Gift of $1M sets up the Von Lee Yong Miang Bursary
Mr Von Lee, Chairman and Founder of Expand Construction—one of Singapore’s foremost construction companies—graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering from Nanyang Technological University in 1995. His remarkable journey—from a young graduate to the leader of this distinguished firm—is a testament to his vision, resilience, and passion for the built environment. Through the establishment of this endowed bursary, Mr Lee hopes to empower and uplift generations of aspiring engineers and designers. His gift will help ensure that students facing financial challenges can focus on their education, pursue their dreams, and one day make their own mark on the world.
Mr Lee embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, leaving behind a stable career in the public sector at the height of the Asian financial crisis in 1998, driven by the desire to help with his brother’s struggling signage business. He subsequently formed Expand Construction in 2000, which grew from a contractor bidding for small-scale projects and competing based on lowest costs offered, to one that has contributed to some of the most imposing and iconic buildings in Singapore, including the Supertrees at Gardens by the Bay.
The Expand Group of companies has become one of Singapore’s largest local building construction groups, providing integrated civil engineering and building support services. Amongst other accolades and recognition, Mr Lee received the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in the engineering and construction category in 2018.
Mr Lee’s commitment to supporting Singapore’s infrastructure development extends to the support he has offered to local universities through donations to support the educational journeys of young talents.
At the company’s 25th Anniversary Celebrations on 12 July, NUS was bequeathed a generous gift of $1 million to establish the Von Lee Yong Miang Bursary.
Acknowledging this gift, Professor Teo Kie Leong stated that the gift “reflects the company’s enduring commitment to excellence, growth, and making a positive impact”. He added that the partnership has reaffirmed belief in the transformative power of education and the impact of a nurturing community spirit.
