From the very beginning, Singapore Polytechnic was created to turn possibilities into reality. As Singapore’s first polytechnic, we have always been ahead of the curve—pioneering hands-on learning, shaping industries, and empowering generations of trailblazers. Today, we continue to push boundaries, proving that success is not just about where you start, but the possibilities you create along the way.
Singapore Polytechnic’s crest was adopted by its Board of Governors on 17 May 1960. The Polytechnic’s motto in Malay, Berkhidmat Dengan Keahlian, is usually translated as “To Serve with Skill”, or “To Serve with Mastery”.
The heraldic-style lion on a red background represents the Lion City, the extended pair of compasses indicates precision in execution, and the half-segment of an engineering wheel stands for a foundation in industry.
This image might seem a classic of its time, as one of the crest’s co-designers, Mr Ong Teong Pin (who enrolled in 1958 with the first batch of architecture students), observes, with items like the compasses taken from an earlier age, while the Polytechnic’s curricula have become much more comprehensive and high-tech since his time, and now cover a much wider range, from professional courses to humanities subjects.
| Board of Governors Chairman |
|---|
| Janet Ang 2020 - Present |
| Bill Chang 2012 - 2020 |
| Tan Kay Yong 2000 - 2012 |
| Lim Yong Wah 1995 - 2000 |
| George Fong Wah 1986 - 1995 |
| Chua Chor Teck 1980 - 1986 |
| Low Guan Onn 1975 - 1979 |
| Dr Toh Chin Chye 1959 - 1975 |
| Lionel Cresson 1995 - 1959 |
| Former Principals & CEO |
|---|
| Soh Wai Wah 2016 - Present |
| Tan Choon Shian 2013-2016 |
| Tan Hang Cheong 2008-2012 |
| Low Wong Fook 1995-2007 |
| Khoo Kay Chai 1976-1995 |
| V P W Ager 1973-1976 |
| A Robert Edis 1963-1973 |
| C I C Scolla 1959-1963 |
| DJ Williams 1956-1959 |
Singapore Polytechnic
500 Dover Rd Singapore 139651