Page 66 - NYAA Annual Report 2024

APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE TO OUR PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS

Outgoing Ambassador of ASEF H.E. Toru Morikawa
H.E. Ambassador Toru Morikawa of Japan will be stepping down as the 8th Executive Director of the Asia-
Europe Foundation (ASEF). Under his leadership, Singapore and the European Union enjoyed strong and
collaborative ties that greatly benefited youth leaders across the region.

The Executive Director thanked Ambassador Morikawa for his exemplary leadership and contribution to bi-
regional cooperation and extended best wishes for his future endeavours.

Two Singapore Gardens Ranked Among the World’s Top Ten
The NYAA Council congratulated its longstanding partner, the National Parks Board (NParks), for the
international recognition of Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens, both of which were
ranked among the top ten gardens in the world. This achievement is a testament to NParks’ leadership in
green urban development and environmental stewardship.

Former ITE CEO appointed as Advisor to Odisha Chief Minister, India
Mr Bruce Poh, CEO of ITE from 2007 to 2017 and CEO of ITE Education Services (ITEES) from 2017 to 2024,
retired at the end of November 2024. During his tenure, many ITE students actively participated and excelled
in the NYAA Programme, contributing meaningfully to the community.

Following his retirement, Bruce relocated to Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, where he was appointed Chief Skills
Officer and Adviser to the Chief Minister of Odisha. He is now helping the state government establish the
World Skill Centre.

To express NYAA’s appreciation for his longstanding support from 2007 to 2024, the Executive Director hosted
a farewell lunch for Bruce and his wife, Shirley. An Appreciation Plaque, signed by Deputy Prime Minister Heng
Swee Keat, was presented to Bruce in recognition of his contributions.

Appreciation Luncheon for Dr Yek Tiew Ming, Principal of ITE College East
The Executive Director and Deputy Executive Director hosted an appreciation lunch for Dr Yek Tiew Ming
in recognition of his exceptional leadership and steadfast support for the NYAA Programme throughout his
tenure at ITE, spanning from 1998 to 2024.

Dr Yek Tiew Ming’s journey in ITE leadership included:
• Principal of ITE Tampines (1998–2000)
• Principal of ITE East Network (2000–2005)
• Principal of ITE College West (2005–2015)
• Principal of ITE College East (2015–2024)

His 26 years of distinguished service were honoured with an Appreciation Plaque presented by the Executive
Director and signed by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat.

Farewell Dinner with APEC Executive Director
NYAA Singapore, which chairs the APEC Voices of the Future program, hosted an appreciation dinner
for Ambassador Tan Sri Datuk Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria in recognition of her unwavering support
during her tenure as Executive Director of the APEC Secretariat. The dinner served as a gesture of
gratitude for her advocacy of youth engagement through the APEC Voices platform.

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