NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences News

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Catch up with our highlights for the week: 1. New Masters in Geopolitics of South Asia by NUS South Asian Studies Programme From international relations, economics and politics, to religion, culture and history, come to better understand South Asia as you explore every aspect of the region in relation to domestic and global issues.⁠ Watch the promotional reel to find out what the programme offers. More details available on our website. 2. Alumni Spotlight | From FASS to the big screen: Actress Ranice Tay (NUS Theatre Studies'19) and Film Producer Yeo Zhi Qi (NUS CNM'16) Lead actress of Amoeba, Ranice, and producer of The Old Man and His Car, Zhi Qi, share a common goal: their tenacity to make the best of their craft on their journey as artists in the film industry. Ranice and Zhi Qi chat with us about their careers and reminisce their times at FASS — full interviews on our YouTube channel. 3. Alumni News | Ms He Yingshu (NUS Chinese Studies'15) conferred Young Artist Award 2025 by National Arts Council Singapore This prestigious honour recognises her outstanding contributions and leadership in Singapore’s literary arts scene. Her citation for the awards lauds her work as an award-winning writer with multiple accolades to her work, a literary critic, and an educator fostering literary talent in Singapore. Read more here. 4. Commentary | Assoc Prof Peace Wong (NUS Social Work) on MSF's plans to improve the social service sector At the Year of Celebrating Social Service Professionals Closing Event by Ministry of Social and Family Development on 9 Dec 2025, A/P Wong was interviewed about the importance of supervision in the social service sector, where she highlights the need to develop standardised practices and training for supervisors in order to help social workers more effectively. Read the full article on 8World. 5. NUS Student Spotlight | Silver Medal for Nicole Alethea Khaw (NUS Sociology and Anthropology Masters Student) at SEA Games 2025 Nicole clinched a silver medal for Singapore at the Freestyle Poomsae Individual (female) on 10 Dec! Congratulations to Nicole and all the best to Team Singapore and Team NUS athletes for the rest of the SEA Games! Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

💼 CAREERS @ FASS NUS Press is looking for a dynamic and self-motivated Marking and Communications Manager to design and implement our outreach and interaction with book buyers, readers, and authors. The role requires demonstrated awareness of the issues of interest to our authors and academic readers, as reflected in our publishing programme: chiefly Asia-related social sciences and humanities, and cross-disciplinary fields of direct relevance to the region like urban studies and public health. ✍🏼 Duties & Responsibilities ✅ Strategic planning and execution of sales and marketing plans ✅ Management of metadata and book information through cooperation with authors and editors ✅ Supporting key relations with our distributors ✅ Planning and execution of publicity and promotion ✅ Active presence at conferences and events both locally and globally For detailed information about the listed position, kindly visit https://nuspress.nus.edu.sg/pages/jobs .

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Catch up with our highlights for the week:- 1. Beyond medicine: Health District @ Queenstown and experts explore vital themes shaping Asian healthy longevity A highlight from the recent West Pacific Rim Consortium for Healthy Ageing Symposium 2025 was the discussion on real-world research happening right here in Singapore, including the work of NUS Psychology’s Associate Professor Jia Lile and Dr. Shuna Khoo. Their research, part of the HD@QT Baseline Study team, is crucial in understanding intrinsic capacity deficits in older adults, helping to build a foundation for effective community-based interventions. https://tinyurl.com/2hkpedku 2. NUS honours 22 outstanding alumni, including Janson Seah (NUS Economics ‘18) for service to alma mater and contributions to society Among the winners of the NUS Alumni Awards 2025 honoured on 25 November 2025 were Ms Ho Ching, Chairman of Temasek Trust, received the Eminent Alumni Award, in recognition of her exemplary leadership and lasting impact on Singapore, and FASS alumnus Mr Janson Seah, CEO and co-founder of workforce management solution company StaffAny. https://tinyurl.com/bdz67sj6 3. As machines learn, humans must think: How NUS Philosophy is nurturing critical thinking through courses that bridge disciplines AI excels at many tasks, but sorely lacks human understanding, ethics and meaning. At NUS Philosophy, interdisciplinary courses (IDCs) like "Pain Points," "CRISPR," and "Major US Supreme Court Cases" bridge this gap, teaching critical thought for a tech-driven world. https://tinyurl.com/3b9nw26a 4. ‘Recruiting in Roblox: Extremists exploit gaming platforms as radicalisation channels in S-E Asia’ Speaking to The Straits Times, Associate Professor Natalie Pang (Head of NUS Communications and New Media), discusses the appeal of gaming platforms for extremist recruiters and the potential measures to counter this trend. https://tinyurl.com/54mnc6k7 5. WORKSHOP | Psychology: Network Psychometrics (II): Longitudinal Data Modeling (11-13 December 2025) The second of two that count toward the Professional Certificate (PC) in Network Psychometrics for Behavioral and Social Scientists by NUS Psychology, this workshop focuses on longitudinal data modeling in the context of network psychometrics. https://tinyurl.com/4d3mvdwv Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Catch up with our highlights for the week:- 1. NUS FASS and Business School Students Make History FASS undergraduates Samuel Chng (NUS Sociology and Anthropology) and Yang Jian Bin (NUS Economics) and their teammates from NUS Business School Renee Sim and Andrea Fong – as the team Apex Consulting – emerged as champions at the Asia Pacific Regional Finals and secured Third Place globally at the prestigious think-cell Global Case Competition, outshining teams from more than 150 top universities. The team's success demonstrates the powerful impact of an Arts and Social Sciences education in solving complex, real-world problems through interdisciplinary collaboration⁠.⁠ https://tinyurl.com/mrjkuz8r 2. Prominent FASS Alumna Honoured at National Awards 2025 Congratulations to our illustrious alumni and Rector of Ridgeview Residential College Dr Noeleen Heyzer (NUS Sociology '71) and CEO of PAVE Dr Sudha Nair (NUS Social Work '86), who have been conferred the Meritorious Service Medal, presented by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the National Awards Investiture ceremony held last weekend. https://tinyurl.com/2jrs8f2m 3. Ann Wee NUS Social Work Alumni Award 2025 Winners Announced Recipients of this year’s award by NUS Social Work for alumni who have devoted decades of service to social work education and practice are: Elaine Loo (Director, Probation, Reintegration and Gambling Safeguards, Rehabilitation and Protection Group, Ministry of Social and Family Development), Tan Tian Wui (Principal Medical Social Worker, Tan Tock Seng Hospital), and Zeng Hui Hui (Senior Principal Medical Social Worker, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital). https://tinyurl.com/fdzjxybd 4. EXHIBITION | Capstone Exhibition (19 November – 31 December 2025) On display are works from Visual Cultures: Capstone (VCU3101), a course for the 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀, taught jointly by NUS Communications and New Media (CNM) and NUS Museum. https://tinyurl.com/y8syzwb3 5. SHORT COURSE | Foundational Module in Mental Health for Social Workers (27-28 November 2025) Administered by NUS Social Work, this course for social workers who have completed their first year of practice, and covers basic knowledge in common mental health problems to enable them to effectively screen clients for management and escalation to the next level of care. https://tinyurl.com/udfpym7b 6. WORKSHOP | Psychology: Network Psychometrics (I): Foundations, Theory, and Cross-sectional Data Analysis (8-10 December 2025) One of two that count toward the Professional Certificate (PC) in Network Psychometrics for Behavioral and Social Scientists by NUS Psychology, this workshop focuses on the theoretical foundations of network psychometrics and modeling techniques developed from this perspective. https://tinyurl.com/mr347fkb Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

The mindset shift every aspiring leader needs, according to ShopBack co-founder, Joel Leong! Ever had a big idea while chilling in the car? 🚗💭 That’s exactly how ShopBack started! Fast-forward 11 years, it’s now in 13 countries and still growing rapidly. Hear from ShopBack co-founder Joel Leong (FASS CNM ‘12) on what it takes to be an entrepreneur, in under a minute! 🚀 Watch now 🎥! @nuslifelonglearning

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. Student Spotlight |NUS Political Science Irdina Duran awarded NUS Achievement Award in Leadership (Merit) After earning her second LBKM Prestigious Undergraduate Scholarship some months back, Irdina has clinched the NUS Achievement Award (NAA) for her outstanding leadership prowess. As the first in her family to attend university, Irdina's journey, shaped by family sacrifice and personal health challenges, has fueled her deep empathy and inspiring leadership. Find out more about the NAA award. 2. Alumni Stories | ELTS Alumna Jade Ow elected Singapore's 31st Rhodes Scholar Congratulations to our outstanding NUS English Linguistics and Theatre Studies alumna, Jade Ow, for becoming Singapore’s 31st Rhodes Scholar! During her time at NUS, Jade distinguished herself as a FASS Student Ambassador, championed disability inclusion and showcased her discipline and enthusiasm through active participation in different university clubs and programmes. Her academic excellence, leadership, and service have now paved the way for her next chapter pursuing a Masters at Oxford University. 🌟 Read more here. 3. The Waltz at Lover’s Garden | CNM Students' site-specific theatre piece wins Merit for Original Artistic Work of the Year at NUS Achievement Awards The narrative dance piece was conceptualised by NUS Communications and New Media students Danny Lim, Gabriel Lim, Phoebe Tan, and Shawn Chan, with guidance from CNM Prof Dr Soh Kai Ruo, and performed at Lover's Park. The project has also been featured in CFA third space and NUS Arts Festival. Huge congrats to the team and NUS Dance Synergy! 🧡💙 4. Gen2050 Youth Dialogue: Shape the Future of Work (25 November 2025) A youth action programme organised by the National Youth Council, KPMG in Singapore, and Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS), Gen2050 aims to equip youths with practical skills to influence, mobilise and drive meaningful change. Registration is now open for the youth dialogue (ages 15–35) on tech, sustainability, and the evolving workplace. Join policymakers, industry leaders & peers for insights, networking, and hands-on activities. Sign up now! Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Cone-quer Your Stress! 🍨 Have a scoop of ice cream on us! NUS Lifelong Learning (L³) is giving out complimentary ice cream* as a wellness treat at your favourite study spots! It's the perfect reminder to pause and reset!   📍 UTown ERC & Central Library 📅 18 & 20 Nov, Tue & Thu | 🕑 2pm – 4pm How to Claim: Follow @nuslifelonglearning on Telegram and show us at the ice cream booth.     *Limited quantities available. First-come, first-served.

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. ALUMNI STORIES | Soaring Ambitions Megan Lau (NUS Philosophy, Politics, and Economics ’25) is a high achiever, excelling both academically and in her role as a ‘water princess’ in House of Dancing Water, a circus show in Macau. https://tinyurl.com/4pm4tv9s 2. ‘The Religious Roots of Technology: How 18th Century Philosophy and 21st Century Films Drive Popular Beliefs about the Supernatural Nature of AI’ NUS Communications and New Media Visiting Professor in Digital Religion, Dr Heidi A. Campbell spoke at a recent seminar about some of her research and her latest book, ‘God and Technology’, which examines how popular media and emerging technologies are increasingly framed and understood through a distinct range of spiritual myths, metaphors, images and representations of God. https://tinyurl.com/ykmcutwr 3. ‘After 60 years of Singapore’s nationhood, multiculturalism has become its defining trait – but not without some house rules’ Dr Rebecca Grace Tan (NUS Political Science) and NUS colleagues from the Institute of Policy Studies, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy discuss multiculturalism and the Singaporean identity in this CNA Online feature. https://tinyurl.com/436b29h9 4. NUS SSR-TOUCH CONFERENCE 2025 | Sustained Well-Being in Future-Ready Communities (11-12 November 2025) Jointly organised by the NUS Social Service Research Centre (SSR) and TOUCH Community Services (TOUCH), the Conference aims to advance conversations among participants and strengthen sectoral capabilities in social research, evidence-practice translation, sustainable collaborations, and impact measurement – all of which are critical levers of change. https://tinyurl.com/4e6vccyt 5. SHORT COURSE | Cost-Benefit Analysis for Social Service Providers (18-20 November 2025) This course by NUS Social Work equips social service providers with practical knowledge of cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit analysis to enhance their organization's impact. Through hands-on case studies and collaborative projects, learners will explore methods to measure and improve program efficiency. https://tinyurl.com/525wwua5 6. SHORT COURSE | Data Analysis and Reasoning for Social Workers (21 November 2025) This NUS Social Work course explores data analysis techniques tailored for social workers to devise strategies to contribute to decision making on agency policy formulation, and service development to enhance the well-being of vulnerable clients and their families. https://tinyurl.com/mu9vn9zr Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. NUS Communications and New Media PhD students clinch Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 Kaiyao Zhuang and Yuheng Wang have taken top honours at the competition organised by the United Nations and United Nations University. The pair beat out strong competition from across the world with their design of an AI-powered system for supporting global deliberations on climate change. https://tinyurl.com/mrxrr76x 2. “Chatbots could be first responder for mental health issues, but with limits” In her Op-Ed for The Straits Times, Dr Nur Hani Zainal (Presidential Young Professor in Clinical Psychology at NUS Psychology and Director of the Optimising Wellness Lab) explains that Singapore needs clear standards to ensure the safe and effective use of chatbots, with a hybrid approach that includes humans who can step in when needed. https://tinyurl.com/msh3w878 3. IN MEMORIAM | Emeritus Professor John Miksic A towering figure in Southeast Asian archaeology and history, Professor Miksic dedicated his life to uncovering and preserving the rich heritage of the region. https://tinyurl.com/inmemoriam-emprof-johnmiksic 4. SRN SEMINAR | Singapore Heritage Roundtable (11 November 2025) Showcasing projects on Singapore heritage, this NUS Singapore Research Nexus event features presentations by Dr Clay Eaton (NUS Japanese Studies), Dr Yan Yang (NUS Chinese Studies), Dr Jinna Tay (NUS Communications and New Media) and Dr Guo-Quan Seng (NUS History). https://tinyurl.com/y9bnxy7r Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. “askST Jobs: How do you patch things up with a colleague who’s upset?” Organisational psychologist Dr Al Au (NUS Psychology) offers advice on how to mend ties at the workplace when relations with a colleague are strained. https://tinyurl.com/59xdw68w 2. If AI can answer everything, what’s the point of a degree? NUS Lifelong Learning asks year 4 students across campus what they think are the skills that matter in their future workplace and whether formal qualifications will continue to give them a professional edge. Watch now on Telegram: https://tinyurl.com/4y43ucpv 3. FASS+ | Charting the intersections between technology and the human experience The first edition of our FASS+ fireside chats with sister faculties and colleges at NUS was held last week at NUS Computing. In a session moderated by Dean Professor Lionel Wee, the featured speakers included Professor Elaine Ho (FASS Vice Dean of Research), Associate Professor Tan Chuan Hoow (Deputy Head, Department of Information Systems and Analytics, NUS Computing), and Mr Paul Chong (Founding CEO and former Group CEO of Certis). https://tinyurl.com/2kfaa8xm 4. FASS Back to School | Master Class & Fireside Chat (1 November 2025) Reconnect, network and learn with fellow alumni at this Saturday morning session. Start off with a master class by Associate Professor Kokil Jaidka (NUS Communications and New Media, CNM) on drawing actionable insights from high-volume online content, and move onto a discussion of how a FASS education can inspire and power up tech entrepreneurship led by ShopBack co-founder and alumnus Joel Leong (NUS CNM ’12). https://tinyurl.com/yts7vwyk Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. Wild learning in the Great Rift Valley: NUS students take on Kenya Over 11 days, students from NUS Geography and the Environmental Studies (BES) programme taking the GE4220: Field Investigation in Physical Geography course traversed Kenya’s legendary landscapes, immersing themselves in the realities of environmental change, human-wildlife interactions, and the deep connections between people and place. https://tinyurl.com/bdyjmu54 2. Know your Limitation, and those of Emotional First Aid Emotional first aid is immediate support, not therapy. Dr Matthew Lim, Deputy Director of the Master’s of Psychology Clinical Programme (NUS Psychology) advises awareness of one’s own emotional capacity before proceeding to assist others in distress. https://tinyurl.com/bddrzubx 3. SSR Celebrates its 10th Anniversary As Singapore’s first centre devoted to social intervention research, the NUS Social Science Research Centre has spent the past decade championing bold social innovations. https://tinyurl.com/hfrmd3cm 4. FASS DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES IN BUDDHIST STUDIES | Buddhist Book Roads: The Dynamic Spread of Buddhist Print Culture in China and Beyond (7 – 9:30 pm, 17 October 2025) This lecture by Professor Shih-shan Susan Huang (Rice University) investigates the “Buddhist Book Roads,” exploring the dynamic transnational spread of Buddhist print culture through a wealth of illustrated books discovered in archaeological sites, statues, and museums. https://tinyurl.com/3xcfudvj Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. Twenty-three FASS Faculty Rank Among the World’s Top-Cited Researchers FASS faculty – from Communications & New Media, Economics, English, Linguistics & Theatre Studies, Geography, Malay Studies, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology & Anthropology, and South Asian Studies – are ranked among the world's top 2 percent most-cited scientists by Stanford. This prestigious list recognises their exceptional research impact and major contributions to their fields, based on rigorous citation metrics. Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/yvuv2ket 2. Explaining ‘Buddhistcore’ in South Korea Asian Buddhist communities are innovating to attract followers with trendy approaches, but they are facing immense challenges from Christianity's modern appeal, particularly in South Korea, Associate Professor Jack Chia (NUS History) helps to explain. https://tinyurl.com/4y2nezw9 3. NUS Career Fest returns with twice-yearly fairs, spotlighting AI in the current edition The revamped flagship event organised by the NUS Centre for Future-ready Graduates (CFG) – NUS Career Fest – aimed to and delivered on enhancing support for students in their career journeys. The two-day show provided attendees with more opportunities to engage with employers, boost their professional development and prepare for the workforce than previous editions of the event. https://tinyurl.com/3j5cfrjd 4. FASS BROWN BAG SEMINAR | Hormonal Contraceptive Use and Women’s Economic Decision-Making (30 October 2025) Dr. Smrithi Prasad (NUS Psychology) will be presenting her findings from archival data on the direct relationship between hormonal contraceptive use and competitive, decision-making, and experimental research into which social, achievement-based stress affects this relationship. https://tinyurl.com/mrxwx75d Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. A Lens on History & Belonging: Prof. Wang Gungwu Documentary In September, the NUS community gathered for a special screening of the Tang Prize documentary, "In the South, Thinking China," featuring Professor Wang Gungwu, NUS University Professor, and also of NUS History. The film delves into the life and groundbreaking work of the eminent historian, exploring themes of Chinese identity, diaspora, and the universal question of "home." In a poignant moment, Prof. Wang reflected that the film is “a story of people who, wherever they are, have questions about where home is.” https://tinyurl.com/2m4wfzhx 2. “Commentary: From ‘skibidi’ to ‘tradwife’, dictionary entries are never neutral” The real debate isn’t whether Internet slang counts as “proper English”, but which words get preserved and which are left to vanish, says Dr Daniel Chan, Assistant Dean (Office of Programmes) at FASS, and Senior Lecturer of French at the NUS Centre for Language Studies, in his latest Op-Ed for CNAOnline. Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/kh2pmj5u 3. DOCUMENTARY SCREENING & PANEL DISCUSSION | ‘Gods on Earth: Everyday Sacred in a Global City and Chinese Vernacular Shrines in Singapore’ (4 November 2025) This special session features Professor Kuah Khun Eng (NUS Chinese Studies) and Prof Francis Lim Khek Gee (Nanyang Technological University), as well as the film’s director Lynn Wong, leading a discussion on the Chinese vernacular shrine culture in Singapore. https://tinyurl.com/2s72yvnb Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. The FASS Alumni Mentoring (FAM) Programme Launched to Connect Alumni Generations for Career Growth The new initiative, which saw its inaugural session last month, gathers experienced graduates with younger peers in focused and meaningful discussions on their professional development and industry navigation. Designed for busy individuals, it aims to build a robust, supportive community. https://tinyurl.com/mrxpf7du 2. One Student’s Mission to Destigmatise Hidden Struggles NUS Psychology undergraduate Titus Yim uses research and filmmaking to champion stories often left unheard. His 2024 short film, 'Tilam', draws from personal experience to challenge autism stigma. Screened internationally, it is now a psychoeducation resource for schools and hospitals, highlighting his commitment to impactful advocacy. Learn more about his work here: https://tinyurl.com/25x3uy6k 3. From Anime to Protest: The 'One Piece' Flag Explained The 'One Piece' pirate flag, emerging from the Indonesian protests last month, is now a global symbol of youth resistance. Associate Professor Natalie Pang (NUS Communications and New Media, and NUS Libraries) helps to contextualise its spread, explaining how the flag's powerful imagery enables effective cross-cultural mobilisation against injustice, in a recent The Straits Timesarticle. https://tinyurl.com/3nn2hrvs 4. Tackling Real-World Challenges Through Research NUS College of Humanities and Sciences students Tara Lingaraj (Bachelor of Environmental Studies Cross-Disciplinary Programme), Ziv Ng (Philosophy, Politics and Economics Cross-Disciplinary Programme) and Sruthi Annamalai (Life Sciences and Psychology) share how their work in undergraduate research can actually advance knowledge and lead to solutions to real-world challenges. https://tinyurl.com/2dncxdb2 Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. FASS Alumnae Star in TIFF-Selected Singapore Film The film Amoeba, starring NUS Theatre and Performance Studies alumnae Ranice Tay (2019) and Lim Shi-An (2022), has been selected for the Toronto International Film Festival. It tells the story of four teenage misfits forming a secret gang to challenge authority at an elite girls' school. https://tinyurl.com/bdf9ft5n 2. IPS-CNM Study Reveals Top GE2025 Media Sources The findings from a recently released study by the Institute of Policy Studies and NUS Communications and New Media show that voters in the Singapore general elections earlier this year primarily used and trusted the digital platforms of traditional media outlets, while podcasts gained significant traction with older voters. https://tinyurl.com/5hdxftar 3. A Final Word of Advice from the NUS College of Humanities Class of 2025 Our graduating seniors share a message to their Year 1 selves: find courage, trust your own pace, plan ahead, and remember to have fun along the way. Learn more, watch this: https://tinyurl.com/ywdf9fsz 4. FASS Brown Bag Seminar by A/P Zhou Taomo | Re-bordering for Reform: Neoliberal Hong Kong and the Internationalization of Infrastructure in Shenzhen, China This hybrid FASS Research event features a presentation by Associate Professor Taomo Zhou (NUS Chinese Studies) of her paper, which argues that the re-bordering between Shenzhen and Hong Kong in the late 1970s and early 1980s was a crucial precondition for the expansion of international trade and the emergence of global supply chains. https://tinyurl.com/y59hrfpx Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. Discover the NUS Language Learning Experience Missed the NUS Centre for Language Studies Language Fair last week? Catch a quick recap of the event and hear current students Darryl, Siti and William discuss their motivations for learning Thai, Bahasa Indonesia, Korean and French, and their experience so far. https://tinyurl.com/bd3fyc67 2. The Myth of the Perfect Bilingual A new op-ed – by Professor Low Ee Ling (NUS English, Linguistics and Theatre Studies, ELTS and the National Institute of Education), Professor Lionel Wee (Provost's Chair Professor, ELTS, Dean of FASS and Co-Dean of the NUS College of Humanities and Sciences, CHS) and Ms Nora Samosir (University of the Arts Singapore) – in The Manila Times challenges the concept of perfect language fluency, arguing that it is a harmful myth. True communicative power, they say, lies in adaptability, the ability to navigate between languages and styles, which is key to social harmony and effective communication. https://tinyurl.com/yc28mfn8 3. Harmonising Science and Music CHS opened new worlds for recent graduate Koh Yi Jing (NUS Data Science & Analytics, and Psychology ’25), facilitating her pursuit of studies in music and discovery of the rich interconnections between seemingly disparate fields, and enabling her to craft a unique and inspiring academic path. https://tinyurl.com/42kn8n7x 4. The 5-9 Revolution: Reclaiming Your Time After Work A new trend sees Singapore's Gen Zs transforming their post-work hours into a time for passion and purpose. This “5-9” movement is about actively building an identity beyond one's job, explains Associate Professor Hong Renyi (NUS Communications and New Media). Discover how young professionals are fighting burnout and finding community by reclaiming their nights: https://tinyurl.com/52juzctx *** 📢 Hey FASS Students!⁠ ⁠ We’d love to hear about your internship experience 📝 Your feedback helps us improve the FASS Internship Programme — from applications to support services and learning opportunities.⁠ ⁠ 💡 The survey only takes a few minutes, and all responses are anonymous.⁠ 🎁 Complete it by 21 Sept for a chance to win exclusive FASS merchandise!⁠ ⁠ 👉 Share your thoughts now: https://tinyurl.com/FASSIP25-Svy⁠ ⁠ Thanks for helping us shape better internship opportunities for you and your peers! *** 5. Students Seek Real-World Skills Year 1 NUS CHS students like Trenyce Ramos Chan share the skills they wish were taught in school, from financial literacy to mastery of the art of learning itself. Hear their answers in the first episode of a new series by NUS SCALE, available on the NUS Lifelong Learning Telegram channel. ⁠ https://tinyurl.com/4y43ucpv 6. CHS Pioneers Forge New Path Five fresh graduates from the inaugural CHS cohort reflect on their journey from navigating the uncertainties of a brand new Common Curriculum to building confidence and achieving personal growth, and the unique experiences that shaped them during their time at NUS. https://tinyurl.com/4zyhctt9 7. SRN POLICY OUTREACH | Technology, Wellbeing, and Policy in Singapore (2 October 2025) Casting the spotlight on FASS research on technology and its impact on community and population, this Singapore Research Nexus event features faculty and social services professionals from NUS Social Work and Psychology, as well as Fei Yue Community Services. https://tinyurl.com/54f7czs7

[𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻] | 𝘽𝙚 𝙖 𝙁𝘼𝙎𝙎 𝙎𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝘼𝙢𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙧!⁠ ⁠ We are looking for enthusiastic Years 2-3 or post-graduate FASS students with excellent academic standing as well as an active student life to represent us 💬🎓⁠ ⁠ If you're passionate about being the voice of our student community at public events or even on our social media channels, this is your moment!⁠ ⁠ Apply to become a FASS Student Ambassador at: tinyurl.com/FASS-SA-Prog — now accepting applications on a rolling basis!

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. FASSTALK | NUS SOCIAL WORK PODCAST: Beyond the Curriculum Three students reveal how pursuing diverse academic passions, from tech hackathons to Southeast Asian studies, profoundly enriched their social work practice. They share how these experiences taught them to design better solutions, ensure cultural relevance, and master the essential art of adaptive communication. https://tinyurl.com/yjz3k52m 2. Singapore to Host Pioneering Hub for Chinese Studies A major new Southeast Asia centre for Chinese Studies is set to launch at the National University of Singapore in collaboration with Taiwan's Chiang Ching-kuo Foundation. Led by Professor Ong Chang Woei (NUS Chinese Studies), the centre will fund research exploring the region’s unique perspectives on Chinese culture and history and aims to strengthen Singapore’s role as a key academic hub for global sinology. https://tinyurl.com/mv5j4yrd 3. 𝗦𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿: 𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 𝗩𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗼𝘀 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆⁠ Singapore is becoming the world's music video backdrop, from Marina Bay Sands to our lush rainforests. But it's more than just a pretty scene. Dr. Soh Kai Ruo (NUS Communications and New Media) explains how these high-profile shoots generate tourism, create local jobs, and build powerful global connections for our creative industry.⁠ https://tinyurl.com/2srtvrca *** FASS SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP INCUBATOR (SEI) | Transform Your Ideas into Reality ⁠Do you have innovative solutions for societal issues? Eager to work alongside with like-minded visionaries? Ready to make a difference? Join the SEI pitch competition!⁠ All NUS students are invited. https://tinyurl.com/sei-2025 *** 4. NUS Student Clinches Global Speaking Championship Kamal Ashraf bin Kamil (year 4, NUS Law) has been crowned champion at the World Universities Public Speaking Invitational Championship, prevailing over speakers from Oxford, Stanford and Tsinghua. Kamal credits the rigorous training he received in the GEX1005/GET1008 Public Speaking and Critical Reasoning course for his win, highlighting the invaluable feedback from his tutor that sharpened his rhetorical and persuasive techniques. Watch his winning speech: https://tinyurl.com/yn99prvw *** OPEN FOR APPLICATIONS NOW | Be a FASS Student Ambassador! We are looking for enthusiastic year 2s and 3s or post-graduate FASS students with excellent academic standing as well as an active student life to represent us.⁠ If you're passionate about being the voice of our student, this mission is for you! Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/FASS-SA-Prog *** 5. FASS BROWN BAG SEMINAR | Special Forces and Defeat in Malaya 1941-42 (18 September 2025) “Why on earth would anyone write yet another book regarding the Second World War British failure to defend Malaya and Singapore?” Professor Brian P. Farrell (NUS History) will tell us why in this talk. https://tinyurl.com/4mxjp2xp Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. Rewriting the Singapore Story: A New Generation Pitches Its Vision The NUS Communications and New Media Society's Pitch It! 2025 challenged students to reinvent "The Singapore Story" for the nation's 60th birthday. In a tough competition against 23 other teams, Team Wing Wing won with their #HearOurSingaporeStory campaign, using audio to connect generations. Participants gained real-world skills from industry experts on crafting authentic, impactful media campaigns, while everyone gained a deeper appreciation for using media to build a more inclusive and unified national heritage. https://tinyurl.com/mt74auu2 2. Expert Weighs In on Singapore's Employment Push Associate Professor Lin Weiqiang (NUS Geography) endorses the new National Day Rally employment initiatives, urging Singaporeans to see them as a springboard for growth and not as a stopgap measure. https://tinyurl.com/mp4wdhde 3. The Untold Drama Behind Singapore’s Separation from Malaysia in 1965 Declassified documents and oral histories reveal the true developments of the two months before the split between Singapore and Malaysia. This documentary features insights from historians and living witnesses, including Dr Donna Brunero and Associate Professor Albert Lau (NUS History), Bilahari Kausikan (veteran diplomat and FASS Distinguished Arts and Social Sciences Alumni Award 2024 honouree), and Professor Tan Tai Yong (Singapore University of Social Sciences President, former FASS Dean and from NUS History). https://tinyurl.com/26ak7sbp 4. Sacred Exchanges, Secular Aims: The New Buddhist Diplomacy In an article for Asia Times, Associate Professor Jack Chia (NUS History) examines the growing trend of Asian nations using Buddhism for diplomatic purposes, and emphasises the importance of approaching faith as a means for genuine collaboration rather than as a tool for geopolitical maneuvering. https://tinyurl.com/yhkjznxe 5. Sustainability Through Storytelling NUS College of Humanities and Sciences student Valerie Seow (Bachelor of Environmental Studies Cross-Disciplinary Programme and minor in Communications and New Media) leverages her interdisciplinary education to bridge the gap between complex issues and public understanding, preparing for a career marketing a more sustainable future. https://tinyurl.com/4xtjmu8m 6. The Human Cost of AI: Preserving Meaning in Our Work As Singapore pushes for widespread AI adoption to boost productivity, a crucial question emerges: at what cost? Dr Jonathan Sim (Associate Fellow at the NUS Teaching Academy and Lecturer in NUS Philosophy) argues that the goal of AI integration should not be mindless automation but using AI to enhance human creativity and judgment. https://tinyurl.com/43d4h4fh 7. Why Can’t You Stop Scrolling TikTok Shop? The Straits Times investigates the addictive nature of TikTok Shop, which has revolutionised social shopping in Singapore, and Dr. Kokil Jaidka (NUS Communications and New Media) weighs in with her keen understanding of why. https://tinyurl.com/bdjzepn9 8. FASS INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME | Secure Your Internship Now! The season of internships is approaching! Whether you’re looking to complete a unit-bearing internship or want to buff yourself with valuable workplace experiences, start sourcing for your internships early! https://tinyurl.com/nus-fass-ip 9. BOOK TALK | Bujang Valley: Heritage, Archaeology, and the Making of Malaysia’s Past (17 September 2025) This session, organised by the GL Louis Religious Pluralism Research Cluster, features the author of the book being discussed – NUS Malay Studies PhD candidate Bowen Liao – and is chaired by Associate Professor Irving Johnson (NUS Southeast Asian Studies). https://tinyurl.com/3a7untn9 Share and Follow | @FASSNews |

Greetings from the NUS Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences! Here are some recent highlights on campus and off! 1. This Alumna Crafts Hope into Stories Rachel Nadia Goh (NUS Southeast Asian Studies ’14) channels a decade of frontline experience into her publishing house Kin Collective, creating illustrated children's books from real stories of resilience to foster empathy and shared humanity worldwide. https://tinyurl.com/yu32xz8d 2. The Projector's Final Reel The closure of Singapore's iconic indie cinema, The Projector, signals a potential cultural shift. On MONEY FM 89.3, Dr Jinna Tay Tay (NUS Communications and New Media) discusses its profound impact on the future of film culture and the broader development of the arts in Singapore. https://tinyurl.com/4kms476j 3. Launch Your Career Journey Learn firsthand about the FASS Internship Programme from Angie Truong and her experience as a branding intern at EY. Start your own journey by signing up for the Virtual Briefing on August 28th. Only currently enrolled students can apply: https://tinyurl.com/FASSIP2025-Briefing 4. Honouring a Legacy: The Ann Wee Alumni Award Nominate NUS Social Work alumni with more than 20 years of service in the profession for the Ann Wee Alumni Award. This accolade honours those making significant contributions to direct practice, policy and community development, continuing the legacy of Singapore's pioneering social work founder. Learn more: https://tinyurl.com/nus-swk-annweeaward-2025 5. FASS BROWN BAG SEMINAR | More-than-climate politics in rurality: Normative pathways for living with loss (28 August 2025) Professor Petra Tschakert (NUS Geography) will be presenting in this FASS Research seminar. https://tinyurl.com/y36shca8 6. Widen Your World View and Reach at the CLS Language Fair (3 September 2025) Celebrate 25 years of language learning at the NUS Centre for Language Studies 25th Annual Language fair! Explore new cultures, enjoy fun quizzes and win prizes. Hear inspiring alumni talks and discover opportunities with overseas universities and diverse companies. Don’t miss this event at the NUS Central Library Forum from 2-5 PM. 7) CHINESE TRANSLATION MASTERCLASS | Technology-augmented, Human-centered Translation (27 September 2025) Designed for translators, educators and other current and aspiring language professionals, this NUS Chinese Studies session offers an exclusive deep dive into how emerging tools are reshaping translation and cross-cultural communication.⁠ https://tinyurl.com/cs-translation-masterclass2025 😍 SHORT COURSE | Foundational Module in Mental Health for Social Workers (27-28 November 2025) This course by NUS Social Work covers basic knowledge in common mental health problems to facilitate social workers to screen clients for management and escalation to the next level of care. https://tinyurl.com/5e83radz 9) WORKSHOP | I: Network Psychometrics: Foundations, Theory, and Cross-sectional Data Analysis (8-10 December 2025) This NUS Psychology workshop – which aims to provide expert guidance for researchers and practitioners interested in learning the basics of network modeling for social science – will focus on both the theoretical foundations of network psychometrics and modeling techniques developed from this perspective. https://tinyurl.com/y4ydyf9k Share and Follow | @FASSNews |