Opening Address by Deputy Provost, Associate Professor Allan Chia at the Dr Alan HJ Chan 'Spirit of Singapore' Book Prize Awards 2025

Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-at-Large, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Ms Judy Chan

Professor Cheong Hee Kiat, President Emeritus, SUSS, and Chairman of the Judging Panel

Ms Triena Ong, Chief Judge

Esteemed Judging Panelists

Shortlisted and Longlisted Authors and Publishers

Distinguished Guests, Friends and Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon.

1. It is my great pleasure to welcome all of you to the Dr Alan HJ Chan Spirit of Singapore Book Prize award luncheon.

2. Today, we remember with gratitude the late Dr Alan HJ Chan, whose generosity and vision made the Spirit of Singapore Book Prize possible. A philanthropist and Confucian scholar, Dr Chan was a steadfast believer in education and in the pursuit of social good.

3. In 2022, he made a remarkable gift of one million dollars to SUSS, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire many. His contribution established two initiatives, the Spirit of Singapore Book Prize and the SUSS Social and Behavioural Sciences Conference, both reflecting his belief in understanding the human condition and strengthening the well-being of society.

4. Through these initiatives, Dr Chan hoped to inspire in others the same spirit of reflection, resilience, and compassion that guided his own life.

5. The Spirit of Singapore Book Prize, led by SUSS’ School of Humanities and Behavioural Sciences, continues this legacy by celebrating authors whose works capture the essence of our shared identity.

6. This year’s edition holds added significance as we mark Singapore’s 60th year of independence. It is a fitting moment to reflect on how our stories and ideas continue to define us, and how, through imagination and empathy, we continue shaping our tomorrow.

7. Among this year’s submissions are works that challenge us to see our world anew. Fiction, poetry, biographies, and illustrated books written by diplomats, artists, doctors, activists, journalists, and first-time authors. Their stories challenge, comfort, and connect us, reminding us that the Singapore Spirit continues to evolve and inspire.

8. I would like to thank the School of Humanities and Behavioural Sciences, the judging panel, and the organising team who have worked tirelessly to bring this award to life, as well as to our authors and publishers for nurturing Singapore’s vibrant literary and cultural landscape.

9. Among those who have contributed richly to Singapore’s intellectual and cultural life is our Guest of Honour, Professor Tommy Koh, whose own writings have long inspired reflection and dialogue on our national identity. A distinguished diplomat, cultural advocate, and true embodiment of the Singapore Spirit, Professor Koh has long championed the arts, humanities, and the cause of nation-building. Through his many contributions, he exemplifies the values that underpin the spirit of Singapore.

10. Thank you very much.