缅怀李光耀纪念展” a 97Th Founders’ Day Special GCE A-Level Examinations CONTENT

PANORAMA A PUBLICATION OF HWA CHONG INSTITUTION

October – December 2016

Hwa Chong Students Reach 发扬建国先驱精神 Serving Our Community – New Heights at the 2015 ——“缅怀李光耀纪念展” A 97th Founders’ Day Special GCE A-Level Examinations CONTENT

Highlights | 06 Guts and Glory – Triumph at the 2016 National Inter-School Track Hwa Chong in the News and Field Championships Peaks of Excellence 光影交织的微电影《埋在时光里的爱情》

The Heart of Success Developing Capacities at the Hwa Chong Model ASEAN Summit Hwa Chong Honours Outstanding Educators and Contributions 表现语言艺术之美的诗歌朗诵

翰墨飘香献爱心

华中华乐团倾情呈献 "天籁回音之蝉琴蚓笛"

A Race Against Time at the Library Lockdown Celebration | 18 The Enduring Friendships of 1976’s Class 4C Hwa Chong Students Reach New Heights at the 2015 GCE A-Level Examinations

Profiles of Some of Our All-Rounded Achievers

Exploration | 58 Experiencing Research Passion at Caltech Inspiration | 22 Caring Beyond Borders – OCIP Vietnam with ITE College West 发扬建国先驱精神 ——“缅怀李光耀纪念展” Exchanging Perspectives, Forging Memories Champions Again at the Pharmaceutical Science Challenge 2016

Projecting Singapore’s Future Prosperity – Success at the Monetary Authority of Singapore- Economic Society of Singapore (MAS-ESS) Essay Competition SPOTLIGHT | 64

Pleasure Over Pressure 无悔的青春——记“2016年黄城夜韵”

Capturing the Imagination Through Math HBL Behind the Scenes of An Evening of Drama (黄城夜韵) 辩以明理，论以会友——我校辩论队勇夺2016年狮城杯中学组亚军

Chess and Life

Fruitful Experience in Chinese Chess 97th Founders' Day Special | 68 Welcoming Back Our Own – Founders' Day Dinner 2016 Passion | 38 Founders' Day Food Drive – Serving Our Community Discussing the Language of Science at the 8th ISYF 铭记先贤，回馈社会——别具意义的校庆活动 Nobel Forum

Wisdom and Advice from the Nobel Laureates Emulating Our Founders: Meaningful Service at Pertapis Children's Home PANORAMA EDITORIAL TEAM

STUDENT EDITORS TEACHER-ADVISORS WRITERS

Yeong Qian Hui 15A14 Mr Kor Zhi Yang [email protected] Tan Yi Ying 14A15 Ellie Lew Yi Ting 16S75

Bryan Yan Kai Jie 15A14 Mr Kenny Tan [email protected] Sun Xuerui 14S60 Chiang Yan Qi 16S7D

Chrystel Ng Wei Ai 15A15 Dr Tan Mei Leng [email protected] Lin Yulong 14S7D William Chng Li Yang 4A1

Cheong Jia Yang, Alex 15S7D Ms Josephine Phay [email protected] Chong Han 15A12 Huang Zhizhou 4B1

Zachary Loh 16A12 Ms Yin Xiu Ping [email protected] Tan Yi Lin, Isabella 15A15 Eugene Tang 4P2

Claudia Lee Xue Ting 16A14 Zhao Jiayi 15A15 Isaac Tan Zhe Xian 4S3

Wong Yang 16A14 PHOTO CREDITS Chew Yunqing 15S60 Low Yu Teng 4S3

Joshua Ooi Wei Jin 16S79 North West Community Development Council Chang Kai Lin, Reis 15S62 Sean Woon Yukai 3H1 (https://www.cdc.org.sg/northwest) Agalia Tan 15S65 Chan Jin Kai 2P2 Hwa Chong Alumni Association PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR (Front Cover Photograph) Matthew Ng Cheng En 15S6G Vayers Sean Lim 2P2

Chang Kai Lin, Reis 15S62 Huang Cheng 2016 Photography Team Edgar Foo Zern Hon 15S70 刘嘉琳 15S6Q

Ma Si Cheng 16S73 Photographic Society Han Ming Xuan 15S70 何嘉欣 15S70

Media Tech Club Peh Sihui, Sheryl 15S74 胡心淳 15S7D PHOTOGRAPHERS Sensorium Vale Tan Wei Ern, Jonathan 15S75 吴小滢 16S65 Lim Yong Kien 15A10 Lim Jie Ying 15S76 佘家骏 16S6J

Chew Yunqing 15S60 DESIGNERS Owen Cho Kok Quan 16A11 杨舒婷 16S6Q

Kimberly Leow Hui Ning 15S68 Zhu Ziyi 16S64 Amelia Tan Ling 16A15 刘诗琪 16S72

Ng Xin Lin 16S69 Eleanor Loh Kei Ying 16S7C Yeo Teng Wei 16A15 孙慧雯 16S72

Lee Yueyu 16S6P Nathan Widjaja 16S66 顾博中四汇聚一班

Lim Shi Huan 16S73 Leong Say Kiat, Conan 16S6A 陈翰勋中四人文一班

Wong Yi Jie 16S72 冯秉韬中三双文化一班

管箫中三聚英一班 06 Highlights HWA CHONG IN THE NEWS

Notable Stories

• Stepping out of their comfort zone, Sunday Times, Pg C05, 24-01-16

• Students ace the test with best performance in 10 years, ST, Pg B04, 05-03-16

• Students must be enterprising to be 'future ready', says Ng Chee Meng, ST Online, 21-03-16

• HCI sweep triple boys' titles at gymnastics championships ST Pg C12, 24-03-16

• HCI maintain pole vault dominance with B Div sweep, ST, Pg C19, 13-04-16

• Paddle for a worthy cause ST, Pg C09, 30-05-16 808 Highlights

Notable Stories

• Teruskan legasi gred 'A' keluarga, Berita Harian, Pg 04, 05-03-16

• 去年出战东运会两健将考场交出漂亮成绩单, ZB, Pg 13, 05-03-16

• 语文中蕴含文化可培养正确价值观， ZB, Pg 07, 22-03-16

• 植物汁蜻蜓翼传递科学， ZB Now, Pg 04, 23-03-16

• 不走寻常路 , ZB Comma, Pg 12-13, 04-05-16

• 唱一曲新謠致青春 ZB Comma, Pg 11, 04-05-16

• 以橙皮和旧铅笔为材料，华中学生开发更环保太阳能电池 ZB, Pg 08, 01-06-16 PEAKs OF EXCELLENCE March 2016 – July 2016

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS (ACCURATE AS OF July 2016) SPORTS

Singapore Armed Forces Public Service Commission Singapore Armed Forces MERIT 2016 Interschool Sports Championships Scholarship (SAFS) (PSC) Scholarship Scholarship (women) • Won 44 Top 3 Titles • 3 Awardees • 19 Awardees • 1 Awardee (One of two schools awarded the (A quarter of all scholarships DSTA Undergraduate Scholarship highest number of SAF scholars) awarded by PSC) • 6 Awardees Singapore Police Force Singapore Armed Forces Performing Arts Groups, Uniformed Groups and Others Scholarship (SPFS) Engineering Scholarship Defence Merit Scholarship • • 1 Awardee • 1 Awardee 4 Awardees Singapore Armed Forces National Police Cadet Corps Weiqi 楸平杯 (Qiuping Cup) Singapore Armed Forces Young Leader Award Unit Overall Proficiency • Champions (Open Category) MERIT Scholarship • 5 Awardees Award • Champions (Junior Category) • 1 Awardee • Gold Award (for the 20th consecutive year) Singapore Police Force (for the 20th consecutive year) Book Prize Chinese Chess 棋友杯 (Qiyou Cup) • 3 Awardees National Police Cadet Corps • Champions Inter-Unit .22 Revolver ACADEMIC AWARDS EDB Promising Young Leader Championship Chinese Chess Jurong Junior Award • Team Champions College Cup • 5 Awardees • Champions Future Problem Solving Sin gapore Science and National Olympiad in St. John Ambulance Brigade th Program International Engi neering Fair Informatics 8 Zhaoyang Cup Corps Achievement Award Chinese Chess International Literary Recital th Conference • 4 Gold Medals • 2 Gold Medals • Gold Award 9 Hwa Chong Cup Competition (Singapore Round) • Overall Champions (for the 16th consecutive year) • Champions Singapore Biology Olympiad Challenge for the Urban and • National Champions (Community Problem Solving • 3 Gold Medals Built Environment (CUBE) Frank Cooper Sands Awards Chinese Chess 30th Raffles Cup Competition Senior Division) National Cadet Corps Best Unit • Champions • Gold Award (Scouts) • Champions Singapore Chemistry Competition 2016 Taiwan International • Outstanding Award Winner • Gold Award (Ventures) • Gold Award Science Fair (TISF) Olympiad • Jurong Town Corporation (JTC) (for the 20th consecutive year) • First Place 1 Gold Medal I3 Challenge 2016 (Medicine and Health Category) Singapore PHYSICS Olympiad • Champions • Young Scientist Award Winner • 1 Gold Medal Young Mayor Urban Planning Singapore International Inter-Secondary School Competition Mathematics Challenge Pharmaceutical Science • Champions • Distinction Award Challenge (Senior Category A) • Best Mathematical Modelling • Champions • Best Prototype Winner Special Award 12 Highlights

It was definitely not an easy feat for the trio, who underwent 2 months of intense research work amidst their hectic schedules. Concerned about the growing number of people diagnosed with heart diseases, the group studied the potential dangers of specific drug-to-drug interactions, with a focus specifically on The Heart heart failures. They investigated the effects certain drugs have on heart diseases such as coronary heart disease and arrhythmia.

Yong Zhi revealed that the win was unexpected, and was therefore “a pleasant surprise.” Indeed, the team’s journey of Success was an arduous one. As heart cells are extremely sensitive to experimental procedures and conditions, the team had to be 1 cautious while trying to achieve speed and precision. Given the multiple experiments they were juggling simultaneously, and the 3 need to achieve perfection in every experiment each day, the team felt like giving up at times. However, as Yong Zhi shared, “we constantly sent words of encouragement to each other and received them from our kind mentors. Working together helped us to beat the daily struggle and get to the goal that we were all working towards.”

When asked about the key to giving stunning presentations – like the one he gave at Taiwan – Yong Zhi replied that ample preparation was key. After all, “you can never be too prepared for anything. The more you practice, the more questions you think of to answer, the more concepts you draw links with, the more gaps you fill, the more airtight and convincing your presentation becomes.”

Yong Zhi also encouraged his juniors to “always start on the right footing by embarking on things that interest you. Only then will your journey be meaningful. Let success then come as a surprise and a bonus.” As the team has discovered, passion is indeed at the heart of success.

The three students would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Adeline Chia (Education Consultant / Research) and Associate Ellie Lew Yi Ting (16S75) and Joshua Ooi Wei Jin (16S79) Professor Eric Chan Chun Yong and postgraduate student Mr. Aneesh Karkhanis from the National University of Singapore’s Teng Wei Wen (15S70), Khow Yong Zhi (15S7G) and Timothy Ng Yu (15S7H) have done the school proud at the Taiwan Department of Pharmacy for their guidance and support. Yong International Science Fair (TISF), held from 24th to 30th January 2016 in Taipei. Yong Zhi represented the group and presented their Zhi would also like to thank the Ministry of Education (MOE) team project, which was awarded first in the Medicine and Health category. In addition, Yong Zhi clinched the prestigious Young and his MOE mentors. Scientist Award at the competition, the only Singaporean student to have won this award.

1 The team with mentor Dr. Adeline Chia (Education Consultant / Research) 3 Doing our school and nation proud 2 Yong Zhi at the prize presentation ceremony in Taiwan Outstanding Educator Award 14 HIGHLIGHTS Mrs. Chua-Huang Huifen (Education Consultant / Education Technology)

Mrs. Chua is an excellent Mathematics tutor who helped her class to move up the rungs amongst the top quartile in rank in H2 Mathematics. She worked tirelessly to encourage her students to overcome setbacks and succeed against Hwa Chong Honours the odds. Apart from innovatively using technological aids to motivate and engage students, she writes encouraging comments on every script and gives her students small gifts as rewards. She obtained a perfect score in Faculty Outstanding Educators feedback on her term as a Civics Tutor. Furthermore, she played a strategic role in leading her team to support vital data management for the school. and Contributions Mr. Edwin Lim (Senior Teacher / Project Work) HCI acknowledged the sterling efforts from its staff in January 2016 with the Outstanding Educator and Outstanding Contribution Awards. Through their dedication, commitment and sacrifice, these staff members have assiduously nurtured our students and Mr. Lim embodies the passionate educator who is always learning and created a conducive school environment for active learning. Here are the profiles of the award-winners. improving even as he is cultivating his students’ as well as his colleagues’ subject mastery. As a Senior Teacher in Project Work, he has been very committed to mentoring individual teachers who are assigned to him. Mr. Lim actively shares his expertise and best practices in workshops, presentations Outstanding Contribution Award (Individual) and conferences. He is also a mentor in the school’s Cert-In-Ed programme. Playing an integral role in fulfilling the school’s corporate social responsibility, Mr. Lee Cheng Hoe he establishes connections between the school and its partners to organize (Senior Technician / Media Resource) meaningful activities for our beneficiary, Pertapis Children’s Home. Mr. Lee is indispensable in providing support whenever audio-visual requests are made, no matter when they are Mr. Daniel Siew Wenjie made. Always just a phone call away, he renders assistance (Assistant Director / Aphelion Consortium) with good cheer and great efficiency when class equipment fails to operate. At every public event, he or his staff As Aphelion Consortium’s Assistant Director, Mr. Siew’s dedication has representative will be one of the very last people to leave, gained the respect of his students. He implemented innovative practices to ensuring that the equipment is properly shut down and in encourage students to adopt school values. He encourages reflective practices order for the next school day. He serves as an excellent role by empowering students to share concrete examples of these values in action model, evidenced by him receiving the Most Supportive during Consortium assemblies. As a mentor to his students’ Service Learning EAS Award in both 2010 and 2013. Project Integrate, Mr. Siew guided them to meaningfully engage foreign workers. The students attained the E. Paul Torrance Beyonder Award at the Future Problem Solving Program International Conference 2015, an award Ms. Karen Ng given to projects that “outdistance the others so far that they are not even on (Manager / Administration) the same scale.” He is also a coordinator of Future Trends in Project Competition. Ms. Ng is a humble manager who motivates her team to be committed and resourceful in meeting the needs of the Mr. He Changjiang staff for important events and functions. Confident and (PE & Wushu Teacher) passionate about her job, she never fails to greet people enthusiastically and fulfill the administrative tasks at hand. Teacher-IC and coach of the High School’s wushu team, Mr. He has raised Overseeing almost all the events held at the College section both its team spirit and performance skills. To enhance the boys’ appreciation — such as Awards Presentation Day, Graduation Day, of wushu, he made it mandatory for them to learn taiji. He pioneered the Meet-the-Parents Session and 2015’s Work Plan Seminar — idea of conducting a trial competition among both sections and Nanyang she received positive feedback from key personnel for being Girls’ High School to sharpen the team’s competitive instincts. The school’s ‘C’ highly competent. A role model for her staff, she often works Division team subsequently won its first-ever National Schools Championship. till late to ensure that events run as planned. As a PE teacher, he received highly positive feedback from his students. He also mentored the 24 Drums team to win the Japanese Taiko drums National Competition in 2015. 16 HIGHLIGHTS

Outstanding Contribution Award (Team)

English Department Literature Team Founders’ Day Food Drive

The English Department Literature team has achieved outstanding international and national Literature in English results in the GCE The CIP team successfully organized the Founders’ Day Food Drive, which benefitted 400 needy families from the CDAC. Including A-Level Examinations, with a high distinction rate in both 2013 and 2014. The team attained an unprecedented 3-year streak of both sections, this entailed massive coordination with multiple stakeholders, such as the beneficiaries, various Service Learning nurturing the Angus Ross Prize winner. The Prize is awarded to the best performing non-British candidate in the GCE A-Level English groups, uniformed groups, Parent Support Groups and sponsors, to provide a meaningful activity for students to organize, serve Literature examination. The Literature Unit achieved excellence through the careful mentorship of the Senior Consultant of English. and work with the community. The team also organized an environmental awareness activity with the Northwest CDC; students The team’s success can be attributed to the pedagogical development of tutors, vigorous monitoring systems for students, and the learnt the impact of climate change and went door to door to share with residents methods to reduce their carbon footprint and be high dedication of the Literature tutors. environmentally friendly.

Student Development (Leadership Development) High School Science Department

The Leadership Development (LD) Unit serves a crucial role in developing the next generation of leaders. In charge of the Grassroots The High School Science Talent Development Team showed great progress in developing the next generation of scientists. Attachment Programme (GAP), the LD Unit tirelessly works with various grassroots constituencies. It pioneered an innovative method Its success lies in evoking interest amongst students and attaining noteworthy results in prestigious competitions. Notably, some of of crafting an interview evaluation form to provide feedback to students selected for the GAP interview. The Unit also conceptualized these include being champions of the C.B. Paul Memorial Quiz, 2015 Science Eureka, CHAOS, NYP Astronomy Competition and a secure online resource to match students with locations close to their homes. The team coordinates Scholarship Day by working the MOE NUS Amazing Lab Race, and maintaining dominance in international competitions like the Intelligent Ironman Creativity with more than 40 organizations. Finally, the team vets every Student Assessment Report to ensure that fair and consistent ratings Contest and 2015 Molecular Frontiers Inquiry Prize. Such stellar achievements are due to robust talent development programmes, are provided to each applicant. collaboration between teachers and the commitment to nurture talents, coupled with their passion for Science education.

18 CELEBRATION

Hwa Chong Students Beyond attaining outstanding academic results, the Class 3 of 2015 also continued Hwa Chong’s tradition of holistic excellence. Their passion was not just in learning. Despite their busy schedules, many students carved out time to serve Reach New Heights the community with equal fervour, serving an average of 115 hours in community service. This is the highest number in the at the 2015 GCE A-Level Examinations past four years. Principal Dr. Hon Chiew Weng commended them as good role models for their juniors to emulate and 1 2 encouraged them to continue playing an active role in the community even after leaving Hwa Chong.

In addition, 235 students from the Class of 2015 were awarded the Hwa Chong Diploma with Distinction. These students demonstrated exceptional academic promise and displayed excellence in leadership, community service and character – a testament to the culture of all-round excellence upheld by the Hwa Chong community.

Finally, the time came for students to receive their individual result The collection of A-Level results might be the last time the Class slips. The hall buzzed with a palpable sense of both nervousness of 2015 gathered as one. Undoubtedly though, the collective and excitement as students lined up in front of their tutors, who memories forged through their Hwa Chong journey will had stood by them in this arduous but rewarding journey. As continue to bind them, no matter where they may be. Natalie Yu (14S7B) said, “I am thankful for all the opportunities that Hwa Chong has given me in these two years. I am even Panorama congratulates the Class of 2015 and wishes them all more grateful to have had such wonderful and understanding the best in their future endeavours! Yeong Qian Hui 15A14, Cheong Jia Yang, Alex 15S7D tutors, who have supported and guided me tirelessly.”

The Class of 2015 has performed exceedingly well in the 2015 GCE A-Level 4 Examinations, achieving the best results since the first batch of Integrated Programme (IP) students took the A-Levels in 2007. This was no easy feat, given that the bar was regularly raised by their seniors over the years.

The average Hwa Chong student scored a record average University Admissions Point of 85.2, with 6 out of 10 students scoring 3 Higher-2 (H2) Distinctions and above. This makes them eligible for admission to many top universities worldwide. Significant improvements in distinction rates were achieved in half of the 19 H2 subjects offered. These subjects are from both the humanities and sciences, underscoring Hwa Chong’s status as an academic powerhouse.

1 Mr. Lim Junyang with his graduated students 4 Holders of the HCI Diploma with Distinction on stage with Principal Dr. Hon 2 Reaping the fruits of hard work with delight Chiew Weng and Deputy Principals Mrs. Chin Bee Kuan and Mr. Chan Kwok Leong 3 Welcoming home the Class of 2015 Lua Jiong Wei

As President of the Hwa Chong Humanities and Current Affairs Society, Jiong Wei demonstrated 20 holistic growth in College. He juggled multiple responsibilities, and achieved brilliance in each CELEBRATION of them. He brought honour to the school at events such as the National University of Singapore Chancellor's Challenge Shield, and was an accomplished debater as well. He was also part of the Hwa Chong-Asia Pacific Young Leaders Summit’s organizing team. Jiong Wei had a deep Profiles of Some of Our involvement in community work, amply demonstrated by his service to multiple Voluntary Welfare Organisations. He was also a pivotal team member of the Service Learning project Hwa Chong One Day Without Shoes in both 2014 and 2015. In fact, his aspiration of joining the Singapore Police All-Rounded Achievers Force stems from his desire to serve his fellow Singaporeans. A recipient of both the Singapore Police Force Book Prize and the SAF Young Leader Award, Jiong Wei would like to express his gratitude As Hwa Chong celebrates the excellent 2015 GCE A-Level Examinations results, we are proud that the Class of 2015 reached new towards Mrs Giam-Lim Shiau Yean (former Principal Consultant / Humanities) for her guidance. Jiong heights in their academic and non-academic pursuits with verve and style. We feature below the profiles of some of these achievers. Wei has been awarded the Singapore Police Force Scholarship by the Public Service Commission to read Government and Economics at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Nathan Widjaja (16S66), Leong Say Kiat, Conan (16S6A) Jina Lim Jia Xuan

An all-rounded student, Jina took on multiple roles. As the Outdoor Adventure Club’s Quartermaster, she played a major part in further promoting the sports culture in school by helping to organize Tan Wan Ning events such as the Club’s Orientation Hike and the Atlantic Outdoor Challenge. Eager to serve the wider community as well, Jina was also part of the organizing team behind the Citi-YMCA Youth for As Quartermaster of Chinese Dance, Secretary-Treasurer of the Chinese Language Elective Programme Causes Project Food de Joie. Jina attributed her success to her Civics Tutor Mr. Sim Weiheng, her (CLEP) Council and a participant of an Overseas CIP trip to China, Wan Ning boasts a wealth of Higher 3 Chemistry tutor Mr. Wee Chorng Shin (Senior Teacher / Chemistry), and her Knowledge experience in her two years. Wan Ning takes pride in her work, especially in the Chinese language. & Inquiry tutor Mr. U.K. Shyam. She added that she will reminisce the experiences and memories She represented the school at Chinese essay competitions such as the Lien Shih Sheng Youth Chinese she shared with her friends and CCA batchmates for years to come, and encouraged juniors to “try Essay Competition and was an award recipient at the LEP Chinese Essay Writing Competition. In things out and get as much exposure to their preferred career as possible” to make their Hwa Chong recognition of her achievements, she received the MOE Language Elective Programme (LEP) Best journey even more fulfilling. Jina has been awarded the Singapore Armed Forces Scholarship by the Improvement Award and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) Public Service Commission and will be reading Arts and Sciences at University College London (UCL). Academic Excellence Award (LEP). Wan Ning aspires to spread the love for Chinese culture and language as a Chinese teacher after graduation. She would like to thank her Civics Tutor Mrs. Violet Lim Jie Ying (15S76), Loh Wen Jie Zachary (16A12) Teo, “who worked us hard, but worked even harder herself.” She is grateful for Mrs. Teo’s devotion to the class, as she had always supported the class in their every endeavour and attended every class gathering without fail. Wan Ning has been awarded the MOE Teaching Scholarship and will be reading Chinese Language and Literature at Fudan University. Low Ming Loon, Danyon Chiang Yan Qi (16S7D) Juggling both school and Students’ Council commitments is no easy task, especially if you are the Council President. Danyon however has accomplished this impeccably. He successfully led his team to organise several major school events, including the annual Mid-Autumn Festival celebration. Danyon was also the Co-Chairperson of the team behind the prestigious Hwa Chong-Asia Pacific Young Yi Kuishuai Leaders Summit. Despite his busy schedule, Danyon made sure that he allocated time to serve the community too, be it through weekly tutoring sessions for primary school children, or leading OCIP Kuishuai’s many achievements serve as a testament to not only his academic capabilities, but also his Cambodia, when he was the Committee I/C. In recognition of his stellar academic performance and leadership and research skills. The President of the Science Students’ Research Council represented leadership, Danyon was conferred the North West Community Development Council Outstanding the school at various research and mathematics events, and was an award recipient at the Singapore All-Rounder Student (OARS) Award. He was also a recipient of the Singapore Police Force Book Science and Engineering Fair. He also attained the A*STAR JC Science Award in both 2014 and Prize and the Monetary Authority of Singapore JC Award. The gifted writer of the Hwa Chong 2015, and the YDSP Academic Awards for Physics/Mathematics. Kuishuai was the Co-Chairperson Publications Society would like to thank his tutors Mr. Christopher Burge and Dr. Richard John Worrall of the team behind the International Science Youth Forum as well, and successfully guided the team for inculcating in him a curiosity of the world, and his Council teacher Mr. Denson Lo (Education to organize the prestigious event. Ever humble, the Activities I/C of the Science and Math Talent Consultant / Student Development) for nurturing his leadership abilities. Danyon has been awarded Programme (SMTP) Committee credited his achievements to the invaluable guidance of his teachers, the Singapore Armed Forces Scholarship by the Public Service Commission. He will be reading such as his Civics Tutor Ms. Sophie Bobillier (Education Consultant / SMTP). Dispensing advice to Psychology at University College London (UCL). his juniors, Kuishuai stressed the need to remain positive and be always proactive in going beyond one’s comfort zone to challenge oneself. Kuishuai has been awarded the Public Service Commission Agalia Tan (15S65), Wong Yang (16A14) Scholarship to read Economics at the University of Cambridge.

Loh Wen Jie Zachary (16A12), Wong Yang (16A14) 22 INSPIRATION

发扬建国先驱精神 1 ——“缅怀李光耀纪念展”

中四汇聚一班顾博

2015年3月23日，建国总理李光耀先生与世长辞，举接着，潘校长点亮LED灯，正式为特展揭幕。锣鼓国同悲。不知不觉，他离开我们已经一年了，为了表达对声，弦乐声再次响起，师长们开始参观展区。只见展他的怀念以及弘扬他为国奉献的精神，学生理事会特地于板上的内容清楚翔实，条理分明，这些都是学生理事会李先生逝世一周年之际筹办“缅怀李光耀纪念展”。当天煞费苦心做成的。他们将建国先驱精神与华中精神联系上午，升旗礼过后，在弦乐团扣人心弦的乐曲声中，校领在一起，分为“自强不息”、“饮水思源”、“己立立导与老师们移步到钟楼，见证此次活动的进行。人，己达达人”等，详细讲述了李先生一生传奇中体现 2 3 这些可贵精神的不同事迹。负责主持的同学先是扼要介绍李先生的生平，以及他为建设我国所做出的贡献。下来的视频播放，让大家潘校长在致辞时称赞学生理事会的用心和付出，把重温那个风起云涌的时代，李先生如何慷慨激昂地鼓舞特展做得很有意义，十分适合全校同学来学习。在热烈群众一起建设小岛的未来。画面变换着，我们看到了这的掌声中，“缅怀李光耀纪念展”开幕式圆满结束。这个昔日殖民地的贫穷落后，也看到了现代新加坡的繁荣项活动让我们再一次回顾李先生非凡的成就，在纪念他昌盛，鲜明的对比更让我们感受到李先生的功不可没。的同时，也以他为榜样，为国家和后世更美好的前景而在他的带领下，小红点不仅争取到独立，更顺利转型，努力。迅速发展成为国际都会，跻身发达国家的行列。

1 学生理事娓娓讲述建国先驱精神与华中精神的共同点 3 历史画面再现过去的动荡岁月，让我们对现今的安定倍觉感恩 2 伤感抒情的音乐让人不禁勾起对已故建国总理的思念

24 INSPIRATION

2 Champions Again at the PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE CHALLENGE 2016

rating. After a set number of questions had been answered, the To us, the Pharmaceutical Science Challenge was a great school with the lowest score would be eliminated first, leaving learning experience that allowed us to grow not just in terms the remaining two to battle it out for First Place by answering the of our mastery of specific topics, but also in our ability to meet remaining questions. Speed and accuracy, as well as the ability stressful situations with grace and composure. We would like to perform calmly under pressure, were crucial to doing well. to thank our mentor Dr. Yip Cheng Wai (Senior Consultant / Biology & Research) and Mdm Lim Cheng Fui (Senior Manager The Hwa Chong team – consisting of Ooi Ren An (4S2), Timothy / Science Research Centre). Tan (4S3) and myself, Isaac Tan (4S3) – exemplified these traits, and helped the school to retain the title of Pharmaceutical 3 Science Challenge Champions. Although we put in a lot of effort to prepare for the competition, the daunting process of answering in front of a crowd made it harder for us to handle the questions effectively. Fortunately, we managed to overcome this problem by telling each other that if we wanted to get our answers right, we would have to recall what we studied with patience. To qualify for the Grand Final, participants first had to sit for a Isaac Tan Zhe Xian 4S3 preliminary written test, and subsequently a laboratory round that tested the students’ skills in preparing medical prescriptions. Organised by Nanyang Polytechnic’s School of Chemical The three schools with the highest scores from these rounds and Life Sciences, the Pharmaceutical Science Challenge is a were then selected to participate in the Grand Final. relatively new competition – this year is only the second year the competition has taken place – but it provides students a The Grand Final, which took the form of a buzzer quiz, was unique opportunity to extend and test their knowledge of arguably a most unforgettable event. Each team had to select scientific topics. The competition, which took place on 10th and answer questions of varying difficulty in different categories. March 2016, required participants to master topics including As questions with a higher difficulty rating earned participants Greek prescriptions, anatomy, medication and symptoms of more points, contestants had the additional responsibility of common diseases in the context of a community pharmacy. strategizing to select questions of an appropriate difficulty

1 Pharmaceutical Science Challenge Champions 3 A team discussion on the selected question 2 Answering with speed and accuracy

26 INSPIRATION Projecting The process of writing involved extensive research: I penned My biggest takeaway is the writing experience itself, as clichéd sheets of draft outlines and combed through online journals and as it sounds: the novelty of new ideas and information I came articles. There was always more to include, more I could do to across, the passion of delving into something day and night out substantiate and bolster my arguments. It took constant writing of personal interest, and the excitement of creating something Singapore’s and re-writing before and after school for two entire weeks to of my own. I will also not deny that as a student, it is thrilling to emerge with an acceptable version (after no fewer than ten know that there are people, not least professionals in the field drafts and two nerve-wracking major rewrites). that I am interested in, who had thought what I had written was of reasonable quality, and that I had good ideas. Future Prosperity The ‘highlight’ of my writing process was an all-nighter that I pulled the day before the deadline to refine my essay. This In the end, I am grateful to have participated in this competition, – Success at the Monetary Authority of Singapore-Economic in itself would not have been a remarkable occurrence for and for the help I received from Mr. Andrew Tan (Senior Teacher Society of Singapore (MAS-ESS) Essay Competition most students, but I also had a half-day activity the next day / Economics), who gave me much valued feedback, and my that involved plenty of bustling about. Beginning early in parents, who accommodated my irritability and ferried me the morning added to the pressure. I decided to summon all around. I am also thankful to have had wonderful teachers who 1 my resolve to pull through and remarkably, I did. While the taught me so much over the years, especially Mr. Isaac Koh (my experience was certainly straining at the time, such memories Economics tutor), without whose knowledge, I probably would became amongst the most vivid in my JC experience. not have been able to write the same essay.

Yi Ying’s essay can be found on the MAS-ESS Essay Competition website.

Years’, appealed to me instantly. I had always been quite Tan Yi Ying 14A15 interested in writing and was quite inspired by Singapore’s oft-repeated ‘rags-to-riches’ developmental history. ‘Future This article is a reflection piece by the winner of the 2015 edition of the projections’ intrigue me: future cities, transport networks, MAS-ESS Essay Competition. population problems, the 3rd industrial revolution and climate change (from the viewpoint of a Geography student). Above The idea of participating in the MAS-ESS Essay Competition, all, I had learnt much about Singapore’s economy from class themed ‘A New Economic Model for Singapore’s Next 50 and other readings.

1 Yi Ying receiving her prize from Minister 2 Award winners celebrating with the Guest-of-Honour for Trade and Industry (Industry) Mr. S Iswaran

28 INSPIRATION

2 Pleasure over Pressure

The Award means very much to Ms. Nada, as it is proof and her voice. Thirdly, try different sorts of media. Look in unlikely a reaffirmation that she can draw, well enough in fact to be places (both physically and figuratively) and challenge recognized by judges who practise the art professionally. This yourself to go in a very big or very small way. Finally, be is a reminder that nobody is lousy at anything; it is all about quirky, be weird, be wacky… and always be kind. finding the right avenue to express ourselves.

Today, she is an inspiration to those around her. Her children 3 aspire to take part in the UOB Painting of the Year competition, and she hopes that they will continue to believe in themselves William Chng Li Yang 4A1 and see that anything is possible as long as they are willing to try.

Hwa Chong congratulates one of our Biology and Lower her thoughts by looking for motifs or symbols in life, before To her students who are interested in art, Ms. Nada has a few Secondary Science teachers, Ms. Nada Nurwani Ng, on translating these ideas into her drawings. Hence, the title of pieces of advice. Firstly, sometimes all it takes is a moment attaining the Bronze Award at the 34th United Overseas Bank her prize-winning artwork represents the conscious effort on her of craziness to start, and a streak of stubbornness to see it (UOB) Painting of the Year 2015, one of the most prestigious part to choose pleasure over pressure in life. through. Secondly, one shouldn’t pursue art or creative work art competitions in Southeast Asia. for the sake of the subject, because the motivation must come Ms. Nada shared that the competition was initially a little from within, and the reason for pursuing art must be very The prize winning painting, “Pleasure/Pressure”, was inspired intimidating because all the other prize winners had spent so personal. Then, and only then, will an aspiring artist find his/ by “a moment of craziness,” when Ms. Nada decided many years practising and honing their skills. Who was she to to purchase a piece of canvas and started to “pour out her enter with just her marker? But then she realised she too had been negative energies through a marker nib.” According to Ms. practising for the past 20 years with her markers to be able to Nada, paradoxically, her stress and negative energies fuel her draw the way she does today. She stressed, “Just learn first and art. When she feels down, she makes it a point to organize do. You never know when that skill set you acquired can come in handy in a different situation somewhere down the road.”

1 Ms. Nada Nurwani Ng 3 Ms. Nada with Deputy Prime Minister & Coordinating Minister for National Security 2 The prize-winning Pleasure/Pressure Mr. Teo Chee Hean at the Prize Presentation Ceremony

30 INSPIRATION Capturing the Imagination 1 2 through Math HBL

Vayers Sean Lim 2P2

“Math is the mother of all sciences. It will always be.” This was In the first session, the package gives students multiple what the 2015 Lower Secondary Mathematics Home-Based options or ways to complete a discovery task. This task was Learning (HBL) team said, when asked about the significance of designed to help students come to a basic understanding of Mathematics in today’s world. The team won the award for the the Theorem. The design of the task takes into consideration Best HBL Package in 2015, and were invited to present their students’ differing interests and readiness: students who are learning package at the 2016 HC-NY IP Education Conference. visual learners watch videos explaining the concept, while students who enjoy learning in a hands-on way are given The 2015 HBL team consists of the following teachers from triangles to cut up and paste back together in order to the High School Mathematics Department: Ms. Wun Wen-Li understand the Theorem. (Senior Consultant / Student Development), Mdm Tham Siang Wah, Ms. Tong Bee Yen, Mr. Chen Zenghui, Mrs. Ooi-Lim After that, students have to complete a worksheet which guides Teong Lin and Ms. Siew Yee Peng. Amusingly but fittingly, them to see the real-life application of Pythagoras' Theorem in when the team members were asked how long they have been one of their favourite sports – soccer. Each session ends with a teaching, they replied in terms of Mean (15 years), Median reflection which prompts the student to adopt a meta-cognitive (14 years), and even Mode (nil result). These are passionate view of their learning. The reflection also serves as a means Math teachers indeed! for the HBL team to refine the package by gathering feedback. The team is very pleased that the students benefitted from Their award-winning package consists of a home-based learning the package, and that many students reacted very positively The application of mathematics to the real world and our daily lives cannot be emphasised enough; as Ms. Tong shared, “Math lesson and activities designed for the Secondary One cohort. towards the package. not only trains logical reasoning, but also helps us recognize mistakes in thinking or errors in arguments, and is a powerful tool The lesson revolves around Pythagoras’ Theorem. The pedagogy for understanding the world where patterns abound. To me, the process of solving math problems holds the key to solving life’s underpinning the HBL package is Differentiated Instruction and problems — a solution is always there once we’ve learned to process the information given.” the lesson is meant to be completed over two sessions.

1 (from left) Ms. Wun Wen-Li (Senior Consultant / Student 2 (from left) Ms. Tong Bee Yen, Mr. Chen Zenghui and Development), Mdm Tham Siang Wah and Ms. Siew Yee Peng Mrs. Ooi-Lim Teong Lin 32 INSPIRATION

辩以明理， 2 论以会友 ——我校辩论队勇夺2016年狮城杯中学组亚军

1 两年一度的狮城杯辩论赛是本地中学辩论圈的盛中四双文化一班的陈致远说：“我们每晚都事。为了做好充分的准备，学长李士达特地筹办了校内留在校内讨论，有争得面红耳赤，相持不下的时选拔赛，挑选并训练具潜力的辩论员。此外，我们也有候，但也享受妙语如珠，说服对方的快乐。我们更幸请到辩论经验丰富的万华明老师。尽管他白天的教学了解彼此，领略团队合作的重要性。我们学会相信工作异常繁忙，仍然每晚前来华中，帮忙剖析辩题，无对方，学会分担，所以胜负还是其次，参赛的过程偿地陪我队挑灯夜战。他们不辞辛劳的付出令人感佩。以及和友队结下的情谊，才是真正的瑰宝。”

3 小组赛里，我们的对手分别是海星中学和莱佛士女中，经过激烈的交锋，我们有惊无险地以小组第一的成绩出线。半决赛，我们对垒南华中学，辩题是《应不应该鼓励中小学生参加校外补习》，最终以二比一的成绩打进决赛，创下了我校辩论队多年来出战狮城杯的最佳成绩。决赛的对手是南洋女中，该校辩论队向来水平很中四人文一班陈翰勋高，交手后发现果然是名不虚传，互相切磋，收获颇丰。

3月20日，新加坡国立大学第二十七讲堂里，南洋女中代表与我校辩论队就“学校应不应该向老师收取停车费”的论题，展开一场唇枪舌剑。女将们本着从严治国，杜绝贪腐的立场，毫不留情地坚持收取费用的观点。而男士们则是旁征博引，晓之以理，动之以情，力陈不应收费的理由。两队过招，吸引观众与评判团竖耳聆听，点头叫好。胜负揭晓，我队拿下中学组亚军。

1 奖杯是团队智慧的结晶 3 胸有成竹，反应敏捷的我校辩手 2 赛后跟友校同学合影

34 INSPIRATION chess 2 and life Chan Jin Kai 2P2 1

In November 2015, the Hwa Chong Chess Club participated in the 56th National Inter-Schools Team Chess Championships and achieved inculcated through this challenging mind sport: best in every game, not because of the desire for selfish gain, commendable results. but because we wish to win for our friends, teachers and families. 自强不息 (tireless self-improvement with tenacity, innovation Our ‘C’ Division team – comprising Carwyn Yeo (2A2), Heng Zheng and passion): One can never excel without constant self-improvement. International Chess may seem like a simple board game with Kai (2O2), Chan Jin Kai (2P2), Kong Dak Nam (3O1) and Eugene Low It is the humility to recognise that one always has room for 64 squares and 16 pieces. However, beneath each square (3P1) – was first in the West Zone, and first runner-up at the National improvement that actually puts one ahead of the pack. With and hidden inside each piece are important values which will level. The ‘B’ Division team – comprising Jerome Chan (3P3), Tan Jun Hao humility comes the willingness to continuously seek new ways build a truly powerful man, one who is “powerful” not in the (3P3), Luo Ling Ke (3S1), Tin Jing Yao (4S1) and Brendan Ng (16S7J) – to become a better player. simplistic sense that he has rank and authority, but in the sense was crowned champions at both the Zonal and National levels. that he is driven by the proper values. 己立立人, 己达达人 (win-win): Playing a chess game is always Jin Kai from the ‘C’ Division team shares his reflections as a a win-win scenario, regardless of the results. Should one win, chess player. he is able to determine the effectiveness of his strategies. 3 Should one lose, he learns something which can help him I picked up international chess in Primary 4, and this very simple improve his game. Playing chess also allows one to make game has changed my life. In fact, chess is just like life; the friends, be it in a competition arena, training hall, or even a possibility of losing is always present. One can make a mistake park. This mind sport provides many opportunities for growth, even if one has, for the moment, an absolutely winning position. both mentally and socially. But you just have to go on, look towards the future and play your very best in the next game or tournament. And at the moment 饮水思源 (never forget the source from which you drink water): when your name is called for you to walk onstage and receive a With every move a Hwa Chong student makes on the chess prize, the realization that you have done Hwa Chong proud is in board, he remembers the support given by the school, the love itself an acknowledgment of your hard work. provided by his family, and the encouragement from his peers. I have realised that many of our school values are actually subtly We members of the Chess Club thus constantly strive to do our

1 Analyzing the board before making a move 3 Discussing chess stratagems 2 Celebrating their wins at the 56th National Inter-Schools Team Chess Championships

36 INSPIRATION Fruitful Experience in Chinese Chess Huang Zhizhou 4B1

2 A silent hall. Both contestants’ hearts were galloping at twice the rate of the ticking clock. The stakes were high: this was the Jurong Junior College (JJC) Chinese Chess Cup, It has been a good year for the Hwa Chong Chinese Chess held every year in early April. Club. Besides the JJC Chinese Chess Cup, the Club also attained commendable results at the 21st “Char Yong Cup” The board depicted a very complicated situation which Students Xiangqi Championships and the Hwa Chong Mind would require several hours to analyse thoroughly. However, Sports Tournament. In the latter competition, the Club achieved there were only mere minutes left for both competitors. It felt a podium sweep, attaining all three top team awards in the like a battlefield, with chariots and horses advancing upon Secondary School category. the orders from the King. Finally, the Hwa Chong competitor ordered his chariot to retreat. This first garnered gasps of Club members also strive to broaden their horizons and disbelief from the crowd, which were soon followed by improve themselves by participating in diverse open-category nods of approval. It was a move that did not make sense competitions. In September 2015, the Club attained a at first — yet it coordinated all the pieces into satisfying prestigious 4th placing at the Albert Complex Team Competition 1 positions for a better counter-attack, exemplifying one of (Open Category). the strategies mentioned in Sun Tzu’s Art of War: “以退为进” 3 (progressing by retreating). However, trophies are not the most important thing that Club members take away after spending their four years here. It is the The stage was set for the final battle and the contestants friendships forged during their time together that they treasure. made their moves: cannons exchanged fire as both sides The in-depth discussions they shared about chess strategies, the prepared for final waves of attack. Both contestants had times they played football together after CCA training sessions, only sixty seconds left on their clocks. They thus had to react the encouragement they gave each other during competitions instantaneously and instinctively. Chariots fell and after – these are the memories that will stay with them forever, the the most significant troops disappeared from the board, memories that make the experience with the Chinese Chess the battlefield grew calmer. A victor duly emerged. The Club an especially fruitful one. competitors shook hands, thanking each other for a game well played. The competition ended with Hwa Chong lifting the Overall Team Champion trophy.

1 A track record of victories and triumphs 3 The Chinese Chess Club Student Exco 2 Pitting their skills 38 PASSION

In her opening address at the ISYF Nobel Forum, Guest of 3 Discussing the Language Honour Ms. Indranee Rajah (Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Law) stressed that communication within the scientific community is the foundation of scientific of Science at the advancements. While each scientist may be an expert in his or her respective field of study, it is often necessary to weave together multiple disciplines of science to create a holistic th package of solutions to address the problems of today. 8 ISYF Nobel In a world where the general public is increasingly gaining access to scientific findings and scientists are also reaching out to the public to garner support for their research, there is also an increased need for effective and accurate 4 correspondence between the public and scientists. Professor Forum Bertil Andersson (President of the Nanyang Technological University), moderator of the panel discussion, highlighted the different aspects of communication that are pertinent to 1 the scientific community. Clickbait (sensationalised content on the Internet), for instance, was denounced by Professor David Jonathan Gross, the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physics awardee, for giving readers false hope. "Don't believe everything," Prof. Andersson further urged, asserting that a discerning mind is most vital.

Similarly, Professor Ei-ichi Negishi, who was awarded In response to the problem of frequent miscommunication the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2010, stressed that good between the scientific community and the public, Professor sci-fi works can stimulate the public’s interest in science by Jerome Isaac Friedman, who was awarded the 1990 Nobel expressing scientific concepts in an interesting and public- Prize in Physics, proposed fellowships and symposiums friendly way. However, he warned against works that are for journalists like those held at the Massachusetts factually incorrect and unrealistic. Institute of Technology. These sessions aim to minimise such miscommunication by establishing a strong working 2 relationship between the scientific fraternity and the media.

Finally, when asked if scientific communication should focus on academic rigour or being relatable, the panel agreed that scientific communication is most efficient when it is succinct. Professor John Robin Warren, the 2005 Nobel Prize in Physiology/Medicine awardee, quipped, "If it's more than 25 Chiang Yan Qi 16S7D words, don't bother.”

From 17th to 21st January 2016, more than a hundred students from all over the world gathered at Hwa Chong Institution (HCI) The Nobel Forum ended on an optimistic note that with the for the 8th International Science Youth Forum (ISYF). Organised by HCI and Nanyang Technological University’s Institute of effort of every scientist, the world would be able to truly marry Advanced Studies, the theme for this year’s Forum was "Communicating Science.” As Co-Chairperson of the ISYF 2016 Student science with public understanding in the near future. Organizing Committee Wong Shi Le (15S7B) emphasized, it is vital for ambassadors of science to engage each other and the public in an accurate and meaningful way.

1 Ms. Indranee Rajah (Senior Minister of State, 2 Moderator Professor Bertil Andersson (President 3 Sharing a lighthearted moment Ministry of Finance & Ministry of Law) stressing the of the Nanyang Technological University) and the 4 An inquisitive questioner need for clearer communication panellists sharing their views Professor David Jonathan Gross is highly regarded as one of the pioneers of string theory. Professor David 40 He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2004 for the discovery of asymptotic freedom Jonathan Gross PASSION in particle physics. As rewarding as it is to make major scientific discoveries though, Prof. Gross emphasized that it is even more important for scientists to be ethical in their research. To him, current checks and balances are sufficient; every scientist values his or her reputation, Wisdom And Advice from the and to be caught cheating would discourage other scientists from collaborating with him or her. Such collaboration is vital if scientists wish to produce good work. Prof. Gross also encouraged budding researchers to “be curious, passionate, and, most importantly, persevering in their research.” Failure is merely an inevitable part of every research journey, and everyone should be ready to fail. As he quoted from Albert Einstein, “If you enjoy what you do, then you’ll find that things aren’t too bad after all.” Einstein is Prof. Gross’ source of Nobel Laureates personal inspiration. Despite spending half his lifetime as an unsuccessful scientist, Einstein constantly rebounded with marvellous enthusiasm. To Prof. Gross, it was this resilience that Every year, the International Science Youth Forum (ISYF) provides a platform for Nobel Laureates to share with young enabled Einstein to achieve groundbreaking success. scientists their knowledge and inspire them to excel in the scientific disciplines. Our writers spoke to the following Nobel Tan Yi Lin, Isabella 15A15, Cheong Jia Yang, Alex 15S7D Laureates at the Forum.

Many would recognise Sir Anthony James Leggett as the eminent scientist who Sir Anthony James Leggett was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2003 for pioneering contributions Professor Ei-ichi Negishi Professor Ei-ichi Negishi is a Japanese organic chemist who has spent much of his scientific to the theory of superconductors and superfluids. What many might not know, career in the United States. Known for his work in organic compound synthesis, he received however, is that Prof. Leggett’s foray into the field of physics was an unusual one the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2010 with fellow chemists Dr. Richard F. Heck and Professor that started from the arts. Prof. Leggett was originally on his way to becoming a Akira Suzuki for his achievements in palladium catalyzed cross couplings in organic synthesis. professional philosopher. However, he felt that philosophy was too subjective. Prof. Negishi is grateful to his mentor, the 1979 Nobel Prize Winner for Chemistry Professor Physics presented itself as a viable alternative that had both the definite element he Herbert C. Brown, for shaping his scientific worldview; Prof. Brown had explained to Prof. desired as well as the infinite realms of possibilities that intrigued him. Armed with Negishi that scientific inquiry was like a little “acorn growing into a tall oak,” where a single his training in the humanities, Prof. Leggett approaches physics with a philosophical instance of conceptual stimulus could transform into branches of investigation, and flower into mindset, challenging established assumptions which many presume to be true. new knowledge. With this advice in mind, Prof. Negishi drew inspiration from Lego bricks, His ceaseless questioning led to his novel discoveries in the superconductivity of likening the way they could be attached together to the interaction between molecules. To Prof. helium superfluids. It is perhaps no surprise that at the end of the interview, Prof. Negishi, the essence of research is to seek breakthroughs and explore uncharted ground, Leggett encouraged aspiring scientists to not “answer a question already posed thus increasing its value to current scientific knowledge. Researchers should always strive to but to find the right question to ask.” Scientists need to find the right questions to achieve new heights in their respective fields, and avoid repackaging facts in obscure jargon. ask about scientific concepts and notions, even those as fundamental as time itself. Science must remain understandable and communicable to the general public. Only then can they make progress in finding ways to benefit humanity further. Edgar Foo Zern Hon 15S70, Tan Wei Ern, Jonathan 15S75 Agalia Tan 15S65, Peh Sihui, Sheryl 15S74

Professor Carlo Rubbia Professor Carlo Rubbia might have won the 1984 Nobel Prize in Physics for his What fuels Sir Tim Hunt’s passion? Prof. Hunt, who received the 2001 Nobel Prize in Sir Tim Hunt contributions to the discovery of W and Z particles, but it was actually by chance Physiology/Medicine for the discovery of key regulators of the cell cycle, termed it as the that he stumbled into his profession. He said, “I feel that it was just very natural for desire “to know the answer." He named his friend and fellow Nobel Laureate Stanley Cohen me to do physics and engineering research, but it was not a conscious decision. as an example, whom he found toiling away in the laboratory even at an advanced age. In I fell in love with science and enjoyed my work.” What stood out most throughout Cohen’s words, there is an intense “pain and suffering” when one does not know the answer. the interview was Prof. Rubbia’s humility – a distinctive trait for one who has That unrelenting curiosity and insatiable thirst for knowledge serve as a constant source of ascended to the top of his field. When asked about his winning of the Nobel Prize, motivation for Prof. Hunt. He sees many questions that remain to be answered, and every Prof. Rubbia glossed over his achievement. “The purpose of my work is not to once in a while, he discovers something that makes the effort all worthwhile. When asked for win any prizes, but to make new discoveries and contributions. I was lucky to get advice, he urged scientists to take small steps and not go right to the heart of the matter, as the the Nobel Prize so quickly.” It is this down-to-earth nature that has allowed Prof. answer “often lies through a very winding route, rather than a straightforward one.” Prof. Hunt Rubbia to meet unflinchingly the adversities in his path. The interview ended with also dispensed advice regarding scientific education. He believes that teaching science well him providing valuable advice to young scientists: “Don’t be discouraged even if is centered around the difficult task of finding a balance between depth versus breadth and your pursuit fails. It is okay if the path you end up on is not the same as the one practical application versus theory. But the most important thing, he continued with a jovial you chose.” chuckle, is that students must have fun.

Zhao Jiayi 15A15, Lim Jie Ying 15S76 Sun Xuerui 14S60, Lin Yulong 14S7D 42 PASSION

2 Guts and Glory – Triumph at the 2016 National Inter-School Track AND Field Championships

3 4

As important as results and achievements may be, the values The athletes were not alone in this journey. The Hwa Chong displayed by the athletes were far more significant. As Claudia Sng family, an important source of support throughout the (15S7C), Captain of the ‘A’ Division girls’ team, aptly put it, “What competitive season, was out in full force on the final day of the matters are not the results, but the journey. Each of us has given our Championships at the National Stadium. Students stood beside 100% and more, despite the multiple setbacks we faced.” teachers and alumni, all cheering our athletes on. “Everyone cares for one another,” commented alumnus Mr. Tan Lin Keat. Yeo Teng Wei (16A15), Wong Yi Jie (16S72) Indeed, the journey was not a smooth one, with the ‘A’ Division boys’ team Captain Joseph Zhao (15S68) noting that “injuries had This is the camaraderie that unites the Hwa Chong family. This Hwa Chong’s Track and Field team has once again achieved stellar results at the National Inter-School Track plagued many in our team.” Despite such setbacks, the athletes same spirit is also emblematic of the Hwa Chong Track and Field and Field Championships. The ‘B’ Division boys reclaimed the Championship title after three years, while the ‘C’ pressed on and fought tooth and nail. Darylene Tay (15S73), who team, with alumni like Mr. Tan and Captain of the 1986 team Division boys won the Championship title for the 16th year running. This is the 31st time since 1968 that the team competed in the 400m hurdles, rejoined the sport only last year after Mr. Li Fushun returning to support their juniors, and also joining has clinched both the ‘B’ and ‘C’ Division Championship titles. sustaining multiple injuries over the past few years, including a torn them in their post-Championship dinner. Indeed, many of the anterior cruciate ligament. Her tenacity and diligence in training alumni continue to actively provide support in various capacities. In the ‘A’ Division, the teams fought valiantly despite fierce competition. The tenacity and resilience of both the for the Championships and her never-say-die attitude inspired her boys’ and girls’ teams earned them impressive runner-up positions. peers. Meanwhile, sprinter Irving Alexander de Boer (4P1) seriously "No matter what happens, we will work hard and move injured his hamstring twice before the Championships. Unfazed, he forward together," said the Captain of the 'B' and ‘C’ Division continued to train hard after his recovery and won a bronze medal boys' teams Hong Wen-Kai (4O2). May the Track and Field in the 400m sprints event. team march on and do Hwa Chong proud!

1 A sprinting start 3 Flying the Hwa Chong flag proudly 2 The Track and Field family 4 Mr. Tan Lin Keat with our student writers Wong Yi Jie (left) and yeo Teng Wei at the post-Championship dinner 44 PASSION

导演王嘉瑞学长和方舒颖学姐让我们演一场告白的戏。 2 对于没有感情经验的我来说确实是很大的挑战。我试着光影交织的微电影想象溶月的心情，把自己代入角色中。出乎意料的是导演对我的演技颇为满意，把我的角色定了下来。

《埋在时光里的爱情》拍摄的日期订在6月假期的第三周。真正参与拍摄，我才知道过程是如此艰辛磨人、有时甚至是枯燥乏味的。荧幕上光鲜亮丽的一分钟，拍摄时至少都要一小 1 时。但是最累的其实不是我，而是导演，他们扛着沉重的摄影器材，还要确保画面不晃。更何况他们当时也正忙着准备考试，他们为语特付出的精神，令人钦佩。这种热爱与专注，相信很少人能做得到。开始几天的进度较慢是因为我们都是第一次尝试拍微电影，很多事情都 3 得自己琢磨、解决；后来几天就轻松多了。对我来说最大的挑战是演哭戏，在镜头前说哭就哭真的很考演技。

紧张又忙碌的拍摄告一段落后，接下来的重担落在了同学林慈暄（15S6Q）和张恩齐（15S71）的身上。她俩除了安排我们录音外、还不辞劳苦地帮忙挑选、整理拍好的片段，配上适当的音效，并把字幕逐字打上去。另一位不可或缺的灵魂人物是美术部特级咨询陈上游主任，他为作品做最重要的剪辑。这部微刘嘉琳 15S6Q 电影的剧本和主题曲都是原创，而化妆师、摄影师、 4

2月26日，一群语特同学、校友和老师齐聚华中第式。这一段感情也就无奈告终。最后在年轻作家溶月的录音师、后期制作等，都是由多才多艺的同学一手包三讲堂，参加为庆祝语文特选课程（简称语特）创办25 新书发布会上，他们相遇了，但是却不认识对方。办。大多数同学都是第一次在首映礼上看到完整的版周年而特别制作的《埋在时光里的爱情》的首映礼。这本，心中满是兴奋和感动。第一次参与微电影制作就

部微电影讲述一段因交错的时光而造成的爱情悲剧。一作为戏中女主角，没有想到已重看N遍的画面，依有这么不错的成果，这是我们也没有想到的。这个制个文采很好，热爱创作的女生溶月，把自己的日记本放然会如斯触动心弦，最后几幕我热泪盈眶，泪水不听使作汇集了众多人的心血。我们的付出是为了感谢语特在学校的储物柜里；不料柜子竟可以穿越时空，25年唤簌簌落下。这眼泪蕴含了太多太多的情感——有最初的悉心栽培，为我们营造亲近华文文学的契机与环前同样使用这个储物柜的男生沐阳，得以看到溶月的日的担心、拍摄时的辛苦、录音时的享受、到首映时的感境。谨借年度制作微电影送上诚挚的祝福，愿语特课记。从此，他们就通过在日记本里留言的方式来沟通，动，这一切都成了我高中生涯最美好的回忆。还记得去程薪火相传，语特精神发扬光大！渐渐地互生情愫。但他们并不知道彼此不在同一个时空年5月，我怀着忐忑的心去试镜。走进去时还在犹豫，里。当储物柜被拆之后，他们失去了唯一可以联络的方因为我没有在镜头前演戏的经验，我怕演不好。还记得

1 沐阳完全不知道自己和溶月是生活在不同时空的人 3 老树下苦候，却永远也等不到梦中人的出现 2 女主角溶月（中）和同班好友分享心事 4 这部风格清新的微电影记录了年轻学子最美好的青春回忆 46 PASSION

With HCMAS meant to be as close a simulation of an 2 actual regional conference as possible, delegates engaged in debates, drafted Declarations (policy statements), and Developing lobbied for other delegates’ support. The delegates discussed in detail a wide range of salient challenges confronting the ASEAN region and its partners, such as economic transition and freedom of speech in political dissent. It was thus a good opportunity for both local and foreign student delegates to focus on ASEAN-specific issues. For example, the escalating Capacities tension over the question of dominance in the South China Sea is a problem that is of major interest to all countries at the hwa chong model asean summit within the ASEAN region, but it may not be given special attention at other Conferences or MUNs with different 1 perspectives and concerns.

HCMAS also built various student capacities. For instance, 3 HCMAS allowed first-time student delegates to familiarise themselves with Council protocols. All delegates, regardless of experience, also honed the negotiation skills so necessary in the modern workplace. Delegates learnt too to balance their country’s own national interests with ASEAN’s interests as a region – exemplifying the Hwa Chong “win-win” mindset. Furthermore, HCMAS was a platform for student delegates from home and abroad to interact and build relationships with those of different races and cultures. HCMAS was truly an enriching and fulfilling experience, with participants developing their capacities in the critical, creative, as well as caring domains.

Low Yu Teng 4S3 4

The Hwa Chong Model ASEAN Summit (HCMAS) brings together student delegates from various ASEAN countries and gives them the opportunity to understand the challenges facing the ASEAN region by experiencing the process of policy-crafting. This year, the 14th edition of the event was held from 7th to 11th March 2016.

At the five-day conference, student delegates engaged in a simulation of diplomatic work by representing countries within ASEAN and five of the organisation’s partners (China, the United States, Australia, Japan and South Korea). As in an actual United Nations conference, the delegates were split into various Committees, such as a Peace and Security Committee and an Environment Council. Each Committee was chaired by a student Director and one or two student Assistant Directors, all of whom were chosen based on the significant experience they had amassed in attending and facilitating Model United Nations (MUNs), events organised along the lines of United Nations conferences. They had the important task of driving debate along the right direction during the five-day conference.

1 Delegates from Jurong Secondary School 3 Delegates from Mahidol University International Demonstration School, Thailand 2 Representing Myanmar and Japan on security issues 4 Welcoming the delegates 48 PASSION

表现语言艺术之美 2 3 的诗歌朗诵

为了这次特别的表演，南艺学生下了许多功夫，经过多次排练，最终完成了一场精彩的表演，也让华中子弟获益匪浅。表演组长汤希铭说：“这次的活动是想让更多学生接触并认识语言艺术之美。”然而在过程中，困难与挑战在所难免。他也提到参与的学生很多，在排练中很难配合，幸而他们都有共同的目标，即把演出做到最好，因此，坚持排练，直到所有表演者都能够配合，技巧也不断进步。

我校一贯注重学生华文华语的学习和应用，强调对中华文化知识的掌握及对华文表演艺术的鉴赏。许多刚升上来的中一新生平日鲜少观赏这类诗歌朗诵。因此，这次的表演让他们耳目一新，认识到新的语言艺术形式。在观看的过程中，学生们时而拍手称赞，时而目不转中三双文化一班冯秉韬睛，非常投入。主办这次活动的杨文仲老师指出：“诗歌朗诵表演的样式和平时的话语表达不一样，不太容易看得到，这次南艺学生表演 1月25日，南洋艺术学院一群表演者来我校呈献诗歌朗诵表演。围绕着“狮城随想”的主题，他诗歌朗诵，可以让中一学生对这种艺术有进一步的了解。”校方希望们所选的诗词是由新加坡文艺协会推荐的本地独立后诗人的作品。这些表演者是南艺戏剧系（华语让这类文化活动继续在校园蓬勃开展，也希望学生在丰富的文化氛围戏剧）专业二年级学生，由郭亮老师导演。他们通过诗文，以浅显易懂的方式描绘出新加坡的景点、中，培养学习华文华语的热忱。平常人的生活、人与人之间的对话等等。观众边聆听，边在心里想象表演者以文字描绘的画面。表演的过程中，多有变化：有一人单独领诵，有两人一起合诵，也有齐声朗诵。表演者抑扬顿挫，声情并茂，活灵活现，引人入胜。不仅如此，他们彼此间的对话也非常风趣，具有本地的特色。最让人难忘的是其中两位表演者还以不同的方言沟通，着实精彩!

1 诗歌朗诵给中一学生留下难忘的印象 3 南艺学员为呈献精彩的节目付出了时间和心血 2 台上表演的作品都是建国后的诗词，富有本地特色 50 PASSION 翰墨飘香

今年的活动非常成功，我们一共为医院的社区基 2 金（TTSH Community Fund）募得近千元，几乎是前年善款的两倍。当天，鲜艳的红纸也为医院带来喜庆色献爱心彩，而许多春联上也写着我们真诚祝愿病人早日康复的祝福。也许我们不像医生那样可以为人疗伤止痛，但我们都尽自己所能，为病友加油打气。何嘉欣 15S70 胡心淳 15S7D 1

2月5日，我校书画研究会在陈笃生医院举行春联义本次活动之所以成功，除了全体会员的努力，也要卖，我们不仅想把佳节的快乐气氛带入医院，也希望能把感谢南中学妹们抽空下来帮忙写字，以及华中校友大方写好的书法作品卖给公众，为医院的低收入病友筹款，一捐赠写春联的精致红纸。从活动中，我们感受到学校提 3 举两得。一早，医院大厅里人来人往，可大家都行色匆倡的道德教育并非课本上的教条，而是真正的“德育在匆，有些人的脸上还略带着焦虑的神情，总让人觉得气氛于行动”。我们不仅为陈笃生医院募集善款，自己也在低沉。这次的社区服务中学习成长，收获良多。南中的蔡诗敏认为，这次活动不仅能将春节的祥和之气带给人，还能

活动正式开始，我们陆续写好春联，围观者也渐渐多让人们也行善，可谓一举两得。书画研究会总务肖淞元了起来。不一会儿，写出的作品越来越多，铺满了长长的（15S7J）则觉得，大家对这项慈善活动的支持令他感桌子。撒金龙纹的红纸给医院带来了别样的生命力，那一动，正因为有那么多有爱心的人，新加坡社会才如此和抹红色点亮了大厅，吸引了不少人的眼球。他们有的停下谐美好。华中书画研究会将努力把书法艺术传承下去，来与我们交谈，有的细细斟酌着哪幅作品更加称心，有的为社群做出更大的贡献。静静站在一边，看我们挥舞着毛笔。当他们得知这是为医院筹款时，许多人的脸上流露出赞许的微笑，纷纷慷慨解囊，掏钱买下春联。我们也备受鼓舞，为他们介绍春联的内容，尽力为他们写出最美的字。大家的支持让我们无比感动，我们甚至幸运地碰到一位在医院任职的校友，为我们买来饮料，给炎热的午后捎来一丝清凉。

1 充满喜庆色彩的春联吸引人们驻足观赏 3 这项活动圆满成功，南中学妹出力不少 2 同学向公众解释红纸上吉祥语的意思 52 PASSION 华中华乐团倾情呈献

当晚，表演的曲目非常多元化，有台湾作曲家卢亮律霎时就把观众带进红楼世界，去体会小说人物如泣辉创作，表达孩提的无忧无虑和赤子之心的《童年的回如诉的命运之歌。华乐团副主席张佩仪（15S6Q）则忆》；有沙巴音乐家江赐良谱写，讲述了中国寡妇山名说道：“音乐会让我印象最深刻的是准备的过程，从确 “天籁回音之称的由来，并歌颂伟大爱情的《神山传奇》；有描述大定主题到选曲，都要跟不同的老师、指导员和同学讨山的幽远神秘，以及四季变化的《溟山》，以及通过音论。在这期间，我们也遇到一些挑战，如更换曲目，练乐叙事手法完美描绘楚汉之争金戈铁马激烈战况的压轴习上的难题。但是大家都互相帮助，共同为目标奋斗。曲《十面埋伏》。小组表演的乐曲亦取自不同的地域，这场音乐会为我高中的华乐生涯画上了完美的句号。” 蝉琴蚓笛” 有严铁明改编的，富云南少数民族色彩的《渔歌》、具广东特色的《旱天雷》和四川民歌风情的《乡谣》等。 2 1

由打击乐小组带来的《七连音之旅》是音乐会的亮点。曲子的前半段铿锵有力，节奏感十足。到了后半段，场上的灯光顿时全灭，鼓手将手中的荧光灯点亮。蓝白色的灯光随着表演者的动作，在黑暗中跳跃穿梭，犹如萤火虫般，配合那欢快的节奏，为表演增加了趣味性。舞动的光点吸引了观众的眼球，让人目不转睛，全 2 神贯注。整场音乐会结束前，在观众热烈的“安可”声 3 中，乐团演奏了返场曲。当陈达扬改编的《黄城颂》响起，配合激昂的打气口号，让人充分感受强烈的华中精神，把气氛推向高潮，也让演奏会圆满落下帷幕。

杨舒婷 16S6Q 华乐爱好者梁之洋（16S6Q）认为全场曲目的排序恰当让人仿佛感受到音乐的洗礼，她最喜欢的是《红 6月4日，漫天飘洒的阵雨并没有稍减华中华乐团百多位乐手与幕后工作人员的热忱，更没有浇熄爱乐者冒雨前楼梦序曲》和《葬花吟》的悲剧美感，那哀怨抒情的旋来聆听丝竹雅乐的兴致。在新落成的华中文化中心现代化的演艺厅里，全场爆满，座无虚席。7时40分，在指挥魏砚铭老师的带领下，乐团展现了超常的技艺，为近700名观众带来难忘的金声玉韵！本次公演的主题是《天籁回音之蝉琴蚓笛》，演出的除了在籍团员外，不少毕业多年的团友也纷纷回来效力。为了把最好的节目呈献给观众，他

们不辞辛劳坚持每周聚在一起练习，表现了对乐团的支持和对华乐的执着。

1 由魏砚铭老师执棒，华乐团成功演绎不同风格的乐曲 3 团友们踊跃参与，和学弟妹携手为爱乐者奉献一场精品音乐会 2 王海柔（15S6A）的古筝独奏，完美的表现方式深深折服全场观众照片：黄湘惠（16S7A）、郭韦鑫（16S7A）、冯瑭恺（16S7A）提供 54 PASSION

Indeed, the feedback was very positive; participant David Lim (1I3) said that he liked the game as the challenges were a race against time at the pitched just right – “not too easy or too difficult.” Dominic Yeo Kian (2A4) noted that Library Lockdown was not only “fun and interactive,” but “helps you to train your thinking skills.” Both participants gave the activity 5 out of 5 stars.

With such glowing responses from participants, the Library Council is glad to report that the Library Lockdown was a great success. Even though a lot of time and effort was spent planning and facilitating this activity, the HCLC members have a deep sense of gratification after seeing that the participants had enjoyed themselves. The HCLC would like to express their Library appreciation to the students who signed up, and also sincerely thank their teachers-in-charge and the student librarians for their assistance and support. Lockdown 2 3 Eugene Tang 4P2

Library Week 2016 (28th to 31st March) was filled with various Library Lockdown began in the middle of Term 1, and the exciting activities, ranging from the “Light up with Literature” HCLC was divided into 3 teams: Publicity, Programme and Competition to the Big Book Sale. The theme this year was Logistics. As this was the first time the HCLC was organising “Mystery” and the Hwa Chong Library Council (HCLC) decided such an activity, “the preparation process was quite arduous, to organise a brand new activity, never before seen in Hwa especially since we had to meet a tight deadline,” shared Ian Chong. This activity was “Library Lockdown” – Hwa Chong’s Tan (2O2), who was in the Logistics team. “However, I am first escape room game. so happy that we persevered and succeeded in providing participants an unforgettable experience!” In “Library Lockdown”, teams comprising two to four members had to escape from a locked room in the library 1 4 within 45 minutes. In order to escape, team members had to solve IQ challenges and find hidden clues that would lead them to the key. In addition, before the actual game started, the teams had to go through a prelude activity which gave them an opportunity to earn ‘bonus time’. A total of seven teams participated in the activity. While all of the teams managed to escape, the top three teams who took the least time to escape were awarded prizes. Each participant received a goodie bag too as a token of appreciation for their enthusiastic support.

What participants might not have realised while playing the game is the great amount of effort and time that the HCLC had poured into planning and facilitation. Preparations for

1 Celebrating after a successful escape 4 The Library Council with (from left) Mdm Shieh Le-Shiang (Education Consultant / Communication 2 Analyzing a clue (CL)), Ms. Soh Sook Shan Susan (Senior Consultant / Library), Mdm Ang Mei Kway Rosalind (Senior 3 Searching for hints Consultant / English), Mdm Chen Meng Juan (Officer / Library) and Mdm Kris Koo (Senior Officer / Library) 56 PASSION

On 30th January 2016, these old boys had the opportunity 2 to meet each other in person as well, as they gathered to celebrate the class’ 40th anniversary. The invitation was The enduring extended to the rest of their cohort. This included many of their friends at this reunion. Radiant countenances lit up their old classrooms at the Clock Tower as they revisited their fond memories of Hwa Chong. In this heartwarming reunion, friends greeted one another animatedly, exchanging heartfelt friendships sentiments – a touching sight to behold. To these old boys, Hwa Chong was more than just a transient of 1976’s Graduating Class phase of their lives or a stepping stone to their careers. It embodies the experiences and values closest to their hearts. By Chrystel Ng Wei Ai 15A15, Matthew Ng Cheng En 15S6G After forty years, many alumni could still remember which seats in the classroom had belonged to them and even drew out their class seating arrangement. At one point during their visit to the Heritage Centre, nostalgia filled the air as they 3 1 broke into an impromptu rendition of the school song. The school’s motto, 自强不息, was also adopted as their personal mantra, motivating them to continually seek self-improvement and scale greater heights with tenacity.

When asked to offer advice to current Hwa Chong students, Mr. Loh Jwee Poh urged his juniors to focus on wider goals beyond grades. Mr. Loh posed this question to us: “What are you in school for?” To him, school functions as a training ground to develop one’s character, which is even more crucial in the outside world than a good education. Such personal growth encapsulates the showering of concern for one’s friends, seizing opportunities and persevering in the face of challenges. He added, “The responsibility of a student is to learn, but the responsibility of a person is to support society.”

It was inspiring to see how these alumni’s bonds have endured over long decades and distances. As Mr. Djuana Sulestio put it, “There will always be studying, but you may only get the chance to forge strong friendships today.” In 1976, 4C was the cohort’s top science class, a competitive environment which spurred the students on to achieve excellence. Yet, their friendships were stronger than their rivalries, with each student being a constant source of support and Panorama wishes them all the best for the years ahead! encouragement to his peers.

After graduation, their close ties faced another challenge: many in the class relocated to various parts of the world, taking up professions ranging from doctors to scientists to entrepreneurs. However, their friendships have stood the test of time and, thanks to modern technology, transcended geographical boundaries – to this day, they remain a close-knit circle of friends who keep in touch via social media.

1 Marking the 40th anniversary of the graduating class of 1976 3 Reminiscing about their school years 2 Remembering their seating arrangement 58 EXPLORATION

Experiencing Research Passion at 2 Caltech

This friendliness extended beyond the Laboratory. “The Caltech 3 students sometimes just stroll by, talk to the professors about their careers and even hobbies, and they try to connect with them on a personal level,” Haotian said. It was also natural to see people on public transport approach complete strangers to start a spontaneous conversation, something that we Singaporeans might wish to emulate.

Chong Han 15A12, Chew Yunqing 15S60 This rare opportunity to experience Caltech is one that the students will cherish tremendously. By observing Prof. Yang’s research group apply photonics and optics concepts to solve From 28th November to 13th December 2015, Lee Yanxi, Bianca feedback. These traits were also shared by the research faculty. problems in the field of microscopy, the students gleaned (14S6G), Wu Mingsong (15S63), Goh Ka Hui (15S6G) and Haotian recalled how Prof. Yang had taken great interest in a deeper insights into the workings of real-world research, Wang Haotian (15S7D) visited the Biophotonics Laboratory at spectrometer that the Hwa Chong students created at Caltech. where disparate fields of science often interact. Prof. Yang the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), which is helmed also offered advice that all of us – both researchers and non- by Hwa Chong alumnus Professor Yang Changhuei. Aside from offering insightful comments on the device, Prof. researchers – should always bear in mind: there is no use in Yang even 3D-printed spare parts for the students. As Mingsong arrogance; what you should do is understand your limits and There, the four students were struck by not just the students noted, “They are genuinely interested in what you do in the just try to exceed them. and researchers’ passion for scientific research, but also their laboratory, and have a real, profound curiosity for not just eagerness to kindle and nurture such passion in each other. your research, but you as a person too. They will give you The students would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Erkan This was amply demonstrated during group meetings. While advice and ask you questions with enthusiasm.” The students Polatdemir for making this trip possible, as well as to their group members might not have a complete understanding of hope to do their part to further Hwa Chong’s culture of positive external mentors for providing valuable advice. They are also their fellow member’s work, they would still listen attentively, collaboration too. thankful for the technical support of Mdm Pauline Foo (Senior ask enlightening questions and try to offer constructive Technician / Science Research Centre) and Mdm Adeline Chua (Senior Technician / Science Research Centre).

1 At the entrance of the California Institute of Technology 3 A group meeting in session 2 Sharing a meal with Professor Yang Changhuei

60 EXPLORATION

1 Caring Beyond Borders – OCIP Vietnam with ITE COLLEGE West

Yeong Qian Hui 15A14, Han Ming Xuan 15S70

In December 2015, a group of students from Hwa Chong The volunteers soon discovered that there were mutual Institution and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) College benefits in teaching. Despite their humble living conditions, West embarked on a week-long Overseas Community the locals bore no trace of unhappiness and expressed Involvement Programme (OCIP) to Lé Dinh Chinh Primary sincere gratitude towards the volunteers' efforts. As Boyang School in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Together with veteran recounted, this ebullience was a trait that manifested in volunteers from the Vietnamese Young Men's Christian both adults and young children alike. This learning point 2 4 Association (YMCA), they conducted lessons for the students is perhaps best summed up in a quote by American poet and painted a mural in the school campus. The trip ended Maya Angelou, “We need much less than we think we with a celebratory Closing Ceremony, featuring impressive need.” When caught in the rat race, we often fail to realise performances from both the locals and volunteers. that contentment is actually not that difficult to achieve.

Even though the trip only lasted seven days, the volunteers The volunteers gained much from their interactions with the gained many insights into the differences between Vietnamese Vietnamese, and till today hold the strong bonds and forged and Singaporean culture. The volunteers, particularly those friendships close to their hearts. Aside from fostering these on their maiden trip to Vietnam, were touched by the locals’ bonds, the trip has also spurred many of these volunteers hospitality and affection. The locals were warm and welcoming, to work on how they can make a difference back home. and the children were equally enthusiastic, allowing both For instance, Boyang intends to put his OCIP experience volunteers and locals to bond effortlessly despite meeting for to good use by adapting the lesson techniques and social 3 the first time. Singaporeans – often accused of being cold and interaction skills he learnt in Vietnam for the peer-tutoring unfriendly – could be more open too. activity he is currently involved in. The volunteers had also, upon returning from Vietnam, helped out at the Willing Their journey was not entirely smooth sailing. Volunteer Hou Hearts Soup Kitchen. Boyang (15A14) identified the higher-than-expected language barrier as a particularly challenging obstacle because it OCIP Vietnam is indeed testament to how caring knows complicated the execution of the lesson plans. However, the no boundaries, and how by helping others, we often help volunteers adapted quickly, modifying teaching strategies to ourselves too. ensure that the students would gain as much as possible from the lessons. Their desire to teach and help the locals gave them the motivation to overcome the obstacles.

1 After a fruitful lesson 3 The team at the Closing Ceremony 2 Painting a mural 4 Bonding with the children 62 EXPLORATION Exchanging Meanwhile, the attention given by the Japanese students to 3 the debate between Hwa Chong and Kansai University Senior High students, and the in-depth research that they had done in preparation for it, left a deep impression on Qian Hui. This Perspectives, was a symbol of “the profound respect the Japanese give others,” which she seeks to emulate. The warm hospitality of the Japanese students and their efforts to make the Hwa Chong Forging Memories students feel welcome were deeply moving for Qian Hui and made her feel “a greater need to reciprocate their actions.”

Owen Cho Kok Quan 16A11, Amelia Tan Ling 16A15 Insights into Japanese society and culture also came – perhaps unsurprisingly – from the Hwa Chong students’ attempts at making mochi and other traditional Japanese sweets. Natalie 1 shared that the sweets had to be made very intricately and with 4 a lot of precision, a typical example of how the Japanese strive for perfection in every aspect of their lives. To Qian Hui, the pounding of rice to shape it into mochi is similar to how the Japanese culture, the product of thousands of years of history, has been painstakingly shaped to the way it is today.

Both Natalie and Qian Hui advise interested juniors to join similar programmes with an open mind, and to experience both the modern and traditional aspects of a country. Only then can they have a glimpse of what a country truly is.

2015 marked the second year of exchange programmes Their experience in Kansai University Senior High School between Kansai University Senior High School and Hwa proved to be the most memorable for both students. Natalie Chong Institution. The seven Hwa Chong participants might recalled the Japanese students’ awe at her fluency in the English have joined the programme for different reasons – Natalie Aw language during her presentation on European art history. This (15S7E) wanted to go beyond her comfort zone by interacting led her to realise “how fortunate she is to be in Singapore, with others whose first language is not English, while group where everyone has access to bilingual education from young,” leader Khor Qian Hui (15S75) was motivated by her interest allowing them to be proficient in both their mother tongue and in Japanese pop culture – but all saw the programme as an the lingua franca of the world. Indeed, we often overlook the opportunity to experience Japanese culture first-hand and also let value of the small things that we take for granted. others know more about the small red dot that we hold so dear.

1 After an engaging lesson with a Year 1 class 3 Making traditional Japanese sweets in a sweets shop in Kyoto 2 Discussing strategies during the debate 4 Completed traditional Japanese sweets with equally sweet smiles of satisfaction 64 SPOTLIGHT 无悔的青春

第一幕剧《麻雀回家》讲述一个离家多年的男人，压轴戏《生命的契约》引人深思。它讲述一位残疾 ——记“2016年黄城夜韵” 在母亲去世后重新回到家人身边，与弟妹争执如何安放女作家与素未谋面的信中情人一起谱写了一个个美好的母亲的骨灰，最终才意识到母亲在世时最需要的是家人爱情故事。女作家临终时，信中主人公终于出现在她的的陪伴，这场戏让我们学会追溯生命的本源，从回望与面前，只是已经晚了半个世纪，他们生命的契约随着那 1 顾念中，寻找生命存在的意义，探求灵魂的归属之地。一封封被丢入火盆的信一起灰飞烟灭！

第二幕剧《逆流》刻画了一名子承父业的消防员，所谓“台上一分钟，台下十年功”，每年的演出都在灾区寻找生还者时，不禁想起与母亲以及爱人相处时极为不易，但我们付出的心血终于从观众热烈的掌声中的点点滴滴。在身负重伤的情况下，他不放弃生的希得到了回报。青春无悔，我们明年“黄城夜韵”再见！望，想着与至爱的约定，在艰险的路上一步一脚印，最 3 后终于摆脱父亲被永埋在废墟下的宿命，回到母亲与爱人的身边。

2 2

佘家骏 16S6J 刘诗琪、孙慧雯 16S72

5月14日晚，“黄城夜韵”圆满落幕了。在沸腾的参与筹备工作，让我们看见三部戏的演员如何一幕喝彩声中，耳畔回响着：“我们明年‘黄城夜韵’再一幕地将剧情拼成完美的故事，亲眼目睹背后工作人员见！”过去几个月的生活顿时缩成一格格的画面，在脑的付出。演员王鹏飞（16S6B）说道：“每天下午4点准海里迅速倒带。望向四周，只见同学们带着喜悦泪水的时开工，也许在当时特别辛苦，但在黄城结束后才发现脸颊和空空如也的观众席，似乎一切都结束了。但细细那每一次的开工都在我们生命中留下无法抹灭的痕迹。想来，这82天的准备过程中，黄城人之间所建立的友黄城的路一点都不简单，不同小组各司其职，为最后的谊，工作当中所积累的经验以及太多太多美好的回忆，公演互相打气，互相帮助。” 都将久久地在心头停留。

1 《生命的契约》探讨的是在残酷冷漠的社会里，人们是否还依然坚守着价值观 3 麻雀终究会回巢，《麻雀回家》让观众体会亲情的重要 2 《逆流》反映了一个年轻消防员在梦想与现实之间的苦苦挣扎 66 SPOTLIGHT Behind the Scenes of An Evening of Drama (黄城夜韵)

Applying the finishing touches, Shaving away to create the perfect prop one stroke at a time

Stage managers, directors and teachers intently observing the full-dress rehearsal

Warming up the vocal cords at the terrace – an important pre-practice exercise

Chang Kai Lin, Reis 15S62, Huang Cheng 2016 Photography Team

台上一分钟, 台下十年功。

Indeed, every second on the stage is the result of intense preparation and hard work. Each year, it is only through the tremendous efforts of the cast and crew of An Evening of Drama that we can enjoy such a wonderful performance. We present here the story behind this year’s play, one that shows how 111 members of the Hwa Chong Chinese Society overcame all odds to give us an unforgettable evening.

Celebrating the successful staging of An Evening of Drama, the Preparing the stage for two nights of wonder result of more than 80 days of sweat, blood, tears and joy

68 Founders' day special

Welcoming Back Our Own

In his opening speech, Mr. Ng fondly recalled his experiences as Mr. Ng also emphasised the need for future generations to be a Hwa Chong student, and mentioned the great pride he felt in “grounded in sound values and strong character.” His alma singing the school song. He reaffirmed the value in Hwa Chong’s mater, Mr. Ng said with pride, continues to nurture bicultural and – Founders’ Day efforts to instil an entrepreneurial spirit in her students, saying entrepreneurial leaders with heart, compassion and love. These that Singapore needs students who are “future-ready … who can traits are needed in order for Singapore’s society to grow stronger. push the envelope and who can create value for Singapore.” The joint investiture ceremony of the Singapore Chinese High Dinner 2016 Mr. Ng cited several successful Hwa Chong alumni who School Board of Directors (SCHS BOD) and the Hwa Chong embody this entrepreneurial spirit, such as Ms. Olivia Lum, International School Board/Directors (HCIS BD) followed 1 Executive Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer of water shortly, with the respective Chairpersons giving their acceptance treatment firm Hyflux, as well as Mr. Ye Gang, Chief Technology speeches. Despite their busy schedules, these directors have Officer and co-founder of Garena. Garena is a successful online chosen to step forward and contribute their efforts to serve the game distributor which has since developed into a billion-dollar Hwa Chong family and to promote holistic development. Internet company over a period of seven years. They are indeed worthy role models for their juniors to emulate. On our Founders’ Day, the Hwa Chong family came together to honour the spirit of our predecessors. The Dinner was a culmination of the unique Hwa Chong spirit of passion and compassion that binds all of us, no matter where we may be.

2 3

Loh Wen Jie Zachary 16A12

The Tan Kah Kee Hall reverberated with the voices of generations of Hwa Chong alumni as they sung a hearty rendition of the school song. Held on the evening of 21st March 2016, the Founders’ Day Dinner was an event for generations of Hwa Chong alumni to come together to meet old friends, reminisce about cherished memories of school life, and celebrate the unwavering and resilient spirit of our founder, Mr. Tan Kah Kee. We were honoured to have one of own alumni, Mr. Ng Chee Meng, Acting Minister for Education (Schools) & Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Transport, to grace the Dinner as the Guest-of-Honour.

1 Hwa Chong's wushu warriors 3 A rousing 24 Drums performance 2 Mr. Ng Chee Meng, Acting Minister for Education (Schools) 4 Mr. Ng with the Singapore Chinese High School Board of Directors & Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Transport, giving his speech (Photo Credit: Hwa Chong Alumni Association)

70 Founders' day special founders' day food drive 3 – Serving Our Community

1 Sean Woon Yukai 3H1

Hwa Chong’s Founders’ Day Food Drive was a massive undertaking, involving the coordination of multiple groups of stakeholders. This project stretched over several months.

From February onwards, various classes were in a flurry of activities, holding multiple discussions on the best way to collect the food. Each class came up with its own solutions: some On Founders’ Day, Hwa Chong students fanned out across The Food Drive has given students an opportunity for class donated extra food from home, while others went to nearby Singapore, heading to allocated Chinese Development bonding, connecting with the community, and setting the tone supermarkets, converting cash donations into food items. Assistance Council (CDAC) Centres and the Pertapis Children’s of the class, school and year right. The event also demonstrated Some classes even held combined learning journeys to the Home. Forming long human chains, the students braved both that Hwa Chong is a school that cares. Holding true to our supermarkets, which had the additional benefit of giving these the midday heat and subsequent torrential rain to move the bags school’s values and continuing a legacy bequeathed to us by classes precious bonding time. onto the vehicles. Many parents chipped in too, volunteering to Mr. Tan Kah Kee back in 1919, we should, and will, continue transport the bags to the respective venues. to stick to these important principles. 2 Over the next few weeks, the collection points were always in a state of frenzy, with items counted, stocks tallied, and At the various CDAC Centres, the unloading began. Finally, 4 records meticulously made by the various High School months after the first preparations were made, the distribution Consortium Councils and the College CIP Council. Once of food items to the actual beneficiaries could take place. For all the items had been received, students from various many students, it was this moment of connection which made Uniformed Groups and the College CIP Council sorted their day. As Lim Yang En (3H1) said, “It is sobering to realise the goods into gift bags. The gift bags were filled one by that the terms we had been using – 'beneficiaries', 'needy' – one — and since there were 7 items in each gift bag, with referred to actual residents encountering serious challenges. But more than 600 gift bags, one can imagine how long the task it felt good to realise that we could help them with our small took. But at the end of the day, the holding rooms contained contribution!” Eleanor Loh (16S7C) agreed, adding, “We are gorgeous rainbows of gift bags standing in serried rows. now more appreciative of what we have and recognise the need to put in more effort to serve our community.”

1 Carrying gifts of goodwill 3 Forming human chains to load the bags 2 Taking stock of the items 4 Braving the rain 72 Founders' day special 铭记先贤，回馈社会 ——别具意义的校庆活动当天，中三、中四学生到武吉班让组屋区，高一学活动结束后，同学都认为这是一次宝贵的经验，像

1 生则是到义顺组屋区，逐家宣传节省能源的重要性，告如此大型的社区活动，办起来不会是一帆风顺的，可以诉住户极端气候变化的严重后果，以及如何节省能源，想象当年创办人陈嘉庚先生及其团队的巨大付出，他们并呼吁他们签同意书。在两项计划下，只要参与的家庭必定是经历千辛万苦，克服种种困难，才把学校办好，使用绿色家电，并持续半年保持节省能源的好习惯，商他们锲而不舍的精神值得后人效仿。正是先贤无私奉献家将协助区内一些有需要的贫困家庭支付部分水电费。的榜样，让华中儿女深受感召，只要我们保持对学校，因此，居民除了能替自家省钱外，兼而惠及他人，可谓对社会的感恩之心，华中的未来必定更璀璨！一举两得。 3

志愿参与计划的林潮芝先生表示自己平时用电就很省，毕竟爱护地球是每个人的责任。当他知道这样做还能帮助人，便毫不犹豫地签名支持。交谈中，他听说华中以这个方式庆祝校庆，不禁竖起大拇指表示赞同，并希望学生多参与此类活动。 2 中三聚英一班管箫吴小滢 16S65

3月21日，我校迎来建校97周年。长期受到华中尽管过程中遇到了一些问题，如无人在家，或被拒价值观熏陶的学生，没有准备巨大的蛋糕，没有举行之门外，或遇语言障碍，但同学们仍坚持沿户发传单，隆重的庆祝会，而是继承先贤的优良传统，展开一系遇到有人在就耐心地解说。功夫不负有心人，多数居民列回馈社会的活动。当天超过3000名师生参与了多在得知学生此行的目的后，转而以热情友善的态度相项大型社区服务计划。其中一项便是与西北社区发展待。高一的蔡诗琪（16S65）认为通过社区服务来庆祝理事会（North West Community Development 校庆日很特别，比起在礼堂观赏文娱表演，更为创新， Council）携手展开的西北资源减量计划（Reduce 更有意义。她不仅从中学到实用的环保知识，接触广大 @ North West）及西北绿色环保计划（Go Green 群众也让她看到一些家庭或个人的需要。 @ North West）。

1 师生在组屋楼下和热情的居民合影留念 3 学生向住户耐心讲解珍惜资源，积极环保的好处 2 把收集来的旧报纸搬下楼，汗流浃背却乐在心中（提供照片：西北社区发展理事会 – https://www.cdc.org.sg/northwest）

74 Founders' day special

The Hwa Chong students were tasked to spruce up the living 2 and study environment for the beneficiaries. The activities Emulating our included repainting walls and planters, cleaning the premises and helping out at the library. While the tasks were physically tiring at times, the students were spurred on by the mutual encouragement that they gave each other, and their wish to help the children. As Jovanne Tan (16S6F) shared, “Hopefully, Founders: our efforts have helped the Home to continue providing a conducive, warm and comforting environment for the children. Meaningful Service at It is vital to express our care for both the children and this safe haven of theirs.”

Pertapis Children’s Home Indeed, Pertapis has provided vital refuge for its beneficiaries, many of whom are abuse victims or come from broken families. 1 The session at Pertapis has prompted the class to reflect on their own lives, and become more appreciative of what they have. “I had previously failed to notice how having a room of my own that they might have, or be judged based on circumstances that and a roof over my head are privileges that not everyone can they have no control over. The psychological impact of such enjoy,” Jovanne said. “These are the simple things that hold the shame and embarrassment should not be underestimated. most value.” The class agreed that to address this, there is a need for 16S6F also left the Home with a deeper level of understanding Singaporeans to truly reach out to those around us and create of the urgent need for society to become more inclusive and a more integrated society. By helping out at Pertapis Children’s accepting. They learnt from the staff at the Home how many Home, the students have served the community and also learnt of the children felt ashamed for having to reside there. These on Founders’ Day the true spirit of our founders, as they embark children should not have to hide the fact that they are staying at on ways to forge a greater level of understanding among the Home. They should not be embarrassed about the problems diverse groups in Singapore.

Nathan Widjaja 16S66, Leong Say Kiat, Conan 16S6A

On 21st March 2016, Hwa Chong celebrated our Founders’ Day by emulating our founders’ spirit of service, with the entire Hwa Chong family participating in various Community Involvement Programmes. The class of 16S6F headed to Pertapis Children’s Home, a gazetted home which cares for children aged 4-17 in need of protection or rehabilitation. There, they learnt more about the lives of less privileged children in Singapore, and how they can make a small difference in these children’s lives.

1 16S6F marking the end of a meaningful session 3 Giving the planters a fresh coat of paint 2 Ensuring a clean environment for the children at Pertapis Children's Home