Sign up for F8’s next Changing Worlds talk by Jamus Lim
As the world retreats from globalisation and fractures into distinct regional poles, geopolitical considerations—which used to be secondary to economic developments—have returned to the fore, and often even drive economic policymaking. In this talk, we will explore the phenomenon of deglobalisation and a multipolar world economy, what this means for the political economy of trade, finance, and immigration policy, and how citizens, businesses, and governments can adapt to this changing environment.
On Friday, 7 March 2025, Function 8 organised a talk at The Arts and Civil Space (TACS) by Ar Tay Kheng Soon on his latest book, Future of Singapore? This event marked the first installment of Function 8’s “Changing Worlds” series for the year.
The book’s provocative title, Future of Singapore?, is fitting for an author like Tay Kheng Soon. A pioneering architect from Singapore Polytechnic’s first architectural school cohort in 1964, he was adjunct professor of National University of Singapore, a practicing architect, and a public intellectual known for his radical and critical views in a highly conservative society.
This edition of his book is unconventional, reading like an anthology of ideas gathered from his 60 years of experience in urban planning, architectural design, and intellectual activism. His career has closely paralleled Singapore’s nation-building journey. During the two-hour session, the audience was given a thought-provoking history lesson, exposing perspectives rarely found in school textbooks and challenging mainstream narratives. For instance, he questioned the relevance of modern education and highlighted the deficiencies of Singapore’s system in preparing for the future.
One of the most compelling ideas he put forth was his philosophy of education: the need to develop the head, the heart, and the hands in unison. Singapore’s education system primarily rewards those who excel at rote memorization, filtering out “elites” through high-stakes examinations while neglecting emotional intelligence and practical skills. This narrow approach is increasingly inadequate in the age of artificial intelligence and raises concerns about Singapore’s future competitiveness.
Tay also proposed transforming Singapore into an “enterprise city”—a hub that attracts the best and brightest from the region to live, learn, and innovate. He explored ideas on how Singapore can truly become a smart city with intelligent, creative citizens. His book is filled with bold and thought-provoking concepts that deserve serious consideration, perhaps even as part of our school curriculum.
Tay Kheng Soon’s insights challenge us to rethink fundamental aspects of Singapore’s development. If we are to secure a resilient and dynamic future, we must embrace innovative and holistic approaches to education, urban planning, and social progress.
Function 8 cordially invites you to join us for the 27th installment of our enlightening talks and discussions in the series: Topic: Deconstructing Raffles: From Java to Singapore (1811-1824) Speaker: Professor Peter Carey Date: Monday, 23rd December 2019 Time: 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Venue: The Agora, 28 Sin Ming Lane #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972
About the Speaker: Professor Peter Carey is currently serving as an Adjunct (Visiting) Professor at the Faculty of Humanities, University of Indonesia (UI), Jakarta. He also holds the esteemed position of Fellow Emeritus at Trinity College, Oxford.
With a distinguished academic journey, Peter’s career spans across various roles. He was a Prize (Junior Research) Fellow at Magdalen College, Oxford (1974-79) and later became the Laithwaite Fellow and Tutor in Modern History at Trinity College, Oxford (1979-2008). His expertise lies in the modern history and politics of Indonesia, Burma, and East Timor. Some of his notable works include:
“Indonesia The Power of Prophecy”
“Prince Dipanagara and the End of an Old Order in Java, 1785-1855”
“The British in Java, 1811-1816: A Javanese Account”
“Babad Dipanagara: An Account of the Outbreak of the Java War (1825-30)”
“Korupsi dalam Silang Sejarah Indonesia; Dari Daendels sampai Reformasi”
Co-author of “East Timor at the Crossroads: The Forging of a Nation” and “Generations of Resistance: East Timor”
If you’re interested in attending, kindly RSVP by Thursday, 19th December 2019 to Hello@function8.org. Join us for an insightful evening delving into the historical complexities and shifts that shaped the region.
Topic: Munshi Abdullah and his role in Colonial Singapore Speakers: Dr Azhar Ibrahim, Department of Malay Studies, NUS Date: Tuesday, 26th November 2019 Time: 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Venue: The Agora, 28 Sin Ming Lane #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972
Abdullah bin Abdul Kadir (1796-1854) was a prominent intellectual of his era, whose legacy and contributions remain celebrated and acknowledged to this day. While originating from Melaka, it was in Singapore that he forged an illustrious reputation. Serving as a Malay language instructor to influential colonial figures and Christian missionaries, Abdullah distinguished himself as one of the most prolific literary figures in Malay society, earning recognition both historically and in contemporary times. Abdullah embodied what can be referred to as the “Manusia Selat” or the “New Man of the Straits.” This concept encapsulates a cosmopolitan perspective and mindset that evolved during a pivotal historical period marked by the expansion of British colonialism, the emergence of a multicultural society, and the introduction of new technologies that facilitated increased human interactions and the dissemination of ideas.
Beyond his instructional role, Abdullah, as a teacher-scribe and translator, assumed a vital role in the Straits’ milieu where Malay remained the lingua franca. His mastery of the language and literary prowess established him as an accomplished literati. Serving as a translator, Abdullah played a crucial role as a cultural intermediary between the colonizers and the indigenous population, bridging linguistic and cultural gaps. Of utmost significance, Abdullah functioned as a perceptive observer of Malay society, witnessing the decline of Malay feudalism and the rise of colonialism in the region. His intellectual prowess against the backdrop of colonial Singapore made him one of the most articulate and insightful figures in the annals of our early pioneers.
Speaker: Dr Azhar Ibrahim holds the position of Lecturer at the Department of Malay Studies, National University of Singapore (NUS). He imparts knowledge on Malay-Indonesian literature and development ideologies at the department. His research pursuits encompass the sociology of religion, sociology of literature, critical literacy, and the intellectual development of the Malay-Indonesian world. Some of his published works include “Emancipated Education” (2019), “Historical Imagination and Cultural Responses to Colonialism and Nationalism: A Critical Malay(sian) Perspective” (2017), “Menyanggah Belenggu Kerancuan Fikiran Masakini” (2016), “Contemporary Islamic Discourse in the Malay-Indonesia World: Critical Perspectives” (2014), and “Narrating Presence: Awakening from Cultural Amnesia” (2014).
Topic: Singapura from the Malay Annals (Sejarah Melayu) Challenges What We Know Speaker: Dr Azhar Ibrahim Date: Tuesday, 20th August 2019 Time: 8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Venue: The Agora, 28 Sin Ming Lane #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972
During this presentation, the discussion will revolve around the Singapura episodes within Sejarah Melayu (Malay Annals), considered one of the most esteemed Malay literary-historical texts on record. This portion of history has been a point of contention among Malay scholars, as it has led to various historical assertions and claims, linking Singapura’s past to Malay indigeneity and significance. This holds particular importance since contemporary dominant narratives of Singapore’s history have rarely emphasized or recognized Sejarah Melayu’s interpretation of our historical past and memories.
In the present day, with an increasing emphasis on Singapore’s history predating the establishment of the city in 1819, Sejarah Melayu becomes a vital source, among others, aiding historians in reevaluating and constructing a more accurate historical narrative.
Exploring the means and extent to which this can be achieved forms an engaging topic for discussion and evaluation, offering fresh insights into Singapore’s pre-colonial history.
Speaker: Dr Azhar Ibrahim serves as the Head of the Department of Malay Studies at the National University of Singapore. His research interests span religion and society, deviance and social control, and sensory studies.
Forum: POFMA: More Harm Than Good? Speakers: James Gomez, Khush Chopra, and Brad Bowyer Date: Saturday, 18th May 2019 Time: 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Venue: The Agora, 28 Sin Ming Lane #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972
POFMA (Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act) has now become law, sparking widespread criticism and debate in Singapore. This law grants substantial authority to ministers in controlling online content, including messaging platforms. It comes with severe penalties for non-compliance with ministerial orders.
Do fake news laws genuinely aim to combat misinformation or are they tools for curbing free speech? How do other countries address the issue of fake news? Will other ASEAN governments follow Singapore’s lead?
Let’s engage in a discussion about fake news.
If you’re interested, please RSVP by emailing Hello@function8.org before 16th May.
About the Speakers:
DR JAMES GOMEZ serves as the Director of Asia Centre, a non-profit organization striving to create positive impact in the region. With a background in communications and human rights, he has worked for various international NGOs, intergovernmental organizations, universities, research institutes, and think-tanks. Dr Gomez holds a PhD from Monash University, Australia, an MA from the University of Essex, UK, and a B. Soc Sci from the National University of Singapore. He is also the organizer of Asia Centre’s upcoming international conference on Fake News and Elections in Asia, scheduled for 10-12 July in Bangkok, Thailand. Email: research@asiacentre.org
KHUSH CHOPRA, a non-practicing Singapore lawyer, advocates for constructive change. Recognised as a notable commentator on national issues, his writings have been widely published on social media. He focuses his efforts on being an agent for positive change and standing up for what is just and right based on his convictions. With training in law from the National University of Singapore, he also holds Master’s degrees from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Boston, and the Ecole Nationale des Pont Et Chausee, Paris. Khush Chopra is a vocal advocate for a better Singapore, one that is more equitable and just.
BRAD BOWYER has resided in Singapore since 1985, where he has lived, worked, and advocated for political change. With over 30 years of media experience, he has held roles such as art director for Disney, producer director for Nickelodeon, instructor for Avid, and regional sales manager for Autodesk. Brad Bowyer’s primary motivation is ensuring a prosperous future for his son’s generation in an inclusive Singapore that benefits all, not just a select few.
