The importance of international collaboration is echoed by our Citizen Ambassador and seasoned educator, Dr Nirmala Karuppiah. Find out what inspired her to spend nearly two decades working with counterparts in India to enhance the local early childhood education sector. In the same vein, we are pleased to mark 10 years of the SIF’s physiotherapy education programme in Cambodia, which has significantly advanced standards of care in the sector through the mutual sharing of knowledge and skills.

The common thread of public-spiritedness that binds these individuals is tinged with many cross-cultural learnings. For instance, a unique partnership between Singaporean and UK designers led to a creative restoration of the favourite items of ordinary citizens – and a better understanding of each other’s way of life. Just how vital is learning about different cultures for one’s personal and professional growth is reinforced in an opinion piece by Singapore football legend Fandi Ahmad, who encourages young Singapore athletes to work abroad.

This issue also highlights how innovation benefits communities. For example, Singapore’s first carbon-credit trading platform helps organisations address climate change worldwide. The Lion City’s growing role as a hub for innovation and thought leadership is further affirmed by Dr Hsien-Hsien Lei, CEO of the local chapter of the American Chamber of Commerce, and an epidemiologist by training. Read her insights on how living here has helped her to gain new perspectives on science and business. We hope these stories will inspire you as we look forward to a wonderful 2023.