Shaping Leaders With Strong Values

Steadfast in the belief that good leaders are more than their academic capability, a new series of valedictorian awards set up by the grandchildren of the late Mr Kwek Hong Png, founder of the Hong Leong Group, awards top-scoring recipients who show outstanding core values.

Marking the 25th anniversary of his passing, the endowed gift will establish the Kwek Hong Png Valedictorian Awards at SMU. In addition to excellent academic grades, recipients will have to showcase the values embodied by the late Mr Kwek, namely diligence, tenacity, valour, compassion and humility.

Commencing in Academic Year 2019–20, the gift will support seven awards valued at $10,000 each. One award is the Kwek Hong Png University Valedictorian Award, which will be presented to the overall top graduand of the University. The other six awards will be presented to the top graduand from each of the six Schools.

"With these awards, we hope that the young recipients will take inspiration and learn valuable life lessons from all the forefathers of our great nation, and understand what it means to persevere and remain strong in the face of adversity. We hope the monetary rewards will provide a boost to these deserving students as they embark on the next chapter in their life trajectory." Mr Sherman Kwek, Grandson Of The Late Mr Kwek Hong Png