DICE Speakers / Panellists Profile
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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.
Jacob Wong
Chairman (Manpower & Poilicy
SCAL
Barclays
MOM
REHDA Malaysia