patronage, the NUS Centennial Campaign, which was launched in 2002 at the Istana, surpassed its goal of $100 million ahead of NUS’s Centennial celebrations in 2005. For the launch of the University’s Annual Giving drive in 2005, President Nathan’s personal letter appealing to fellow alumni to give in support of bursaries for needy undergraduates

Outgoing President S R Nathan (left) greeting President-elect Dr Tony Tan during a farewell reception hosted by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Istana on 31 August 2011.

helped raise about $1 million which went to assist many students. Mr Nathan believes that alumni are an integral part of the University community. He shared that the ““best testimony of a world-class university is its alumni. In this regard, NUS can be proud. Over its illustrious 100-year history, alumni have contributed to nation-building in Singapore and its neighbouring countries. They continue to make their presence felt in the professions, the public sector, the arts as well as in international organisations. The alumni’s vast experiences and wide networks will be invaluable to NUS as it extends its global influence.” The National University of Singapore is privileged to have had Mr S R Nathan as its Chancellor for the past 12 years. His gracious presence shall be missed and in particular his warm and spontaneous rapport with alumni, staff and students.

Born in 1940, Dr Tan attended St Patrick’s School and St Joseph’s Institution. In 1962, he topped his class in Physics at the University of Singapore, obtaining a First Class Honours degree. He went on to obtain a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on an Asia Foundation Scholarship, and a PhD in Applied Mathematics at the University of Adelaide. He lectured at the University on two occasions – Physics in 1964 and Mathematics from 1967 to 1969. He then spent a decade at OCBC Bank as General Manager from 1969 before standing for elections in 1979 when he became a Member for Parliament and appointed Senior Minister of State for Education before moving on to being Minister of Education from 1980 to 1981. In 1980, he also took on the role as the first Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Singapore (NUS) formed by the merger of Nanyang University and the University of Singapore, the youngest Vice-Chancellor in the history of NUS. Having seen NUS through its first critical year, Dr Tan relinquished his position as ViceChancellor in May 1981. But, he continued to champion the development of higher education in Singapore as Minister-incharge of the university sector from 1981 to 1983. Between 1981 and 2005, Dr Tan served Singapore as a Cabinet

Minister in several portfolios such as Trade and Industry, Finance, Health, Education, Defence, including the position of Deputy Prime Minister, with the exception of the period from 1992 to 1995 when he was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of OCBC Bank. As Minister for Education, Dr Tan reformed Singapore’s education system – he set up independent schools, made university education accessible to more Singaporeans regardless of financial situation or family background and was behind the globalization of Singapore’s university sector. For the difference he made through his professional and political life, Dr Tan received two awards from the University in 2005 - the Centennial Torch, a symbol of his inspiring leadership of higher education and research in Singapore, and the NUS Eminent Alumni Award for his contributions to his alma mater. An interesting note of history – while Dr Tan can be credited today as the architect in the transformation of Singapore’s university sector, his great grandfather, Mr Tan Jiak Kim, also played a pivotal role. Mr Tan led a group of individuals to raise $87,000 to establish Singapore’s first medical school in 1905.

I urge the alumni to come forward to take greater ownership of your University by your commitment and contribution to NUS in the years ahead. Dr Tony Tan as Deputy Prime Minister at ‘Bash @ Bukit Timah Campus’ in May 2005

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

News Highlights

Appreciating the Founding Benefactors of University Town (From left) Mrs Wong Ngit Liong with Ms Kay Kuok, member of NUS Board of Trustees.

I hope this culture of giving back to the alma mater can be well established.

Mr Lee Kuan Yew additional teaching staff to be recruited to run the small group learning in the colleges, and provide scholarships and bursaries to deserving students who may otherwise miss out on this unique opportunity because they are financially needy.”

Mr Lee Kuan Yew presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Wong Ngit Liong, Chairman, NUS Board of Trustees, and UTown Founding Benefactor (extreme right) with NUS President Tan Chorh Chuan looking on.

Fifteen individuals and companies who donated a total of $40.1 million to the development of NUS’ University Town were honoured on 29 July at a ceremony co-hosted by NUS and NUS Society (NUSS). “I hope this culture of giving back to the alma mater can be well established”, said Mr Lee Kuan Yew who was conferred an NUSS honorary membership at the same ceremony. NUS President, Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, thanked Mr Lee for helping NUS to recognise the Founding Benefactors of UTown. He referred to UTown as

NUS’ “most strategic thrust to date” and he went on to explain its three main goals: “First, to enable students from different disciplines and backgrounds to interact actively together and with their Professors, both in the classroom and outside the classroom. Second, through small group learning in the Residential Colleges, to nurture students who think critically about global issues, while understanding their Asian perspectives; third, to further strengthen the sense of community and belonging on campus.” (From left) Mr Teng Ngiek Lian, Chief Investment Officer of Target Asset Management Pte Ltd with Prof Saw Swee Hock, member of NUS Board of Trustees.

In Mr Lee’s address, he said to the benefactors, “Your support will enable

Mr Lee also spoke about the importance of lifelong social networks formed during university days. He said of Raffles College, the precursor to NUS, “I was forced to live there as I was a scholar, and it made a difference in my life.” Chairman of the East Asian Institute, Prof Wang Gungwu’s citation on Mr Lee Kuan Yew focused on Mr Lee’s connection with the University in his early years and the importance of alumni. “Mr Lee spent little more than a year in Raffles College when it was still a colonial institution. Afterwards, he went to the University of Cambridge, a great international centre of learning. When he returned to Singapore, he worked for years with two very young universities, the University of Malaya

Dr Della Lee receives a token of appreciation from Mr Lee Kuan Yew

and the private Nanyang University. The important thing about the two of them is that it attracted some of the best students. I cannot imagine what Singapore would have been like in its formative years without the alumni of the two universities. They were openly active in two lively campuses. Many served as Mr Lee’s comrades who helped to hammer out the governance and economic structures that Singapore must have to make its mark among the new nations.” These included Dr Goh Keng Swee, Dr Toh Chin Chye and

(From left) Dato’ Low Tuck Kwong, Founder and Chairman of PT Bayan Resources with Ms Elaine Low, Director of Kaiyi Investment Pte Ltd

Mr Eddie Barker to name a few. But, most importantly, Mr Lee met his wife Ms Kwa Geok Choo at Raffles College. Prof Wang referred to Raffles College as one that “punched above its weight at a time of great turmoil and produced many of the leaders who gave modern Singapore the new start it needed.” Remembering the contributions of people and institutions both of the present and the past is timely as UTown opens its doors on 1 August 2011.

UTown’s Founding Benefactors Mr Chua Thian Poh, Chairman & CEO of Ho Bee Investments Ltd Mr Kuok Khoon Hong, Chief Executive Officer of Wilmar International Pte Ltd Dr Della Lee & Dr Lee Seng Gee Dato’ Low Tuck Kwong, Founder and Chairman of PT Bayan Resources Ms Elaine Low, Director of Kaiyi Investment Pte Ltd Mr Martua Sitorus, Chief Operating Officer of Wilmar International Pte Ltd Dr Tahir, Founder and Chairman of the Mayapada Group Mr & Mrs Wong Ngit Liong Keppel Corporation Ltd Ngee Ann Kongsi NUS Board of Trustees 2009 – 2010 Suntar International Pte Ltd The Silent Foundation Ltd Wilmar International Pte Ltd

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

News Highlights

UTown Opens An Enhanced Student Experience

University Town (UTown for short) opened on 1 August 2011 with much festivity and a symbolic walk by more than 1,000 freshmen, seniors and staff led by NUS’ Chairman, Mr Wong Ngit Liong; President Prof Tan Chorh Chuan; Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Prof Tan Eng Chye on College Link, the bridge connecting Kent Ridge Campus and UTown. Prof Tan Chorh Chuan said, “NUS students can look forward to exciting multidisciplinary academic programmes and enjoy a rich array of learning and social facilities at UTown.”

(From left to right) Mr Wong Ngit Liong, Chairman, NUS Board of Trustees, leading the walk across College Link with Prof Tan Tai Yong (Vice Provost, Student Life), Prof Tan Chorh Chuan (NUS President), Mr Joseph Mullinix (Deputy President, Administration) and Prof Tan Eng Chye (Deputy President, Academic Affairs, and Provost)

UTown is the largest single expansion of the University since its move to the Kent Ridge Campus and pioneers a distinct model of living and learning on campus in Singapore’s higher education landscape.

The huge development will open in phases, starting with the completion of two residential colleges, Cinnamon Colleges (occupied by the University Scholars Programme, or USP) and Tembusu College, a Graduate Residence and the state-of-theart Education Resource Centre. Residential Colleges and Graduate Residences The first two residential colleges, Tembusu College and Cinnamon College (USP), can house 600 students each, and the Graduate Residence is home to some 1,700 students. Two more residential colleges will be ready in 2012. The Education Resource Centre The Education Resource Centre is open 24 hours a day and houses facilities such as an e-learning cafe, teleconference-

The Education Resource Centre

NUS students can look forward to exciting multidisciplinary academic programmes and enjoy a rich array of learning and social facilities at UTown. Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, President, NUS

enabled seminar rooms and a multimedia hub amongst others that encourage interdisciplinary collaborations. And interestingly, the centre is built around conserved Tembusu trees, and has the largest Starbucks cafe in Singapore. Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) The National Research Foundation’s Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) will house top researchers from world-class research institutes. Here, NUS’ leading researchers and students can partner and work with international researchers. Over time, this facility will accommodate some 1,000 researchers.

The EduSports Complex The EduSports Complex will house sporting and cultural activities. Ready by end 2012, it will have sports and teaching facilities as well as facilities for arts and culture. These include seminar rooms, a recreational swimming pool, a rock-climbing wall, a multi-purpose sports hall, a gym, a dance theatre, orchestra practice rooms and dance studios, as well as a grand open plaza as a central gathering point for all.

A room for a couple at the Graduate Residences

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

News Highlights

NUS, amongst Top 30 Universities What ranking number 28 means for the National University of Singapore.

Singapore now boasts two local educational institutions which rank top 60 in the world, a step closer to becoming a hub for educational excellence. Of the two, the National University of Singapore has taken its place in the global top 30, moving up three places to the 28th spot in the 2011 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings. The other is Nanyang Technological University (NTU), which is ranked 58th. This sets Singapore’s higher education system among the leading systems in the world, as noted by QS Vice President John Malony. The QS rankings look at education and research at almost 3,000 institutions worldwide, and then identifies the world’s top 300 universities. Pioneered in 2004, it is regarded as one of the most highly referenced global ranking of universities. The 2011 QS results were garnered from its largest survey ever, which polled over 33,000 global academics and 16,000 graduate employers.

NUS’ ranking epitomises the international competitiveness of Singapore’s higher education system. Said NUS President, Prof Tan Chorh Chuan in a statement to The Straits Times, “We are delighted that NUS has been consistently placed amongst the leading universities in the world. We will continue to build on our strengths in education and research, and create distinctive value for our students, graduates and Singapore.” The rankings use six indicators: Academic Reputation (40%), Employer Reputation (10%), Citations per Faculty (20%), Student/Faculty Ratio (20%), as well as international factors and strategies, specifically the proportions of International Students (5%) and International Faculty (5%). No single ranking system or measurement can fully cover every aspect of university performance, and numbers alone do not tell the full story. Thus, as with most existing ranking methodologies, the QS ranking aims to quantify the work that universities do, and provide useful information to the right target audience.

QS World University Rankings 2011/2012

The top place was clinched again by British institution Cambridge, with Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) coming in at a close second and third. Overall, American universities occupied 13 out of the 20 top places. In the Asian landscape, the University of Hong Kong came out top at the 22nd ranking,

followed by Tokyo University placing at 25th, and NUS at 28th. NUS’ claim to fame includes the distinction of being the only Asian institution to appear in the world top 30 across all these disciplines. It also takes the top spot in the Asian region for Social Sciences.

We will continue to build on our strengths in education and research, and create distinctive value for our students, graduates and Singapore. Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, President, NUS Apart from hard data, the rankings are based on findings from two large global surveys, one of academics and another of employers. These are key characteristics of the QS ranking approach, with Academic Reputation being the most significant criteria and carrying the heaviest weighting. Notably, NUS is ranked 11th in terms of Academic Reputation and 14th for Employer Reputation. The rankings are useful for employers, serving as a good and reliable reference point. One such employer who welcomes the ranking findings is alumna Haslinda Ali, Director and Executive Producer of Screenbox Pte Ltd. Haslinda says, “As an employer and having graduated 20 years ago, I am quite out of touch with the universities now and thus I will have to rely on the ranking exercise as a guide when employing new staff”. Alumnus Tong Yee, Co-founder and Director of Social Enterprises, The Thought Collective, rightly observes: “It

is essentially feedback for NUS that they are aligning better to global standards. It attracts a greater diversity of quality students to Singapore, giving our own locals a better experience. It also gives our students the confidence that they can indeed compete in the global arena.” Alumna Zarina Yusof, Deputy Director at the Health Promotion Board, agrees, adding that educational institutions will be motivated to continue with efforts to design a robust curriculum and ultimately attract brilliant academia, good students and research dollars. However, some caution that that such rank climbing and pursuit for excellence and recognition may cause local universities to miss the forest for the trees. As surmised by Yusof: “I hope that NUS will not lose its ‘soul’ and will remain accessible to as many Singaporeans who excel, including those who may be financially-challenged. We should always remember that its success is founded on the backbone of diligent Singaporeans who believe that education is a powerful social enabler.” On a national perspective, some see this as validation that Singapore can and will continue to produce internationally reputable institutions and students, and that home should really be where the heart is when pursuing higher education. By Zalina Gazali, Arts and Social Sciences ‘94

Forbes Ranks NUS MBA

Top in Asia

The first time that a Singapore business school makes the Forbes list NUS was ranked first amongst business schools in Asian universities, according to the Forbes ranking of two-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) programmes outside the United States. On the international front, NUS came in fourth after London Business School (first), Manchester Business School (second) and Spain’s IESE Business School (third). This is the first time a Singapore business school made the list. The cost of taking an MBA programme can be high when the cost of tuition and forgone salary are considered. But, this is an investment that pays off quickly and thus, many see taking an MBA as a good way to jump-start a career. The Forbes ranking is based on this return on investment as achieved by graduates of the class of 2006. Forbes compared

the earnings of graduates in their first five years out of business school to their opportunity costs, which include foregone salaries for the duration of the programme, as well as tuition and other mandatory fees required for their course of study. The NUS Business School was also well-placed in other highly regarded rankings. The QS rankings placed the School at the 15th position in the world, close behind leading universities such as Yale and Columbia. In addition, the NUS Business School had also been identified as the leading school in Asia by Princeton Review, and ranked top in Singapore for its MBA and Executive MBA programmes by the Financial Times.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

New School Named After Alumnus Saw Swee Hock The new Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health aims to be a global leader in Public Health, centered in Asia.

largest donation received by NUS from any of its alumni for a single project. In recognition of his philanthropic contribution and long-standing service to the University, the new School is named after Professor Saw. The School will increase its faculty strength to reach about 60 in the steady state, enhance its education of undergraduate medical students, and expand the student intake of its flagship Master of Public Health programme. It will intensify its research efforts in infectious diseases and chronic noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cancer and heart disease, as well as in health services and policy research.

Mr Gan Kim Yong said: “This School will fill a unique niche whereby local solutions can be developed and refined to address the global public health problems we face today. It can become the trusted brand for public health in the region, fostering regional and global research and training partnerships to this end.” NUS President Prof Tan Chorh Chuan said that the School

(Left to Right): Mr Wong Ngit Liong, Chairman, NUS Board of Directors receives Prof Saw Swee Hock’s generous donation.

The Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health (SSHSPH) was officially launched by the Minister for Health Mr Gan Kim Yong on 19 September 2011 in the fullypacked Auditorium in NUHS Tower Block. The School was established on 1 October 2011 as an additional member of the National University Health System (NUHS) which includes the National University Hospital (NUH), Yong Loo

Lin School of Medicine (YLLSOM), and the Faculty of Dentistry. The School is an expansion of the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health established in 1948. The School is supported by funding from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and the $30 million gift from Professor Saw Swee Hock. This is the

Professor Saw Swee Hock is Professorial Fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) and President’s Honorary Professor of Statistics in the National University of Singapore’s (NUS) Department of Statistics and Applied Probability. He is an Honorary Professor in Xiamen University and the University of Hong Kong, and an Honorary Fellow of the London School of Economics. He was Senior Lecturer in the University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Founding

will develop a long-term comprehensive public health research capability that will provide rigorous scientific base to informed policy and action. The School’s Dean, Professor Chia Kee Seng said that being a School will enable it to attract high quality faculty members and students, and assume a greater role in education and training of public health practitioners. Professor Saw played an active part in the formation of the new School by his deep involvement in the preparatory work in the last two years and by his earlier

offer of a major gift some seven years ago. Towards the end of his speech, Mr Gan Kim Yong said: “I cannot end without acknowledging the generous contributions of Professor Saw Swee Hock. Prof Saw has demonstrated a strong sense of dedication to philanthropy and the public health cause. He has led a pivotal role in the setting up of the School and I have no doubt that the spirit of public service will continue to inspire students and alumni alike towards academic and professional excellence.”

This School will fill a unique niche whereby local solutions can be developed and refined to address the global public health problems we face today. It can become the trusted brand for public health in the region, fostering regional and global research and training partnerships to this end. Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister for Health

Professor of Statistics in the University of Hong Kong, and Professor of Statistics in NUS. He has published some 45 books and over 100 articles in learned journals. He continues to serve NUS as a member of its Board of Trustees. Professor Saw has given generously to charitable causes, particularly in the area of education. Many universities have received his support for the establishment of medals, bursaries, scholarships, professorships, research projects,

research centres and buildings. Recipients of his donations include the London School of Economics, Xiamen University, University of Hong Kong, ISEAS, NUS, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore Management University. In NUS, he has also set up an endowed bursary fund which has so far benefited some 102 final year needy students across all faculties and schools.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

Friendship On The Fairway A 43-year old tradition A group of about 50 golfers from the National University of Singapore made the trek up to Kuala Lumpur on 20 July 2011, to carry on an age old tradition that began 43 years ago. Flash back to 1968, the National University of Singapore played its first game against

University Malaya in the first UM-NUS Golf Tournament held at the Subang National Golf Club, Kuala Lumpur. The idea of this golf tournament was mooted by Kai Cheong, Professor Francis Mosingh, Dr Tan Beng Cheok

and Chatar Singh who wanted to create an event that would foster goodwill and strengthen bonds between both the universities. Being an avid golfer, the then Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman (who was also the Tunku Chancellor of the University of Malaya) with his full blessing gave the green light to begin a yearly tradition enjoyed by staff and alumni of both universities. This year, Chancellors from both universities, His Royal Highness Sultan Azlan Shah and President S.R. Nathan, graced the event and joined in the fun throughout the three-day event. The tournament began with a welcome dinner sponsored by longtime friend of the UM-NUS Golf Tournament, Mr Ho Sim Guan (affectionately known as Uncle Ho). The next morning, golfers were treated to a friendly game at the luscious Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club. NUS golfers were paired with UM golfers to network and get to know each other as they enjoyed the game. An interesting tradition practiced during each tournament is the ‘Gift Exchange’ where each golfer presents a gift to a member of the other university right before Tee-Off. This is done as a gesture of goodwill. The day ended with an official dinner hosted by the Tunku Chancellor that featured the official ‘Gift Exchange’ ceremony between the two universities’ chancellors and golf captains. The final day of the tournament marked the only competitive game between the universities. Excitement filled the air as each of the teams hoped that they would be the ones to walk away with the famous Tunku Chancellor Challenge Trophy. In the end, the team from the University of Malaya was declared the overall champion.

However, even with the declaration of a winner, the spirit of the tournament was not lost as golfers from both NUS and UM could be seen chatting merrily over lunch comparing notes about the game earlier that day.

After lunch, the golfers from NUS packed up and boarded a coach bound for Singapore, relieved to be heading home after all the excitement but already thinking about and planning for the UM-NUS Golf Tournament 2012… in SINGAPORE! See you then. By Valerie Vincent, Business Administration ‘10

President SR Nathan and His Royal Highness Sultan Azlan Shah.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

Back To Bukit Timah A visit to an old haunt

The Class of ‘61 celebrates their 50th Anniversary.

On the evening of the 8th of July, the NUS Bukit Timah Campus opened its doors to welcome back its alumni. Set under an ivory marquee against the back drop of the lush greenery and the white-washed walls of the Oei Tiong Ham Building, about 650 alumni came home to the Bukit Timah Campus to catch-up and reminisce.

(From left to right) Chief Justice Chan Sek Keong (Law ‘61), his wife, Elisabeth (Law ‘64), and Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, President, NUS

Dr Tony Tan (Science ‘62) with his wife, Mary (Arts ‘62)

The evening started off with a tour of an exhibition of stories submitted by various alumni from the Bukit Timah Campus. Called the ‘Walk Down Memory Lane’ contest, there were 20 entries from alumni scattered across the globe, telling tales of their fond memories about student life. Each guest was allowed to vote for their favorite story. Mr Oliver Seet (Class of ’59) clinched the top prize with his poem, ‘Sequestered Nooks Of Contemplative Green’.

The highlights of the night were of course the musical performances that even got some guests on their feet dancing to the classic tunes from the past. NUS’ very own diva, Ms Noor Quek, belted out a range of retro hits and ending with ‘Those were the Days’ (by Mary Hopkins). To get the audience involved, the Senior Alumni group sang a selection familiar songs for everyone to sing along to.

MC for the evening, A/Prof Victor Savage, Department of Geography, peppered the night with his jests that sent the audience into fits of laughter. It was through skill alone that A/Prof Savage cleverly coaxed each of the finalists of the best dressed competition to parade around the stage and break out into full hip-hop and bhangra-type dance moves.

However, even with all the excitement on stage, the magic that night came from somewhere else. It was found among the squeals of delight of former classmates commenting on how much each other had changed (often referring to the amount of hair on one’s head) and the quiet yet reassuring smiles of those sitting next to friends they had known for most of their lives.

With bellies full and hearts filled with rekindled bonds, people trickled out of the place they once called home, hopefully with a few refreshed memories and perhaps, friendships. By Valerie Vincent, Business Administration ‘10

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

‘NUS Dance Blast’ - students keen on Hip-Hop.

A Carnival On Campus

Lines snaked around the caricature artist who was handing out free caricatures to the many excited faces Both young and old lined up to be photographed with NUS mascot, LiNUS, who made hourly appearances. University Town tours were also held to give alumni a glimpse into NUS’ newest expansion.

…more specifically at the Alumni Complex! This year, the Alumni Day celebrations at the Kent Ridge Campus went BIG.

The Shaw Foundation Alumni House was quite the hive of activity when close to 800 alumni from across the years and across the island responded to the NUS Office of Alumni Relations’ advertisement in the newspapers inviting alumni to return to campus for a day packed with activities for the entire family. Many who came had not been back to campus since they graduated.

Aptly called Alumni Day @ Kent Ridge, the day began with a welcome concert graced by NUS President Professor Tan Chorh Chuan. Amongst the highlights of the morning was a performance by a musical medical duo Mayank & Joshua, medical students in their fourth year with a penchant for performing. Their rendition of the hit, ‘I’m Yours’ by Jason Mraz and classic ballad ‘Man in

Art and craft workshops for both children and adults.

the Mirror’ by Michael Jackson was a refreshing change. The end of the concert signaled the beginning of the carnival. Children’s art & craft workshops were held around the complex and were cleverly timed with motivational and educational talks for the adults. One of the more unique talks was ‘Creativity & Me’ by Patricia Cabaleiro

Mayank & Joshua, fourth year medical students.

that gave participants the chance to unleash their creativity by creating a work of art on a piece of canvas. Our neighbours at the NUSS Guild House also joined in the fun by opening their doors to all NUS alumni to enjoy their facilities for the day.

For many, it was an occasion to be reacquainted with their alma mater and a first step towards being more closely connected with the University when they return for future events. By Valerie Vincent, Business Administration ‘10

The day was capped with an evening of art and culture, and wine and cheese. Ms Franchesca Cubillo, Senior Curator, National Gallery of Australia, delivered a lecture on the Art of Aboriginal Australia. The event was sponsored by the Shaw Foundation and jointly organised by the NUS Office of Alumni Relations and the China Society. Ms Franchesca Cubillo, National Gallery of Australia spoke on Aboriginal Art at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House Art & Culture Lecture.

Mr Giorgio Pilla, Owner, ReDot Fine Art Gallery, talks about Aboriginal Art to Ms Priscylla Shaw, Shaw Foundation.

The caricature station proved to be a hit.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

Spiritual Art Aboriginal artworks make up the “bible” of the indigenous Australians, chronicling its beliefs, history and culture. To some, it may be just a pattern of dots, lines and circles. But every piece of Aboriginal art contains a meaningful story, be it about survival, social taboos or nature.

Intrigued by the story-telling behind this art form, which has a contemporary abstract style yet is deeply rooted in history and culture, Giorgio Pilla began collecting and studying Aboriginal art. Today, 20 years after he purchased his first Aboriginal art piece, Pilla is the owner of one of the world’s leading Aboriginal art galleries, ReDot Fine Art Gallery. As part of the world’s oldest surviving culture dating back more than 20,000 years, Aboriginal art almost always has spiritual

meaning. Without a written language, the Aboriginal people use art to share stories about their history, beliefs and laws of community – all of which are based on Dreamtime, a term that describes the Aboriginal understanding of the world and its creation. The Dreamtime lays down the patterns or rules of life for the indigenous Australians, intricately linking a person’s soul with sacred places in the land, animals, plants and such—every individual is believed to be a “custodian” of the place in which he or she is born. It is believed that every living creature exists eternally in the Dreaming and will go there when they die. “For me, the anthropological significance of Aboriginal art sometimes supersedes the art itself. Seeing the artists’ deep connection to their land and culture is amazing. It’s something that many of us have lost,” said Pilla, 42. Since opening the gallery in 2004, Pilla has seen a threefold increase in turnover. Most of the artworks have at least doubled in value. Some, such as a painting entitled Kinyu by first-generation artist Eubena Nampitjin, have risen at least four times in value. Kinyu depicts the sand hills that stretch across the country, south west of Balgo. The central circle in the painting is a source of ‘living water’ named Midjul and it is covered with leaves so that the spirit dog Kinyu would not leave the country.

‘Kinyu’ by Eubena Nampitjin.

“These pioneer artists were born in the desert and lived nomadically,” said Pilla. “They are the Picassos and Monets of the Aboriginal art movement.” That said, only a handful of Aboriginal artworks have crossed the $1 million mark, unlike international contemporary art. Its popularity escalated only in recent years, after reputable auction houses such as Sotheby’s began taking an active interest in it during the 1990s. Singaporeans tend to go for more established names and most prefer figurative art, those with social commentary, or those that are recognized as technically superior, said Pilla. Aboriginal artists are not technically trained and their techniques are rudimentary. Pilla was invited to hold an Aboriginal art exhibition at the recent National University of Singapore Alumni Day. Feedback was positive and several participants requested to be placed on the gallery’s mailing list. Most of his customers are middle and upper income professionals, including bankers and lawyers. However, Pilla tries to ensure that the art remains accessible. Prices range from $250 to half a million, with most falling within the $4,000 to $15,000 range. “I try to make sure that anyone who comes into the gallery can walk out with something they like,” he said. “Art should not be elitist.” By Leong Pik Yin

Finding the Soul of Singapore At first glance, the bespectacled young man with a quiet demeanour looked like any other fresh-faced executive. But at a mere 27 years of age, Edward Chia is one of the two co-founders of Timbre—the other half being blues musician Danny Loong—a business that started as a live music bar that today comprises F&B, lifestyle events and music education.

The featured guest speaker at the U@live forum at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House on June 29, Chia gave an insight into the secrets of Timbre’s success even as it is committed to the social mission of nurturing homegrown talents. Timbre was started in 2005, back when Chia was just an undergraduate studying Economics and Political Science at the National University of Singapore.

Do Asians Believe in the Rise of Asia?

helped groom—many of those who used to moonlight on Timbre’s stage are now professional musicians. Addressing the entrepreneur’s dilemma between serving a higher purpose and tending to the bottom line, Chia states that entrepreneurship is not just about making money but creating value for society; where there is real value, money will naturally follow. No doubt, he speaks from experience. When he was 18, Chia started a non-profit organisation called Arts For Us All to promote the arts among the youth. But sustainability soon became a problem as he had to source for venues and sponsorship each time he wanted to organise an event.

Entrepreneurship is not just about making money but creating value for society; where there is real value, money will naturally follow.

Succinctly debunking the mindset that a business needs to allocate finances for Edward Chia, Founder, Timbre social causes in order With an F&B aspect providing a steady to fulfil its corporate social responsibility, revenue stream, Timbre achieves the same Chia emphasized that Timbre is not a purpose without the organisation having to social enterprise; the company does not rely solely on ticket sales and sponsorships. But donate any of its finances to non-profit it was far from an easy business to start. The causes, simply because the social mission is going got tough as they crossed over from the already integrated into its core purpose—to non-profit field into the cutthroat commercial “find the soul of Singapore” through the world. It was a steep learning curve, but Chia nurturing of homegrown talents. and his partners understood that there was a time for everything. “The first year was very Chia explained that the best way for a demoralizing,” he said, recalling nights when business to contribute to society is not the only people sitting at the bar were the through monetary means, but for it to owners themselves. inherently serve a social cause. For Timbre, one of its key performance indicators But they stayed the course and set some is in the number of musicians it has

Edward Chia, Founder, Timbre

pertinent ground rules. “Wherever we decided to move to, we ensured that the very first fixed cost, the rental, was capped very low.” Thus, it was a combination of finding and leveraging on a niche, kicking in the right business disciplines such as containing costs, and growing organically (higher capital does not necessarily translate into higher profits) that has brought the business to an annual turnover of between S$13 million and $15 million presently. Given the company’s single-minded dedication to nurturing local talent, it seems ironic to some that Chia does not believe in segregating local acts from foreign ones. He explains that every international star had been a local musician in his or her own home country before making it big globally. The imperative, really, is therefore not in trying to arm-twist fans into supporting local music but ensuring the quality produced. “At Timbre, there is a very high level of quality control. We make sure we only get the best of Singapore music on the stage—this will only do justice to the entire music scene, because if you are supporting local musicians for the sake of supporting local musicians alone, it will not be sustainable as interest will wear off after a while,” Chia explained, capping a session that offered much insight into the genius behind one of Singapore’s biggest business success stories. By Yong Yung Shin, Design and Environment ‘06

With the upheaval in politics and tumbling of economies happening in the West this season, it may seem that Professor Kishore Mahbubani is taking the opportunity to exhort the discarding of the “anachronistic view” that Western nations are the default leaders of the world, in favour of the belief in Asia’s rise to global leadership. Renowned for his advocacy of Asian leadership on the world stage, Professor Mahbubani was speaking at the monthly U@live forum held at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House on July 27 on the topic, “Do Asians believe in the rise of Asia?”

the specific points in his life which shaped his view of world events and the path he eventually chose. The first was a provocative article he had written as an NUS undergraduate editor of a student newspaper titled “A Question Of Decorum”, in which he was critical of the dictatorial style of the Singapore government. The article received wide attention, and ironically, paved the way for a civil service job when he graduated. In 1991—a season Professor Mahbubani terms the “height of Western arrogance”—he was a

The world is moving into uncertain times; we are living in a time of transition and enormous change, and the most valuable thing to do is to question and challenge everything,” Professor Mahbubani. Professor Kishore Mahbubani, Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy Many Asians are psychologically ill-prepared for a world in which they will be providing the leadership, stated Professor Mahbubani, 63, who has crafted out an accomplished career in world affairs. From 1971 to 2004, he was an ambassador to the United Nations. In that capacity, he served as president of the United Nations Security Council in January 2001 and May 2002. Currently, he is the Dean and Professor of Public Policy of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore. Internationally, he is held in high esteem for his opinions about the decline of Western dominance and the corresponding rise of the East. Beginning with a 10-minute introduction into his background, Professor Mahbubani shared

fellow at Harvard University and he wrote his first book, ‘Can Asians Think?’. The professor’s key message was “telling the West not to assume they had all the answers and that the rest of the world cannot think.” On the other hand, the greatest favour Asians can do for themselves, he said, is to “ask ourselves what happened over the past few decades; why we thought we were inferior, why we lost our confidence.” With that, Asians must begin to regain confidence, he suggests. The session proceeded to the interview stage. Forum moderator Viswa Sadasivan posed Professor Mahbubani a question: “What is the biggest impediment that is preventing us from exuding greater confidence and having a greater voice on the global stage?”

Professor Kishore Mahbubani, Dean, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy

Professor Mahbubani responded that Asia’s strong economic development in the past 10 years has naturally kick-started a “cultural confidence” that should be harnessed in the face of the “greatest ever opportunity in human history”. For the past 2,000 years, the people who formed the middle class constituted just 0.01 per cent of the population; now, the middle class form the majority of a demographic profile. The urgency of Professor Mahbubani’s message derives from the projection that sometime in the next decade, a nonWestern power will dominate the world for the first time in 200 or 300 years, and both sides will need to be conscious of this change. He reiterated that his aim was not to propagate an “us against them” mindset, but a collaborative one to rally “a fusion of civilisations, bringing the best of the East and the West together, both working together towards a new world order.” “The world is moving into uncertain times; we are living in a time of transition and enormous change, and the most valuable thing to do is to question and challenge everything,” Professor Mahbubani told the audience. He emphasized, however, that one should not challenge just for the sake of challenging something. “If you are a pure rabble-rouser, people will get tired of you very easily; you will be ignored. But I was never ignored; people believed that I had something to say, a message that resonates over a large audience.” By Yong Yung Shin, Design and Environment ‘06

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

Profile

Singapore and Me

I am proud of my affiliations with the National University of Singapore and of the international stature that the university has achieved. said Prof Peter Lancaster, winner of the Outstanding Science Alumnus Award. students), setting-up house in an apartment in McAllister Road, the math department building at the Bukit Timah campus, playing basket-ball with the students, snorkelling off the coral reefs, moving to a house in Eng Neo Avenue, complete with orchids and bananas in the garden. But, psychologically, we were delighted to find that we could relax in, and appreciate, a multi-racial community - quite different from English suburban communities of that time.

Prof Andrew Wee, Dean, Faculty of Science, with Prof Peter Lancaster.

In 2005, I was delighted and honoured to win an NUS “Outstanding Science Alumnus Award”. It awoke many memories and reminded me of how much I owe to NUS from the critical period of my career when I worked on my Ph.D. My arrival in the academic community in 1957 was a little unorthodox and, for better or for worse, would be unlikely now. The whole world was still recovering from the second world war (1939-1945) and, since I was born in 1929 in the north of England, I was a product of this era although I was too young to be involved in wartime services.

I spent the years 1948-1952 at the university of Liverpool ending with an honours mathematics degree. Subsequently, as national conscription (“the draft”) persisted in the UK, I chose to do my national service by spending five years in the aircraft industry (19521957). This was an exciting occupation where I learned a lot about mechanics and aerodynamics, and found just how essential my mathematics training was in this enterprise. Industrial aircraft production in the transonic and supersonic regimes were in their infancy, as well as the beginnings of high-speed digital and analogue computing. In this period I completed a master’s degree at

the University of Liverpool under the supervision of Louis Rosenhead, FRS. In 1957 my wife, Edna, and I were ready to venture into the academic profession. Using the services of the “Association of Commonwealth Universities”, and on the basis of the experience outlined above, I was offered a position as Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics of the University of Malaya - which was located in Singapore. And so we arrived in Singapore in September of 1957 - with a six-week old daughter. Then the memories come “thick and fast” - my first lecture (to 150 engineering

Academically, I had brought interesting research projects with me from the aircraft industry. Now I had the time and the motivation to examine in detail procedures that, necessarily, we had used in an “ad hoc” way. The result was several journal publications giving mathematical analysis of the methods and techniques used in industry. I should also say that I was strongly supported at this time by the university’s library collection, and by correspondence with some eminent scholars - mathematicians with an interest in applications (including A. M. Ostrowski, J. L. Synge, and G. Temple). We also enjoyed relaxed weekly seminars in the math department. Thus, professionally, I was able to conduct research and begin my teaching career during this period. In 1961 (by which time I was a Senior Lecturer), it seemed that I had completed research that might justify a doctoral degree. So I consulted with my Department Head (Richard Guy) and the Vice-Chancellor (Alexander Oppenheim, “Op”) who was also a first-class

mathematician. And that is how I came to submit my PhD thesis to the University of Singapore. All the formalities were complete in 1962 (the year that I left Singapore for Canada), but there were unexplained delays in awarding the degree - until 1964. The examiners for my thesis were Leslie Fox of Oxford and Ian Sneddon of Glasgow. In fact, Sneddon recommended that I should develop the thesis for publication. It appeared as a research monograph with Pergamon Press in 1966, and there was a second Dover edition in 2002. This was a time of political change, of course. In 1957 we came to a British colony and soon after, in 1959, came Merdeka Day and political independence. At this time Lee Kuan Yew came to power as the leader of the People’s Action Party (PAP) - with a landslide electoral victory. The perception of some of us was that the PAP policies were further left than those of the Labour Party, but not so extreme as the Communists (there was still a state of emergency in Malaya). However, the many subsequent years in power gave different impressions. Under Lee Kuan Yew’s leadership Singapore has prospered beyond belief. This included joining with Malaysia in 1963 followed by separation to complete independence in 1965. I will not attempt to go into detail, but it was clear that Lee Kuan Yew took great interest in the university and several of the prominent scholars and administrators (although I believe that mathematicians were not among them). The title of “The University of Singapore” was adopted on January 1st, 1962. (Here,

I found Wikipedia useful, and was delighted to find a relevant book by a former colleague on my departure from the airport in 2011: K.G.Tregonning, “Merdeka and Much More”, NUS Press, 2010). Since 1962, I have been fortunate to make some brief visits to Singapore and observe its extraordinary growth and prosperity. I served as an External Examiner for the Science University of Malaysia from 1975 to 1981 and took the opportunity to make brief visits to Singapore in 1978 and 1981, shortly after the merger with Nanyang University. This gave me some sense of the evolution of the National University of Singapore. (I believe it was in 1981 that I first saw the Kent Ridge campus.) These short visits indicate that a broad-based sophisticated educational system has evolved. Of course, the extraordinary architectural styles take one’s breath away although Raffles Square, which was once the heart of the city, is now swallowed up amongst the huge office towers. I am glad to see that, amongst all the new developments, the botanic gardens, Bukit Timah campus, and the Singapore river/padang/city hall area remain intact. To close, let me add that I am proud of my affiliations with the National University of Singapore and of the international stature that the university has achieved. By Prof Peter Lancaster

ALUMNI CONNECTIONS

NUS Museum Exhibitions

Arts on Campus Performances by CFA Arts Groups

Rhythm of Life VI - Efflorescence By NUS Chinese Dance In collaboration with the Beijing Dance Academy Classical Chinese Dance Department NUS Chinese Dance celebrates its 35th anniversary through a unique bi-cultural exchange with the acclaimed Beijing Dance Academy. This partnership showcases outstanding talent in Chinese Dance, and how the arts can forge lasting bonds of friendship across different cultures and nationalities. Among other works, look forward to《黄河》or Yellow River which explores the grandeur of the birthplace of the Chinese civilisation, performed by dancers from the Beijing Dance Academy and NUS Chinese Dance. Awarded Gold at the recent Singapore Youth Festival,《水袖》features the beautiful and dramatic Chinese sleeves, a specialty rarely seen in Singapore. In Reminiscence, alumni dancers return for a nostalgic adaptation of three past performances: Chorus of the Drums, A Woman’s Sentiments, and Earth, first performed in 2003, 2004 and 2006 respectively. Sat 8 Oct, 8pm UCC Hall $22 & $19 (excluding SISTIC fee) 1 hr 45 min with 1 intermission of 15min In English and Mandarin

CFA Speaker Series Who’s Afraid of Contemporary Art? By Dr Ian Woo and Mr Hsieh Fu Hua Hear visual artist Ian Woo and art supporter Hsieh Fu Hua share why contemporary art fascinates them. At this dialogue session, they will explain how this form has influenced our ways of looking at art today as they trace local and regional examples within contemporary visual art history, as well as comparative ideological links to myths that surround the contemporary art world. In addition, Ian Woo will talk about the processes of art practice within a studio, the “before” and “after” in the realization of an art work. Fri 28 Oct, 6pm – 7.30 pm NUS Museum Free admission with registration for NUS students and staff. $10 for general public. To register, please email CFASpeakers@nus.edu.sg. Seats available on first-come-firstserved basis.

NUS Baba House • 157 Neil Road Baba House is a heritage home which facilitates research and learning about the Peranakan community and its evolution. It exhibits the community’s material culture in a domestic context, providing the unique experience of visiting a Straits Chinese family home dating back to the early 20th century. Visits are by appointment only. Visitors are required to sign up in advance for heritage tours which fall on Mondays, 2pm - 3pm and Thursdays, 10am -11am. For enquiries, please visit www.nus.edu.sg/museum/baba, call (65) 6227 5731 or email babahouse@nus.edu.sg Sculpting Life: The Ng Eng Teng Collection (Ongoing) Ng Eng Teng (1934 – 2001) is recognised for his sculptural pieces featuring humanist themes. The NUS Museum is a beneficiary of the artist’s generous donations with over 1,000 of Ng’s works including sketches, paintings, maquettes, sculptures, figurines and pottery. The archival display-cumexhibition is divided into three sections – The Formative Years, Body/Form/Perspectives, Materials/ Processes/Public Works – exploring a range of biographical, stylistic and thematic interests. Ways of Seeing Chinese Art (Ongoing) Ways of Seeing Chinese Art features over 200 objects including ceramics, jades and bronzes from the Lee Kong Chian Collection. The exhibition presents a comprehensive history of Chinese ceramic art with more than 100 ceramic pieces dating from prehistory to the early 20th century, representing wares produced by major kilns in China. Working the Tropical Garden (Till 6 Nov 2011) Asian Symphony, Ng Eng Teng’s largest known public mural measuring 1.8m by 9m, was commissioned for the Garden Hotel in 1971. It was conceived in an era when Singapore was beginning to emphasise environmental planning as the key to sustainable development, thus it is an idealised expression of man’s synergistic relationship with nature. It was recently donated to the NUS Museum and is now installed at National University Health System building at Kent Ridge.

Ng Eng Teng, Acrobat (detail), 1988, Ciment fondu, paint, lacquer

Writing Power: Zulkifli Yusoff (9 Sep till 4 Dec 2011) Regarded as a pioneer of installation art in Malaysia, Zulkifli Yusoff’s Writing Power looks at how historical texts affect cultural memory and understandings of nationhood. Exploring how history can be made relevant to contemporary times, Zulkifli’s artistic renditions draw upon the fascinating and complex relationship between the visual and the written. Camping and Tramping Through the Colonial Archive: The Museum in Malaya (Till 2 Dec 2012) This exhibition traces the rise of the Museum in British Malaya from the 19th century, not just as an indicator of power over what was considered as the exotic but also as an acknowledgement of the advent of the Museum that led to a broader project of knowledge accumulation and ordering.

NUS Chinese Dance

NUS Baba House

Green- glazed Earthenware Model of a Milling Shed, Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220)

The Sufi and the Bearded Man: Re-membering a Keramat in Contemporary Singapore (Till 3 Dec 2011) This exhibition re-members the keramat of a 19th century Sufi traveler from the Middle East who lives on in contemporary Singapore through her miracles and shrine, which was recently removed. Remembering the keramat involved a two-year long project of collaborating with Ali, an intermediary of the Sufi and custodian of the mausoleum, who is referred to by fellow devotees as “the bearded man”. Please visit our website www.nus.edu.sg/cfa and www.nus.edu.sg/museum for updates. NUS Centre For the Arts University Cultural Centre 50 Kent Ridge Crescent National University of Singapore Singapore 119279 Tel: (65) 6516 2492 • Fax: (65) 6778 1956 Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/NUSCFA • Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/nuscfa

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

A Friendly Gathering Of Sharp Minds The Senior Alumni Group is set up, the 49th Local Alumni Group

(From Left to Right) Mr Joe Conceicao (Arts & Social Sciences ‘58), Mr Oliver Seet (Arts & Social Sciences ‘59), Dr Rosemary Khoo (Arts & Social Sciences‘65) and Dr Chiang Hai Ding (Arts & Social Sciences ‘59).

The latest local alumni group formed is a unique blend of people who collectively contributed to Singapore in its development years through their varied careers. This is the Senior Alumni Group, set up in June this year and led by its President, Dr Rosemary Khoo (Arts & Social Sciences ‘65). The list of members reads like a Who’s Who with former ambassadors, university lecturers, doctors and teachers amongst them. Dr Khoo says, “Though our median age is 73, we want to learn, to travel and to make friends.” This is exactly what they did on their first trip abroad as an alumni group. Nineteen senior alumni met up with the NUS Overseas Chapter on a visit to Kuching, Sarawak in July. Said Dr Chiang Hai Ding (Arts & Social Sciences ‘59), “We met the chapter’s Chairman Paul Kho (Science, 1991 / Business, 1994) and Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Dr Wong Soon Kai (Medicine, 1953) and his wife who hosted lunch during which Dr Wong regaled us with personal reminiscences about Malaysian and Singapore political figures who were among their classmates in King Edward VII College of Medicine and Raffles College.” Dr Wong himself enjoyed a long and illustrious political career, including

service as Deputy Chief Minister of Sarawak. Dr Chiang added, “That Class of 1952 produced two political couples in Malaysian politics, the other being Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Tun Dr Hasmah Mohamed Ali.

I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in the Senior Alumni for bringing me to this friendly gathering. Good communication breeds good manners.

Mr Joe Conceicao So taken by the trip, Mr Oliver Seet (Arts & Social Sciences ‘59) of group and individual engagement. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues in wrote a poem, and an excerpt follows: the Senior Alumni for bringing me to this friendly gathering. Good communication Feline resilience, breeds good manners. This is the blessed Suppleness contagion the Senior Alumni exposes its In the face of aggression, members to. I have derived a deep sense Balance in unstable times of satisfaction, even happiness, from - Kuching stands squarely, meeting those whom I have missed seeing Unperturbed for many long years. Many of such missing By the rush of facile change persons in my life have reverted to me And fashion. affectionately. I pray the Alumni gathers strength in sympathy and fosters further Over the last two years and before the set up comforting compassion among of the alumni group, about 50 senior alumni its members.” have been meeting monthly over Tea and Chat sessions which feature talks on a range Next on this active group’s list of things to of topics followed by open dialogue. do is a trip to Shanghai to meet with the NUS Overseas Alumni Chapter there. A regular at these sessions is Mr Joe Conceicao, former teacher, Member of Parliament and Ambassador who said, “The Senior Alumni is a splendid example

alumni CONNECTIONS

Dr Cheah Kim Fee, Chairman, Shanghai Alumni Chapter delivers a welcome speech to 300 guests

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

Largest Gathering of Alumni in Shanghai

Caption

More photos are at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg

Our alumni in China have helped build bridges between the two countries in various fields. Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, President, NUS Amongst the guests were alumni who read like a list of Who’s Who of the government and business sectors of China, and students from the NUS Overseas College.

Alumnus Prof Lan Weiguang, Xiamen University, and Founder of Sinomem Technology Limited, shares his success story

Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, NUS President (8th from left) with NUS Overseas College students

Close to 300 alumni gathered for a reunion lunch at the Shanghai Pudong Shangri-La with Mr Wong Ngit Liong, Chairman of the NUS Board of Trustees as Guest of Honour. At the lunch held on 10 September, NUS President Prof Tan Chorh

Chuan, took the opportunity to keep the alumni updated on the University’s progress and developments including the Yale-NUS College, University Town and the NUS Research Institute in Suzhou, a speech that was delivered in Mandarin.

In a speech which focussed on the importance of alumni, Prof Tan said, “Our alumni in China have helped build bridges between the two countries in various fields.” At a poignant moment, he paused to invite the guests to stand up and put on the NUS lapel pin which was given to every guest as a symbol of common pride and identity with NUS.

Alumnus Prof Lan Weiguang, Xiamen University, and Founder of Sinomem Technology Limited, an SGX listed company, shared the story of his success. He said that he owed much of his success to his NUS education which inspired the entrepreneur in him, the freedom to explore new ideas and the importance of giving back to society. NUS has Overseas Alumni Chapters spread across China to keep the links with the University strong. These include Beijing, Chengdu, Hong Kong SAR and Shanghai.

The lapel pin that unites alumni in common identity with NUS.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

NUS Rag Day 2011@ The Promontory,Marina Bay Valerie Vincent graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2010. Interestingly, her first job post-graduation happens to be with the NUS Office of Alumni Relations. She loves being back on campus ($2 lunches are hard to come by in the real world!) though sometimes struggles with being both an alumni and working for them.

Having graduated from NUS just one year ago, Rag Day holds an emotional significance to me. Like a birthday, it marks the beginning of each year often prompting me to reflect on the year that had gone by and hoping that the next one would bring more happiness and luck (and perhaps a higher grade point average). In retrospect, I can quite clearly see the milestones that each Rag Day brought- being wideeyed and mesmerized in my freshman year, being in the thick of things and watching over the younger ones in my second year to finally advising and

giving moral support in my third and fourth years.

was or how glad we were that we didn’t have to go back for hall dinner.

However, it was different coming back this time. Even though I was working with the alumni float I felt oddly detached from the entire event. Being from Eusoff Hall, this was the first time I wasn’t wearing my yellow Tshirt. I looked longingly at the sea of yellow with the corner of my eye and thought about how not long ago, I sat there with my own friends talking about mundane things like how hot it

As mundane as it seemed, looking back, I missed that feeling of being in that sea of yellow with everyone cheering with you and for you. I missed bumping into a stranger with a yellow T-shirt on the way to the bathroom quietly smiling, acknowledging we were on the same side. Nevertheless, I put the thought out of my mind and went back to work. At about midday, the first round of floats began their performances. It baffled me how some of the most creative and heartfelt performances came from faculties such as Medicine, Dentistry and Law. It almost angered me that these seemingly superhuman individuals were able to build a float, be tossed in the air and save lives while the rest of us lowly mortals struggled to even get to class on time! Although jealous, I must give where

Even more outstanding was the faculty of Pharmacy who, due to a technical glitch had their music cut halfway through their performance. Being the fighters that they were, they soldiered on counting their way through the steps until the end.

the halls were anything to go by, making us work with anyone but ourselves would have been comparable to asking Malaysia and Singapore to compete as one football team. However, much to my amazement, each of the halls handled themselves with a great level of professionalism and grace. Though there may have been few currents under the surface, each performance went by without a hitch.

The second wave of performances was indeed a curious sight to see. The alumni float went first, an elegantly crafted float shaped to look like the Shaw Foundation Alumni House with an upbeat dance performance from dance synergy. What came next (in my opinion) was truly a historical moment for NUS. Usually the fiercest contenders during Rag Day, the six halls of residence were not only asked to do without the element of competition, but to also pair up with their sister halls and make ONE float. Now, if my years living in

When the last float made its exit, we sat back and waited to watch the live screening of the National Day Parade and the fireworks. Shouts and screams could be heard as they announced the winners for the faculty competition. I felt a tinge of sadness at the fact that I wouldn’t be celebrating at a victory bash or sitting out on the corridors analyzing the day’s events till the wee hours of the morning. When everything had died down, I began to think about the significance that this year’s Rag Day had. Yes, I had grown one year

credit is due. The Faculty of Law gave a stunning performance about the Chinese Mafia, set in the early 20th century.

older and though I missed my hall and wanted to run down and be involved with Rag Day once again, I knew my time has passed. I have a different role now. (Though I think for next year, I’ll wear my yellow t-shirt). By Valerie Vincent, Business Administration ‘10

Rag Day 2011 was held in conjunction with the National Day Celebrations on the 9th of August 2011 at the Promontory @ Marina Bay. Rag Day is an annual tradition at NUS, held to thank the public for their generous donations during Flag Day. This year 4,800 students armed with canisters, hit the streets to raise money for the needy. More than $480,000 was raised for 21 beneficiaries such as the Singapore Children’s Society and the Singapore Heart Foundation.

alumni CONNECTIONS

by Leong Pik Yin

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

A Very Special Trust

Besides donations, there are many ways for people to help, said Dr Tang Hang Wu, an SNTC director and associate professor at the Law Faculty, National University of Singapore. Tang helps with legal documentation and works with Tan on strategies and negotiations. “Many of our directors are NUS alumni. Some help in business matters, some in legal or medical matters. There are many skills that can help us,” says Tang. He added that SNTC is now studying the feasibility of extending the scheme to the elderly, particularly those with early dementia.

Set up in 2009, the Special Needs Trust Company supports the financial requirements and long-term care of those with special needs.

Life has not been a bed of roses for 26-year-old Elaine Soh, who was born with an intellectual disability.

Elaine’s father died last year after a long battle with cancer and her mother, who single-handedly supported the family by working as a cashier, had to retire in 2008 after a major surgery.

Elaine’s mother, who is now 62, intends to will part of the proceeds from the sale of her flat to Elaine after she passes away. However, she fears for Elaine’s future as she knows that her daughter would not be able to manage her own finances. But now, she can have peace of mind. With the help of the Special Needs Trust Company (SNTC), Elaine’s mother is able to set up a trust account for Elaine to ensure her financial security.

Established in 2009, SNTC is the only non-profit trust in Singapore that provides trust services for people with special needs. The governmentinitiated trust addresses the concerns of caregivers, who worry about the longterm care and financial security of their loved ones with physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities. People with special needs are often unable to manage their own finances or are particularly vulnerable to manipulation, SNTC’s general manager Esther Tan explains.

“Some guardians may not fulfill their obligations, or some may misuse the funds despite good intentions,” she says. “This trust provides parents and caregivers with the assurance they need.” SNTC works with the client – usually the

parent of a special needs child – to draw up a detailed care plan that will include the amount to be disbursed for various needs, such as accommodation, medical and daily living expenses. After the client dies or becomes incapacitated, SNTC will administer the funds and conduct annual reviews with the beneficiary’s guardian. If the funds start running low, SNTC will work with the guardian to top up the fund or explore ways of reducing expenses. “If the funds are still insufficient, we will refer them to the relevant voluntary welfare organization,” said Tan. “We won’t leave anyone destitute and without care.” The minimum sum for setting up an account is $5,000 while the annual trustee fee is $250. Private trusts, on the other hand, charge at least $3,000 a year.

Clients can top up their accounts on a monthly or ad hoc basis. Those who are cash-poor can arrange for their insurance policies, Central Provident Fund savings and proceeds from other assets to be transferred to the trust after they pass away. All the funds are managed by the Insolvency and Public Trustee’s Office.

Guaranteed by the government, the funds earn an interest that is declared at the start of each year — 2.82 per cent this year and 3.52 per cent in 2010. This scheme is targeted at people who own at least a Housing Board flat, and not at low-income families who do not own a home, as what that group requires is financial aid, says Ms Tan.

Many of our directors are NUS alumni. Some help in business matters, some in legal or medical matters. There are many skills that can help us. said Dr Tang Hang Wu, SNTC director and Associate Professor, Faculty of Law, NUS.

However, there are some like Elaine, whose family is unable to afford the minimum sum needed to start an account. SNTC helps them by seeking sponsors and raising funds. All donations, including the $170,000 that SNTC raised at a recent charity dinner, are used for helping the beneficiaries.

To date, SNTC has reached out to at least 3,000 people through talks and referrals, but only about 300 have come for consultations. It currently has 130 accounts, totalling $3.52 million. “It’s not easy getting people to come to us. Some don’t like to think about such things,” says Tan. “This is also an irrevocable trust and some people prefer more flexibility. But they need to understand that this isn’t a form of investment. It safeguards your money for the special needs person. They are always our priority.” For more information on SNTC, visit www.sntc.org.sg or contact Esther Tan at esther_tan@sntc.org.sg. To make an online donation, go to www.sggives.org

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

An Extraordinary Haircut

A Strong Sense of Purpose On Helen Yeo and why she set up the Helen Yeo Bursary Like many who have drifted into their course of study, Helen Yeo, former Managing Partner at law firm, Rodyk & Davidson, currently Senior Consultant, was no different in her first three years of study at the NUS Faculty of Law. She says, “Law was something I drifted into. I regretted taking it up in my first three years at law school. Then, as part of an optional undergraduate programme, I did five weeks of attachment at the Legal Aid Bureau and it dramatically changed my view. I could see how law actually helps people. The part of law that I get passionate about, is solving problems for people. I am a pragmatic person who likes finding solutions, be it for people in trouble or corporate heads furthering legitimate commercial interests.”

Holding an electric hair shaver in his right hand, the hairdresser smiled at me as I walked towards him. Acknowledging him with a nervous smile, I sat on the plastic foldable chair. The next moment defined a new milestone in my life – I shaved my hair bald to raise funds for the 9th Hair for Hope (HfH) 2011. I had known about this Shave-Hair-for-Charity project for a few years, but uneasiness and inertia stopped me from participating in the project. It is, after all, a painless effort to create hope for the unfortunate children coping with the agonizing treatment of cancer. The Project According to the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF), HfH 2011 aims to garner at least 3,000 shavees and raise at least S$1.8 million. Through this symbolic gesture, CCF aims to

1) Create awareness of children with cancer in Singapore, 2) Show children with cancer and their families that they are not alone in their fight against cancer, 3) Tell children with cancer that it is OK to be bald, 4) Raise funds to help children with cancer and their families, & 5) Build a community of support for them. In a year, CCF helps more than 550 children and their families who are at different stages of the illness by raising an annual of S$3.5m to fund all its free services. The Donation Drive At the end of the three-week donation drive, I hit more than double my target of $3,800. The amount, I later learnt from a CCF volunteer, was sufficient to organize

a June holiday camp for the kids. The encouraging support I received prompted me to increase my target to S$10,000. The Shave On that meaningful day (23 July), my shave was completed in eight minutes. Over two days, a record number of 1,480 shavees gathered at VivoCity Centre Court, including young children and 321 female shavees. After each shave, there were loud cheers and claps from their supporters. It was truly an uplifting experience for all present. The Reflection It is my humble wish that the suffering kids will receive greater support with this simple gesture. Do logo on to http://www.hairforhope.org.sg for more information. On behalf of the children with cancer, a BIG thank you in advance.

By Low Hong Guan, Engineering ‘98

This, coupled with her strong belief in helping those in need, underpin the set up of the Helen Yeo Bursary which will be awarded to four law students every year for the next 10 years. She says, “The Bursary will give new generations of students the opportunities I had that led to a fulfilling career and put me in a position to help people.” As a child, Ms Yeo was “constantly reminded to do good work” at

home and at her school. Her 85-year-old mother still volunteers at two old-age homes and churches. Ms Yeo also used to encourage lawyers at her firm to engage in volunteer work by incorporating it into their appraisal forms. A trip to the US changed Helen Yeo’s thoughts on giving to her alma mater. Inspired by the philanthropy of US alumni, she says, “Giving back to my alma mater was never at the top of my priorities because I’ve always felt that it is the country’s duty to educate her citizens well. But in 2005, when I visited some US universities, I was impressed by the philanthropy by their alumni. I knew then that instead of the infrequent donations to NUS, I would, one day, make a larger gift to my alma mater.” The Bursary will be solving some problems for students including Loo Ee

Ting May, a Year 2 student, and Toh Jun Yong, a Year 4 student. May is one of four children. Her mother passed away when she was six and her father drives a taxi. She says, “I am grateful that I get to go to university to secure some financial stability for the future and to receive help so readily from the school to help offset my school fees. I would like Ms Yeo to know that her philanthropic act will really change my life.” Jun Yong, whose father is the sole breadwinner of the family of four, says, “Thanks to the Bursary, I will be able to spend more time on my studies instead of looking for tuition assignments to earn some money.” Gifts such as this play a critical role in the opportunities that NUS offers its students, be it financial aid or student programmes. As NUS President, Prof Tan Chorh Chuan has said, “NUS is very fortunate to receive strong government support. But, for NUS to go beyond being a good university, to be a leading global university, NUS can only do this through the generous support of our benefactors.” For information on giving to NUS, please call Ms Ho Yuen Kwan at 6516 5755 or email askdvo@nus.edu.sg

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

alumni CONNECTIONS

Game Over ’86-91 20 years on, a look back at the days of our lives…

good to hear how they have been doing in their fields in various countries. Kam Hon shared a short message with the class about how far we’ve come, and left thoughts with us to think about what the future would hold.

Medical Class of ‘91.

Our musical classmates (clockwise from left) – Masterful Malcolm, Potent Pik Yee, Talented Tammy, Minstrel Mike Lee, Mesmerizing Mona.

It took more than nine months of gestation, a lot of contacting, persuading and some thinly-veiled Facebook threats, but it finally came to fruition. The 20th anniversary reunion of our NUS medical school class (’8691) took place at the Conrad Centennial Ballroom on 20 August 2011. Conceived and driven by Wee Bin and Bee Sim, there was a big push to find all our classmates early in the year. Clinical group leaders were tasked to contact their members, as well as classmates working in the same hospitals or health-care facilities. Email and Facebook messages flew fast and furious, and soon it took a life of its own. The enthusiasm level was high, and finally 133 (about 74%) people came on the big day. There were those who flew in especially for this, including Gim Huat (USA), Susru and Khean Teik (UK), Christopher and Ban Leng (Hong Kong), Jeff Lum (Cambodia), and Jun Shyan and Choo Lip (Malaysia). As people arrived at the reception, many were surprised at the door gift

of a framed class photo taken outside the NUS Medical Library, which was taken before our final exams. Some had forgotten that the photo was even taken, while most couldn’t remember where they had put their copy (in the era of pre-digital photography and archiving)! Overheard were shouts of exclaimation and joy, as memory banks were jolted and old friends recognized.

songfights in M1, various years of FMS Talentime productions in all types of costumes, hanging out in NUS, and being carefree despite the busy schedules. It was then the turn of our own class musical talents to entertain us. Tammy and Pik Yee each rendered a song, while Mona did a piano piece, Malcolm swayed with his sexy saxophone, and Michael Lee strummed chords on a white guitar.

It was difficult to get the dinner and programme started, as everyone was keen on catching up and chatting. To get everyone into the ballroom, the first thing that was arranged was to take a group photo. Wee Bin (our 1st year class rep) was instantly brought back 20 years in time, when she stood in front on stage talking and giving instructions, with no one listening. However, soon the photo was taken and the night got going.

Baskaran, with his devious mind, had conjured up games as way of looking back on the past. First up was the contest for the most “well-preserved” (as in unchanged) classmate. The candidates were nominated from the floor, and had to do a catwalk on stage. Cordelia was judged to look most like her 19-year old self, and proudly walked away with a packet of preserved ‘kiam-chye’.

Ably led by our MCs Jovian and Rohan, the evening started with a slide show entitled “Walk down memory lane” put together by Wah Ngee. Set to music we grew up with in the 80’s, we chortled and laughed as we saw ourselves again, preparing for Rag & Flag and having

Next up was for the guy with the mostdefined abs. At the age when many of us were beginning (or already advanced) to fill out around the middle, there were some who are fanatic gym-rats, and are even more chiseled than 20 years ago! Of course the judges needed to see proof,

but once Shyard had his shirt removed, everyone was in awe. For the best sixpack, he was awarded a six-pack of beer. On the flip side of the coin, the next category was for the most transformed person. This was aided by showing the matriculation photos of the nominees, to help stir the memories of what this person looked like before. Gim Huat was the big winner, and his trump card was the tattoo on his deltoid. He walked away with a Transformers toy.

put together a memorial of pictures and music which showed them while still with us, with fond memories shared by their closest friends. Those who were overseas and couldn’t make it back also contributed. Kwai Yew (Canberra), Poh Hock (Oregon), Annie (Shanghai) and Swee Weng (Ohio) sent their wishes via video clips, and it was also

We were also transported again back in time when our mugshots (i/c photos) submitted to NUS were shown in groups. Some were difficult to recognize, especially with the big hair and big glasses which we sported then. The evening ended with a toast – to the 20 years past, and to the future. Many were already discussing the next reunion in five years’ time, with suggestions for the organizers being bandied about. Even as the ballroom was being packed up, many lingered outside to continue talking and catching up, wishing that the evening could continue, with promises made to keep in touch … till we meet again. By Dr Ian Tsou, Medicine ‘91

The last award was for the most “follicularly-challenged”. There were many strong but reluctant contenders for this, and we needed the professional opinions of our dermatological classmates, Patricia and Ang Por, to make the final call. It was a close fight, thinly separated by only a few strands of hair, but Andrew came out the winner, and got a bottle of anti-hair fall shampoo. We also had a time to remember our classmates who had departed, Siok Heong, Lyndon, Gunendra and David Ou. Wee Bin

The hardworking committee & MCs (from left) leading the toast – Wee Bin, Bee Sim, Wah Ngee, Patricia, Mike Lee, Ranjiv, Jovian, Rohan

alumni CONNECTIONS

Yale Alumni Leaders Share Best Practices Organised by YALE Global Alumni Leadership Exchange in China It is often said that the difference between a good university and a great university is the willingness of alumni to contribute to their alma mater. This year, the Yale Global Alumni Leadership Exchange (or YALE GALE for short) brought alumni from around the world to share their best practices at the World Alumni Leadership Conference on 20 July in Beijing.

NUS Alumni Advisory Board members, both current and past, Mr Peter Tay, Dr Teo Ho Pin, Jeremy Ee and Harry Chan, including NUS Office of Alumni Relations Director and staff attended the conference and returned with lessons to

1950S 1960S 1970S 1980S 1990S 2000S tell us about yourself ;-)

share. Some noteworthy and finer points of alumni engagement strategies that they brought back range from connecting with alumni through social engagements to “spiritual” cultivation. Yale’s approach to connecting with young alumni is to engage them before they become alumni. For example, seniors are trained to interview high school seniors keen on studying in Yale. This gives them the identity of being an alumnus even before graduation. Students are also engaged on a “spiritual” level. New students at Yale are referred to as ‘New Blue’ and they abide by the

motto, ‘For God, For Country, For Yale’, a powerful way of garnering their loyalty to the University. Another effective method of unifying them under the Yale umbrella is through community service projects. Yale found that alumni who volunteer in these projects have a stronger affiliation for the University than the ones who just attended social activities. The one-day conference produced a wealth of engagement strategies, all of which pointed to one goal – create an affinity and sense of belonging to the University, one that would last a lifetime.

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Alumni buzz

Engage. Reconnect. Now is the time!

Engineering Class of 1982 celebrates its 30th Anniversary Date : 1st Jan 2012 Time : from 6:30pm Place : Guild Hall, Kent Ridge Guild House (next to Shaw Foundation Alumni House) Cost : $70 per head Theme : “Eng82@30 and in the pink of health”

Last year, the Engineering Class of 82 set up the Engineering Bursary Fund with more than $300,000. This year, any extras collected from

fees after defraying costs will go to the Bursary Fund. Sponsors for beer, wine, door gifts and gifts for lucky draw are most welcome. In keeping with the theme, sponsors from the healthcare business are also welcome to contribute in any way. To book a place, send in a cheque, for $70 per head, crossed and made payable to Ng Hui Lan, to 12 Park Villas Green, Singapore 545440 or make an auto transfer to her POSB account 106-26913-0.

88th Medical Alumni Reunion This year the medical alumni reunion will be held at the heritage city of Georgetown, Penang. The Class of 1961 will also celebrate their 50th anniversary. Date : 25th–27th Nov 2011 Venue : G Hotel, Gurney Drive The programme includes singing, dancing, eye-catching performances, a tour of heritage sites including Heritage Enclave, shopping and hawker food galore at the New World

Park. Sunday 27th November is left free for your own ventures or class reunions. Hotel accommodation is stylish and strategically located on the Penang’s famous Gurney Drive. Contact Ms Adeline Tong at the Alumni Association office (admin@medicalalumni.org.sg; Tel: 62234680 Fax: 62248374) or your branch chairman for the registration forms. Organising Chairman: Dr P P Shah

Date: 1 November 2011 Time: 7.00pm to 10.00pm (Cocktail reception starts at 6.30pm) Venue: Shangri-La Hotel, Island Ballroom

Indicate who you are paying for. If you are making payment by auto transfer, please send Angie Ng an email <angie@iesnet.org.sg> or sms at 96286872, on who has made the transfer.

Guest-of-Honour: Mr. Lim Swee Say, Minister, Prime Minister’s Office Please call 6796 9340 or email issalumni@nus.edu.sg if you have any queries.

Committee members include Seah Cheng San, Edwin Seow, Sim Chay Eng, Chew Soon Hoe, Liew Kian Heng and Angie Ng Hui Lan.

NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) Celebrates 10th Anniversary Alumni Dinner and Dance 2011 Date : 8th October 2011 Venue : Stamford Ballroom, Raffles Convention Centre, Swissôtel Entertainment will include exotic belly dancers, exciting games and a lucky draw with prizes such as a 3D LED TV, iPad 2 and Xbox360. Please visit nocdnd.wordpress.com for more information. For ticketing and enquiries, please contact the NOC Dinner and Dance Committee 2011 at nocdnd@nocalumni.org.

www.facebook.com/ISS.NUS

Dress Code: Long-sleeve shirt with tie (Gentlemen) Evening dress (Ladies)

Calling all innovators and entrepreneurs 2012 Innovation & Enterprise Awards Nominations and applications for the 2012 Innovation & Enterprise Awards (I&E Awards) are now open! This award recognises individuals and companies within the NUS community who have made significant accomplishments in, or contributed to, the development of entrepreneurship and innovation in Singapore in recent years. This award also serves as a platform to raise greater awareness of interesting NUS-related inventions and technologies that have been commercialised, leading to significant benefits for society. NUS Enterprise and the National University of Singapore Society (NUSS) are co-organisers of the I&E Awards, also supported by the National Research Foundation’s University Innovation Fund. The two categories of the I&E Awards are: • Outstanding NUS Innovator Award: This is for NUS staff / ex-staff, students or alumni who have been involved in licensing or commercialization of innovations in recent years. The recipient will receive a cash prize of $10,000 and a trophy. Entry is via nomination by a third party.

• Promising NUS Start-up Award: This is for innovation-based ventures in Singapore that demonstrate some NUS linkage, such as utilization of NUS technologies, incubation by NUS Enterprise or being founded by an NUS staff / ex-staff, student and alumnus. The recipient will receive a cash prize of up to $100,000 and a trophy. Entry is via application by a member of the company’s management team.

The closing date for nominations/ applications of the I&E Award is Feb 15, 2012. Please Contact: Mr Wong Sang Wuoh NUS Enterprise, 21 Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Level 5, 13 Building, Singapore 119613 Tel: +65 6516 5461 Email: nvswsw@nus.edu.sg

International MBA Students Corporate get to know Singapore Turnaround in a Financial Crisis

It is not all classroom work for NUS’ International MBA students. Thanks to MBA Alumni NUS and the Global Alumni Network Office, every year since 2009, MBA students from abroad get a good understanding of Singapore through the event, ‘Explore Singapore’. As part of the event, they go on a guided tour to prominent

10 Ways to Stay Connected

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

Alumni buzz

places such Botanical Gardens, Orchard Road, Kampong Glam, Central Business District, the landing site of Sir Stamford Raffles, the Marina Bay Sands and the Merlion to name a few. This year’s tour ended with a networking dinner at NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House with 183 alumni and students - another successful Explore Singapore event for 2011!

As the saying goes, there is always opportunity in any crisis. The trick is to find the opportunity. Dr Michael Teng (MBA ‘87), Managing Director of Corporate Turnaround Centre Pte Ltd and President of MBA Alumni – NUS ran a seminar titled, ‘Corporate Turnaround and Transformation: Navigating the Financial Tsunami’ for 93 participants. He covered how companies manoeuvred a turnaround and achieved successful transformation during a global financial crisis. Getting the participants to put in practice what they had learnt, Dr Teng had them create a jingle to sell a product or cause, one that had to go viral on YouTube, and something that made learning fun and memorable.

1 Attend an alumni event or programme Stay tuned at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg for the latest happenings

2 Visit the Shaw Foundation Alumni House Visit www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg for more on the Shaw Foundation Alumni House

3 Join an alumni group Visit www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg for the alumni groups listing

4 Organise a class reunion Organise your class reunion. Contact us at oarconnect@nus.edu.sg or 6516 5775

5 Use your AlumNUS Card Get your AlumNUS Card at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg/alumnuscard

6 Read The AlumNUS Magazine Read The AlumNUS Magazine online at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg

7 Use your lifelong AlumMAIL email account Get your exclusive AlumMAIL account at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg/alummail

8 Stay in touch via AlumNET Stay connected at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg

9 Support students Support students. Find out more at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg

10 Volunteer and share Give of your Time and Talent. Contact us at oarconnect@nus.edu.sg or 6516 5775

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

Alumni buzz

Mid-Year Madness The Class of ’72 Party with the NUS President and Give Back 2 July 2011 - It looked like a scene out of the popular 80’s sitcom ‘Cheers’. Friends gathered around The Ridge Bar, drinks in hand, at the NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House. The reason? To present the NUS President, Prof Tan Chorh Chuan, with a gift from Union House Kakis, a group of students from various graduating classes from the early 70s who had hung out at the Union House at the old NUS Bukit Timah Campus.

(From left): A/Prof Victor Savage, Dr Loh Hong Sai, Mr Yeo Keng Joon, Mr Siva Retnam, Mr Lai Kim Seng and Mr Lim Soo Hwee

“We didn’t want a grand ceremony with an oversized cheque” Said Archie Ong member of the graduation Class of ’72. “We’re more relaxed like that”.

BEMA donates to University Town Archie along with his batch-mates set up the Class of ’72 Fund back in 2002 after successfully raising about S$400,000 during one of their reunion dinners. To date, they have collected over S$1.3 million in donations for the NUS Student Bursary Fund. Many in the class had come a long way from their days at the Union House. They are now captains of their industries and movers & shakers within Singapore and beyond. However, it was heartening to see that, through the years, they had not lost the twinkle in their eye. They talked, laughed and teased each other as if they were students again. When asked about why the Class of ’72 kept giving, Ong simply answered “Payback”. Considering the number of students who benefited from the fund, I guess they had a lot to be thankful for. By Valerie Vincent, Business Administration ‘10

Mr Conrad Raj (Left) and Mr Navtej Singh

A Singapore Night in London The NUS Overseas Alumni Chapter in London held their annual gathering in true Singapore style at the appropriately named Singapore Restaurant on Holland

Park Avenue. Amongst the alumni from all walks of life - solicitors, doctors, civil engineers, businesswomen and a physiatrist, was Singapore’s deputy high commissioner,

Mr Stephen Quick, who was visibly impressed by the alumni’s links with home. The gathering was held on 14 July with its guests already looking forward to the next one.

Dr Teo Ho Pin, President, Building and Estate Management Alumni, (Second from Left) led the fundraiser.

Building and Estate Management Alumni (BEMA) and industry professionals raised $50,000 to support the NUS University Town on 8 June 2011 through a fundraising golf tournament involving 132 golf enthusiasts. Led by President of BEMA, Dr Teo Ho Pin, the alumni have been supportive of the university work – they

have set up the Financial Assistance Fund to help needy students, book prizes and made donations to the Shaw Foundation Alumni House Building Fund, to name a few. BEMA thanks all its members and supporters for their generous donations.

AlumNUS | October - December 2011

AlumNUS Card Merchants Listing The complimentary AlumNUS Card identifies you as part of the prestigious NUS alumni family and is your gateway to a host of benefits. Get your card online at www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg/alumnuscard Terms & Conditions apply. The NUS Alumni Office and the AlumNUS merchants reserve the right to amend the terms and conditions governing the offers at any time. All information is correct at press time. Visit www.alumnet.nus.edu.sg/alumnuscard for the latest privileges and promotions.

Don Your Personal Pie Club

5% discount off all non-promotional

item at VivoCity Branch only

Dates to Remember

Alumni Events October to December 2011

For more information, please call 6376 8323

10% discount off online purchases

Senior Alumni Tea & Chat

Mr Curry

10% discount off

Visit www.amberavenue.com or email

enquiries@amberavenue.com for more details

total bill at The Central, Singapore outlet

Save up to

27 thur

visit www.waraku.com.sg

95% on Customized Slimming and Hair Spa Treatment

The Orphanage/ El orfanato (PG)

NOVEMBER

24 thur

NOVEMBER

24 thur

at $68 only Strictly by appointment basis. Please call 9823 1388 to make a booking

OCTOBER

For more information,

GLOW International

Feature Flicks

127 Hours (NC16)

Waraku

10% discount off total bill

Visit www.waraku.com.sg

Prime De Vie

Mag-EZ

Up to 30% discount for magazines subscriptions with a complimentary gift item of your choice! Visit www.mag-ez.com or call 6513 4176

20% discount on Vinturi and all wine accessories Visit www.primedevie.com.sg or call Kenny at 9028 2927 for more details

Modern Montessori International

15% discount on full-

Mahogany

50% discount Hair & Grooming privileges

Visit www.mahogany.com.sg/NUSPrivilege/NUSAM.htm

day childcare services only at selected centres For more information, visit modern-montessori.com

or call 6737 5956

Fraser Place Urbana Langsuan, Bangkok

max of S$1,000

Enjoy exclusive rates ranging from THB 2,799 nett per night for a Studio to THB 4,999 nett per night for a 2 Bedroom Executive (inclusive of 10% service charge and 7% VAT).

Visit www.redotgallery .com

Quote NUS11 when making a booking.

or call 6222 1039

Email sales.bangkok@frasershospitality.com or

ReDot Fine Art Gallery

5% discount on any work purchased, up to

Other Events

contact +66 2 227 9900

OCTOBER

8 SAT

NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) Celebrates 10th Anniversary (see page 42)

NOVEMBER

3 THUR

20th Alumni & Friends Golf Tournament (see page 47)

U@live

NOVEMBER

4 FRI 19 SAT

NUS Alumni Awards

OCTOBER

JULY

25th Anniversary Reunion Dinner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Class of 1986 (see page 44)

25-27

TUE-thur

88th Medical Alumni Reunion (see page 42)

December

4 SUN

Standard Chartered Marathon Singapore

Visit www.nus.edu.sg/osa/sports/marathon.htm

19 WED

Speaker: Aseem K Thakur (see page 21)

NOVEMBER

30 WED

Speaker: Ivan Heng

(see page 21)

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