Komal and Qaisar’s story began in 2010 when they both topped the state-level board exams in Pakistan and met at an award function. Though their paths diverged as they pursued different academic and professional journeys – Qaisar moving to Islamabad for a Master’s in Economics and Komal starting her Chartered Accountancy studies in Faisalabad – their story was far from over.
 
Komal Muzamil (MPP 2024) and Muhammad Qaisar (MPP 2023)

Years later, as Komal was preparing for a professional banker certification, their paths crossed again. Qaisar, then an Assistant Director at the Central Bank of Pakistan, was leading the certification program. A visit to his office reignited their connection, and the rest, as they say, is history. They married in 2020 and soon began building a life filled with shared ambitions and mutual respect.

From Long-distance to Campus Collaboration

Their journey to the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) began separately but converged in Singapore. Qaisar enrolled in the Master in Public Policy (MPP) programme in 2022, and a year later, Komal joined him in the same programme as an MPP junior student.

The first year of their marriage tested their resilience, as they navigated a long-distance relationship while pursuing their dreams. By the second year, however, they were living together in Singapore. As students, they found ways to support each other academically and personally. Whether it was collaborating on assignments, sharing household responsibilities or attending events, they made the most of their time together, strengthening both their relationship and their professional networks.

Cherished Memories at LKYSPP

Among the many memories they treasure from their time at LKYSPP, one stands out: the Holi celebrations at College Green. Experiencing the colourful festival for the first time, they immersed themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of music, dance and pure joy.

Another unforgettable moment came during a conversation with Professor Vinod Thomas, who playfully turned their question about his long and happy life back to them. He said, “First, you tell me the secret of your strong bond that brought both of you here on the same scholarship at the same institution. I’m not aware of any other couple who has achieved this!” That moment underscored their unique partnership and the determination that brought them to LKYSPP.

Making A Difference, Together and Apart

Today, Komal and Qaisar are making meaningful contributions in their respective fields. Komal works as an Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Finance in Pakistan, focusing on fiscal policy and its role in sustainable economic development. Qaisar, on the other hand, is a Fellow at the Swiss-based Council on Economic Policies, where he specialises in exploring how central banks and financial supervisors can channel funds towards sustainable prosperity.

While they jokingly describe their roles as “monetary dominance” versus “fiscal dominance,” they share a common vision of economic progress and sustainability, often drawing on their shared expertise to solve challenges collaboratively.

A Partnership Built on Resilience and Shared Ambition

From navigating long distances to collaborating on campus, they continue to inspire those around them with their commitment to each other and to making a difference in the world.