I wanted to pursue justice, not wealth: Tommy Koh on 55 years in diplomacy, family & S'pore
Tommy Koh, former ambassador-at-large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflects on 55 years of service and his career focus on justice.
Intelligence analysis by Qwen 2.5 (3B)
Former diplomat Tommy Koh discusses his career and his focus on justice throughout his 55 years in diplomacy, family, and Singapore.
Tommy Koh spent his whole life working to help people who don't have much. He wanted to make sure everyone could have a good life, even if they didn't have a lot of money.
Analysis
Reflections on Diplomacy
Tommy Koh's career at the United Nations (UN) and his role as Singapore's ambassador to Canada and Mexico highlight the importance of learning from experienced diplomats. His involvement in the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) underscores the significance of international cooperation in maritime law.
Challenges and Support
Koh's wife, Poh Siew Aing, had to make a significant transition from being a medical student to supporting her husband's career. Her role as a diplomat's wife required learning new skills, such as cooking and hosting guests, which were unfamiliar to her.
Influence of Parents
Koh's parents, with different backgrounds, influenced his values. His mother taught him to love the arts, while his father instilled in him the courage to stand up for Singapore, even in challenging situations.
Key points
- Tommy Koh spent 55 years in diplomacy, focusing on justice and helping the underprivileged.
- His wife had to make a significant transition from being a medical student to supporting her husband's career.
- Koh's parents, with different backgrounds, influenced his values and career choices.
With the help of young people and the use of new technology, Singapore can continue to thrive and prosper in the future.
If young people are not prepared for the changes brought by new technology, Singapore might struggle to keep up in the future.
