Hsieh Tsun-yan

Board Member (2005 – 2007), Member of Academic Panel (2015 – 2018)

Hsieh Tsun-yan was on the IPS Governing Board from 2005. He encouraged IPS to analyse “softer issues”, such as inclusion and social sentiments. He saw the 2013 establishment of Social Lab, which does longitudinal studies and generates original data for research, as a good step towards analysing overall social sentiment. He reiterated the importance of obtaining original data for independent analysis, and the need for independent and diverse sources of funding.

The Board of Governors’ ensured the direction of the Institute, smooth leadership transitions, and provided oversight for research. It eventually became the Academic Panel. Mr Hsieh saw Corporate Associates as one way that could support IPS’ financial independence. He hoped that more business leaders would attend Corporate Associates lunches and recognise the significance of IPS’ work. Key personalities he associated with IPS were Professor Tommy Koh, Kishore Mahbubani and Dr Teh Kok Peng. He believed that IPS was held in high regard by the government, and the general public better appreciated IPS’ role now.

He reflected on his corporate background, which differed from the directors, and other board members. He believed that he had contributed a unique perspective. Although his views may not always have been fully understood, he had found his IPS experience rewarding.


This interview was conducted on 21 Jan 2020. Click here to listen to the full interview.