So Close, Yet So Far 

Andre and Ssica were in the same cohort at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP) — Andre in the Master of Public Policy (MPP) programme, Ssica in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) programme. However, with the pandemic and their different schedules, they never crossed paths though they had heard of each other.  

What LKYSPP Gave Them 

For Andre, the two-year MPP degree was challenging since he and his friends could barely meet for almost a year. His most precious memory was a pre-pandemic study trip to Surabaya, Indonesia, organised by LKYSPP. Seventy students experienced local culture,worked overnight on group projects in hotels, and conducted interviews with local stakeholders. 

For Ssica, the memorable part of student life was the sense of closeness she found during the pandemic. In Singapore, she formed friendships with people from across the world through small, intimate gatherings that became a kind of anchor amid uncertainty. “They broadened my perspective on life in a very real way,” Ssica recalls. “Because of COVID, we ended up having more meaningful, deeper conversations. You could feel how quickly strangers became friends.” 

These experiences and the friendships forged at LKYSPP would become a lasting part of their lives and lay the foundation for a love story yet to come.  

Hong Kong, Finally 

It wasn’t until an alumni reunion in Hong Kong that they finally met. Andre believes their closeness comes from similar experiences at LKYSPP. Both Andre and Ssica enjoyed their time in Singapore, loved its multicultural atmosphere, and admired the same teacher—Mr Khoo Teng Chye.  

“That common ground really connected us when we finally met in Hong Kong,” Andre recalls, “and our relationship evolved pretty quickly after that.”  

Before and After “I Do” ​​

After they met at the alumni event, they enjoyed exploring rare corners of Hong Kong together. Both are nature lovers and are passionate about hiking, trying new trails together and with friends.​ 

Now married, they still spend their weekends exploring the city and travelling whenever work allows. The friends they made at LKYSPP remain a steady part of their lives. When friends are in Hong Kong, they make time to meet; and when Andre and Ssica are abroad, they often arrange a meal or a quick catch-up . 

What They Found in Each Other 

Through their adventures and supporting each other’s careers and decisions, Andre and Ssica discovered new sides of each other—and grew closer because of it.  

Andre praises Ssica’s charm, intelligence, and insight, which have helped him learn to focus on details, nurture relationships, and pursue a slower, more considered life, for which he is grateful.  

In turn, Ssica admires Andre’s perseverance, patience, and sense of responsibility. “Andre is always passionate and committed to his career, and that’s inspiring.” 

On the Same Page  

Today, Andre works in trade and investment across Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. He says, “The journey is more than just getting deals done—it’s a lifelong apprenticeship where discipline, integrity, and judgment compound over time. From my mentors, I’ve learned professionalism, strategic thinking, and the importance of staying global.” 

Andre reflects, “Marriage has taught me more about responsibility and maturity. I believe long-term partnership comes from genuine respect and support for each other.” ​Ssica is currently pursuing a PhD in Hong Kong, with graduation on the horizon. Open to where the journey takes her, academia is one possibility, but she is excited to explore others too. ​Ssica adds, “The future will be an amazing adventure—especially with a partner who is also your best friend, someone you can share everything with. We know we won’t be alone.”