Mr. Lim Swee Say, Trustee and Adviser, NTUC
Ms. Ang Bee Lian, Member, SUSS Board of Trustees
Professor Cheong Hee Kiat, President Emeritus of SUSS
Esteemed Community Partners and Donors
Colleagues and friends
Welcome to the inaugural Cheong Hee Kiat (CHK) Lecture for Community Leadership, organised by SUSS.
This lecture series honours SUSS President Emeritus Professor Cheong Hee Kiat, recognising his significant contributions to the University and education sector. Supported by donors who raised the necessary resources to enable this initiative, this annual series aims to enhance public understanding, promote dialogue, and deepen discussion on community issues.
2. I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to my predecessor, Prof Cheong. As the founding President of SUSS, Prof. Cheong’s leadership in shaping SUSS into a hub for applied social sciences has empowered many to create positive social change. His dedication to nurturing students who are equipped to address societal challenges demonstrates his commitment to fostering community-oriented leadership.
3. It is in this spirit that we’ve decided to name this series after him. Through this series, we aim to invite recognised and eminent experts to speak on the crucial theme of Community Leadership. Reflecting on community leadership as we celebrate SG60.
4. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Singapore’s independence. Since 1965, Singapore has developed from a resource-scarce former colony into a global hub of innovation and collaboration. This transformation was achieved through effective political leadership with the support of strong community leaders who translated policies into action and encouraged national unity.
5. Community leadership has been the cornerstone of our nationbuilding efforts, exemplified by organisations and individuals who devoted themselves to strengthening the social fabric and driving positive change in our society, paving the way for the progress we recognise today.
Adapting to today’s challenges
6. Looking at the present and into the future, it is important to recognise that today's challenges will differ significantly from those encountered during our early years as a nation-state.
7. With an ageing population, advancements in technology, the advance of artificial intelligence, geopolitical challenges, and a more complex social landscape, community leadership must adapt. It needs to foster greater resilience and unity in a rapidly changing and increasingly polarised world, ensuring inclusivity for all individuals.
8. While today’s challenges differ from those of the past, the essence of leadership remains the same: working together, adapting to new realities, and embracing innovative solutions.
9. As we celebrate 60 years of independence, the SG60 theme, ‘Building Our Singapore Together’, embodies this spirit of collective effort. It underscores our ongoing commitment to shared progress and inclusivity.
Signing of MOUs with community organisations
10. This spirit is evident today as we mark a significant milestone for SUSS. We are honoured to sign Memoranda of Understanding with four esteemed community organisations: SINDA, MENDAKI, PPIS, and the Eurasian Association. These partnerships highlight the importance of coming together to address contemporary challenges while embracing the opportunities in an ever-evolving world.
11. Through these partnerships, SUSS aims to advance workplace development, enhance professional capabilities, and create greater opportunities for students and professionals.
12. In line with our mission to achieve social good, these joint efforts will also integrate service-learning into our curriculum as we engage our community organisations, allowing students and professionals to apply their skills, creativity, and technology to address community challenges. Together, we will create transformative experiences that drive tangible social impact.
13. On this note, it is my great privilege to introduce our keynote speaker, Mr. Lim Swee Say. His extensive experience and respected leadership in community-building serve as a shining example of the values we have discussed today. His insights into leadership, collaboration, and social impact are sure to inspire us all as we continue working towards a more united, harmonious, and progressive society.
14. I wish everyone a fruitful time of learning, exchange, and meaningful discussions.
15. Thank you.