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- Testimonials and Voices
With Asia. For the World.
Asia is home to some of the fastest-growing economies, most diverse cultures, and most significant shifts in global business today. At SMU, developing graduates who can navigate this region with confidence — across its industries, communities, and cultures — is a key priority.
The activities in this calendar are organised across three pathways:
Travel to Asia places students in the region directly. Through overseas studies, internships, community projects, and co-curricular immersions, students gain first-hand experience of Asia's economies and societies, alongside the professional networks that endure beyond graduation.
Explore Asia through Events @SMU brings the region to campus. Talks, cultural showcases, and networking sessions offer regular, accessible encounters with Asia's diversity — integrated into campus life throughout the year.
Discover Asia through External Platforms extends engagement beyond SMU. Curated external opportunities connect students to the broader Asia ecosystem, building the intercultural edge that employers — locally and globally — increasingly expect.
Together, these experiences advance SMU's Graduate Learning Outcomes: intercultural understanding, understanding of Asian perspectives, critical thinking and problem-solving, innovation and enterprising skills, and resilience. They also help shape graduates with an informed worldview, agility, self-directedness, and a strong sense of purpose.
Your Asia-Ready Journey
Build the mindset, knowledge, and real-world understanding to thrive in Asia’s fast-evolving landscape.
Wherever you are in your journey, find a pathway to deepen your exposure, gain real experience, and engage confidently with the region.
Asia Attuned
Begin building your understanding of Asia’s diverse cultures, societies, histories, and economies, and develop the sensitivity to appreciate different contexts.
Asia Engaged
Engage with Asia through immersive, short-term experiences that deepen your understanding of people, places, and real-world issues.
Asia Adept
Develop deeper expertise and practical confidence through extended, hands-on engagement in Asia.
Asia-Ready Initiatives Highlights
Asia Insights Core Curriculum basket
(launching in AY2027)
Asia-Ready Stories: Voices from the Journey
Hear from students and graduates as they share how Asia-focused opportunities shaped their perspectives, confidence, and growth.
Sociology SMU-XO, China
“From Classroom to Countryside: SMU students explore rural revitalisation in Chongqing.”
India Internship Programme (IIP), India
“Doing an overseas internship makes the journey even more exciting – you are constantly exposed to new cultures and activities.”
Korea University Winter Campus
"I came to understand Korea beyond the typical tourist perspective."
Business Culture Study Trip, Indonesia
"Asia is often overlooked because it feels so 'close to home' — but never underestimate the region."
Psychology Study Mission, Taiwan
"I experienced first-hand difficulties in managing cross-cultural projects — and it was genuinely eye-opening."
ASEAN Internship Programme Plus (AIP+), Vietnam
“Beyond work, I formed meaningful friendships with fellow interns and local colleagues and had the opportunity to travel within Vietnam.”
What’s Coming Up
From immersion trips and internships to on-campus talks and cultural events, there are many ways to experience Asia at SMU. Explore what’s coming up and find the journey that’s right for you.
Why Asia-Readiness Matters
Asia-readiness is not just about where you go. It builds the qualities that define how you think, lead, and contribute wherever your career takes you.
Through Asia-focused learning and experiences, you will develop:
- A broader worldview: understand issues, opportunities, and perspectives across different Asian contexts.
- Intercultural confidence: engage respectfully and effectively with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
- Agility and resilience: adapt to unfamiliar environments, navigate complexity, and grow through real-world experiences.
- Self-directed growth: take ownership of your learning journey and make purposeful choices.
- A problem-solving mindset: analyse problems, generate ideas, and act on opportunities in a fast-changing region.
- A strong sense of purpose: connect your learning and experiences to the impact you want to make.
Photo: SMU Li Ka Shing Library
Education That Elevates
From Bold Beginnings To Boundless Potential
We cultivate real-world readiness, interdisciplinary learning,
and instilling a growth mindset. Every student graduates with
hands-on experience, global exposure,
and a heart for the community.
Transformative Pedagogy
SMU-X: Where Learning Meets The Real World
Our unique, experiential learning framework challenges students to drive meaningful change
by collaborating on projects with corporates, non-profits and government organisations.
Embodying Impact: Champions of the SMU Spirit
From Resilient Journeys to Inspiring Legacies
These outstanding individuals truly exemplify the SMU spirit. With their leadership, resilience, and
determination, they continue to break boundaries, uplift communities, and make meaningful impact.
Shereen Williams
Bachelor of Accountancy, 2005
Chief Executive, Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru of Wales
From community service to public governance, Shereen Williams has built a career dedicated to strengthening fair and inclusive institutions. As Chief Executive of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (DBCC), she works to ensure democratic processes remain transparent, trusted, and resilient.
Lily Kong
SMU President
Lee Kong Chian Chair Professor
As the first Singaporean woman to lead a university in Singapore, Professor Lily Kong has redefined the role of higher education by championing interdisciplinary learning, lifelong education, and research that serves the public good.
Pranav Krishna Prasad
Bachelor of Business Management, 2025
Entrepreneur & Community Builder
Pranav Krishna Prasad has co-shaped three ventures spanning shared retail, sustainable innovation, and youth-led media. As SCAPE Singapore’s youngest-ever board member, he represents a new generation of purpose-driven founders with a heart for social impact.
Inspiring Minds, Shaping Futures
From Bold Firsts to Transformative Outcomes
SMU’s distinctive approach to education continues to shape confident, agile graduates. With innovative learning experiences and
real-world exposure, they are equipped to navigate change, create opportunities, and achieve success beyond the classroom.
Trailblazing Firsts
Since its inception, SMU has redefined the university experience by introducing bold innovations that prepare students for a changing world.
It was the first in Singapore to mandate internships, community service and global exposure, embedding real-world learning into every student journey.
It was also the first to integrate co-curricular achievements into transcripts, and to pioneer flexible pathways such as second majors and stackable Masters.
These breakthroughs reflect SMU’s commitment to nurturing independent learners and equipping them with breadth, depth and adaptability.
Graduate Success
This distinctive approach has translated into graduates who are highly sought after for their skills, versatility and global outlook.
According to the 2025 Graduate Employment Survey, 9 in 10 SMU graduates secured jobs or job offers within six months of graduation and enjoyed competitive salaries, amidst uncertain economic conditions.
In fact, nearly half of SMU graduates were offered full-time employment during their internship or before graduation, demonstrating a strong endorsement of employer confidence in SMU talent.
Global Recognition and Awards
2nd in Asia
33rd Globally
Master of Science in Applied Finance (MAF)
QS Global Master’s in Finance Rankings
2026
2nd in Asia
24th Globally
Master of IT in Business (MITB)
QS Master’s in Business Analytics
2026
1st in Asia
29th Globally
MSc in Wealth Management (MWM)
QS Global Master’s in Finance Rankings
2025
3rd in Asia
27th Globally
Executive MBA Program
QS Executive MBA Rankings
2024
4th in Asia
41st Globally
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
QS Global MBA Ranking
2026
Defining Next: Portraits of SMU Alumni
Innovators, leaders and changemakers
Our alumni turned their dreams and ambition into powerful change and enduring impact. From local
success stories to international acclaim, they continue to lead and empower others in their various fields.
Lai Chang Wen (Bachelor of Business Management, 2021)
CEO & Co-Founder
Ninja Van
Chang Wen founded Ninja Van in 2014, and the company has grown into a regional powerhouse providing hassle-free parcel delivery and innovative solutions that empower merchants with seamless access to markets and consistent delivery experience.
Driven by his vision to open Southeast Asia to global possibilities “one delightful delivery at a time,” Chang Wen has led Ninja Van to transform the way e-commerce logistics is experienced by businesses and consumers alike.
Kimberly Lim Min (Bachelor of Accountancy, 2023)
Olympian
Kimberly made history at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games by qualifying for the medal race, becoming the first Singaporean and the first Asian sailor to achieve a top-10 finish at the Olympics.
At the Asian Games, she has been a consistent medallist across more than a decade, securing two Gold medals (2014, 2018), one Silver (2010) and one Bronze (2023), cementing her legacy as one of Asia’s most successful sailors.
Kimberly was nominated to the World Sailing Athletes’ Committee in February 2025, affirming international recognition of her contribution within the sport.
Lin Fengru (Bachelor of Science (Information Systems Management), 2011)
CEO & Founder
TurtleTree
Fengru is reshaping the future of functional nutrition through innovation and purpose. Under her leadership, TurtleTree has raised over US$35 million and gained international recognition, winning the Entrepreneurship World Cup and the Temasek Liveability Challenge in 2021, the World Food Innovation Award for Best Ingredient in 2024, and Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award in 2024.
TurtleTree became the first in the world to achieve FDA GRAS status for animal free lactoferrin (LF+), a breakthrough that is transforming access to critical nutrition while reducing the environmental impact of traditional dairy.
Terence Quek Chun Hou (Master of Science in Communication Management, 2013)
Singapore Institute of Directors
Terence Quek Chun Hou exemplifies outstanding professional leadership and lifelong service to his community and alma mater. Beyond his 13-year Singapore Navy career and 14-year entrepreneurial journey, he has worked closely with SMU to strengthen the alumni community and support the University’s fundraising efforts.
A tireless service leader, Terence initiated the Imagine Better coffee table book, served four times as SMOO Challenge ambassador, and established the Pegasus Overseas Exchange Grant. Widely recognised with national awards for public service, humanitarian leadership, and volunteerism, Terence embodies SMU’s spirit of impact, philanthropy, and stewardship.
Discover our other stories:
Partnerships That Connect
From Asia To The World
We bring together partners from academia, industry, government and
civil society to exchange ideas and create solutions for a better world.
As a nexus for ideas and a gateway between Asia and the world,
we transform insight into impact through collaboration.
Strategic Partnerships
Fostering Meaningful Collaborations
SMU's partnerships support education and research, expand learning opportunities, facilitate collaboration
to address societal challenges, and enable knowledge transfer to benefit society, drive innovations, and
create real-world impact.
Highlights of LKYGBPC 2025
The Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition is a biennial university startup challenge in Singapore, organised by SMU’s Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship. It honours Singapore’s founding PM, celebrating innovation, ambition, and entrepreneurial spirit.
City Dialogues Vienna
At City Dialogues Vienna, SMU brought together 100+ global changemakers from 30+ organisations across 20+ countries to explore urban resilience. Co-hosted with UIV and World Cities Summit, discussions shaped a White Paper with actionable city solutions.
ST Forum Video Highlights
The 10th Straits Times Education Forum, themed “Southeast Asia and Our Shared Future,” partnered with SMU to explore opportunities for new talent. DPM Heng Swee Keat and a distinguished panel discussed equipping professionals for the region’s evolving economy.
A Network of Global Connections
Expanding Beyond Borders
SMU works closely with universities and governments worldwide to cultivate an exchange of ideas, and
create programmes to nurture future talent and shape change.
SMU and Fudan Launch Region’s First Tech-Focused DBA
SMU and LSE deepen ties through institutional partnership and
joint strategic research funding on cities, work and ageing
From Singapore to Jakarta: How SMU’s Overseas Centres are
Shaping Conversations on AI and Education Across Asia
SMU Signs Strategic MoU with SkillsFuture at Resilient Workforces Institute Launch
SMU and Global Partners Launch World’s First Platform to Align Green Finance Standards
Changemaking through Entrepreneurship
- US$555 Million raised, US$3 Billion valuation
- IIE awarded Best Accelerator
(ASEAN Awards 2024)
- 500+ start-ups incubated
Changemaking through Entrepreneurship
- US$555 Million raised, US$3 Billion valuation
- IIE awarded Best Accelerator (ASEAN Awards 2024)
- 500+ start-ups incubated
A Sustainable Campus
- 100% Green Mark Platinum buildings
- Generating 11% of its energy from solar energy
- Singapore’s first net-Zero Energy building - SMU Connexion
- Harvests 100,000 litres of rainwater annually
- More than 50 sustainability-related modules, requirement for all students
- 16 international infrastructure awards
A Legacy of Service
A Sustainable Campus
- 100% Green Mark Platinum buildings
- Generating 11% of its energy from solar energy
- Singapore’s first net-Zero Energy building - SMU Connexion
- Harvests 100,000 litres of rainwater annually
- More than 50 sustainability-related modules, requirement for all students
- 16 international infrastructure awards
A Legacy of Service
Connecting Changemakers: Gamechanging Partners
Industry Drivers and Leading Voices
See how SMU collaborates with industry leaders with a passion for innovation and impact to deliver knowledge, skills and solutions that
benefit communities and the wider economy.
AI in Logistics
In partnership with uParcel
SMU-X Overseas Partners
SMU's overseas industry project-based experiential learning programme, SMU-X Overseas, was designed to nurture global citizens. By creating an international tapestry of learning, collaborating with partners across the globe, students are able to weave together theory and practice across various cultures and industries.
Shaping Future Cities with Kajima
Partnerships with companies such as Kajima, allows SMU to offer students hands-on opportunities while
making real-world impact in advancing sustainable urban solutions. By bridging academic research with real-world
applications, we continue to foster talent and drive industry progress in Singapore and beyond.
Discover our other stories:
Research That Matters
From Knowledge Breakthroughs to Lives Transformed
We pursue research that goes beyond discovery to
solve real problems and inform long-lasting change. Our researchers
work closely with industry and communities to translate ideas into action,
advancing solutions that make a tangible difference in society.
Advance with Research, Our Desired Impact
SMU’s research tackles real-world challenges with academic rigor –
building resilient workforces, longevity-ready societies & economies, and sustainable cities.
Guided by an impact framework and partnerships that leverage data and AI,
our focus spans three pillars: Sustainable Living, Digital Transformation, and Growth in Asia.
Desired Impact
SMU's Research addresses complex real-world challenges, with cutting-edge work that enhances the University's academic reputation and contributes to societal impact, including economic competitiveness, societal resilience, and sustainable and inclusive futures.
University-Level Research Institutes
FROM KNOWLEDGE CREATION TO TRANSLATIONAL WORK
Each research institute is a strategic bridge between research and education.
They are engines for educational innovation, translating cutting-edge research
into distinctive educational offerings, influencing policies, and
contributing to the enhancement of social and community life.
Urban Institute (UI)
Set up in 2024, UI seeks to advance a new organisational and intellectual paradigm for the study, understanding, and advancement of uniquely Asian urbanisms.
Resilient Workforces Institute (ResWORK)
Launched in January 2026, ResWORK seeks to advance workforce resilience and lifelong learning amid accelerating technological change.
Internationally Acclaimed Researchers
1st Worldwide
for Accountancy archival research
BYU Accounting Research Rankings
2025
2nd Globally
for research in Software Engineering
CSRankings
2023
3rd in Asia
23rd in Worldwide
Lee Kong Chian School of Business
Financial Times
Research Insights Ranking
2025
Leading Conversations on Important Issues
Through our three strategic priorities of Digital Transformation, Sustainable Living and
Growth in Asia, SMU City Perspectives spotlights contemporary issues and initiatives that
impact our cities and the people who live in them.
Living in Diversity: Singapore’s Unique Ethnic Integration Policy
Are ‘green’ loans really good for the planet?:
How Singapore can protect its biodiversity for a credible transition
Two Approaches to Urban Last Mile Delivery
Empowering Older Adults: An Exploration of Project Silverlight
Shaping Dialogue: The Minds Behind SMU’s Research
Academics and Innovators Driving Cutting-Edge Work
Climate History
“Historical analysis gives us a deeper insight into the socio-economic-political dynamics that cause some communities to be more vulnerable to floods than others. We can then apply these lessons to the present and future.”
Work-Life Balance and Mental Health
“When work and personal life are not balanced, chronic stress can accumulate, leading to various adverse health outcomes.”
Fourth in Singapore, SMU ACM
"I am excited to continue contributing to computing research, especially in the fields of software engineering, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, as a member of a vibrant group of researchers at SCIS and SMU.”
“My goal is to enable humans and intelligent agents to collaborate effectively, safely, inclusively, and responsibly, thereby contributing to societal betterment. My research delves into specific areas related to this overarching theme.”
David Lo
Fellow of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
OUB Chair Professor of Computer Science
Discover our other stories:
SINGAPORE MANAGEMENT UNIVERSITY
At Singapore Management University, impact is driven by bold ideas shaped through education, research and engagement. As Asia’s premier global city university, we advance innovation, transcend boundaries and transform lives across societies and generations.
Where better questions
shape bold thinking.
Where bold thinking
leads to transformative impact.
Asia’s premier global
city university
We shape industries, influence policy, and strengthen communities
by turning insight into action, and bold ideas into big impact.
At SMU, education goes beyond the classroom.
Our interactive and experiential learning model shapes graduates who think critically, act decisively, and lead with purpose. From global exposure to interdisciplinary, individualised pathways, we equip students with the skills, confidence, and values to navigate complexity and create meaningful change.
Here, learning connects with life, turning bold ideas into big impact.
At SMU, research is a catalyst for real-world progress.
Our scholars work across disciplines to advance knowledge, inform policy, and shape industries, from sustainable cities and green finance to ageing societies and digital innovation.
By translating insights into action, our research addresses today’s most pressing challenges and delivers impact that reaches far beyond academia.
Because when bold ideas are grounded in purpose, research does not just discover, it transforms insights into real-world impact.
From Singapore to cities across Asia and beyond, SMU’s partnerships turn collaboration into impact.
By working with industry, governments, and communities, we connect knowledge with action and ideas with opportunity.
As a global city university and a gateway between Asia and the world, we build bridges that enable innovation, scale solutions, and create lasting value across borders.
Because when bold ideas travel together, they create impact that goes further.
Together, we will build a university of impact – one that empowers people, advances knowledge, and uplifts communities across generations.
PROFESSOR LILY KONG
SMU PRESIDENT
SHAPING IMPACT,
TRANSFORMING LIVES
SMU Connexion
40 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178900
See location »
IMPORTANT: Before arriving, please complete the online visitor registration form. All participants must first check in at the School of Accountancy Level 1 Security Reception before proceeding to the course venue.
Train
Bras Basah Station (CC2) Exit B
1. Exit from Bras Basah Station (CC2) Exit B. Turn right and continue straight.
2. Turn left and take the escalator up.
3. Walk straight past Koufu Food Court. Continue walking to the end.
4. Before the lift lobby, turn right through the glass doors. Take the escalator up and turn right.
5. You will see the Security Reception.
Train
Bencoolen Station (DT21) Exit C
1. Exit from Bencoolen Station (DT21) Exit C.
2. Turn left and continue straight.
3. Walk past SMU Gymnasium & Fitness Centre.
4. Walk down the ramp and continue straight.
5. You will see FRANK by OCBC on your right.
6. Turn right and go up the escalator.
7. Walk straight past Koufu Food Court. Continue walking to the end.
8. Before the lift lobby, turn right through the glass doors. Take the escalator up and turn right.
9. You will see the Security Reception.
SMU (Stop ID: 04121)
1. Alight at SMU Bus Stop (Stop ID: 04121).
2. Follow the arrow and walk straight on.
3. You will see the Security Reception.
Car
Lee Kong Chian School of Business Carpark
1. Entrance to the carpark is via Stamford Road turning right onto Queen Street.
2. Drive to the right lane.
3. Keep right.
4. Turn right at Queen Street. Enter Lee Kong Chian School of Business carpark.
5. Drive to Level B2.
6. Drive straight and look for Lift Lobby A.
7. From Lift Lobby A, take the lift to Level 1.
8. Exit from the door on your left.
9. You will see the Security Reception.
Drop-off Point
Li Ka Shing Library, access via Queen Street
1. Upon alighting at the drop-off point, walk straight.
2. Follow the arrow and walk straight past The SMU Shop.
3. You will see an eatery, 1983 - A Taste of Nanyang.
4. Turn left after 1983 and cross the road to School of Accountancy.
5. Enter School of Accountancy from the entrance behind the bus stop.
6. Follow the arrow and walk straight on.
7. You will see the Security Reception.
Classroom
SMU Connexion Level 3 Active Learning Classroom
1. Proceed through the gantry and take the escalator or lift to Level 3.
2. Turn left or right and walk towards the link bridge.
3. Walk along the link bridge. Active Learning Classroom 3-3 will be directly ahead.
4. If the venue of your course is Active Learning Classroom 3-1 or 3-2, please follow steps 5 and 6.
5. Go through the glass door labelled L3 Collaboration Zone.
6. Walk straight.
7. The classrooms will be on your left.
School of Computing and Information Systems 1 (Basement 1)
80 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178902
See location »
Train
Bras Basah Station (CC2) Exit C
1. Exit from Bras Basah Station (CC2) Exit C and turn right.
2. Walk up the ramp and continue straight.
4. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your right.
Train
Bencoolen Station (DT21) Exit C
1. Exit from Bencoolen MRT (DT21) Exit C and turn left.
2. Turn left and walk straight along the corridor.
3. Continue walking along the corridor, past the SMU Gymnasium & Fitness Centre.
4. Turn right into this corridor before the long ramp at the B1 concourse.
5. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your right.
Bus
Bencoolen Stn Exit B (Stop ID:08069)
1. Alight at SMU (Stop ID:04121). Walk towards the traffic light beside the bus stop.
2. Cross the two traffic lights to the School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1.
3. Walk along the outside of the SCIS 1 building.
4. Turn left towards the escalators going to B1.
5. Take the escalator down to Level B1.
6. Turn left after getting off the escalator.
7. Continue walking along the corridor, past the SMU Gymnasium & Fitness Centre.
8. Turn right into this corridor before the long ramp at the B1 concourse.
9. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your right.
Bus
Opp Bencoolen Stn Exit B (ID: 04019)
1. Alight Opposite Bencoolen Station Exit B Bus Stop (Stop ID: 04019). Follow the arrow towards the traffic light.
9. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your right.
Car
Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) carpark, access via Stamford Rd
5. Drive to Level B1 or B2.
6. From Lift Lobby B, take the lift to Level B1.
7. Exit via the "To Other Schools & Retail Via Concourse" door and walk straight.
8. Walk past IT Help Centre and turn right.
9. Go up the ramp outside of Student Services Hub.
10. Walk past Koufu on your right.
11. Continue walking past Koufu.
12. Turn left at the end of the corridor.
13. Turn right into this small corridor.
14. Turn left again and continue walking along this corridor.
15. Continue walking to the end of the corridor.
16. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your left.
School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1, access via Bencoolen St
1. Alight at the School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 drop-off point. Turn left and walk straight.
2. Continue walking straight towards Bras Basah Road.
3. Turn right and continue walking straight.
4. Walk along the outside of the SCIS 1 building.
5. Turn left towards the escalators going to B1.
6. Take the escalator down to Level B1.
7. Turn left after getting off the escalator.
8. Continue walking along the corridor, past the SMU Gymnasium & Fitness Centre.
9. Turn right into this corridor before the long ramp at the B1 concourse.
10. The School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) 1 (Basement 1) Swing space will be on your right.
We bridge SMU and world university communities, forging partnerships that bring together the best students and faculty to learn from and alongside each other, and to collaborate on research that impacts societies positively
Matthew Lee
Director
Email: matthewlee@smu.edu.sg
Matt leads Team IO in building bridges and deepening relations for SMU with some 300 partner universities around the world. His time at SMU follows 21 years of international relations work in the public and non-profit sectors. Best experiences then include running international campaigns, and leading multilateral negotiations and collaborations on maritime issues at UN agencies and regional inter-governmental organisations; establishing a representative office in London to promote Maritime Singapore to the European community; and building a network of Friends of Singapore Communities in major cities in China, the UK, US and ASEAN countries.
Real and reel lives converge for Matt. His first close encounter with the force of alliances was in 1977, when Lucas gifted fanboys A New Hope. Folded not stirred, this Double “International” O’s other passion is ice-cream…velvety ice-cream.
Melvyck Leong
Associate Director
Email: melvyckleong@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Melvyck is responsible for SMU’s portfolio of university partnerships across the Americas and Oceania, and leads the International Office’s communications, engagement and outreach efforts. He brings 12 years of experience spanning multilateral climate work, environmental policy stewardship, university partnership development, and forging collaborative outcomes across the public, private and non-profit sectors in the US, the UK, Europe and Southeast Asia. Before joining the university, Melvyck was Singapore’s lead negotiator for climate change adaptation issues under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and led the development of environmental policies to manage transboundary haze pollution within ASEAN. A husband and father, Melvyck holds a degree in English Literature and Communications from the National University of Singapore.
Lim Tau Wee
Assistant Director
Email: twlim@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Tau Wee manages the growth and development of SMU’s university partnerships for India and Southeast Asia through joint academic programme collaborations, student exchange and programmes, research collaborations and university conferences, dialogues and networks. He also led the Short-Term Study Programmes team and developed the SMU Global Summer Programme into a scalable and profitable revenue-generating programme for SMU.
Prior to joining SMU in 2017, he drove Singapore International Foundation’s (SIF) strategy and work in China and led collaborative projects and events in the fields of healthcare, academia, business and social entrepreneurship in Shanghai, Beijing, Yunnan and Chongqing, as well as Kuala Lumpur, Bandung and Jakarta, to further SIF’s public diplomacy mission among foreign communities of interest, while growing Friends of Singapore networks overseas and in Singapore.
Tau Wee graduated from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics.
Yip Siew Min
Assistant Director
Email: smyip@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Siew Min currently manages the growth and development of SMU’s network of quality international partnerships, particularly in Europe and the UK.
She brings more than a decade of experience in interacting with stakeholders from different cultural backgrounds and education levels through her teaching stints in Singapore and Japan.
Before joining SMU, Siew Min was the Head of Staff and Student Development at the School of Communication, Arts and Social Sciences in Singapore Polytechnic where she led and managed a large array of school-wide events and initiatives.
Siew Min’s passion for experiential learning and inculcating global awareness among the youths motivated her to apply for the Japan Exchange and Teaching Programme where she taught oral communication skills to senior high school students in Fukuoka for two years. She also facilitated several overseas student exchange and community service expeditions to places such as Hiroshima and Shangri-La.
Valerie Sim
Senior Manager
Email: valeriesim@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
As Senior Manager in the SMU International office, Valerie currently manages the growth and development of SMU’s external partnerships and relations, specifically in Europe.
Valerie was introduced to cross-cultural engagements at the inaugural Singapore Youth Olympic Games 2010, where she enjoyed her experience as the principal assistant in the engagement of government agencies and foreign embassies in Singapore.
That led her to join the National Institute of Education, Singapore as Senior Assistant Head overseeing Hospitality Relations, where she built over 10 years of experience managing internationalisation activities and initiatives and consulting on protocol-related matters. She was also the project lead for the NIE Visitors Learning Centre, a first of its kind that tells Singapore’s teacher education development story.
Outside of work, Valerie enjoys watching F1 races but cannot drive to save herself.
Liaw Ee Jin
Senior Manager
Email: eejinliaw@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Ee Jin manages SMU’s partnerships with universities across the Americas and Oceania. Ee Jin also supports the International Office’s engagement and outreach efforts, including through its communications and collateral.
Prior to SMU, Ee Jin was Senior Manager at the Singapore National Youth Council’s Global Office where she curated and implemented bilateral and regional programmes for youth leaders from ASEAN countries and China to network and discuss global issues. She worked together with various organisations across sectors on the Asia-Ready Exposure Grant, which supports initiatives to equip Singaporean youths to be Asia and Global ready.
Ee Jin is curious about people and seeks to engage, understand and connect with them. Ee Jin holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with a second major in psychology.
Fahimah Kadir
Senior Manager
Email: nurfahimahkm@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Fahimah Kadir supports Americas and Oceania partnership strategy, alliance development, and diplomatic engagement to strengthen Singapore Management University’s global profile and regional influence.
She previously served in the Public Diplomacy Section at the U.S. Embassy in Singapore, where she led education strategy. Her experience includes monitoring and evaluation for nonprofit programmes, humanitarian work with refugee communities in Lebanon, and public relations and strategic communications. Fahimah holds an Executive Master in International Development from IE University, a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Nanyang Technological University, and a TESOL certification.
Claudia Chia Yi En
Senior Manager
Email: claudiachia@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Claudia Chia supports multilateral university partnerships, global initiatives, and international collaboration efforts that advance Singapore Management University’s global engagement and standing. She brings cross‑sector experience in market intelligence, policy research, and engagement across Asia.
Prior to joining SMU, Claudia was a Market Intelligence Officer at ST Engineering, where she supported senior leadership with geopolitical risk assessments, defence market analysis, and international outreach. She also served as a Research Analyst at the Institute of South Asian Studies, contributing to policy‑relevant research and institutional partnerships.
Claudia holds both a Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in South Asian Studies from the National University of Singapore.
Lynda Tay
Manager
Email: lyndatay@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Lynda manages university partnerships for India and Southeast Asia. She previously worked at Nanyang Technological University’s Office of International Engagement, fostering collaborations in education and research across Southeast Asia and the Americas.
Earlier in her career at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay and the Nanyang Technological University Centre for Contemporary Art, Lynda led art residencies for international and Singapore-based artists, researchers, and writers, aimed at advancing creative research in the arts, fostering artistic exchange, and creating opportunities for professional development and networking.
This experience in building cross-border connections and facilitating meaningful exchange continues to shape her approach to developing impactful university partnerships today.
Julie Lin
Senior Executive
Email: julielin@smu.edu.sg | Connect on LinkedIn
Julie is responsible for supporting partnerships in China, India, and Southeast Asia, assisting in strengthening SMU's global presence and fostering cross-cultural connections in these dynamic regions.
Prior to joining SMU, Julie worked in international education, focusing on student mobility, institutional partnerships, and recruitment across China and ASEAN. With extensive experience in university collaborations and cultural exchange, she has dedicated efforts to helping students pursue their academic dreams.
Beyond her professional role, Julie is passionate about exploring diverse cultures and connecting with people to gain deeper insights into various cultural perspectives.
Michelle Hong
Office Manager
Email: michellehong@smu.edu.sg
Michelle is the Office Manager of SMU International Office. She is responsible for the organisation and coordination of office administration duties and office procedures.
Prior to joining SMU in 2018, Michelle was managing the sale and marketing of processed teak logs in the golden land of Myanmar.