“Each of us has a different role to play; but no role is insignificant. So when times are demanding, let us remember why we do what we do. We do it for our students, we do it for the generations to come.” – Professor Teo Kie Leong, Dean, College of Design and Engineering
The CDE Annual Dinner 2026 brought together approximately 700 colleagues at Resorts World Sentosa on 31 July for an evening of celebration, connection and appreciation. Centred on the theme Movie Magic, the night featured performances, games, a best-dressed competition, lucky draw, and moments recognising the people who continue to shape the College’s story.
Opening the evening, Prof Teo reflected on CDE’s mission as both an educational institution and a research-intensive college that creates opportunities for students, pushes the frontiers of knowledge, and translates ideas into impact.
He said that CDE has continued to grow from strength to strength, with six departments ranked among the world’s top 10 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, and Arts & Design entering the top 20.
Honouring years of service
A key highlight of the evening was the Long Service Awards presentation, which recognised over 150 colleagues for their dedication to CDE. Among them were five colleagues marking an inspiring 45 years of service, including Professor David Chua (Civil and Environmental Engineering).
Speaking about his achievement, Prof Chua said, “Reaching this 45-year milestone at CDE is incredibly special to me. Watching our community grow and evolve over the decades has been an amazing journey, and I am deeply grateful for the lifelong friendships and shared successes along the way. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this rewarding chapter.”
Also celebrating 45 years of service are Mr Abdul Khalim Bin Abdul, Ms Chia Meow Hua, Mr Chiam Tow Jong, and Mr Sukiantor Bin Tokiman. See the full list of Long Service Awards recipients below.
Celebrating collective strength
Beyond the awards and performances, the dinner was a reminder of CDE’s collective strength. As Professor Teo said, CDE’s scale gives it breadth, resilience and the ability to support one another through change.
The evening closed on a note of gratitude and shared purpose — a celebration not only of achievements and milestones, but of the people whose commitment makes CDE what it is today.
Full list of Long Service Award recipients
