The AlumNUS Jan-Mar 2017 by NUS Alumni Office

nus.edu.sg/alumnet

ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SINGAPORE

H O W N U S A N D ITS ALUMNI ARE STAYING AHEAD OF THE CURVE

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JAN-MAR 2017 // ISSUE #108

CONTENTS

FIRST WORD

22 39

IN THE NEWS

COVER STORY

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS

02 State of The University Address 2016 04 New NUS Board of Trustees Chairman 05 China Film Festival 2016 06 25th NUS Alumni & Friends Charity Golf 08 Thirsty Thursdays – Mega Edition

10 The Game Changers

32 Events

CHANGEMAKER

PERSPECTIVE

18 Turning Heads

46 Riding Change

PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

LAST WORD

20 Out of Harm’s Way

48 Pilgrim Poet

ONCE UPON A MEMORY

22 Happy Camper

Dear Alumni and Friends, New beginnings, resolutions and change are synonymous with every new year. In today’s digital age, change is happening at a pace so rapid and unpredictable that it has become pertinent for everyone to develop the willingness, resilience and versatility to embrace it and embrace it well, in order to survive and thrive, both in our personal and professional lives. In this spirit, we leap straight into the topic of Change in the first issue of The AlumNUS for 2017. Our cover story showcases alumni who have bravely and successfully embraced change in their lives – some even risking all that they have. From a Geography majorturned-actor and puppeteer, a high-powered corporate manager-turned-organic farmer, to a business student-turned-photographer – the one defining characteristic of these NUS alumni is their ability to navigate change to create greater fulfilment in their lives.

CORRIGENDUM For the Oct-Dec 2016 issue’s ‘Changemaker’ article, we would like to clarify that Dr Karenne Tun is the Director of the Coastal and Marine Branch of the National Park Board’s National Diversity Centre, and not its ‘Deputy Director’ as was stated.

MY WORD

24 Championing Change ALUMNI SCENE

26 Counting On Collaboration 27 The Right Code ALUMNI SCENE GIVING

28 Former MP Honours Magnanimous Father Through Bursary 29 Business Couple Invest in Tomorrow’s Leaders U @ LIVE

30 Healing Humanity

OFFICE OF ALUMNI RELATIONS 11 Kent Ridge Drive, Singapore 119244 Tel: (65) 6516-5775 Fax: (65) 6777-2065

Advisor MR BERNARD TOH (Architecture ’84) Editor KARIN YEO (Arts and Social Sciences ’97) Assistant Editor LING ING TAN Production Assistant NOREEN KWAN Publishing Consultant MEDIACORP PTE LTD

The AlumNUS is published quarterly by the NUS Office of Alumni Relations. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the NUS Office of Alumni Relations or the National University of Singapore.

Cover Illustration: Carol Chan

Printed in Singapore by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd.

In alignment with our vision to be a leading global university centred in Asia, influencing the future, NUS too is constantly evolving and improving not just to keep up with change, but to stay ahead of the curve. We spoke to NUS Vice Provost of Special Duties, Professor Ashraf Kassim and Associate Provost of Undergraduate Education, Associate Professor Chng Huang Hoon, who shared with The AlumNUS ways in which the University is helping students – both on the academic and co-curricular front – to develop the critical skills and the mindset to be able to handle change and the uncertainties that come with it. As the University’s key department fostering meaningful alumni-alma mater relations, the NUS Office of Alumni Relations (OAR)

constantly seeks to bring new and better ways of engaging you, our alumni. In this respect, we are pleased to announce a couple of new and exciting collaborations and events, besides familiar favourites like Bukit Timah Homecoming, Kent Ridge Alumni Family Day, Thirsty Thursdays, Movies on the House etc. 2017 will see OAR collaborate with alumni from the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music for a new series of Edutainment Concerts, and with NUSSU and NUSS for a Commencement Party for the 2017 graduating cohort. We look forward to your strong and continued support in this new year, and hope that you will continue to share your talents and skills to help us build an even stronger alumni network among your fellow alumni and with your alma mater. On this note and on behalf of my colleagues at OAR, I wish all our alumni a very Happy New Year, where all your resolutions become reality in your positive embrace of Change.

MR BERNARD TOH Architecture ’84 DIRECTOR, NUS ALUMNI RELATIONS

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N O R T O R E A D T H E A L U M N U S O N L I N E , P L E A S E V I S I T N U S . E D U . S G /A L U M N E T.

JAN-MAR 2017

IN THE NEWS

To read the full State of the University Address, visit nus.edu.sg/soua/

S TAT E OF THE UNIVERSITY ADDRESS 2016 ‘Empowering for the Age of Empowerment’ was the theme of NUS President Professor Ta n C h o r h C h u a n ’ s s p e e c h .

“WE ARE TODAY entering an age of empowerment, where it is entirely possible for an individual or small group with new ideas or causes, to pursue and realise them at a local, regional, and even global scale,” said NUS President Professor Tan Chorh Chuan (Medicine ’83) during his State of the University Address on 4 November 2016, at NUS University Town. Technology is allowing ordinary individuals to do many things that were impossible before, and to do exciting things with the combination of right skills, drive, imagination, creativity and even audacity. “The work of single individuals can disrupt existing ways of doing things,” said Prof Tan. “To thrive and to contribute in this age of empowerment, individuals must have the right abilities and the right mindset to make the most of current conditions, and to seize or create new opportunities. Universities, too, need to foster the right culture and ecosystem which gives members of their community the best chances of doing so.” This was the fundamental message from Prof Tan during his address.

Universities, too, need to foster the right culture and ecosystem which gives members of their community the best chances of doing so. Prof Tan also highlighted the flip-side of this empowerment – fiercer competition will ensue because the tools and conditions that empower us are also available elsewhere. To ensure that the NUS community is well poised to compete and thrive, Prof Tan said that the University should redouble focus on three key directions, namely: empower students for the future, enable faculty to stand out globally, and provide new platforms for high impact. (see sidebar) “Above all, as individuals and as an institution, we must have the right mindset – one that looks forward with hope and optimism, eager to seize opportunities to make a real difference; to help address major societal challenges; to be truly consequential and valued in Singapore and the world, and to enable NUS to help influence the future as a leading global university, centred in Asia,” said Prof Tan at the end of his speech.

THREE KEY DIRECTIONS

1 TO EMPOWER STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE, NUS HAS A STRONG A.G.I.L.E. FRAMEWORK

Consisting of five synergistic areas of focus: Academic Global and experiential Industrial relevance Lifelong learning and Entrepreneurial

2 TO ENABLE FACULTY, PROF TAN SHARED EXAMPLES OF BOTH CURRENT AND FUTURE INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS

To create a high quality research environment with state-of-the-art equipment conducive to the breakthrough of transformative ideas.

TO PROVIDE NEW PLATFORMS TO CREATE HIGH IMPACT

Prof Tan highlighted three NUS platforms “that allow our faculty experts to work with academic, industry and public sector partners to tackle the most important societal issues”. The Smart Nation Research Cluster Health System Innovation Cluster The creation of a strong enabling ecosystem for the translation and commercialisation of research.

JAN-MAR 2017

IN THE NEWS

C H I N A F I L M F E S T I VA L 2 0 1 6

Mr Wong Ngit Liong

The annual China Film Festival, jointly organised by the NUS Office of Alumni Relations, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Singapore, and Singapore China Friendship A s s o c i a t i o n , w a s b a c k f o r i t s f i f t h ye a r.

NEW NUS BOARD OF TRUSTEES CHAIRMAN After 12 years of distinguished leadership, Mr Wong Ngit Liong (Engineering ’65) stepped down as C h a i r m a n o f t h e N U S B o a r d o f Tr u s t e e s on 31 December 2016. Mr Wong is succeeded by Mr Hsieh Fu Hua (Business

Mr Hsieh Fu Hua

’ 7 3) w i t h e f f e c t f r o m 1 J a n u a r y 2 0 1 7.

NUS PRESIDENT PROFESSOR Tan Chorh Chuan (Medicine ’83) said, “We are deeply grateful to Mr Wong Ngit Liong for his outstanding leadership as Chairman of the NUS Board of Trustees. He has guided the University with vision and wisdom, and played a key role in the formulation of NUS’ goals and strategies in education, research and entrepreneurship. He has worked incredibly hard and personally touched the lives of many in our NUS community. We thank him for his visionary leadership and selfless dedication in service of NUS and Singapore.” During his tenure as Chairman, Mr Wong was instrumental in steering NUS through its corporatisation. In addition to managing the smooth transition between university presidents, Mr Wong also successfully oversaw the implementation of major changes to the NUS’ corporate governance, and the development of new and enhanced administrative systems and capabilities. “It has been a greatly rewarding experience to work with the Board of Trustees, management, faculty, students, staff, benefactors, and alumni of NUS,” said Mr Wong. “I am grateful to the University community, and the many friends of NUS, for working with me in my 12 years as Chairman to transform NUS into a leading university that is highly respected both in Singapore and around the world. It has been an immensely enriching journey and a fulfilling experience. I leave with full confidence that the incoming Chairman, Mr Hsieh Fu Hua, will strengthen NUS as the University continues on its upward trajectory.” Mr Hsieh was first appointed to the NUS Council in 2003, and subsequently to the NUS Board in 2006. He continued to maintain close ties with his alma mater after stepping down from the Board in 2012.

Mr Hsieh is active in both the social and business sectors. He is Chairman of the National Gallery Singapore, the National Council of Social Service, and Jurong Health Services. He is also Chairman of the UOB Group, a member of the GIC Board, Co-Founder and Adviser to PrimePartners Group, and Chairman of the Stewardship Asia Centre. “Mr Wong Ngit Liong, together with Professor Tan Chorh Chuan, has built a strong leadership team and top notch faculty at NUS,” said Mr Hsieh. “I am privileged to be the new Chairman of this leading university, and look forward to working with the University community to continue Ngit Liong’s good stewardship.” Prof Tan said, “We look forward very much to working with Mr Hsieh Fu Hua as he takes on the role of Chairman of the NUS Board of Trustees. My colleagues and I are thrilled to welcome him back to the University community, and will look to his strategic leadership and wise counsel as NUS strives to strengthen its position as a leading global university centred in Asia.”

THE FESTIVAL OPENED with Mr Six, and was graced by Mr Fang Xinwen, Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Singapore and Professor Phua Kok Khoo, President of the Singapore China Friendship Association. Other notable VIPs included: His Excellency Geoffrey Keating, Ambassador of Ireland to Singapore; Professor Philip Liu, NUS Vice President, Research and Technology; Associate Professor Peter Pang, NUS Associate Provost, Student Life; and Professor Robert K Kamei, NUS Associate Provost, Education. During the reception before the movie, guests were also serenaded with music performed by the NUS Chinese Society - Chinese Orchestra. Close to 1,200 alumni, faculty, staff and guests attended the festival and were treated to a diverse selection of highlyacclaimed movies – Wolf Totem, Only You and Ballet in the Flames of War. After the end of the movie each night, one lucky member of the audience went home with a grand lucky draw prize of a return business class air ticket to Hangzhou, Fuzhou, Dalian or Xiamen, courtesy of Xiamen Air.

From left: Assoc Prof Peter Pang, Prof Phua Kok Khoo, Mr Fang Xinwen, Director of NUS Alumni Relations, Mr Bernard Toh (Architecture’84)

JAN-MAR 2017

IN THE NEWS

From left: ESM Goh Chok Tong, Mr Robin Ng, Mr Po’ad Mattar, Mr Goh Geok Cheong

Front Row (from Left) Mr Eddie Lee, Mr Ho Thoon Tiew, Mr Boon Swan Foo, Prof Tan Eng Chye, ESM Goh Chok Tong, Mr Jack Huang, Ms Kim Tham, Ms Jenny Kek Back Row (from left) Mr Seah Cheng San, Mr Patrick Lim, Mr William Mak, Mr Ho Han Ming, Mr Sunny Peh, Mr Yeo Keng Joon, Mr Robin Liow, Ms Kong Yuet Peng, Mr Chow Khin Choong, Mr Stephen Lee

NUS ALUMNI & F R I E N D S CHARITY GOLF A STRONG BOOST

We hope that the success of this event will inspire others to join us in creating more opportunities for our students, especially those in need of financial support NUS DEPUTY PRESIDENT (ACADEMIC AFFAIRS) AND PROVOST PROF TAN ENG CHYE

The annual NUS Alumni & Friends Golf To u r n a m e n t t o o k o n a d d i t i o n a l s i g n i f i c a n c e a n d m e a n i n g t h i s ye a r, w i t h a l u m n i a n d f r i e n d s coming together to raise funds to provide

FAST FACT

financial assistance to NUS students.

THE NUS ALUMNI & FRIENDS GOLF TOURNAMENT IS AN ANNUAL EVENT AND THIS IS THE FIRST YEAR IN WHICH A FUNDRAISING ELEMENT WAS INCORPORATED TO RAISE FUNDS TO CREATE BURSARIES FOR STUDENTS IN FINANCIAL NEED.

TITLED THE 25TH NUS ALUMNI & FRIENDS CHARITY GOLF, the tournament was organised by the NUS Office of Alumni Relations, in collaboration with the National University of Singapore Society (NUSS). It raised S$564,500 which will provide up to 20 bursaries per year through the NUS Alumni Bursary Endowed Fund. Held on 13 October, 140 golfers participated in this much-anticipated event at the Raffles Country Club, which was graced by Guest-of-Honour Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong (Arts ’64) and NUS Pro-Chancellor Mr Po’ad Mattar (Accountancy ’71).

“We are grateful for the generosity and support from our NUS alumni and friends. Their contributions provide a strong boost to the University’s ongoing efforts to enable more of our talented students to fulfil their potential and make a lasting impact to the Singapore community. We hope the success of this event will inspire others to join us in creating more opportunities for our students, especially those who are in need of financial support,” said NUS Deputy President (Academic Affairs) and Provost Professor Tan Eng Chye (Science ’85). Mr Eddie Lee (Law ’81), NUSS President and a supporter of this fundraising event, shared, “I am fortunate to have studied law at NUS and I know that my education has helped me to be the person I am today. But my education came at a price: I had to take out a loan from an uncle and worked part-time to pay for my tuition fees. I want to do what I can to help today’s students, who are facing the same financial challenges, to benefit from a life-changing education just as I did. I appeal to my fellow alumni and friends to join me in making a gift so that many more deserving needy students have the opportunity of a tertiary education.”

DINNER AND PRIZE PRESENTATION CEREMONY A dinner and prize presentation ceremony was held at the NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House after the tournament, where the cheque of S$564,500 was presented to Prof Tan. Key donors were also invited to the dinner and received commemorative plaques in recognition of their support.

From left: Mr Seah Cheng San, ESM Goh Chok Tong, Prof Tan Eng Chye

JAN-MAR 2017

IN THE NEWS

BOOK CORNER

A U T H O R : R O B I N L O W ( E N G I N E E R I N G ’ 0 0 )

T H I R S T Y T H U R S D AY S – MEGA EDITION A special ‘Mega’ edition of Thirsty Thursdays,

IN HIS WELCOME address, OAR Director Mr Bernard Toh (Architecture ’84) announced that Thirsty Thursdays has been revamped to bring career inspiration to NUS young alumni by inviting successful alumni to share their professional journeys and experiences with their juniors. The first guest speakers at this newly-revamped event were Mr Daniel Chia (Science ’03), Head of Human Resources and Administration, Carlsberg Singapore Pte Ltd; and Ms Jocelyn Chng (Arts and Social Sciences ’89), Founder and Chief Executive Officer of

JR Group Holdings Pte Ltd and Managing Director of Sin Hwa Dee Foodstuff Industries Pte Ltd. Close to 500 alumni spent an enjoyable and fruitful evening mingling with fellow alumni and learning from their seniors. Mr Jeremy Ee (Engineering ’05), NUS Alumni Advisory Board member; Mr Seah Thian Pau, Director of the NUS Office of Campus Security; Mr Foo Tung Mooi, Director of the NUS Office of Campus Amenities; and Dr Patrick Tan (Medicine ’01), Director of University Health Centre were among the VIPs who attended the event.

a popular event organised

by the NUS Office of Alumni Relations (OAR) for young alumni, was held to enable more alumni to come together to socialise and network.

GOOD INTENTIONS ARE NOT ENOUGH WHY WE FAIL AT HELPING OTHERS

CLOSE TO

500

ALUMNI SPENT A FUN AND MEANINGFUL EVENING WITH THEIR PEERS

DISASTER STRIKES, transforming cities and towns into graveyards and wastelands in a matter of minutes. But help is on its way: news channels and social media relay the information to all corners of the globe in real-time, mobilising hundreds of people and organisations to aid. Yet, just how effective are we at helping others? How can we create real sustainable impact? Mr Robin Low elaborates on a simple principle essential to effective aid — Never Help: Engage, Enable, Empower and Connect. Available at most major bookstores in Singapore, and at Amazon.com. JAN-MAR 2017

COVER STORY

The AlumNUS talks to these individuals on how their lives have changed.

The familiar saying “change is the only constant in life” may be trite but is true. As NUS alumni grapple with change and uncertainty in their post-university lives, NUS itself

MR BRIGHT ONG

is evolving to help students navigate a world in flux. MR WILL CHUA

ASSOC PROF CHNG HUANG HOON

PROF ASHRAF KASSIM

MR YAP KWONG WENG

FAST FACT TWO MORE NUS OVERSEAS COLLEGES WERE LAUNCHED IN MUNICH AND LAUSANNE IN 2016, BRINGING THE TOTAL TO EIGHT.

MS NG SOK ENG

B Y

W A N D A

T A N

MR WANG LIANSHENG

JAN-MAR 2017

COVER STORY

With change comes challenges. If you don’t have tenacity, you might give up after the first setback.

one are the days of stable and predictable career paths, when what a person studied in university dictated the job one would go on to have. Where once a degree in a particular discipline meant a lifelong career in that area, instances of people changing jobs to work in new or unrelated domains are now growing in frequency. For some, the career switch may be made out of a desire to pursue one’s passion. For others, it may be a necessary response to economic realities as job security increasingly becomes a thing of the past. Either way, people often do not end up working in what they are trained to do. And in this uncertain climate, the task of universities is to “prepare students for jobs we do not know about”, says Associate Professor Chng Huang Hoon (Arts and Social Sciences ’87), NUS Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education. “Institutions like NUS must [periodically] tweak the curriculum in response to, or in anticipation of, change.” Curricular adjustments are made not only within but across the respective fields of study. “Each department or faculty is responsible for making sure its degree programmes are top-notch and up-to-date in meeting today’s career needs,” says Professor Ashraf Kassim (Engineering ’85), NUS Vice Provost of Special Duties. “Educational policies at the university level are also reviewed and refined to ensure curriculum relevance.” The question currently on the lips of NUS administrators is, as Prof Kassim puts it, “What abilities do people need to function well in the 21st century?”

B R O A D - B A S E D LEARNING

Every day is a gift. Make the most of it but know your limits.

MS NG SOK ENG,42 12

For aspiring doctors or architects, their chosen course of study is easy: medicine or architecture. But the truth is that many 18 or 19 year-olds do not have a fixed career goal upon entering university, so the prospect of specialising in a narrow discipline fills them with some dread. Fortunately, they can opt for a general degree programme that keeps their options open after graduation. Take the case of Ms Ng Sok Eng (Business ’97). With a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) under her belt, she spent four years at OCBC Bank — as a business analyst and then project manager — while working as a freelance photographer. She eventually parlayed her photography hobby into a full-time career in 2004 by opening her own studio, BerryHappy Photography, where her degree would again come in handy. “A photography studio is like any other business,” says Ms Ng, 42. “I need to attract clients, deliver the product and provide customer service. This requires marketing know-how, understanding of customer expectations, and relationshipmanagement skills to ensure a steady stream of repeat customers and referrals.” Mr Wang Liansheng (Law ’13), a practising lawyer at Bih Li & Lee LLP, has carved out a parallel career as a playwright — and there are complementarities between the two. “The rigorous NUS Law programme taught me to think hard when analysing cases and presenting arguments,” he explains. “I apply that same framework when looking at the motivations of characters in a play and clarifying the play’s message.”

MR WANG LIANSHENG,28

Besides achieving proficiency in legalese, studying Law also honed his soft skills. “I can better advise clients if I am able to empathise with their situation. To do that, I have to listen to their needs and see things from their point of view,” says Mr Wang, 28. Digging deeper into people’s lives has the knock-on effect of adding complexity to the characters in his plays. Such cross-disciplinary skills demonstrate the breadth of NUS’ undergraduate curriculum, under which module requirements are split into three categories:

1 2 3

UNIVERSITY-LEVEL REQUIREMENTS General Education modules that inculcate

critical thinking and a well-rounded mindset. PROGRAMME REQUIREMENTS Modules needed to specialise in a

degree major. UNRESTRICTED ELECTIVE MODULES An avenue for students to master

knowledge from different disciplines.

The last category in particular gives students the freedom to learn about any subject. “It’s a space where students can be bold and try different things,” says Prof Kassim. “It’s a time to discover themselves and find out where their interests lie.”

A U G M E N T E D DEGREES Over the years, NUS has expanded its offerings of joint, double and concurrent degrees, as well as double majors and major/minor combinations. These options — which fall under the Unrestricted Elective category — expose students with varied interests to a wide range of subjects. “As degrees become more commonplace, these augmented programmes serve as a differentiating pathway for NUSers to stand out from the pack,” adds Assoc Prof Chng. For example, a major in Geography and minor in Theatre Studies sounds like an odd combination for a Bachelor of Arts degree. Yet it was this blend of subjects that led Mr Bright Ong (Arts and Social Sciences ’10) to pursue acting after leaving NUS. “I had entertained the idea of being a wildlife conservationist with my Geography degree, but in the end I followed my childhood dream of becoming an actor,” he says. Now 28, Mr Ong is a professional television and stage actor in Singapore as well as Resident Director for Legoland Malaysia’s Ninjago: The Realm of Shadows, a live puppet show. Similarly, the opportunity to obtain a postgraduate Mr Ong on a field trip double degree at NUS was a big draw for Mr Will Chua in Thailand. (Public Policy ’11), who holds a Master in Public Policy from NUS and a Master of International Affairs from Columbia University, USA. A former engineer, the 37 year-old was keen to enter the public sector after working in his family’s

A university education is about finding out who you are and what makes you happy, not just how high your CAP is. MR BRIGHT ONG,28

JAN-MAR 2017

COVER STORY

MR WILL CHUA, 42

construction business for seven years in his home country of Malaysia, and saw the dual-degree programme as a good way to get started. “I was disillusioned from working in construction, but those two years at NUS changed my life and opened up my sense of wonder,” he recalls. “Everything seemed new and exciting to me. I soaked things up like a sponge; I even took more modular credits than needed and audited other classes.” Being at university, he found, was also a good place to practise empathy (“putting yourself in others’ shoes”) and active listening (“understanding a person or a piece of news and hearing what is unspoken”). This newfound openness to new experiences has since seen Mr Chua strike out in unexpected directions. From 2011 to 2013, he headed the Economic Development Board’s International Organisations Programme Office, which facilitates the entry of international non-profits into Singapore. After taking a year-long sabbatical to reassess his life, he resigned from his job and returned to Malaysia. In 2015, he co-founded an organic farming venture in Johor Bahru. Called FOLO Farms, its mission is to “Feed Our Loved Ones” by converting food waste into compost to grow healthy, organic vegetables.

Prof Kassim observes that more than two-thirds of NUS students spend time overseas while completing their degrees. This proportion would have been “unheard of” in his undergraduate days, and represents another example of the greater opportunities now available for students. NUS offers a variety of global education programmes in partnership with premier institutions around the world, such as semester- or year-long student exchange placements, international internships and research attachments, academic immersions in the summer and winter months, and study trips to engage and enrich students. Entrepreneurship-minded students also have the option of spending six months or a year at any of the NUS Overseas Colleges (NOCs), which expanded to eight in 2016 with the launch of NOC Munich (Germany) and NOC Lausanne (Switzerland). In Ms Ng’s case, her first time travelling abroad was in 1994, while participating in an international study/travel seminar to Stanford University, USA. Other overseas trips she went on as an undergraduate included an educational field trip to Beijing, China; a student exchange programme at Lancaster University, UK; and a summer internship in Bangkok, Thailand. “I interacted with people from all walks of life on those trips. That’s not so different from my photography work now, as I deal with people of different nationalities,” she says. “In my job, soft skills are as important as technical skills. Some customers are shy and need time to warm up, while others are more impatient, so I have to react accordingly and help them feel comfortable in front of the camera to get a good shot.” A pivotal experience for Mr Ong was the Field Studies module he took for his Geography degree. He spent five weeks in Thailand, the highlight being his time with a homestay family in a fishing village in Thailand’s northeast region. “I saw firsthand how the locals in rural Thailand deal with hardships in their lives,” he recalls. “Seeing how they managed to cope despite being less fortunate showed me that, no matter what challenges come my way, things will be okay.” MORE T HA N His specialisation in social geography also imbued in him a sense of empathy. “Social geography is concerned with deducing human OF NUS nature and understanding human STUDENTS patterns, or how people react to SPEND TIME OVERSEAS certain situations,” explains Mr Ong. WHILE “This has informed my approach to COMPLETING character work when preparing for THEIR DEGREES. an acting role.”

2/3

Two recurring themes pop up from the various alumni accounts: a willingness to break free from the status quo and try new things, and the ability to communicate and connect with others. These two attributes are essential to thrive in today’s VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world.

With that in mind, NUS’ Centre for Future-ready Graduates (CFG) piloted a new life-skills module called Roots & Wings in January 2016. Roots & Wings, an Unrestricted Elective module mandatory for all first-year students, aims to develop students’ emotional awareness. Through weekly e-seminars, faceto-face workshops and various kinds of coursework, it covers:

In another recent change, the General Education curriculum underwent a revamp before the 2015/2016 academic year commenced. Prior to that, students specialising in Science and Technology subjects were required to take Humanities and Social Sciences modules, or vice versa, to broaden their intellectual horizons. Now all students must complete five modules, each from a different pillar:

ROOTS

P ersonal skills such as focus, self-awareness, happiness and resilience.

Human Cultures Asking Questions

WINGS

PHOTO BY EALBERT HO

Embrace uncertainty. Only in the space of the unknown does the drive to do something different arise.

2 1 ST- C E N T U R Y L I F E S K I L L S

GLOBAL EXPOSURE

I nterpersonal skills such as empathy, collaboration and networking.

Quantitative Reasoning

“We hope to strengthen the Wings portion as the programme evolves, so students can make sense of the world around them and position themselves as they go along,” says Prof Kassim. “That is a lifelong skill.”

Thinking and Expression

PROF ASHRAF KASSIM,54 “When I was a NUS student in the 1980s, there was no modular system, much less a General Education curriculum. Now there is a much greater push towards a student-centric learning environment. We have classrooms with flexible furniture that are conducive for collaborative learning. Online lectures are also available, so students can learn at their own pace.”

FOR MATURE STUDENTS

Singapore Studies

According to Assoc Prof Chng, an “explicit focus on 21st-century skills” was behind this revision to the curriculum. Rather than simply making sure students are exposed to both the science and humanities spheres, General Education equips students with fundamental knowledge and skills needed for lifelong learning. That way, they can perform well in their eventual profession — even one outside their domain of specialisation.

Most university entrants are youths in their late teens, but some like Mr Yap Kwong Weng (Public Policy ’12) obtain an undergraduate degree later in life, after years in the workforce. Mr Yap, a former soldier in the Singapore Armed Forces, was 30 years old when he received his Bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Buffalo, USA in 2008. He then returned to Singapore and worked his way up to the position of Senior Intelligence Analyst in the Ministry of Defence, while at the same time pursuing a Master in Public Administration at NUS. “The Master’s programme comprised students from all over the world who brought their own perspectives to the table,” says Mr Yap. “Being a part JAN-MAR 2017

COVER STORY

Life will sometimes knock you down. Getting through it builds resilience. Collaboration Space @ Central Library

MR YAP KWONG WENG,39

A H I V E OF ACTIVITY

of this international network of people made me realise there was so much I had yet to learn about the world. What better way to do that than to explore it myself?” In 2013, he left the military and moved to Myanmar, where he is currently based. After a couple of leadership stints at Jebsen & Jessen (an engineering, manufacturing and distribution company) and Parami Energy (an oil and gas company), he set up his own firm, Leap Group (which provides trading, distribution and construction services), in 2016. “Switching jobs is never easy, let alone doing it in a foreign terrain,” says Mr Yap, 39. “But I knew there would be setbacks along the way and I was prepared to work hard to overcome them.” Because of the ongoing SkillsFuture national movement, which encourages all Singaporeans to develop their full potential, more and more mid-career professionals are now following Mr Yap’s lead and going back to school to improve their career prospects. Hence, the NUS School of Continuing and Lifelong Education (SCALE) was established in January 2016. “Part-time degree programmes and certificate courses are offered for working adults who previously did not attend university, as well as degreeholders who want to upgrade their skills,” says Assoc Prof Chng of the new facility.

NUS Centre For The Arts

More than just a place to acquire academic knowledge and life skills, NUS also offers a rich campus life, including participation in sports and recreational clubs. These activities provide further opportunities for students to learn new things and shape their future. It was at the NUS Centre For the Arts (CFA) that Mr Wang publicly presented his first full-length play, The Boy Inside, as part of the NUS Arts Festival 2012. He now receives commissions from the likes of National Gallery Singapore and The Necessary Stage’s Theatre for Seniors, and recently finished writing his second full-length work. “CFA opened the door and gave me the courage to become a professional playwright; if not for them, I would just be a full-time lawyer now,” he says. “I feel lucky that I get to juggle both jobs. I can pursue my artistic passion and still enjoy financial security.”

Likewise, Mr Ong is grateful for his time at NUS, during which he was a resident of Sheares Hall and performed on stage in the annual Sheares Production events throughout his three years there. “Our hall had a lot of Literature majors who were passionate about putting on high-value productions,” he says. Having not had formal acting training, that experience was invaluable for him. Perhaps the most visible change to the main campus in recent years is the addition of University Town (UTown), an educational hub featuring residential spaces, teaching facilities and study clusters. Unlike in other halls of residence, undergraduates at UTown’s four residential colleges — the first two opened in 2011 — are anchored to either the University Scholars Programme or the UTown College Programme. This creates a highly interactive environment where students live and learn with their peers and professors, forming a strong camaraderie. UTown

Just like mature students at SCALE can readily apply what they have learnt in class to the workplace, undergraduates should gain realworld experience as part of their university education. “Industry attachments are key to that,” says Prof Kassim. At NUS, various faculties and CFG offer a wide array

GRADEFREE SCHEME

ALLOWS FRESHMEN TO DISCOUNT THEIR GRADES FOR UP TO 32 MODULAR CREDITS IN THEIR FIRST YEAR

of internship opportunities. Engineering and Computing students admitted from the 2014 academic year onwards are required to complete an industry engagement before they graduate. The University plans to make internships a compulsory component for all faculties. First-year NUS students finding the transition from junior colleges or polytechnics to university tough can also benefit from the gradefree scheme. This initiative allows freshmen to discount their grades — as long as they pass — for up to 32 modular credits (or eight modules) in their first year, so their Cumulative Average Point (CAP) is not adversely affected. Introduced in the 2014/2015

academic year, the policy was expanded to its current form based on student feedback. “The grade-free scheme eases the curricular pressure of freshmen as they adapt to university life,” says Assoc Prof Chng. It also motivates students to explore new or unfamiliar subjects, without having to stress about their CAP.

ASSOC PROF CHNG HUANG HOON,52 “Compared to my student days in the 1980s, the NUS campus today is a lot less utilitarian. The Central Library’s ‘Perk Point’ means that it is not just a place to read and borrow books, but also a recreational space. And UTown’s residential colleges incorporate an educational component, so they are not just hostels where students can sleep and organise social activities.”

PHOTO BY EALBERT HO

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

H O W T I M E S H AV E C H A N G E D When one thinks about it, NUS has had no choice but to change with the times. “For many years, NUS was the only university in Singapore,” says Prof Kassim. “Now that there are more local universities, and as society becomes more affluent and people can afford to study abroad, we need to adjust our programmes and policies to remain competitive.” The fact that NUS alumni can succeed in a field that is unrelated to their area of study speaks well of the University’s efforts to inculcate flexibility into the student experience by providing a sound academic base, core life skills and diverse learning environments. “Our graduates dare to step out of their comfort zones and experiment with less-predictable pathways in life,” says Assoc Prof Chng. “They have the confidence to deal with changes, regardless of what their future holds.”

JAN-MAR 2017

CHANGEMAKER ou picked up fashion design after a long career in arts management working with various arts organisations and non-profit arts groups in Singapore. What led to this change? I’ve always wanted to be an artist but hadn’t figured out what kind of artist I’d want to be. That is largely why I was determined to work in the visual arts industry after I graduated. Sixteen years of experience in that industry, and witnessing the impressive level of artistry in Singapore, gave me the

TURNING

confidence to finally pursue my own creative work. Coincidentally at the time, submissions were being called for Singapore’s first sustainable fashion competition. I took part, making dresses out of used nylon stockings, and with that embarked on a career in a new industry – fashion! What got you into millinery despite your lack of training in hat-making? A friend of mine alerted me to “Asia On the Edge – Pitch It!”, a regional competition for upand-coming entrepreneurs in the creative industry to get their ideas funded and incubated by potential investors. I brainstormed hard for it. At that time, there was [all

H EADS Starting an eco-conscious hat-making business makes perfect sense to Ms Chee Sau Fen (Arts and Social Sciences’96), 42, founder of Heads of State Millinery. B Y

F A I R O Z A

M A N S O R

WHO IS SHE? Ms Chee Sau Fen started Heads of State Millinery in 2011, after winning Singapore’s first sustainable fashion competition, organised by the Workforce Development Agency and the Textile and Fashion Federation. Most of the hats under her label are made of fibre from the abaca tree, a renewable and sustainable crop native to the Philippines. She clinched top prize at “Asia On the Edge – Pitch It! 2011”, a competition for new business concepts in Asia. Ms Chee is also a parttime lecturer at LASALLE College of the Arts.

that buzz] about the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Hats worn by their wedding guests received a lot of attention, and sparked the idea in me. Besides, I love hats and had been collecting them.

GET YOUR HAT ON

Were the people in your life skeptical about your career switch? Initially, yes. Many, as expected, exclaimed: “Hats? Singaporeans don’t wear hats!” I jokingly said to such people: “Well that’s because they haven’t seen the hats I can make.” (laughs) Ironically, Singapore’s tropical weather is ideal for donning hats, and I see those who are not wearing a hat as potential customers. Also, I’m not interested in merely targeting the local market, but beyond.

P H OTO S B Y M A R K L E E

IF YOU’RE THINKING OF EMBARKING ON A CAREER SWITCH

BE CONFIDENT

“The judges in the competitions that I won told me it was because I could sell my ideas convincingly. Do not question yourself if you don’t want others to doubt you.”

2 3

ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT

“I got my first job at the Singapore Arts Museum without sending in any resume. I asked for it. That started my career in the visual arts industry. “

MAKE THE MOST OF WHAT YOU KNOW

“I leverage on my networks and experiences [to help me] in my creative work.”

I have customers from abroad who fly in to get a hat custommade. Recently, I did a hat for a woman from India. She wanted it to complement her mother’s wedding gown from the 1940s that had been handed down to her. How did your NUS education help to prepare you for your career choices? My university education prepared me in ways I never would have expected. For example, through Anthropology — which is part of Sociology — I learnt that different communities around the world have different world views, and all these perspectives are valid. Understanding this validity has enabled me to integrate and communicate well with different artists and craftsmen from different cultures. Through Linguistics study, I leant how to communicate effectively, and use communication and speech accommodation as a method to problem-solve in my business. Most of your hats are made from abaca fibre. Why is it so important to you that your fashion venture is eco-conscious? Coming from the arts industry where funds are always limited and precious, I am resourceful and quite good at repurposing things. It pains me to see wastage. The abaca fibre is peeled by hand from the upper trunk of the abaca tree, a relative of the banana plant, which is native to the Philippines. (The abaca tree is known to aid in erosion control and is used in landscape rehabilitation). It creates a lightweight, breathable material which is ideal for our weather. The indigenous women

To me, the fashion industry holds immense potential to be a champion of socially- and ecologicallyresponsible development. from the Daraghuyan community of the Bukidnon tribe in the southern Philippines handweave the fabric. They take pride in their culture and heritage, and I give them employment opportunities. To me, the fashion industry holds immense potential to be a champion of sociallyand ecologically-responsible development — through innovative design and popular advocacy. So from this point, [how I produce my hats] just makes perfect sense. What motivates you? What happens in shoe design — where a certain style goes through many evolutions — can happen in hat design too. I want to be ahead of a trend, not jump on the bandwagon. That motivates me to keep creating, experimenting and innovating. At the same time, I am determined to preserve traditional crafts that are fast disappearing — to use these amazing, time-tested skills to develop new products that are relevant in today’s world, while still respecting the heritage. One of the hats Ms Chee designed as part of the inaugural Longines Hat Party held in October 2016 at the Marina Bay Sands Skating Rink.

“Kai” from Ms Chee’s Kyu-Beautiful Bow collection.

JAN-MAR 2017

PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

By helming the Workplace Safety

WHO IS SHE?

and Health Institute, Dr Gan Siok Lin

Born in Malaysia, Dr Gan received her medical degree at the University in Malaya in 1979 before moving to Singapore to work in various government hospitals, including Middle Road Hospital (the predecessor of today’s National Skin Centre). In Middle Road Hospital, she treated patients with work-related skin disorders, laying the groundwork for a 30-plusyear career – and counting – at the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). She obtained her Master of Science (Occupational Medicine) at NUS to complement her on-the-job training at MOM, where she has risen through the ranks to become a stalwart Workplace Safety and Health champion. In January 2014, she commenced her current role as Executive Director of the WSH Institute.

(Public Health ’84) continues to uphold her oath as a doctor — just in a different way.

OUT OF

H A R M ’S WAY B Y

W A N D A

T A N

The work is never done. The moment we start to relax, accidents will happen again. We need to keep a watchful eye at all times. A PREVENTION CULTURE

12,351 WORKPLACE INJURIES IN SINGAPORE IN 2015, DOWN FROM 13,595 IN 2014

E A L B E R T B Y

CASES OF NOISE-INDUCED DEAFNESS, THE LEADING OCCUPATIONAL DISEASE, IN 2015

P H OTO S

498

H O

FATAL INJURIES FROM THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR IN 2015, MAKING UP 41 PER CENT OF WORKPLACE DEATHS

irst impressions are not always accurate, but they can offer a revealing glimpse into a person’s character. Meeting Dr Gan Siok Lin, Executive Director of Singapore’s Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Institute, is one such occasion. While walking up the stairs together at the National Skin Centre (NSC), Dr Gan, 61, gently reminds this writer, “You might want to hold the handrail to avoid falling down.” This exchange occurs less than five minutes after introductions, underscoring the point that the issue of protecting workers’ health is never far from her mind. Dr Gan has a valid reason to be concerned. The WSH Institute’s Workplace Safety and Health Report, January–June 2016, states that slips, trips and falls accounted for the lion’s share of major (29 per cent) and minor (27 per cent) workplace injuries in the first half of 2016, during which a total of 6,107 non-fatal accidents were reported. In the same period, there were also 42 fatal injuries and 400 confirmed cases of occupational disease. What upsets Dr Gan – and motivates her to work hard every day – is that all of these incidents were preventable.

THE WHO’S WHO IN WSH WILL BE IN SINGAPORE FROM 3–6 SEPTEMBER 2017 FOR THE XXI WORLD CONGRESS ON SAFETY AND HEALTH AT WORK.

“As members of the workforce, we should be able to go to work every day and not worry about getting injured or falling ill because of work. That is a basic human right,” says Dr Gan. “My job as an occupational physician is to minimise the odds that people will suffer adverse consequences, such as ill health or accidents, caused by hazards associated with their work.” That means assessing a person’s fitness for work based on his or her current condition. Examples include developing guidelines for doctors to check workers who are exposed to toxic chemicals to ensure that they are fit for the work and that they continue to be fit during their work, and not be over-exposed or poisoned, or check the fitness of someone who carries out safety-critical jobs like a crane operator. On-site inspections are also conducted to ensure that all employers, not just those in factories, comply with the WSH Act. NSC’s Joint Occupational Dermatoses Clinic, jointly run with MOM, investigates cases of occupational skin diseases such as rash caused by contact with irritant or allergenic substances at work. Dr Gan still sees patients at the clinic – a role that puts her “close to the action” – but most of her time now is spent overseeing the development and implementation of WSH research. These range from evaluating programmes and overseeing research studies to inform policymaking, to innovative WSH solutions to prevent work injury or ill health.

One national initiative currently being promulgated by the WSH Institute is the Vision Zero movement, which rests on the belief that zero harm is possible. “Vision Zero calls for individuals to adopt a mindset that all injuries and ill health arising from work are preventable,” she explains.

PLAYING THE LONG GAME To make Vision Zero a reality, the concept of Total WSH – which Dr Gan defines as “a holistic way of looking at health and safety hazards in the workplace” – was introduced. This approach not only assesses environmental hazards like physical layout, machinery and work activity, but also manages risks due to organisational factors (e.g. long working hours or poorly-designed remuneration structures) and an individual’s personal well-being. NatSteel, a local steel provider, was the first firm to pilot Total WSH in 2014; plans are now underway to expand the pilot study to include businesses located at Woodlands Industrial Park. “There is a growing awareness that workplace safety impacts employee health, and vice versa,” says Dr Gan. “Companies practising Total WSH also burnish their reputations as ‘employers of choice’, attracting and retaining talent.” These encouraging early results bode well for the success of Total WSH, but she harbours no illusions about the challenges ahead. “Achieving zero accidents is possible, but it requires a multidisciplinary effort. Everybody must be on board: senior management and employees, HR professionals and ergonomists, doctors and nurses, and WSH officers. Moreover, patience is needed as it takes time to change people’s mindsets or attitudes.” Dr Gan is in it for the long haul. “Singapore’s workplace fatality rate fell from 4.9 per 100,000 employees in 2004 to 1.9 in 2015, but the work is never done,” she says. “The moment we start to relax, accidents will happen again. We need to keep a watchful eye at all times.”

B Y JAN-MAR 2017

HA P P Y CAMPER

ONCE UPON A MEMORY

Dressed in Harry Potter-inspired outfits, the Orientation Week 2009 committee aimed to give freshmen a ‘magical’ experience.

B Y

P H Y L L I S

ARTS CLUBROOM

H O N G

Mr Wee Shi Chen (Arts and Social Sciences ’13) has attended as many as 15 camps, either as a participant

THE DECK

o r o r g a n i s e r, i n h i s ye a r s a t N U S .

Located near the Central Library, the Arts canteen is the go-to place for most students. While the yong tau foo stall often draws a snaking queue, it is the unassuming noodles stall at its lower level that Mr Wee would head for. He would ‘customise’ his order with so many additional ingredients that the stall-owner still remembers him today as “the one who asks for a lot of toppings”.

MR WEE SHI CHEN 29, SECURITY ANALYST AT SINGAPORE AIRLINES

AS8, located next to the Central Library, was redeveloped from the old Administrative Block (Block ADM) which was demolished in 2013. The seven-storey building, designed for sustainability, won the BCA Green Mark Platinum Award (used for evaluating buildings’ environmental impact and performance) in 2014.

LED (LIGHT EMITTING DIODE) LIGHTING IS USED THROUGHOUT GREEN POCKETS AND COURTYARDS ARE INCORPORATED WITHIN THE BUILDING

SPORTS AND R E C R E AT I O N C E N T R E

This red sofa on which Mr Wee caught numerous forty winks between classes and meetings is still in the Arts Clubroom.

S TA N D I N G TA L L AND GREEN

IT IS ORIENTED TO MINIMISE HEAT AND MAXIMISE NATURAL VENTILATION

Despite not being a sportsperson, Mr Wee regards the SRC as a special place because of the Inter-faculty Games. “I had to book courts, schedule players and get people down to cheer the team on for matches,” Mr Wee says of his role as the team manager for sepak takraw and Road Relay (running). “FASS was often the champion for Road Relay.” The SRC was demolished in 2015 and reconstructed as the University Sports Centre.

MAIN PHOTOS BY KELVIN CHIA OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF WEE SHI CHEN

ther than pursuing a double major in Political Science and Southeast Asian Studies, Mr Wee Shi Chen wore many other hats as an undergraduate. As Chairperson for the Freshmen Orientation Projects, he spent many nights on campus during orientation camps. He also served as President of the 31st Management Committee of FASS (Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences) Club, and Project Director on projects like the NUS Arts Rag and Flag annual charity project. “It all started when a friend invited me to join the planning committee for Arts Camp. I got hooked on the ‘event high’ from then on,” he says. An unforgettable event was ‘Xtreme NUS’ — the first urban obstacle race held on campus in 2010 — which was also a big challenge to plan. “There were issues like manoeuvring around regulations in applying for permits, and the disposal of bulky tyres [used as obstacles]. We learnt a lot,” he says. His time at NUS was “unbelievable” not least for the experiences and friendships. “The people I met in NUS are among my closest friends now,” Mr Wee says.

The place Mr Wee frequented most was the Arts Clubroom at the old Admin Block (now AS8). “It was my ‘hall’. You cannot imagine how much time I spent there,” he says. Other than club meetings, it was the place to hang out, have supper, take naps and occasionally study. The new AS8 building is certainly impressive, but nothing beats the familiarity of the old building for Mr Wee. “I knew of plans for the renovation. I’m just glad it happened after my graduation,”he says.

CENTRAL FORUM The floats for Rag and Flag used to be built directly onto their lorries. The Arts float lorry was usually parked at the Central Forum, which was also used for storing materials and dance rehearsals. “I participated in Rag Day 2010 as a dancer. It was the first time the event was held in the evening to coincide with the Youth Olympic Flame Arrival Celebrations. That was my favourite Rag experience,” he recalls.

SLEEP MODE FEATURES ARE PRESENT IN LIFTS

These result in estimated energy savings of about

per year and estimated water savings of about 3.5 million litres per year

JAN-MAR 2017

MY WORD

CHAMPIONING

CHANGE

Selling traditional herbs might sound like an old-fashioned trade, but in the hands of Ricky Lin (Design and Environment ’07) things are about to be shaken up. K O H

Y U E N

L I N

hange is the only constant in my life. Growing up, I went through changes in circumstances when my father’s business in the car trade hit a road block and the family faced financial hardship. Right now, I am also going through change on all fronts of my life. My two year-old start-up Nature’s Nest just emerged from competition against industry bigwigs to win two out of the five categories at the Singapore Food Innovation Product Awards (Most Functional Food award and First Runner Up). We are trying to raise between S$1.5 to S$2 million to mass produce a plant-based protein (a new food genre that has caught the attention of prominent people like Bill Gates and Lee Ka-Shing, who have invested in startups developing this product), and target to start production in late 2017. And I am getting married [a week from this interview].

DOING IT HIMSELF I worked with the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) while serving my scholarship bond, and then as a commodities trader. The transition from army personnel to oil trading, and now running a food company, might appear to be a series of very big changes. Looking back, it would seem that I have been preparing for this stage all my life. I was into science even in primary school and won at the school science fair – and now I am running an innovation-forward food company. At National Junior College, I became interested in sports and health, rowing with the dragon boat and canoeing teams, and also for Singapore’s canoeing team at the ASEAN games. This interest in wellness steered me into the business of selling traditional herbs. The SAF taught me about loyalty and integrity, and my time in the finance industry from 2012 to 2015 taught me the core value of perseverance. I have absolutely no background in this dog-eat-dog industry, and I have had to put in a lot to be able to think sharp, analyse deep and fast, and work long hours. Years as an employee enabled me to save up enough capital. Starting my own business has always been my goal because I believe that

PLANTBASED PROTEIN

SMALL STEPS TO BIG GOALS

1992 Made a robot using recycled cardboard boxes and remote-control toy cars which he begged others for. That won at the school science fair.

1998 Received the National Youth Achievement Award in Secondary Four for community service performed as a scout leader.

Offered the Singapore Armed Forces scholarship.

NUS recognised his efforts as a student leader with the Student Achievement Award.

Nature’s Nest won two awards at the Singapore Food Innovation Product award.

P H OTO S BY H O N G C H E E YA N

B Y

if there is something revolutionary that you want to do, the best way to do it is to do it on your own. I am the kind of person who always wants to push boundaries. In 2005, as president of NUS’ motoring club I converted the school carpark into a go-kart racing track. A lot of people said I was crazy, but we did it anyway! By 2007 the event had grown into a national-level, half-a-million dollar project that saw Caltex coming in as the main sponsor. It is a noteworthy fact that the F1 Night Race keynote announcement was made at our event! While in JC, I came across this saying: ‘The greatest pleasure in life is doing what others deem impossible.’ I have been living by it. When I saw a gap in the traditional health food market which could be filled by doing things differently – and hopefully

better – I started Nature’s Nest. Through innovation I want to improve the efficacy of traditional herbs and its convenience in terms of how it is consumed. For example, our birds’ nest are not bleached, yet they have been cleaned and are ready-to-cook. Another example is the plant-protein – a source of firstclass protein just like meat – that we have successfully developed. We hope it will change the way people eat.

STRONG CORE VALUES Embracing change is important not just for the individual, but for Singapore. Our country’s competitiveness depends on how we react to the changing world in order to stay relevant. It is not just about being able to adapt, but how fast we can adapt. When talking about change, it is important

Start-up Nature’s Nest is targetting to mass produce a plant-based protein food

to note that there is a difference between being adaptable and being fickle. One needs strong core values to stick to the course – important because the road for the gamechanger, beating out a new path on his own, is rocky. My advice to anybody who is thinking of making a change – either a big career switch or just trying to improve the system – go in with your eyes wide open. Have a sense of danger. I don’t change things for the sake of it. It is about proving myself. I was one of those kids who felt side-tracked by the primary school streaming system, and since then I have worked very hard to improve and prove myself. The cynical side of me also tells me that I am nobody – I don’t come from a prominent family or have a privileged background. So I try hard to value-add for others in my relationships. One way I do this is to empower others by showing them that they too can change their lives for the better. As a district councillor for the South East CDC, I speak to a lot of youthsat-risk who always feel that things will never change for them. At the same time, those from average family backgrounds are also finding it harder and harder to break out of the social class [system]. It is difficult but it is still possible, and I hope to be a living example for the average person. This is the impact I want to have as a change maker. That is why change is an integral part of my life. Only through change can I challenge myself to go beyond my existing capabilities. I hope others can also step up – don’t be the person who complains about how the system doesn’t work for you; be the person that spreads the positive energy of change.

Mr Lin with Dr Leong Lai Peng (Faculty of Science), centre, and colleague Mr Max Chew (Science ’15), also from the Faculty of Science.

JAN-MAR 2017

Members of the Alumni Council 2015-2016 (Dr Lim Jiayang is in the front row, extreme right)

ALUMNI SCENE

The Computing

R I G H T CODE

Alumni Association’s activities are not only engaging — they’re

also highly enriching.

MAA Chairman Dr Lim Jiayang (Medicine ’09) tells The AlumNUS that the initiative is one way through which the Association remains relevant to members. “We can’t just be getting together for the sake of it – MAA needs to add value to members, both professionally and socially,” says the 31 year-old primary eye care physician at the Singapore National Eye Centre. Other interest groups include a Women’s Chapter and a Young Alumni Chapter.

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD IN 2017, THE 93 YEAR-OLD MAA WILL UNVEIL A RENEWED VISION AND MISSION. “IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE CONTINUALLY EVOLVE TO REMAIN RELEVANT TO OUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS,” SAYS DR LIM JIAYANG.

o mark Chinese New Year, members of the Computing Alumni Association (CAA) have scheduled a homecoming reunion on 1 February. The event – to be held at the University’s School of Computing building – is for the Association’s 300 members to mingle and interact with one another. Besides such large-scale events, CAA also holds smaller informal meet-ups every month. The Association’s President, Mr Ng Chee Chiu (Computing ’04), believes that these sessions help to upgrade the skills and expertise of members. “They promote the exchange of information on developments in the Information and Computer Sciences sector,” says the 37-year-old founder of Websparks, a web solutions and creative agency.

C O UNTING ON COLLABORATION The Medical Alumni Association aims to be a group for all healthcare professionals — both present and future.

MAA’s focus on interdisciplinary relations begins early: it organises an annual camp to bring together first-year students from various disciplines and healthcare institutions, including those from other universities. “Activities like this forge lasting bonds and friendships [among participants] that will continue throughout their undergraduate days and into their careers,” says Dr Lim. The camp is organised by the Student Chapter of the Association, which focuses on fostering stronger ties with current students. Keep up-to-date with MAA’s activities through its Facebook page at facebook.com/ MedicalAlumni.

P H OTO S : M E D I C A L A L U M N I A SS O C I AT I O N / FAC E B O O K

An appreciation dinner was held for members last April.

BUILDING FRIENDSHIPS

P H OTO S : C O M P U T I N G A L U M N I A SS O C I AT I O N / FAC E B O O K

rmed with a firm belief that every healthcare professional – including doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dentists – plays an important role, the Medical Alumni Association (MAA) has established itself as an organisation for all healthcare alumni from the University. Besides those who earned their degrees from the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, the Association also welcomes graduates from the Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy faculties. And to spur greater collaboration among them, the association set up a Professional Healthcare Group in November 2016 to encourage members to adopt a team approach to patient care. The group currently comprises 30 medical professionals from a variety of fields, and meets regularly to discuss best practices.

Get in touch with the Computing Alumni Association through its Facebook page at facebook.com/nuscaa.sg and Meetup page at meetup.com/NUS-Computing.

One of CAA’s monthly meet-ups, designed to upgrade the skills and expertise of members.

OPEN SPACE TECHNOLOGY CONCEPT To facilitate meaningful sharing at these sessions, the Association embraces the Open Space Technology concept. “This allows discussions to be structured and led by attendees, who become active participants instead of passive listeners,” says Mr Ng, who became CAA’s President in early 2016.

The diversity of the Association’s members makes these meet-ups more interesting. “We have members who graduated last year and those who graduated close to 15 years ago – they each bring something new to the table as they are at different stages of their career.”

A gala dinner was held in 2014 to celebrate the success and achievements of the SoC.

KEEPING UNDERGRADS IN THE LOOP It’s not just alumni who benefit from CAA’s activities – undergraduates do as well. In March, the Association will hold a career sharing session with current students. “This event will help undergraduates better understand the career opportunities available to them,” says Mr Ng, adding that stronger relationships with undergraduates will lead to a closer-knit alumni community.

We have members who graduated last year and those who graduated close to 15 years ago – they each bring something new to the table as they are at different stages of their career. MR NG CHEE CHIU (COMPUTING ’04)

JAN-MAR 2017

For information on making a gift to NUS, please contact 1800-DEVELOP (1800-338-3567) or email askdvo@nus.edu.sg

ALUMNI SCENE GIVING

F O R M E R M P H O N O U R S M A G N A N I M O U S FAT H E R

T H R OUGH BU RS ARY “SOME OF MY HAPPIEST YEARS AS A STUDENT WERE SPENT IN NUS.

THE SIN JEOK TONG BURSARY The Bursary was established at NUS to honour the late father of Mr Sin Boon Ann, a lawyer and former Member of Parliament (MP).

Mr Sin Boon Ann and his wife, Lee Meng

Law alumnus Mr Sin Boon Ann (Law ’82) considers his university education a privilege and wants more young people to enjoy the same benefits.

BORN IN PAHANG in 1929, Mr Sin Jeok Tong came to Singapore as a young boy to receive his education. He became a teacher in the early 1950s and continued teaching until his retirement from the education service in the late 1980s. “When he was alive, he generously gave his time and money to help students complete and succeed in their studies. He always believed that education is a great social leveller and that no matter what your station in life is, with hard work, success and a good life will always follow you,” shares Mr Sin Boon Ann on his father’s views.

We are investing in young people who are academically strong and who will yield not just good results, but also make meaningful contributions to society.

The former MP also relates a story of how he had a university classmate who was struggling financially and could not afford the school fees. Upon hearing about it, his father passed him a sum of money and claimed it was from a community service foundation. Mr Sin only found out, many years later, that his father had provided for his friend from his own pocket. The magnanimous gesture left a deep impression on him and his classmate, who remains a friend today. The deputy managing director of Drew & Napier LLC describes how pursuing a career and raising a

I met my wife, Lee Meng (Arts and Social Sciences ’84), when I was a final year arts student. We dated on campus and spent many hours studying together in the library, and going for long walks to the canteens. I must say that the view of the harbour at sunset from the Engineering canteen is absolutely stunning. It served as a perfect dinner setting for Lee Meng and I. I enjoyed the musical concerts organised by the Students’ Union and the debates and discussions on national issues with my fellow students. For a period of time, I was staying either in Raffles Hall, Sheares Hall or Kent Ridge Hall. I had a great time there. I can remember the evening runs to prepare for the marathon and the triathlon, and the late night suppers. Those were the halcyon and carefree days of a student’s life,” reminisces Mr Sin, who had the privilege of pursuing two Bachelors’ degrees — in Arts and Social Sciences, and Law. family in the early days did not leave him and his wife time to connect with friends from the University. Now, two of their three children have graduated and gone on to practise law while the youngest is in secondary school. “My wife and I gave because we benefitted from a university education at NUS. Just as we have benefitted, we want others to benefit as well. It gives us great satisfaction to know that giving to our alma mater will allow students with financial needs to have a fair chance of going to university and doing well in life,” Mr Sin explains.

THE EMILY CHIN & EUGENE WONG SCHOLARSHIP Mr Wong and Mdm Chin made a joint decision to invest in the Scholarship at their alma mater, which is where they first met.

BUSINESS COUPLE INVEST IN

TOMOR R OW ’S L E A DE R S

Mr Eugene Wong (Business ’92) and Madam Emily Chin (Business ’92) apply the same sound judgement to work and philanthropy. “BUY LOW, SELL HIGH. This is my mantra,” remarks Mr Eugene Wong, the founder and managing director of Sirius Venture Capital Pte Ltd, and proud alumnus of NUS Business School. Also working in a fast-paced industry that requires strong commercial acumen is Mr Wong’s wife, Mdm Emily Chin, an oil trader with an international oil company. “The quality of students going to the NUS Business School is critical to its success. We are investing in young people who are academically strong and who will yield not just good results, but also make meaningful contributions to society,” Mr Wong says. To do his part for the University, he served as adjunct professor teaching venture capital and new venture finance at the School for three years. Mdm Chin was also called upon to serve as a judge for students’ case studies. “When we joined the Business School, it was not as highly regarded then. Now it is a globally recognised institution. We have made a good investment by choosing to study Business and we are proud to be BBA alumni,” Mr Wong shares.

Mdm Chin signed up for a recent donor event for the family, where they had the opportunity to go on a tour of the Advanced Robotics Center at the NUS Faculty of Engineering. They were given a glimpse of how research in robotics impacts productivity and innovation in improving the quality of lives. “I want my sons to be exposed to the latest technology and also to the idea of philanthropy. We are all impressed by how NUS can push the frontiers of research and I feel it is a potential avenue we want to contribute to,” says Mdm Chin. She is leading by example by inculcating in her children the values of giving back to society. Coming from a humble background and also a former scholarship recipient himself, Mr Wong is clearly aware that a scholarship is a valued form of recognition of one’s hard work, and a great motivating factor. With this gift, he hopes that he and his wife can offer the same kind of help and encouragement to business students today. His advice for students is that “the years in NUS may seem like hardship, but it’s a wonderful journey”, adding that he even met his life partner there. “Do not just focus on grades as that is not the essence of the NUS experience. Take the opportunity to extend your network beyond your faculty. Enjoy different projects and overseas programmes that build character and life experience,” he says. JAN-MAR 2017

U @ LIVE

We are increasingly seeing an erosion or lack of respect for international norms.

HEALING HUMANITY Dr Unni Karunakara wants to save lives everywhere, especially in places the world seems to have forgotten.

B Y

W A N D A

FAST FACT

T A N

DR KARUNAKARA WAS SO EAGER TO START HUMANITARIAN WORK IN 1995 THAT HE SKIPPED HIS MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH GRADUATION CEREMONY AT YALE UNIVERSITY TO FLY TO ETHIOPIA.

W H O I S H E ? Dr Unni Karunakara is best known for being the former International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) (2010–2013), but his involvement with the organisation stretches back two decades. He had initially expressed interest in volunteering for MSF in 1985, at the height of the Ethiopian famine, as a medical student in his native India; 10 years later, in 1995, he went on his first humanitarian mission with MSF to Ethiopia. He has since amassed extensive experience delivering emergency health care to neglected populations in Africa, Asia and the Americas. Away from MSF, he serves short lecturing stints at top universities worldwide. He is currently a Senior Fellow of the Jackson Institute for Global Affairs, Yale University, USA; and a Visiting Professor at Manipal University, India.

DR UNNI KARUNAKARA HUMANITARIAN WORKER SPOKE ON 5 OCTOBER 2016 AT THE SHAW FOUNDATION ALUMNI HOUSE IN NUS.

To register for future U@live events, visit nus.edu.sg/ualive

n 3 October 2015, just over a year ago to the day of this U@live session, United States airstrikes bombed a trauma hospital run LIFTING by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) — a.k.a. THOUGHT Doctors Without Borders — in Kunduz, LEADERSHIP Afghanistan. At least 42 people were killed, including 24 AS OF JANUARY 2016, patients, 14 MSF staff and four caretakers. One year on, U@LIVE, OUR GUEST SPEAKER SERIES, SHOWCASES MSFers have yet to return to the field because they cannot GLOBAL THOUGHT LEADERS. solution. Still, humanitarian receive safety guarantees from all sides in the conflict: the HOSTED BY ALUMNI workers play an essential civilUS government, the Taliban and the Afghan government. ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER AND VETERAN TV PRESENTER society role by “alleviating the This attack represented a breach of the Geneva MR VISWA SADASIVAN (ARTS suffering” of and “standing in Conventions, under which hospitals are protected as safe AND SOCIAL SCIENCES ’83) AT THE SHAW FOUNDATION solidarity” with people spaces in times of war. It revealed a disconcerting fact ALUMNI HOUSE, THE 1.5 HOUR in those countries. about today’s world, one ruled by a global climate of fear. SESSION IS ALSO STREAMED LIVE ON THE U@LIVE WEBSITE. “Post-9/11, we live in a period where [national] security is MORE THAN MEDICINE the overriding concern,” said Dr Unni Karunakara. “We Many in the audience were curious are increasingly seeing an erosion or lack of respect for to know how Dr Karunakara came international norms.” to be a humanitarian worker. Hospitals are also deliberately targeted by airstrikes “While studying for my medical degree, I realised that in Syria, particularly in the city of Aleppo where fewer medicine — the treatment of illness — makes up only a than 30 doctors remain. Things are so dire that, in small part of keeping people healthy. For me, the political, September 2016, Dr Karunakara’s successor and social and economic factors that impact health current MSF International President were much more interesting to engage Dr Joanne Liu gave an impassioned in than being a doctor in a hospital,” speech to the United Nations Security he said. Hence, he made the switch Council. She urged the UN to stop the from radiology to public health and, bombing of hospitals and act on Aleppo, ON MSF-SUPPORTED subsequently, humanitarianism. speaking out on behalf of local civilians MEDICAL FACILITIES When U@live moderator who suffer day in and day out — and IN SYRIA AND YEMEN SINCE 3 OCTOBER 2015 Mr Viswa Sadasivan (Arts and Social fulfilling one of MSF’s twin missions. Sciences ’83) asked participants whether DEFYING INDIFFERENCE they would consider volunteering abroad to provide “MSF has two missions: to provide emergency medical humanitarian assistance, a sizeable number of medical care to people affected by armed conflict, natural disasters, and non-medical professionals raised their hands. epidemics or conditions of neglect; and to bear witness Dr Karunakara was heartened by their willingness to [to their plight],” said Dr Karunakara. “In many situations, help and imparted some words of wisdom. we are the only outsiders in places like Darfur and remote “Know your limits; don’t be afraid to remove yourself parts of South Sudan. It is our responsibility to shine a [from the scene] if the stress becomes too much for you. spotlight on problems, so the international community My usual place of retreat is universities,” he advised. “You can come together to find a solution.” need to be comfortable negotiating between two realities: He listed four principles of humanitarian action: your life of privilege is no less significant than those of A show of hands Humanity All human beings, regardless of race, others who have been disadvantaged. What is important from those religion or political affiliation, deserve a life of is that you are taking time out — be it months or years — willing to volunteer respect and dignity; to express solidarity with them.” abroad Impartiality The only criteria for deservedness of aid is need; Neutrality Humanitarian organisations do not take sides in a conflict, except to serve as a “mouthpiece” for the otherwise-invisible local population; and Independence Humanitarian organisations are privately funded and do not operate to further the interests of government actors. Humanitarian problems, he noted, are emblematic of political failure; it is thus up to world leaders at the UN, ASEAN and other regional groupings to find a lasting

AERIAL AT TA C K S

JAN-MAR 2017

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS

DEPARTMENT OF JAPANESE STUDIES

35 TH ANNIVERSARY GATHERING

DENTISTRY CLASS OF ’77

REUNION IN PHUKET

THE DEPARTMENT OF Japanese Studies, together with the Japanese Studies Alumni Association (JSAA), celebrated its 35th anniversary with a dinner party on 5 November at the National University of Singapore Society Suntec City Guild House. The event was attended by more than 60 former and present faculty and staff, alumni and guests. Head of Department, Associate Professor Thang Leng Leng (Arts and Social Sciences ’88) gave the opening address and welcomed the guests including Mrs Naomi Seah, a former Japanese language teacher at the Department and the wife of the late Dr Seah Chee Meow (Arts ’68), who headed the Department from 1986 to 1997. The participants were divided into groups and competed in games and Japan-related quizzes that brought back fond memories. The guests were also treated to a presentation on Kagoshima by the Kagoshima Prefectural Government’s ASEAN Regional

16 ALUMNI FLEW from London, Sydney, Melbourne and Singapore to Phuket, Thailand for the Dentistry Class of ’77’s 39th reunion, from 28 to 31 October. The group of old friends were treated to a wonderful slideshow (courtesy of Dr Chua Ee Kiam (Dentistry ’77) who was also the organiser of the reunion) of their student years, past reunions and their classmates and families. During the reunion, the group renewed the friendships and bonds forged during their university days, over island-hopping, snorkelling, sightseeing, meals, fun and laughter.

By Dr Basanti (Dentistry ’77)

AIESEC Singapore Alumni will be celebrating the 45th anniversary of AIESEC in Singapore in 2017, and invites all alumni to return. AIESEC Singapore Alumni also organises social drinks session every first Thursday of the month at Harry’s at Clarke Quay.

77 Presenter: Presenter: DrDr Robert Robert Casteels Casteels FIND OUT MORE ABOUT AIESEC SINGAPORE ALUMNI AT FACEBOOK. COM/GROUPS/ 13275023237

THE JSAA WOULD LIKE TO REACH OUT TO MORE ALUMNI FROM THE DEPARTMENT. PLEASE EMAIL NUSJAPANESESTUDIESALUMNI@GMAIL.COM OR JOIN THEM ON FACEBOOK.COM/GROUPS/NUSJSALUMNI/

T ATI A I E DEUD U N MNEM NET N T

ERTS NC RTS E O C NC O C

AIESEC SINGAPORE ALUMNI

AIESEC SINGAPORE ALUMNI sent 13 delegates to the AIESEC Alumni Asia Pacific Conference 2016 held in Bangkok, Thailand, in October. The delegates included Mr Peter Y B Tay (Business ’74), Ms Anna Leong (Business ’81), Mr Gavin Ng (Business ’87), Ms Geraldine Low (Business ’91) and Mr Imran Mohamad (Business ’09).

Director and Vice-President of the JSAA, Mr Kennard Xu (Arts and Social Sciences ’08). The event finished off with cake-cutting and a lucky draw.

Venue: Venue: Shaw Shaw Foundation Foundation Alumni Alumni House House Auditorium Auditorium

1111 March March 2017, 2017, Saturday Saturday Come Come and and listen listen to to thethe story story of of Babar, Babar, thethe little little elephant, elephant, a moving a moving story story of of friendship. friendship. The The exquisite exquisite interplay interplay between between thethe narration narration and and thethe music music willwill delight delight thethe young young and and thethe young young at at heart. heart.

Programme: Programme: 10.00am 10.00amRegistration Registration and and Tea Tea Reception Reception 10.30am 10.30amAdmission Admission 11.00am 11.00amPerformance Performance Starts Starts

TheThe Story Story of Babar, of Babar, thethe little little Elephant Elephant by by F. Poulenc F. Poulenc

To To reserve reserve your your seats, seats, please please register register online online at alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/Ecmar17 at alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/Ecmar17 Complimentary Complimentary for for NUS NUS alumni alumni / students / students / staff / staff andand their their families families

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ORGANISE GATHERINGS FOR BUSINESS SCHOOL’S ALUMNI, OR TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT NUSBSA, PLEASE CONTACT NUSBSA. ADMIN@NUS.EDU.SG.

NUS NURSING ALUMNI

5 TH CAREER DEVELOPMENT DAY

THE NUS NURSING Alumni held its 5th Career Development Day (CDD) for alumni and undergraduates of the Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies (ALCNS) on 1 October at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House. A total of 81 participants attended the event, including Adjunct Associate Professor Tiew Lay Hwa (Medicine ’11), Associate Director for Alumni Relations for ALCNS. The theme for this year’s CDD was ‘The Nursing Journey: Carving Your Path’. The programme focused on the varied career opportunities available in the local primary healthcare scene; and explored areas such as overseas acute care hospital, healthcare business analyst, nursing entrepreneurship, and military nursing. Most of

the speakers were senior alumni who shared their work and personal experiences. The programme also covered topics related to personal development in order to provide participants with a well-rounded programme. This included sessions on financial planning and the essence of formal presentations, which were wellreceived by the participants.

D E L H I OVERSEAS CHAPTER

Mr Nikhil Jain (Business ’10) with Mr Edmund Chia, Deputy High Commissioner of Singapore to India.

THE NUS DELHI Overseas Chapter organised an alumni meet up on 15 October over high tea, followed by a theatre play performed exclusively for alumni, in the campus of Alliance Française de Delhi. The play was adapted for the Indian audience from Run For Your Wife, a British farce written by Ray Cooney. The event was attended by close to 120 alumni from various faculties including Business, Law, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Medicine, Computing, Design and Environment, and Engineering. The event was also graced by a team from the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi.

NUS BUSINESS SCHOOL

ALUMNI REUNION

THE NUS BUSINESS School Alumni (NUSBSA) “Reminisced with Blue” this year at their annual Reunion Dinner on 19 October. 280 alumni, faculty, guests and

sponsors came together to share their stories and memories of being part of NUS. In keeping with the Business School’s vision of providing continuous professional learning and discussion for business, the reunion dinner featured for the first time, a predinner discussion on ‘Leadership in the Age of Disruption: From Brick to Click’. Homegrown

internet entrepreneurs, Grace Ho (Science ’91), Chief Commercial Officer, Singapore Post Limited; Samuel Lim, CEO, Reebonz Pte Ltd; and Marcus Tan (Business ’11), Cofounder, Carousell shared insights on their successful e-commerce ventures. The panel was moderated by Professor Prem Shamdasani, NUS Business School.

1616 February February 2017 2017 | 6.30pm | 6.30pm - 9pm - 9pm Venue: Venue: KPO KPO Café Café BarBar 1 Killiney 1 Killiney Road Road Singapore Singapore 239518 239518 Register Register now now at: at: alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/TTfeb17 alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/TTfeb17

JAN-MAR 2017

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS

MUSIC APPRECIATION SERIES

NUSS-YSTCM

LAUNCHED IN 2014, the NUSS-YSTCM Music Appreciation Series is an initiative by the National University of Singapore Society (NUSS) Alumni Development and University Relations Sub-Committee in collaboration with Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (YSTCM). The series aims to provide attendees with an

insight into the art of music appreciation and an avenue for intellectual discourse. More than 70 guests attended ‘Beyond the Score: Soirée – An Evening in France of the 1910s’ held on 12 October at the NUSS Suntec City Guild House. Through

music, guests traversed time to France in an era marked by World War I. Third year YSTCM students, pianist Ms Lin Xiangning and soprano Ms Ng Jingyun transported the audience into a world of rich and colourful imagination: of fiery desire to transfigure the horrors of war into timeless emblems of the French spirit, through the music of Ravel and Debussy, two prominent French composers of this era.

NUS CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

ALUMNI CAREER TALK

THE NUS CHEMICAL Engineering Alumni has been organising career talks since its inception three years ago. The latest talk was held on 20 October for young graduates and final year students, at the NUS Engineering Auditorium. More than 50 alumni and students attended the talk, which included a buffet dinner sponsored by the NUS Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. The speakers for the evening were from a good mix of different sectors in the chemical industry. They were Mr Lim Hock Heng

(Engineering ’85), Glaxo Wellcome Manufacturing Pte Ltd; Mr Goh Ghim Song (Engineering ’09), Shell; Mr Aster Chew Zhi Yan (Engineering ’13), Procter and Gamble; and Mr Ajay Bhattacharya (Engineering ’88), Fortrec Chemicals And Petroleum Pte Ltd. The talk was well received and many members of the audience actively participated with questions for the speakers and continued to engage them after the talk. The Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) was also invited to give a presentation on the Institution and Chartered Engineer certification.

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS

ENTERPRISE LEADERSHIP FORUM 2016

IN N O VATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP THE NUS BUSINESS School Mandarin Alumni organised the Enterprise Leadership Forum 2016 on 15 October at the Shaw Foundation Alumni House, which was attended by more than 240 alumni, students and staff. Mr Sun Xiushun, founder and chairman of

Winning International Group, who is currently undertaking the EMBA programme with the NUS Business School, shared his company’s story of mining bauxite in Guinea, Africa. The audience also heard from Professor Lü Xiaohui, who gave an in-depth analysis of the company’s success in entering the African market.

CR E ATIVITY ON SHOW IN DUBAI SOME PROJECTS ON DISPLAY

FIVE ALUMNI AND two students from the NUS School of Design and Environment’s Division of Industrial Design (DID) showcased their novel ideas at the prestigious Global Grad Show that took place from 24 to 29 October as part of Dubai Design Week. The annual event, now into its second year, is an exhibition of innovative student works from the world’s leading design schools. This year’s show featured 145 projects from 50 universities, organised around themes of empowerment, connectivity and sustainability, that aim to venture beyond aesthetics to transform the future. “NUS is honoured to be able to present some of our best student works for the second year running during Dubai Design Week. The range of projects presented by the students cover various design fields, from environmental to the humanistic, and we hope the audience will enjoy exploring the possibilities at the exhibition,” said Associate Professor Christian Gilles Boucharenc, Head of DID.

BLENDOR

LEVIT8

FLAIR

19 January

(M18)

23 february

(PG-13)

A botanical air purifier for urban apartments. Designed by Mr Sim Hao Jie (Design and Environment ’16)

An affordable portable standing desk that uses a simple twisting origami technique to fold flat when not in use. Designed by Ms Poh Hui Qing (Design and Environment ’16), along with Year 4 student Ms Letitia Lim and Year 3 student Ms Andriana Justine.

Allows children to experiment with mixing of colours in a fun way without mess – by pouring digitally coloured content from one Blendor to another, and observing or adjusting the resulting colour change. Designed by Ms Lee Si Min (Design and Environment ’16)

ALSO ON DISPLAY IVEFEED L A portable air quality sensor designed to be affixed to electronic fans.

ONEWARE

A series of modular units designed to help those with only one functioning arm to perform kitchen chores, from food preparation to dish-washing, efficiently. Oneware also clinched the Gold Prize in the 2016 Taiwan International Student Design Competition. Designed by Mr Loren Lim (Design and Environment ’16)

JAN-MAR 2017

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS

HONO U R ING LEADERS W H O MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

From left: Mr Lawrence Wong; Senior Alumni Awards recipients Mr Albert Cheng Yong Kim, Ms Jocelyn Chng Yee Kwang and Mr Ronald Ong Whatt Soon; Mr Peter Seah and Mr Bernard Yeung

THE EMINENT BUSINESS Alumni Awards recognise the NUS Business School’s graduates who are not just business leaders, but also make a difference to society. This year’s recipients were honoured by Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development and Second Minister for Finance at an award ceremony held at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel on 11 November. Presented biennially to recognise the achievements of distinguished alumni, the 12 recipients include movers and shakers who spearhead

The Eminent Business Alumni Awards recipients with the Awards Committee and Mr Lawrence Wong (centre, front row).

change in a range of industries such as technology, banking, finance, food and beverage and non-profit organisations. The recipients are also trailblazers who give back to the community and school through philanthropic work such as volunteering and fund raising, student mentoring and alumni engagement. “They embody the School’s sense of community, the pursuit of excellence, and

From left: Mr Lawrence Wong; Young Alumni Awards recipients Mr Tan Jian Feng, Mr Marcus Tan Yi Wei, Mr Quek Siu Rui, Ms Ivy Tse Wing Man and Mr Clement Wong Chun Hoong; Mr Peter Seah and Mr Bernard Yeung.

its commitment to innovation, leadership and care,” said Professor Bernard Yeung, Dean and Stephen Riady Distinguished Professor, NUS Business School. “This year’s Award recipients are role models for future generations of NUS Business School students,” he added.

YOUNG AND RELEVANT In his address, Mr Wong highlighted businesses should

embrace change and innovate in a new economy that will be digitally driven. This trend is reflected in the Young Alumni award category which was dominated by technology firms. Mr Peter Seah (Business ’68), Chairman of DBS Group, and Chairman of the Awards Committee also pointed out that this year saw the most number of nominees in the Young Alumni award category. “It is a true reflection of millennials determining the future of business. As an exporter of talent to Asia, NUS Business School continues to nurture and mould this young talent pool that will keep Singapore relevant and plugged-in to the regional economies,” said Mr Seah.

From left: Mr Lawrence Wong; Alumni Service Awards recipients Mr Tan Boon Chin and Ms Nancy Widjaja; Mr Peter Seah and Mr Bernard Yeung.

JAN-MAR 2017

ALUMNI HAPPENINGS EVENTS

DIRECTORS’ SUMMIT ALUMNI DIRECTORS FROM 11 universities, including NUS, attended the 2016 International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU) Alumni Directors’ Summit held on 25 to 26 October. NUS is part of IARU’s network of 11 international research-intensive universities from nine countries across the globe, together with Australian National University; ETH Zurich; Peking University; University of California, Berkeley; University of Cambridge; University of Cape Town; University of Copenhagen; University of Oxford; University of Tokyo and Yale University. The IARU Alumni Associations Network connects the IARU alumni directors and provides a platform for the exchange of experiences and best practices, and discussion of new ideas for joint programmes and activities. Mr Bernard Toh (Architecture ’84), Director of the NUS Office of Alumni Relations, attended the summit which was hosted by the University of Oxford this year, and enjoyed enriching discussions with fellow directors from other member universities.

Issues discussed included the importance of alumni and the roles they can play in their alma mater; policies and practices regarding the management of alumni data; management of overseas alumni chapters; and the organisation and structure of alumni offices.

EMPOWERING AND ENGAGING In order to understand and serve alumni better and to strengthen the relationship between alumni and university, it is important to measure the value and impact of the work of Alumni Relations offices. Ms Kathy Edersheim, Senior Director, International Alumni Relations and Travel Association of Yale Alumni, shared the metrics that Yale is developing which measure three aspects of alumni relations: engagement, operations and impact. It was also shared during the summit that alumni can help in the shaping of their alma mater’s future in ways such as participating in strategic discussions, helping to chair project committees, assisting with recruitment and selection of students, and mentoring of students.

PERSPECTIVE

RIDING

With the unprecedented pace of technological advancement, changes are happening faster than before. Competitive edges get lost more easily and information becomes outdated more quickly. To survive in this era, young graduates need to be flexible, highly adaptable and innovative. For example, in banking, we often hear how Financial Technology (fintech) is the future, and how Robo Advisors could replace wealth managers. I don’t think it’s a zero sum game. We can tap on technology to increase efficiency and lower costs but distinguish ourselves with the human touch. Service excellence and technological competency are what will help banking thrive, going forward.

CHANGE In these challenging times,

what does it take to adapt and e x c e l ? Yo u n g a l u m n i s h a r e t h e i r thoughts and experiences.

TAN CHEE TAT 28, ASSISTANT RELATIONSHIP MANAGER (ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES ‘12)

FARAH BAWANY 26, TEACHING ASSISTANT (ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES ’13)

WILNARD TAN 24, DOCTOR (MEDICINE ‘16) To go through the education system in Singapore, one would have had to deal with changes and challenges in some way. As a young graduate, and without the protective label of ‘Student’, the stakes are higher. Decisions made also have very real impact on the lives of others, like in the healthcare industry I am in. I’m thankful for the people I met in NUS: mentors who serve as amazing role models and taught me resilience, adaptability and compassion; seniors who are eager to guide; and peers who remind me that I don’t walk on this journey alone.

BEING A YOUNG GRADUATE IN THESE TIMES MAY BE MORE OF A BLESSING, GIVING ME FLEXIBILITY AND RESILIENCE EARLY IN MY [WORKING] LIFE.

RACHAEL ANG

AT MY WORKPLACE, I HAVE TO LIAISE WITH PEOPLE FROM ALL WALKS OF LIFE, AND INCREASINGLY, OF VARIOUS NATIONALITIES.

RETAIL DESIGN MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE (DESIGN AND ENVIRONMENT ’15)

NUS, particularly my time in Communications & New Media and the University Scholars Programme, gave me a lens [through which] to see the privileges I have, as well as my power and responsibility towards those without the same privileges. I have also learnt to see past the misrepresentation and divisiveness these times perpetuate, and with that comes hope that others too will do the same.

I was offered plenty of opportunities at university to widen my horizons, develop an open mind and get used to collaborating well with people of different backgrounds or unfamiliar cultures. That helps me to adapt to the globalised landscape.

PRIYADARSHINI MAJUMDAR 23, ENGINEER (ENGINEERING ’15)

I HAVE FACED CHANGES IN MY PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL LIFE. MY TWO MAIN MANTRAS ARE CONSTANT LEARNING AND BEING AGILE.

I N T E R V I E W S

NUS Engineering Science has made me good at self-study; I can understand the various domains of engineering plus explore other domains like arts and finance. It is also important to be flexible in terms of life choices. I have worked in a big company and with two start-ups. Travelling and experiencing different cultures, schools of thoughts and meeting people intrigue me. Being receptive and curious help me to navigate change.

FUTUREREADY UNDERGRADS

B Y

P H Y L L I S

H O N G

TO HELP STUDENTS BETTER COPE WITH LIFE AFTER GRADUATION, THE CENTRE FOR FUTURE-READY GRADUATES AT NUS LAUNCHED A COMPULSORY FOUNDATIONAL LIFE-SKILLS PROGRAMME – ROOTS & WINGS – IN JANUARY 2015 FOR FRESHMEN TO PICK UP PERSONAL AND INTERPERSONAL SKILLS. IN 2016, NUS INTRODUCED AN OPTIONAL PILOT VERSION 2.0, AN EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING MODULE WITH FOUR MODULAR CREDITS.

To find out more about Roots & Wings,visit nus.edu.sg/cfg/content/roots-and-wings JAN-MAR 2017

LAST WORD

D A T E S

Lawyer and award-winning

T O

R E M E M B E R

alumni events

poet Mr Aaron Lee (Law ’97)

Pilgrim

writes to make sense

TUE, JAN

of his life journey.

U@LIVE FEATURING HON. KIRK WAGAR

J A N F E B M A R

B Y F A I R O Z A M A N S O R

@ Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 7.30pm

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ UALIVEjan17

ENQUIRIES

WHAT STARTED AS a coping mechanism became a calling for Mr Aaron Lee, a selfprofessed “pilgrim poet”. Mr Lee wrote his first poem when he was 15 to deal with the death of a teacher, and since then he has “never stopped trying to understand the world through reflection and writing”.

CORPORATE VS CREATIVE

“It is indeed challenging to juggle all the competing demands on my time, but I see them all as integral to a life that I want to make in a thoughtful way, one day at a time.”

While at NUS, Mr Lee discovered the work of Singaporean and Malaysian writers such as Arthur Yap (Arts ‘65), Wong Phui Nam (Arts ‘58) and Edwin Thumboo (Arts ‘56). “I borrowed their books from the NUS library and read them avidly,” the 44-year-old says. “I also had the pleasure to meet senior writers such as Lee Tzu Pheng (Arts ‘68) and Simon Tay (Law ‘86) during my undergraduate days. They encouraged me on my writing journey, and I am very grateful.”

He wrote extensively during his university days, all the while honing his craft. By his final year, Mr Lee had penned enough poems for a collection, A Visitation of Sunlight, which was published a year after his graduation. His second collection, Five Right Angles, was shortlisted for the Singapore Literature Prize 2008. His third, Coastlands, appeared in 2014. A corporate lawyer for more than 20 years, Mr Lee counts his wife, artist Namiko Chan Takahashi (Law ‘97), as his muse.

The present day

writing scene

IS MORE VIBRANT THAN EVER BEFORE. Poetry continues to be the genre that draws the most budding writers. I think this is partly because poetry can be attempted in concentrated ’bite sizes’, but also because people think very highly of this literary form, and they aspire to be worthy of its demands.

aspire

TO BE MORE THAN A WORDSMITH... I wish to make excellent, impactful poetry about the big themes of life; poetry that illuminates different aspects of being human, and that gives a glimpse of the transcendent hidden in the ordinary life.

All information is correct at time of print and is subject to change without prior notice.

Mr Samuel Tan samuel.tan@nus.edu.sg

THU, FEB

THIRSTY THURSDAYS @ KPO Café Bar, 6.30pm

THU, FEB

THU, JAN

MOVIES ON THE HOUSE DEADPOOL (M18) @ Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 7.30pm

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ MMjan17

ENQUIRIES

Mr Delon Lim delon.lim@nus.edu.sg

MOVIES ON THE HOUSE ME BEFORE YOU (PG13) @ Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 7.30pm

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ TTfeb17

ENQUIRIES

Ms Cassandra Lua cassandraluaqy@nus.edu.sg

NUS PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION ACT (PDPA) As of 2 January 2014, in line with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) Do Not Call (DNC) Registry, you may indicate your preference for receiving marketing messages from NUS on your Singapore telephone number via the various methods. If you wish to make changes to your preference, you can update at https://myaces.nus.edu.sg/DNC/index.do. As of 2 July 2014, in view of Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), the NUS Office of Alumni Relations would like to inform you that NUS will continue to engage you as an alumnus through the following ways: Providing you information about the University and alumni-related initiatives and activities.   S ending you invitations to NUS and alumni-related events.   R equesting you to update alumni information. S ending you invitations to participate in alumni surveys.   S ending you alumni-related communication collaterals. If you wish to withdraw your consent to be contacted, please visit https://myaces.nus.edu.sg/PSR/index.do.

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ MMfeb17

ENQUIRIES

Mr Delon Lim delon.lim@nus.edu.sg

SAT, MAR

EDUTAINMENT CONCERTS @ Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 10.30am

THU, MAR

MOVIES ON THE HOUSE MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN (PG13) @ Shaw Foundation Alumni House, 7.30pm

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ ECmar17

ENQUIRIES

Ms Josephine Chng jochng@nus.edu.sg

alumnet.nus.edu.sg/event/ MMmar17

ENQUIRIES

Mr Delon Lim delon.lim@nus.edu.sg