Book Launch Celebrates Department’s 120th Anniversary with Insights, Inspiration, and “Pharmily” Spirit

In celebration of its 120th anniversary, the Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at NUS hosted a book launch event that was anything but ordinary. Co-organised with NUS Libraries, the event was graced by the Dean of Science, Professor Sun Yeneng. The event brought together faculty members, students, alumni, and industry partners for an afternoon that celebrated the department’s legacy, showcased thought leadership, and reinforced a strong sense of community.

The centrepiece of the event was the launch of the book Manufacture and Supply, Science and Regulation Towards High-Quality Medicinal Products, co-authored by A/Prof Chan Lai Wah and Mr Sia Chong Hock. With decades of experience in academia and pharmaceutical regulation respectively, both authors have significantly shaped the landscape of pharmaceutical education and manufacturing standard in Singapore and ASEAN. Their book, a blend of scientific rigour and regulatory insights, represents a valuable resource for current and future generations of pharmaceutical professionals.

During a dialogue moderated by A/Prof Chan Sui Yung, the authors shared the motivations and process behind the book’s creation. Their reflections offered attendees a glimpse into the collaborative effort, depth of expertise, and personal dedication that brought the book to life. The session highlighted the importance of bridging theory with practice in a highly regulated and fast-evolving field.

The panel discussion that followed, moderated by A/Prof Chan Lai Wah, featured representatives from across the pharmaceutical sector – Prof Eric Chan (Deputy Head of Department & Outstanding Scientist and Educator), Mr Sia Chong Hock (Director of Quality Assurance & Senior Consultant for Audit and Licensing, Singapore Health Sciences Authority), Ms Liu Shanshan (Technical Director of No Deviation & ISPE International Board Member), Dr Emily Cheah (Senior Managing Director of Charles River Laboratories & Global Science Advisory Board Member of PDA), and Mr Ryan Lee (Final-year student in the Pharmaceutical Science Programme). Panellists discussed key industry trends, from the growing role of technology to the future of regulation, education, and career development in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world. Several themes emerged from the discussion:

  • Technical skills such as AI are increasingly relevant, but understanding their impact on basic science, products, and systems is crucial.
  • Soft skills — especially clear communication, and adaptability — are vital for success in a highly collaborative and regulated industry.
  • Empathy plays a key role in healthcare-related fields, helping professionals design solutions that meet real human needs.

Before the end of the programme, NUS Libraries delivered a sharing session showcasing the breadth and depth of resources available to support both research and teaching. Mr Prem Anand of Shimadzu Singapore, a longstanding collaborator with A/Prof Chan’s research group and sponsor of the tea reception, paid tribute to A/Prof Chan and the department on their achievements.

The event concluded on a high note with a book signing session by A/Prof Chan and Mr Sia. Attendees eagerly lined up to get their copies autographed, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and appreciation. The books saw impressive sales during the event, in fact sold out by the end of the day—a testament to the strong interest and support from the community.

Throughout the event, guests observed warm interactions between alumni and faculty, capturing the enduring ties within the department — fondly referred to as the “Pharmily”. For many student attendees, it was a rare opportunity to engage with industry leaders and educators in a meaningful setting, while gaining valuable insights into the pharmaceutical profession. The two emcees, dialogue and panel moderators had energized the atmosphere, stirring fun, laughter and warm family-like vibes across the room.

The book launch was not only a celebration of scholarly achievement but also a reaffirmation of the department’s enduring values — excellence in education, commitment to research, and the cultivation of a close-knit professional community.

Article by Ting Chong Yong and Cheryl Chan (Year 4 Pharmaceutical Science students)

Share this article: 
Stay connected with NUS Pharmacy!

Receive PharmConnect Newsletters & announcements by NUS Pharmacy.

Sign me up!