Singapore, 6 January 2025 (Monday) – Singapore Management University (SMU) is pleased to announce key leadership appointments that will further strengthen its governance and strategic direction. These appointments underscore SMU’s commitment to delivering excellence in education, research, and community engagement.
Pro-Chancellors of SMU
Effective 1 January 2025, SMU welcomes two distinguished individuals, Mr Kuok Khoon Ean and Justice Judith Prakash, as Pro-Chancellors. They join Chancellor Mr Lim Chee Onn and incumbent Pro-Chancellor Mr Eddie Teo in providing leadership and counsel to the University. Together, the Chancellor and Pro-Chancellors preside over all major formal University ceremonies, including the Commencement and Academic Year Opening Ceremonies.
Mr Kuok Khoon Ean is a seasoned business leader with extensive experience across industries. He has been with the Kuok Group since 1978 and is currently Chairman of Kuok Group Singapore, Vice Chairman of Kerry Group Limited in Hong Kong, and Vice Chairman of Kuok Brothers Sdn Bhd in Malaysia. Mr Kuok also holds directorships in Kerry Holdings Limited and Wilmar International Ltd.
With prior service on SMU’s Board of Trustees and other educational institutions, Mr Kuok is familiar with higher education in general, and SMU more specifically, and brings valuable expertise and a longstanding commitment to advancing education. He has long been a supporter of SMU in myriad ways.
Justice Judith Prakash is a trailblazer in the legal profession, being the first woman appointed as a permanent judge of the Singapore Court of Appeal. She served with distinction in the Supreme Court for over two decades, contributing significantly to arbitration, commercial law, family law, and trusts.
Justice Prakash is also a strong advocate for education. She currently holds the appointment of Distinguished Fellow at SMU’s Yong Pung How School of Law. She also sits on the boards of various community organisations. Her exemplary career and dedication to nurturing future generations align closely with SMU’s values.
Board of Trustees
SMU is also pleased to announce the appointments of Mr Sherman Kwek and Mr Lim Eng Hwee to the Board of Trustees, with effect from 12 January 2024.
Mr Sherman Kwek is the Group Chief Executive Officer of City Developments Limited (CDL) and Executive Chairman of CDL China Limited. Under his leadership, the Group has strengthened its local presence and expanded into various overseas markets. He has enhanced CDL’s existing portfolio and driven transformation through innovation and fund management. His expertise in real estate, hospitality and technology, along with his dedication to community service, will be an asset to SMU.
Mr Lim Eng Hwee is the Chief Executive Officer of the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), Singapore’s national planning agency. Since 2017, he has led URA’s efforts in physical planning and urban development. With extensive experience in urban planning and policy implementation, Mr. Lim has served on several boards, including the Land Transport Authority and the National Environment Agency.
At the same time, SMU extends its deepest gratitude to Mr Sunny Verghese, who will step down from the Board of Trustees on 11 January 2025. Mr Verghese has been an instrumental member of its Board and Finance and Remuneration Committee, contributing his wealth of experience and dedication for nearly seven years. SMU thanks him for his remarkable contributions to the University’s growth and success.