SG60: Building Our Past, Shaping Our Future

Event Synopsis

Established in 2023, the Seah Choo Meng Public Lecture brings together renowned experts and leading practitioners from the built environment industry to share insights on Project Management, Quantity Surveying, Building Law, Sustainability and Facilities Management. Marking Singapore’s significant SG60 milestone, this year’s lecture series invites us to reflect upon past accomplishments, evaluate current practices critically, and collaboratively envision a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future. We are honoured to feature three esteemed pioneers whose contributions have profoundly influenced Singapore’s urban, economic, and social growth

Dr. Liu Thai Ker – Topic: “Planning and Designing Singapore: Past, Present and Future”

Synopsis

In the 60 years since Singapore’s independence, Dr. Liu dedicated 23 pivotal years (1969-1992) to lay a robust foundation for the nation’s urban development. In this insightful lecture, Dr. Liu will share his experiences and approaches to planning and designing Singapore, highlighting the critical role played by strong political support and guidance. He will discuss how these efforts shaped the city we see today and present his personal aspirations and recommendations for guiding Singapore’s future urban growth and development.

Mr. Wong Heang Fine – Topic: ” Vision Beyond Sight: Shaping Cities in an Uncertain Future”

Synopsis

In this lecture, Mr. Wong reflects on the importance of visionary thinking in shaping sustainable cities—drawing inspiration from Singapore’s transformation from swampland to metropolis. As AI and machine learning redefine the built environment, he asks: will these tools replace the role of architects and engineers, or help us build better? In an era of uncertainty and global change, he urges professionals to lead with foresight, adapt to disruption, and continue shaping the future of our cities.

Mr. Basskaran Nair – Topic: “Hearts, Homes, and Hope: Crafting Singapore’s Social Fabric”

Synopsis

In this thought-provoking presentation, Mr Nair examines Singapore’s “3H Vision” of Hearts, Homes and Hope an enduring framework that has shaped the nation’s development and the Singaporean identity. He further explores the present “3H Vision” among core Singaporeans and naturalised citizens, and enquires on the future of the nation regarding belonging, national sentiments and social cohesion. While “Homes” and “Hope” are linked closely to the built environment and economic prosperity, the “Hearts” issue is more complex and challenging. Looking ahead, can we build the emotions, feelings and attitudes as we did in the past for a tightly-knitted Singaporean identity, especially among naturalised citizens, in the midst of the visceral pull created by the distraction of social media and geopolitical tensions?