Topic: Cause Lawyering, Mdm Vellama, and By-Elections

Guest of Honour: Mdm Vellama d/o Marie Muthu

Speakers:

• Professor Kevin Y L Tan (Moderator)
• M Ravi
• Jeannette Chong-Aruldoss

Date: Saturday, 21 May 2016
Time: 2:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Venue: AGORA, Block 28 Sin Ming Lane, #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972

Description:
Join us for an insightful session as we delve into the compelling narrative of Mdm Vellama d/o Marie Muthu, a courageous individual who stood up against the tide to challenge a significant political decision. With the discussion framed by the theme of “Cause Lawyering, Mdm Vellama, and By-Elections,” we will uncover the legal significance of Mdm Vellama’s case and explore the broader concepts of cause lawyering and its essential role in our society.

In 2012, a crucial political incident led to the vacancy of the parliamentary seat for Hougang SMC. What followed was a display of remarkable determination by Mdm Vellama, who took her challenge to the High Court, sparking a journey that brought about significant changes in Singapore’s political landscape. Through her actions, she paved the way for the revival of by-elections, which had been absent for two decades.

Our distinguished speakers will unravel this fascinating tale:

• Mdm Vellama will recount her journey and the courage that propelled her to stand up against adversity.
• Professor Kevin Y L Tan, a renowned expert in constitutional law, will expound on the legal implications and significance of Mdm Vellama’s case.
• M Ravi, a prominent human rights lawyer, who passionately advocated for Mdm Vellama in her legal pursuit, will provide valuable insights into the broader realm of cause lawyering and its pivotal role in shaping our society.

Be part of this engaging dialogue as we explore the driving forces behind change, the impact of individual courage, and the importance of cause lawyering in shaping our nation’s path forward. The speakers will graciously engage with questions from the audience, making this an enriching and interactive session.

Topic: Three Pivotal Trends Propelling Political Evolution in Malaysia
Speaker: Dr. Michael Heng
(Former student activist, part-time columnist, former associate editor of Asia360 weekly, with academic affiliations in universities across Australia, China, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Taiwan)

Date: Sunday, 11 October 2015
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Venue: AGORA, Block 28 Sin Ming Lane, #03-142 Midview City, Singapore 573972

Description:
Malaysia has taken center stage in the global spotlight for both commendable and concerning reasons. The media has been abuzz with discussions surrounding the 1MDB scandal, the vibrant yellow and red shirts demonstrations, Mahathir’s relentless bid to displace Najib, the schism within PAS leading to the formation of the dissident group Amanah, Pakatan’s transformative realignment, the tightened reins on university students, and the plight of Anwar Ibrahim behind bars. Beneath these captivating headlines lies a deeper narrative rooted in several potent forces and trends that have ushered Malaysia onto the intricate path of political metamorphosis. These forces are urbanization, shifts in demography, and the resonating impact of events in the Middle East.

Join us as Dr. Michael Heng, a versatile figure who boasts a history as a student activist, a part-time columnist, and a former associate editor of the Asia360 weekly, brings his unique perspective. With academic appointments spanning across universities in Australia, China, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Taiwan, Dr. Heng is equipped to paint a comprehensive picture of these transformational trends.

Through this engaging session, we will explore the dynamic interplay of these trends, unravel their influence on the political landscape, and gain fresh insights into the future that awaits Malaysia. While cognisant of the challenges that lie ahead, Dr. Heng’s discourse presents an optimistic outlook on the unfolding political evolution in Malaysia.

Topic: “Youthful Idealism of the Pioneers Club”
Date: 4-6pm, Saturday, 23 May 2015
Venue: AGORA
Block 28 Sin Ming Lane
#03-142 Midview City
Singapore 573972

They are Social Work and Sociology graduates from the University of Singapore in 1979. The memory of Geylang Catholic Centre need not be associated with Operation Spectrum alone. Besides being a centre reaching out to foreign workers, it was the location of the Crisis Centre, which aimed to help people in urgent need of temporary shelter. And behind the enthusiasm of volunteers of this Crisis Centre, there is a story of youthful idealism for the betterment of our society through the Pioneers Club.

Speakers:

• Dr. P J Thum, National University of Singapore (History)
• Dr. Loh Kah Seng, Sogang University (History)
• Dr. Imran Tajudeen, National University of Singapore (Architecture)

Chair: Dr. Hong Lysa
Date: Saturday, 11 January 2014
Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Venue: Muse House, 22 Marshall Road, Singapore 424858

Description:
In recent times, a wave of writings has surfaced, delving into the history of Singapore’s leftwing movement and its untimely cessation following Operation Coldstore in 1963, alongside subsequent suppressive actions. However, this leads us to ask, what’s next? What untold historical narratives can further enrich our comprehension of the recent past?

Operation Coldstore marked more than the conclusion of post-World War II political pluralism in Singapore; it catalysed an entirely new historical trajectory. Beyond Coldstore, there are extensive realms of uncharted histories – the era of the one-party state, propelled by foreign investment-driven industrialisation, the evolution of landscapes and nature, and the intricate process of shaping individuals into citizens.

The pursuit of bold, innovative research doesn’t culminate with Coldstore; it is, in essence, just the beginning. This workshop aims to initiate a discourse on the future pathways for uncovering Singapore’s historical tapestry.

As an added treat, we are honoured to have Artist and Cultural Medallion Recipient Teo Eng Seng guide us through his captivating art installation titled ‘History Without, Lesson Within’. This artwork provides a visual articulation of his perspective on post-1965 Singapore within the PAP era. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to engage with history and art in tandem.