CDE Alumni Awards 2023 recipients with (centre) Acting CDE Dean, Prof Teo Kie Leong.
The Annual College of Design and Engineering Alumni Awards recognise the accomplishments and contributions of exemplary CDE alumni. In 2023, 19 individuals and two teams have been recognised for their outstanding achievements.
The awards ceremony and gala dinner to celebrate their achievements was held on the evening of November 3 at the NUSS Kent Ridge Guild House.
Opening the ceremony at the start of the dinner, Professor Teo Kie Leong, Acting Dean of CDE, congratulated all award recipients for their “outstanding achievements and contributions to CDE.”
“The spirit of volunteering and giving back is a virtue that NUS and CDE have long nurtured. We believe that this spirit acts as a multiplier driving positive change in our society,” he said. “Thank you for demonstrating the value of giving back to your alma mater. We believe that the example you have set will inspire future selfless effort for all us of here and beyond.”
Prof Teo added: “Our alumni community stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, and together we will make a meaningful difference in the world.”
Photo Gallery: CDE Alumni Awards 2023 gala dinner
'Shared goals'
Prof Teo also thanked CDE’s donors and corporate supporters, including Singapore Land Group Limited and Masonic Charitable Fund. “Their generous contributions have greatly advanced our initiatives and we are profoundly grateful for their commitment to our shared goals,” he said.
The ceremony featured a cheque presentation to CDE from Singapore Land of $120,000.
Following the creation of CDE at the start of 2022, the annual Alumni Awards ceremony celebrates the achievements of the combined alumni communities of the former Faculty of Engineering and School of Design and Environment.
The award recipients for 2023 span fields including architecture, mechanical engineering, materials science and engineering, civil and environmental engineering, chemical and biomolecular engineering, project management, industrial design and biomedical engineering.
Our heartiest congratulations to the award recipients.
| Distinguished Alumni Award
Instituted in 1989, the award is conferred on alumni who have distinguished themselves nationally or internationally through excellent and sustained contributions and achievements in public and community service, entrepreneurship, and in a professional or scholarly field. |
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| Dr. Teo Ho Pin Bachelor of Science (Building) 1985 Adjunct Professor, NUS |
Dr. Teo Ho Pin graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Building in 1985. Over the years, he has held various pivotal positions, including Mayor of the North West District, Director roles in several companies, Member of Parliament for Bukit Panjang, and CEO of Jurong Town Council. Dr. Teo has been extensively involved in public and community service, contributing to Singapore's Environment Council, serving as the Chairman of Mayor’s Committee, and holding prominent positions in the government. He played a significant role as the Coordinating Chairman for 15 PAP Town Councils and has been a strong advocate for education through his association with NUS and industry organisations.
Dr. Teo, is an adjunct professor in the Department of the Built Environment, actively contributing to the University and serving as President of Building & Estate Management Alumni Association (BEMA). In collaboration with Singapore Institute of Building Limited (SIBL), he raised S$155,500 for the SIBL-BEMA Scholarship, benefiting DBE undergraduates. |
| Mr. Brian Tan Kai Piang Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) 2000 Regional President (South East Asia), Vice President (Applied Global Services), Applied Materials |
Mr. Brian Tan Kai Piang earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering in 2000. He currently serves as the Regional President for South East Asia at Applied Materials. Under his leadership, the company has achieved substantial growth and has been recognised with the Straits Times Best Employer Award in Singapore for three consecutive years. He has also fostered public-private partnerships to drive innovation in the semiconductor industry. Furthermore, Mr. Tan has actively facilitated collaboration between Applied Materials and NUS, leading to the creation of the Applied Materials-NUS Advanced Materials Corporate Lab and supporting students through internships and career opportunities.
Mr. Tan was also a member of the NUS CDE College Formation Task Force, contributing to the design and establishment of a future-focused learning institution for engineering, architecture, and design. |
| Mr. Mok Wei Wei Bachelor of Architecture (Hons) 1982 Managing Director, W Architects Pte Ltd |
Mr. Mok Wei Wei, who graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture (Hons) in 1982, is the Managing Director of W Architects Pte Ltd. He is renowned for his innovative contemporary architecture and his expertise in preserving historic monuments and conserved buildings. Mr. Mok's architectural works are characterised by thoughtfulness and a deep understanding of traditional Chinese architecture, which he integrates into contemporary designs. Beyond his practice, he serves as a Professor of Practice and Chair of the Department Consultative Committee in the Department of Architecture at NUS, inspiring and mentoring young architects while championing the preservation of Singapore's modern built heritage. |
Recipients of the Distinguished Alumni Award 2023: (left) Mr. Mok Wei Wei; (centre right) Mr. Brian Tan Kai Piang; (right) Dr. Teo Ho Pin - represented by Prof Michael Chew, Head Dept of Built Environment. Pictured with (centre left) CDE Acting Dean, Prof Teo Kie Leong.
| Alumni Excellence Award | |
| Mr. Chung Weng Yew Calvin Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering) 2002 | Master of Engineering 2009 | Master of Science (Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management 2013 Chief Technology Officer, Senior Director (R&D), Ministry of National Development Singapore |
Mr. Chung Weng Yew Calvin holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering (2002) and two subsequent master's degrees. He currently serves as the Chief Technology Officer and Senior Director in the Ministry of National Development (MND), where he oversees science and technology development, engineering, sustainability, digitalisation, and R&D. Mr. Chung has played a crucial role in promoting sustainability in industrial infrastructure, leading the development of Jurong Island and preventing silt from reclamation affecting refineries. He is active in the industry, collaborating with the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC), NUS, and advocating for "green" practices and sustainability. His contributions to engineering, research collaboration, and sustainable development have left a significant mark on Singapore's landscape. |
| Er. Jee Yi Yng Master of Science (Civil Engineering) 2008 Singapore Country Representative, AECOM |
Er. Jee Yi Yng earned her Master of Science in Civil Engineering in 2008 and currently serves as the Singapore Country Representative at AECOM. She leads a team of nearly 700 professionals, focusing on strategic growth in infrastructure and property sectors. With over 23 years of experience, she has been involved in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in underground works. Er. Jee actively engages with professional organisations, holds leadership positions in various associations, and mentors the next generation of engineers. She maintains a strong connection with her alma mater, contributing to alumni gatherings, fundraising for bursaries, and offering internships and career opportunities to students. |
| Ar. Seah Chee Huang Bachelor of Arts (Architecture) 1999 | Master of Architecture 2003 CEO, DP Architects |
Ar. Seah Chee Huang holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (1999) and a Master of Architecture (2003). He serves as the CEO of DP Architects, known for his innovative and purpose-driven architectural designs, such as the Singapore Sports Hub and Our Tampines Hub. Ar. Seah has been recognised for his contributions to architecture and his advocacy for sustainable and inclusive design. He served as the President of the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) and played a role in developing the Industry Transformation Map for the architecture profession. His initiatives, such as Goodlife Makan and Heartware Network's headquarters, exemplify the positive social impact of architecture. He actively promotes public participation in the design of social and community spaces and continues to contribute through the Industry Advisory Board. |
| Mr. Goh Chee Kiong Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) 1997 CEO, Charge+ |
Mr. Goh Chee Kiong earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering in 1997. He is the CEO and co-founder of Charge+, the largest EV charging operator in Singapore. Under his leadership, Charge+ has significantly contributed to Singapore's transition to electric vehicles and expanded regionally. His career includes pioneering sustainability initiatives during his tenure at the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) and contributions to Singapore's economic development and sustainability. Mr. Goh actively participates in conferences, holds roles in the EDB Society, and supports research at NUS, contributing extensively to Singapore's green transition. |
| Mr. Mario Singh Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) 2001 Founder and Chairman of Fullerton Markets, PipBox Group and IWS Fintech |
Mr. Mario Singh graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering in 2001. He is the Founder and Chairman of Fullerton Markets, PipBox Group, and IWS Fintech. Mr. Singh is widely recognised in the business and finance industry and has authored several best-selling books. His companies have received numerous awards and recognition. In addition to his business success, Mr. Singh is passionate about community service, founding the Soulrich Foundation and serving on the National Board of Gatekeepers. He is actively engaged in academic and educational roles, delivering lectures at NUS and serving as a guest judge for NUS Business School, contributing to the development of future entrepreneurs. |
| Outstanding Young Alumni Award | |
| Mr. Diwakar Velu Master of Science (Project Management) 2014 Project Manager - Tunnelling Division, Land Transport Authority |
Mr. Diwakar Velu earned a Master of Science in Project Management in 2014. He is a Project Manager in the Tunnelling Division of the Land Transport Authority, with a decade of expertise in tunnelling infrastructure projects. His significant role in projects like the Downtown Line, Thomson Line, and Circle Line extension has helped shape Singapore's public infrastructure. Mr. Diwakar's dedication to innovation and research has earned him prestigious accolades, including the Minister Innovation Award. He actively engages in community outreach, educating civil engineering students and fulfilling the wishes of children facing critical illnesses through the MAKE-A-WISH foundation. |
| Dr. Xue Lishan Agnes Bachelor of Arts (Industrial Design) 2005 | Doctor of Philosophy 2010 Associate Professor, Singapore Institute of Technology |
Dr. Xue Lishan Agnes completed her Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design in 2005 and earned her Doctor of Philosophy in 2010. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) and is known for her innovative work in healthcare design. Dr. Xue has received numerous design awards and co-founded the successful design consultancy, JIA Studios. She is also dedicated to public and community service, particularly in design research for healthcare innovation and is actively involved in various professional roles. |
| Mr. Sim Hao Jie Bachelor of Arts (Industrial Design) 2016 Design Manager, NextOfKin Creatives |
Mr. Sim Hao Jie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design in 2016. He is an industrial designer and Design Manager at NextOfKin Creatives. His commitment to innovation across various disciplines is evident in his leadership in research, innovation, and industrial projects. His work at NOK has garnered several awards, and he actively engages in community projects, contributing design perspectives to issues related to disabilities, social topics, and healthcare. He actively supports young designers by hiring interns from NUS Division of Industrial Design. |
| Mr. Yeung Man Ki Larry Bachelor of Arts (Architecture) 2014 | Master of Architecture 2014 Executive Director, Participate in Design Limited |
Mr. Yeung Man Ki Larry holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture (2014) and a Master of Architecture (2014). He is the Executive Director of Participate in Design Limited (P!D), a firm that focuses on participatory design and community engagement. Mr. Yeung's work expands the role of built environment professionals beyond building design, focusing on neighbourhood planning, public space design, and community art installations. His contributions to community engagement projects and support for architecture education showcase his commitment to the field. |
| Dr Mohammad Hossein Davood Abadi Farahani Doctor of Philosophy (Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering) 2019 Founder and CEO, SepPure Pte. Ltd. |
Dr. Mohammad Hossein Davood Abadi Farahani completed his Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in 2019. He is the Founder and CEO of SepPure Pte. Ltd., an innovative start-up specialising in nano-filters to separate chemical mixtures. His entrepreneurial success and contributions to sustainable solutions have earned him recognition, including the NUS Outstanding Young Alumni Award and MIT's "Innovator Under 35" honour. Dr. Farahani actively engages in community service, mentoring, and knowledge sharing, supporting start-ups, education, and students. |
| Dr. Viveka Kalidasan Doctor of Philosophy 2017 Founder & CEO, The Edify Project |
Dr. Viveka Kalidasan holds a Doctor of Philosophy and is the Founder & CEO of The Edify Project, an organization fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. She is recognised as an MIT Technology Review's 35 Innovator under 35 and among the top 100 Women in Technology in Singapore. Dr. Viveka's commitment to education and empowerment extends to mentoring, community involvement, and advocating for diversity and inclusion. |
| Mr Jax Lee Bachelor of Engineering (Chemical Engineering) 2010 CEO, Nanolumi |
Mr. Jax Lee completed his Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering in 2010 and is the CEO and Co-founder of Nanolumi, an advanced material and technology startup. He has played a pivotal role in Nanolumi's success, focusing on providing breakthrough luminescent and optical platforms. Mr. Lee actively supports STEM education, entrepreneurship, and innovation while sharing his expertise with students and the community. Nanolumi's acquisition of Luminicell Pte Ltd reflects its dedication to advancing biocompatible fluorescent probes for bioimaging and diagnostics. |
| Alumni Rising Star Award | |
| Dr. Xu Boyan Doctor of Philosophy 2022 Assistant Professor, Beijing Normal University |
Dr. Xu Boyan earned his Doctor of Philosophy in 2022 and is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Beijing Normal University. He specialises in entrepreneurship, innovation, and technopreneurship, with a focus on sustainable solutions for wastewater reuse and desalination processes. Dr. Xu's research contributions include the isolation of efficient functional bacteria consortium for membrane bioreactors, and he has been involved in innovative startup entrepreneurial activities focused on sustainable wastewater treatment. His commitment to public and community service is evident through his roles in various organisations, including the Membrane Technology Specialist Group under the International Water Association. |
| Ms. Fei Yue Gracia Bachelor of Arts (Industrial Design) 2021 Interaction Designer, Agency Singapore |
Ms. Fei Yue Gracia graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design in 2021 and is currently an Interaction Designer at Agency Singapore. She has made exceptional achievements in design, particularly in innovation and human-centric design. Ms. Fei has received the SGMark for her work with the Dormitory Association, showcasing her creativity and functionality. She is dedicated to societal betterment through thought leadership on mental health, research into sexual assault care management, and her work with Migrant Workers. Her commitment to education and mentorship is evident through her support for thesis students and collaboration with Alistair Norris as a mentor. |
| Mr Ismail Weiliang Osman Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering) 2019 Climate Resilience Consultant, Hydroinformatics Institute |
Mr. Ismail Weiliang Osman graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Environmental Engineering in 2019 and is currently a Climate Resilience Consultant at the Hydroinformatics Institute. He is a dedicated environmental professional who founded the non-profit organization, TheClimateBender, to deliver humanitarian relief to communities vulnerable to climate change impacts. He is also the Chair of the Singapore Water Association's Young Water Professionals Committee, actively engaging with his alma mater, NUS, and promoting undergraduate outreach. |
| Ms. Foong Zi Ning Anthea Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical Engineering) 2021 CEO, InteractAI |
Ms. Foong Zi Ning Anthea graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering in 2021 and is the CEO and co-founder of InteractAI (formerly known as MediVR), a deep tech startup specialising in virtual assistants powered by generative artificial intelligence technology. Her innovative contributions include creating an InteractAI engine for medical training using mixed and virtual reality. She has won various local and international competitions, including the Lee Kuan Yew Business Plan Competition, and has been recognised with awards like the Singapore Computer Society Tech Leader Award. Ms. Foong is actively involved in promoting STEM among girls and has been nominated for Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia in 2022. |
| Team Excellence Award | |
| PatSnap
Mr. Jeffrey Tiong, Ms. Guan Dian |
Founded in 2007, PatSnap is a leading innovation intelligence platform used by over 12,000 customers across 50 countries. It offers insights in market, technology and competitive intelligence, aiding innovators in bringing products from ideas to market. Founder Jeffrey Tiong's inspiration for PatSnap came during his NUS Overseas Colleges (NOC) programme in the US, leading to its inception with co-founder Guan Dian, both NUS alumni. Using AI and machine learning, PatSnap helps users connect innovation dots through its vast dataset analysis. With over 1000+ employees and 12,000+ customers globally, the company reached a valuation of over US$1 billion in 2021 with backing from investors like SoftBank and Tencent. During the pandemic, PatSnap provided free access to its database, supporting intellectual property efforts. It's recognised as a Technology and Innovation Support Center, providing training and resources, collaborating with authorities to aid innovation, and offering NUS student internships. The founders actively share their experiences with NUS. |
| ShopBack
Mr. Henry Chan Mr. Joel Leong |
Established in 2014, the ShopBack Group is Asia-Pacific's leading shopping, rewards, and payments platform. Founded by NUS Overseas Colleges alumni Henry and Joel, the platform aims to be the world's most rewarding way to shop, saving members money and time while enhancing their shopping experience. ShopBack collaborates with over 15,000 online and in-store partners, generating over US$3.7 billion in annual sales and facilitating over half a million daily transactions. Expanding its reach, ShopBack introduced financial services such as ShopBack Pay and PayLater in 2022, adding responsible and convenient payment options for members and enhanced engagement for partners. The company has secured over US$300 million in funding, including US$80 million from Temasek's 65 Equity Partners in a Series F round last year. ShopBack actively supports NUS students with internships, fostering experience in marketing, data science, and e-commerce. The founders, Henry and Joel, frequently share their experiences with NUS. |
For more about the 2023 Alumni Awards recipients click here
