About Wee Kim Wee Centre
Singapore's fourth President, Dr Wee Kim Wee, had an incredible journey from clerk to journalist, diplomat, and ultimately president. His journey was marked by his love for engaging with people from every walk of life. His passion for people and his innate ability to foster communication and dialogue around difficult issues enshrined Dr Wee Kim Wee as the 'People's President' and an advocate for dignity for all. His life demonstrated the importance of social and cultural exchange, an openness to different perspectives, and the need to actively engage in debate and communication on the challenges and complexities of contemporary life.
The Wee Kim Wee Centre, in honour of Dr Wee, stands as a beacon for dynamic intercultural engagement. It is a place where ideas flourish and communication thrives, not just within SMU, but also for the community around us. The Centre's commitment to open, deep, and honest discussions shapes how we frame issues and rise to challenges, defining us as responsible global citizens in an increasingly connected world. The Centre, in its mission to advance learning and thinking around major cross-cultural issues, plays a crucial role in championing discussions. It encourages the exploration of social and cultural diversity, the understanding of diverse perspectives, and the recognition of the importance of both civic engagement and lifelong learning. These discussions are the cornerstone of our growth as a community and our development as responsible global citizens.
The late Dr. Wee Kim Wee, hailed as the “People’s President”, was a man who could command the respect of, and also be at ease with, people from diverse backgrounds.
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PROFESSOR ELVIN LIM
Dean, College of Integrative Studies
Director, Wee Kim Wee Centre
Director’s Message
The Wee Kim Wee Centre of SMU, situated within the College of Integrative Studies, is dedicated to promoting cross-cultural and inter-disciplinary dialogue within the SMU community and with the public about the major issues and challenges that attend to contemporary life.
Read full message »Director’s Message
The Wee Kim Wee Centre of SMU, situated within the College of Integrative Studies, is dedicated to promoting cross-cultural and inter-disciplinary dialogue within the SMU community and with the public about the major issues and challenges that attend to contemporary life.
Read full message »
About Wee Kim Wee Room
Located at SMU, the Wee Kim Wee Room is a faithful replica of the late President Wee Kim Wee’s home office and dining lounge, affectionately known as the “Istana Kechil.” Featuring original photographs, furniture, and memorabilia, the room offers a glimpse into the lives and values of Dr and Mrs Wee. These treasured items were lovingly donated by the Wee family to inspire generations through their legacy of humility, empathy, and service.
About Wee Kim Wee Heritage Fund
The Wee Kim Wee Heritage Fund honours Singapore’s fourth President and “People’s President” by preserving his legacy of inclusivity, empathy, and cross-cultural understanding. The Fund supports the upkeep of the Wee Kim Wee Room at SMU—a replica of Dr and Mrs Wee’s home space—as well as the Centre’s programmes, student grants, and scholarships. Through this Fund, SMU continues to inspire future generations to lead with purpose and compassion
Donor-Sponsored Lectures
The Wee Kim Wee Centre at SMU supports a range of donor-sponsored lectures that reflect the Centre’s commitment to fostering cultural understanding, social responsibility, and critical engagement with today’s most pressing issues. These lectures create a valuable platform for students, faculty, and the wider community to learn from leading thinkers and changemakers, encouraging thoughtful dialogue on peace, purpose, and the complexities of modern life.