Fund Champion
Mr Benny Lim
Even before Mr Lim worked with Ustaz Ali in 2002, he was already aware of his volunteer work in drug counselling.
“Ustaz Ali was someone who gave a lifetime of service to others,” he shares.
Mr Lim, then Director of the Internal Security Department in Singapore, worked with Ustaz Ali during a critical time of jihadist threats. Ustaz Ali co-founded the Religious Rehabilitation Group, which was crucial for countering extremist ideologies.
“Whether it was in fundraising for Khadijah Mosque through his famous nasi briyani amal or in rehabilitation work, he always gave his very best in his own quiet and measured way, which belied a tenacious persistence and dedication to the causes he believed in.”
“I hope that the students who receive this scholarship will find a moment to pause and read up on the life of the late Ustaz Ali and be inspired by him to make a difference to others as he did.”
About the Scholarship
The Ali Hj Mohamed Scholarship in Community Leadership was established to recognise students who exemplify the values of the late Ustaz Ali Haji Mohamed, who was a prominent community leader and co-founder of Religious Rehabilitation Group. The scholarship is made possible by the generosity of many donors, including Mr Lim who championed the fund.
Ali Hj Mohamed Scholarship in Community Leadership Recipient
Zarina Othman
Master of Management
Class of 2024
Raising the Standards of Healthcare
After enduring the pain of losing family members to cancer, Zarina left the meetings and events industry in 2019 to work for a cause that is close to her heart. She joined the European Society for Medical Oncology, an international non-profit organisation, where she supports the training and education of doctors and allied health professionals as the Head of Asia Operations.
“Through our work, we hope to alleviate the burden of cancer in the region and raise the standards of care in underserved populations,” she shares.
Prior to that, she volunteered her time as an executive committee in the Singapore Association of Convention & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers from 2014 to 2019.
“Giving back to society is not just a moral obligation, but a catalyst for positive change. It creates a ripple effect, empowering individuals and strengthening communities, to pave the way for a more equitable future,” she says.
“When we invest in education, healthcare and opportunities for the underserved, we break the cycle of inequality. We nurture the potential of future leaders, innovators and changemakers who will contribute to a more just and prosperous world.”