DICE Speakers / Panellists Profile
Adran Ang
Co - Founder
ISEMS Pte Ltd

As the co-founder of ISEMS, Adran is a seasoned Security Ops-Tech Consultant with over a decade of experience in physical security, technology implementation, and manpower transformation. He has led regional consultancy and system deployment projects across Singapore and China, including NUS, JTC, Mapletree, and Sembcorp. As a co-developer of real-time solutions like DASL IUP, i-MOPS, Virtual Patrol and NeatPatrol, Adran champions Outcome-Based Contracting and digital transformation in security operations. He holds multiple specialist diplomas in security studies and is an Accredited Security Consultant.

Andrew Koh
Senior Lecturer
Singapore Management University

Dr Andrew Koh is a senior lecturer in computer science under the College of Integrative Studies in SMU, where he teaches subjects related to artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability. Prior to SMU, he served in MOM's ACE group and continues the heartbeat of supporting our migrant workers through projects which explore conversational AI to assist migrant workers. He is a faculty mentor for Reach Alliance, a network of top global universities investing in an inclusive economy to prioritise the flourishing of people and the planet. He received his PhD in computational imaging from the UK in 2008. Early years of his career was devoted to farming as a means for poverty alleviation and education of university graduates in Cambodia.

Alexander Wu
Council Member
Dormitory Association of Singapore Ltd

As Managing Director of D Wall Pte Ltd, Alexander has cultivated a profound understanding of the foreign manpower and housing sector over the past 11 years. His extensive experience is marked by the successful management of over 35,000 beds across a diverse range of accommodations, including Purpose Built Dormitories (PBD), Factory Converted Dormitory (FCD), Construction Temporary Quarters (CTQ), and even Government Isolation Facilities and Backpacker Hostel. This significant operational footprint underscores his capacity to navigate the complexities of this industry.

Beyond D Wall, Alexander's commits to industry advancement through Dormitory Association of Singapore, where he has served since 2021. He currently serves as the FCD Sub-Committee Chairman and advocates for the voice and needs of smaller dormitories, while striving for their overall standards through initiatives focused on enhancing the education and training of dormitory management personnel.

Alistair Norris
Founder + Designer
brief / keepitbrief.co
Alistair Norris, founder of Brief and two-time SG Mark winner, excels in sustainable, people-centred design, with a significant role in Project Commune's redesign for migrant workers' homes.
His career spans impactful contributions from IDEO to Startups to academia, advocating for research-led creativity and innovative design methodologies
Ar Chai Jun Yea
Principal Architect
design@LOFT architects

Ar Chai Jun Yea graduated from NUS School of Design & Environment with Master of Architecture in 2002 and received his Practicing Certificate from Board of Architects in 2006. He founded the company in the subsequent year. His certification also includes Green Mark Manager and Design for Safety Professional. With his initial training in public housing upgrading and fire safety compliances, he has since focused on providing his professional knowledge and expertise to assist factory & warehouse owners to make their spaces safe and healthy, and ensure that their workers can stay in the ancillary workers’ dormitory comfortably and safely.

To date, he has helped more than 100 factory owners to successfully convert their premises into workers' quarters, in areas including Loyang, Woodlands and Tuas.

As part of his CSR mission, he has also embarked on a training programme to equip the next generation of architects with the right knowledge and understanding to help more employers to comply with the rules and regulations concerning factory converted dormitories.

Datuk Sr Charlie Chia Lui Meng
REHDA Institute

Datuk Sr. Charlie Chia Lui Meng, a Malaysian aged 69, has 47 years of experience in the property development and construction industry and has worked in both the public and private sectors.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Hons) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in April 1978. He was also awarded a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) Degree from the University of London in August 1994 and completed the Certificate of Legal Practice by the Legal Qualifying Board Malaysia in December 1995. He is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Surveyors, Malaysia since August 2005, a Member of the Society of Construction Law Malaysia since July 2006 and a Professional Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors since November 2007. He was admitted to the Malaysian Bar in May 2017.

He began his career in the Public Works Department, Malaysia as a Senior Quantity Surveyor and had served in a number of Public Listed Companies namely Hiap Construction Berhad, United Malayan Land Berhad, Naza TTDI Sdn Bhd and Malton Berhad as the Chief Executive Officer and Board Director. His last workplace was joining United Malayan Land Berhad in June 2012 as the Group Chief Executive Officer and retired in June 2016. He remain as a Senior Advisor and Non-Executive Director in the subsidiary companies within UMLand Group. He is also currently an Independent & Non-Executive Director in GDB Holdings Berhad ( a Main Board Public Listed Construction Company)

He is a National Council EXCO Member of Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association Malaysia (“REHDA”) and is the chairman of the Task Force on the Legislation Amendment on Strata Management Act 757. He is an Adjunct Professor in Faculty of Engineering & Quantity Surveying of INTI International University.

He is currently practising as an Advocate & Solicitor in Soh Hayati & Co specialising in the area of Construction, Real Estate and Property Development Law.

In 1995, he was conferred Ahli Mangku Negara by the Yang Di Pertuan Agong and in 2014, he was conferred Darjah Pangkuan Seri Melaka (DPSM) with title “Datuk” by the TYT Gabenor of Melaka.

Deepa Bharathi
CTA
International Labour Organisation
Deepa Bharathi is the Chief Technical Advisor for the ILO’s PROTECT project, which ensures decent work and reduces vulnerabilities for women and children in Southeast Asia’s labour migration sector. With a career spanning gender equality, fair recruitment, and migrant worker rights, she has been instrumental in shaping policies on non-discrimination and gender-based violence in migration. Before joining the ILO in 2016, Deepa held key roles at UN Women’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, driving initiatives on gender-responsive labour migration and access to justice. Her experience also extends to NGOs and private-sector research institutions, making her a leading advocate for equitable labour policies.
Eugene Aw
Business Director
Goldmine Energy Pte Ltd

Mr Aw serves as the Business Director of Goldmine Energy Pte Ltd, an affiliate of RT Group which operates more than 1,000 beds across several Factory-Converted Dormitories (FCDs), since 2014. He handles all aspects of the business, from financing to client relations and operations.

Mr. Aw has led the FCD Sub-Committee since becoming a council member in 2021. He has organized workstreams to achieve the committee's goals. At the DASL Council, he advocates for FCD owners and operators, addressing their challenges and seeking policy support from relevant agencies. He also works to strengthen their representation.

Fred Tai
Head of Business Unit, Integrated Utilities Management Solutions
Vector Green Pte. Ltd

Fred Tai is a passionate advocate for sustainable innovation and strategic business growth. In his leadership role, he plays a key role in expanding the company’s impact within the renewable energy sector, reinforcing its steadfast commitment to Do Good by championing green innovations that contribute to the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and broader sustainability efforts across the Asia Pacific region. Vector Green has strengthened its role within the renewable energy ecosystem, advancing technologies that promote sustainability and energy efficiency. With a deep understanding of renewable energy solutions and sustainable business practices, Fred is driving Vector Green’s strategy to guide organisations navigate the transition to a sustainable energy future, fostering long-term global impact.

Galven Tan
CEO
Knight Frank Singapore

Galven Tan is currently the CEO of Knight Frank Singapore. Across the various service lines, he manages a workforce of more than 800. Prior to his current role, Galven is an accomplished real estate executive with over 20 years of experience in investment sales and capital markets in Singapore.

Galven has a proven track record in leading high-performing teams and executing landmark transactions across all real estate sectors, with expertise in commercial real estate and residential land sales. He has successfully managed transactions valued at more than S$15 billion over the past decade, working closely with institutional investors, property funds, and developers.

Ho Lip Chin
Chief Investment Officer
Centurion Corporation Limited

Mr. Ho Lip Chin (何立錦) (“Mr. Ho”), aged 55, joined the Group in January 2012 as Director, Investments before his appointment as Chief Investment Officer of Accommodation Business in 2015.

He is responsible for growing the Group’s accommodation business and assists in the Group’s strategic planning activities. He has over 25 years of experience in the real estate and hospitality industries across Asia Pacific. Prior to joining the Group, he was Director, Real Estate at Centurion Properties Pte Ltd (a subsidiary of the Company’s controlling shareholder, Centurion Global Ltd) from May 2010 to January 2012, where he was involved in its real estate investments and workers accommodation business.

From July 2002 to May 2010, Mr. Ho worked with several companies in the real estate and hospitality industries. He was a Senior Vice President of Investment at Pramerica Real Estate Investors (Asia) Pte Ltd, a fund management company principally engaged in real estate investment, from March 2008 to May 2010. He was a Director at GE Real Estate Investments Singapore Pte Ltd, a company principally engaged in real estate investment, from February 2007 to August 2007; a Director of Development, Southern Asia, from January 2003 to January 2007 at IHG, a company principally engaged in managing hotels. He had held investment and consulting roles at HVS International Singapore and HKR Asia-Pacific Pte Ltd.

Mr. Ho obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from the University of San Francisco.

Imran
Head of Enterprise ICT
MyRepublic
Imran is Head of Enterprise ICT at MyRepublic, driving its growth as a top-tier ICT provider in local and regional markets. With expertise in

cloud, cybersecurity, AI, and 5G monetisation, he specialises in digital transformation and business growth. A former consultant and founder, he blends technical expertise with business strategy, positioning MyRepublic as a challenger brand in enterprise ICT. At DICE 2025, he will discuss how telcos can evolve into next-gen ICT powerhouses through innovation, automation, and digital services.

Jacinta Kong
Head of Corporate Planning and Development
NESST Singapore Limited

Jacinta Kong is the Deputy CEO and Head of Corporate Planning and Development at NESST Singapore Limited, a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) set up by the Ministry of Manpower. NESST is mandated to operate two new Purpose-Built Dormitories (PBDs) and drive innovation to enhance liveability and strengthen public health resilience in migrant worker housing.

As the key assistant to the CEO, Jacinta plays a pivotal role in supporting the organisation’s strategic direction and driving innovation in migrant worker housing. She works closely with a diverse network of stakeholders—including the Dormitory Association of Singapore Limited, the Singapore Contractors Association Limited, and non-governmental organisations serving migrant workers’ needs—to advance best practices in dormitory infrastructure and management. She has been instrumental in facilitating collaborations to explore and test-bed new ideas that improve living conditions and enhance public health resilience.

With a strong background in corporate strategy and investment across the real estate, logistics, and telecommunications industries, Jacinta brings valuable expertise in executing transformative initiatives and fostering partnerships that contribute to NESST’s mission.

Jacob Wong
Chief Operating Officer

Jacob Wong has over three decades of experience in the construction industry, specializing in project management, engineering, and corporate leadership. He began his career as a Project Engineer, working on the design and construction of precast elements, post/pre-stressing structures for flyovers, bridges, and MRT viaducts. Over the years, he has taken on key roles at Kwan Yong Construction Pte Ltd, contributing to the successful completion of major developments, including aged homes, research institutes, and educational institutions.

Progressing through leadership positions, he has overseen the company's expansion into Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) methodologies, such as Full MET buildings and Steel PPVC projects. Under his leadership, Kwan Yong Construction upgraded its tender capacity to CW01-A1 and established a precast division to enhance its capabilities.

In 2020, he led the company’s listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as part of Kwan Yong Holdings Ltd, where he serves as an Executive Director. Appointed as Chief Operating Officer in 2022, he has played a key role in the company’s growth, increasing turnover from $200 million in 2019 to over $500 million in 2024.

His work continues to focus on advancing the construction sector through innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.

Johnathan Cheah
President
DASL
Johnathan Cheah has been deeply involved in Singapore’s purpose-built dormitory sector for years, working alongside industry partners to

enhance the quality of migrant worker accommodations. As President of the Dormitory Association of Singapore Limited (DASL), he collaborates closely with operators, government agencies, and community stakeholders to improve industry standards and promote best practices in workforce housing.

As a dormitory operator, Johnathan brings a realistic, solutions driven approach to managing and improving worker accommodations. He has been part of key initiatives that focus on digital innovation, sustainable infrastructure, and resident wellbeing, ensuring dormitories are not just places to stay but communities where workers can live with dignity. His efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the importance of resilience and adaptability in dormitory management, strengthening industry preparedness for future challenges. At DICE 2025, Johnathan will share his perspectives on the evolving landscape of workforce accommodations and the collaborative efforts needed to drive meaningful improvements across the sector

Leonard Tay
Head Research
Knight Frank

Leonard Tay is head of research at Knight Frank Singapore, and is responsible for producing quality and timely real estate reports, forecasts and thought-leadership papers that reflect the unfolding development across different diverse real estate sectors in Singapore. Leonard consistently delivers insights on real estate shifts and trends backed by two decades of experience in the industry. His expertise in cross-sector market research, consultancy advisory and tenancy administration has positioned him as a resource among local and regional media, as well as a wide range of clients who comprise developers, institutional funds, family offices and government agencies. Leonard has held research and consultancy roles at CBRE and Colliers International, positions at the Housing and Development Board, and lecturing roles at Ngee Ann Polytechnic and the Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers.

Xavier Joseph
Assistant Director (Operations)
Migrant Workers' Centre

Xavier Joseph is a dedicated advocate for fair employment practices and the well-being of migrant workers in Singapore. As the Assistant Director of Operations & Special Projects at the Migrant Workers’ Centre, he led critical initiatives to support vulnerable workers—ranging from interim shelter and food provision, to assistance in resolving employment disputes, and fostering community integration through outreach and public education.

Prior to this, he spent over six years at Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower, where he held various leadership roles. As Senior Manager (Ops Tech), he spearheaded pandemic response efforts through digital innovation, including the development of health monitoring apps and contact tracing solutions.

With a strong track record in policy implementation, tech-enabled operations, and humanitarian work, Xavier brings a holistic perspective on workforce resilience, inclusive growth, and social integration.

Natasha Yeo
Partner
COLOURS:Collectively Ours
Natasha Yeo, is the Managing Partner of COLOURS: Collectively Ours. Through her background in Architecture and drawing from her tenure at renowned firms such as DP Architects and WY-TO Architects, she developed her professional acumen in spatial design. As a seasoned senior researcher at SUTD’s SOULab, Natasha was able to pursue her passion for urban design and social architecture - crafting environments attuned to each community's essence. Noteworthy research projects include the New Urban Kampung, Mindful Placemaking, and Dementia Friendly Neighbourhoods. Her diverse expertise in both architectural and community design allow her to seamlessly sculpt user-centric spaces with community empowerment at their core.
Naween
Head of Commercial & Strategy
NaviX Solutions by Schneider Electric

Naween is the Head of Commercial & Strategy at NaviX Solutions, a corporate venture between Schneider Electric and Singapore Economic Development Board. In this role, he leads efforts to provide Infrastructure-as-a-Service, delivering sustainable and energy-efficient solutions with innovative business models.

With a strong background in mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering, energy management and renewables sector, he is deeply committed to enable the accelerated adoption of decarbonization solutions for SMEs, with a specific focus on the dormitory sector in Singapore.

Raman Palaniappan
CTO
MES Group
Raman Palaniappan is a seasoned technology transformation leader with a track record of driving innovation across diverse industries, including real estate, aviation, telecommunications, and IT. As CTO of MES Group, he spearheaded the digital transformation of Singapore’s foreign worker dormitory sector, integrating cutting-edge cloud solutions to enhance operational efficiency. Previously, he led high-profile projects such as the world’s first vision-based runway detection system at Changi, Hong Kong, and Dubai airports. With expertise in change management and business turnaround, Raman has consistently pioneered solutions that redefine industry standards, making him a true game changer in every role he undertakes.
Raymond Lee
Executive Director
Security Association Singapore

Raymond Lee is the Executive Director of Security Association Singapore, the lead trade association representing companies in the security sector.

Tan Tian Chong
Managing Partner
Aptiv 8 IT Solutions Pte Ltd

Tan Tian Chong is the Managing Partner of Aptiv 8 IT Solutions Pte Ltd (A8). A8 drives the productivity and sustainability of the built environment stakeholders by digitalizing their assets, operations and processes. A8’s products and services cover the design, manufacturing (DFMA), construction, and operation & maintenance phases. A8 champions the use of BIM technology, Digital Twin eco-system for Integrated Facilities Management (iFM). It is a pioneer in integrating AI and Gen AI solutions with the Integrated Digital Delivery(IDD) workflows in the Built Environment. A8 is the Digital Associate of Graphisoft for the Archicad BIM tool. It is a Reseller for Fuzor-the 4D BIM advanced Virtual Design and Construction solution.

Thng Chee Meng
CEO
NESST Singapore Limited
Thng Chee Meng is Chief Executive Director (CEO) of NESST and the driving force behind its collaborative and consultative approach, fostering

industry partnerships to pilot innovative ideas in migrant worker housing. Under his leadership, Tukang Dormitory—set to open in Q1 2026— integrates sustainable, worker-informed design shaped through extensive stakeholder engagement.

Even before its launch, NESST has introduced pioneering design and living innovations, setting new benchmarks for liveability and pandemic preparedness.

Prior to NESST, Chee Meng held senior leadership roles at MOH Holdings, overseeing corporate governance and eldercare initiatives. He also served 29 years in uniformed services, holding key military command and staff appointments, bringing strategic leadership to his diverse career.

Tome Oh Boon Shi
Co-founder, COO
TS Group Pte Ltd

As the co-founder of TS Group Pte Ltd, Mr. Tome Oh specializes in providing housing solutions to underserved communities, particularly in the migrant worker sector and for the needy elderly, over the past decade. He delivers innovative housing solutions while also uplifting and educating unskilled residents during their stay in TS Group's housing units.

With the rapid advancement of technology, Mr. Oh sees an opportunity to enhance the dormitory industry and create an even more convenient and sustainable living experience for these communities.

With over 20 years of experience in both local and overseas business ventures, he is dedicated not only to running a successful company but also to giving back to the community. Mr. Oh is actively involved in charity work for organizations such as Thong Chai Medical Institution and the Tzu Chi Foundation, as well as social enterprises that support underprivileged children and end-stage cancer patients.

Mr. Oh hopes to create a lasting, positive impact on both the country and society at large—demonstrating the power of business and social responsibility working hand in hand for the greater good. He holds an Executive MBA from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from Queen's University Belfast.

Wayne Yap
Executive Director
ASPRI

Wayne Yap is the Executive Director of the Association of Process Industry (ASPRI), a non-profit organization in Singapore representing over 640 Engineering Service Providers across the Petroleum, Petrochemical, Pharmaceutical, and Specialty Chemical sub-sectors.

In his role, Wayne advocates for the business interests of ASPRI members and oversees initiatives such as workers' training through the Institute of Process Industry and accommodation services at the ASPRI-Westlite Papan dormitory.

Wilson Ang
Executive Director
ASMI
Wilson Ang has over 15 years of leadership experience in the non-profit sector and currently serves as the Executive Director of the Association

of Singapore Marine Industries. In this role, he oversees the Industry Transformation Map Programme Office for the Marine & Offshore Industry, managing both strategic planning and daily operations.

His expertise spans non-profit management, business engagement, and governmental collaboration across ASEAN, with a strong focus on organizational change. Passionate about ASEAN grassroots issues, Wilson has contributed to various projects and publications on regional development and climate change. He holds a Master of Studies and a Postgraduate Diploma in Diplomatic Studies from the University of Oxford and has participated in prestigious global leadership programs. His areas of expertise include Corporate Social Responsibility, sustainable business practices, environmental awareness, and natural resource management, all aligned with his commitment to driving positive change.

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