Cham Tao Soon: Life At Speed

"As my lecturer in 1978, Prof Cham was different from others as he took time to explain the practical aspects and applications of the subject matter. As Board Member and Chairman of our company since 2006, we benefitted from his analytical and systematic approach in guiding us. After reading his autobiography, all the pieces seem to fall in place. This is a man with exceptional passion, talent and willpower. But most importantly, he has an ability to deliver, no matter how insurmountable the task. This was possibly one of the important attributes which several 'Prominent Personalities' saw in him. Prof Cham is my role model and I believe many of our younger generation, especially engineering students and young engineers, will find his autobiography inspirational."; Wong Chi Keong; B Engineering (Hons), University of Singapore; Executive Director, Soup Restaurant Group Limited; "The book contains Prof Cham's knowledge and experience in a wide range of fields as an educator, a banker, a portfolio investor, a corporate leader, a professional engineer and a transport expert. Reading his autobiography, I am enriched with a deeper knowledge about his extensive life experiences and network of famous personalities and friends. A riveting read."; George P H Thia, FCCA, FCA, MGer; Formerly Merchant Banker with Morgan Grenfell Asia and; Merrill Lynch International Bank; "The book captures the life journey of an extraordinary man which mirrors the development of Singapore from a third world to a first world country. I have benefitted from his stories. He was a key developer of human capital in Singapore as an educator and built NTU to be one of the top universities in the world. There is much wisdom to be distilled from his stories and from his involvement in the private and public sector. A truly remarkable Singapore boy who epitomises the spirit and contributions from our pioneer generation."; Tan Choon Seng; Ex CFO, MD Hewlett Packard, Group CEO Wearnes; "This is a biography every Singaporean should read as it provides very rich insights on how the country has been shaped by the pioneer leaders in captivating anecdotal stories.; Professor Cham gives readers a good understanding of the country's challenges and progress through his sharp engineering mind. He has worked tirelessly as an educationalist and has guided companies and institutions as a member of multi-industrial boards and advisory councils. His contributions to the founding and building of NTU to one of the top universities recognised globally has enriched the nation. This is truly an insightful and inspiring book. Highly recommended."; Patrick Fang; Managing Director of PFANG & ASSOCIATES; former Managing Director of Russell Reynolds Singapore; "Although most autobiographies provide readers with great insights into the life and rich experiences of the author, this engaging autobiography not only succeeded in doing just that but also immerses the reader in a rich and inspiring narrative of the growth of Singapore for the past eight decades through the author's own immense contributions.; Professor Cham's contributions to Singapore span a rich spectrum of strategic areas in national development, be it in higher education management and infrastructure, corporate governance, industry transformation, defense, transportation, quality, media, social good, culture and many others.; Through his compelling and entertaining autobiography, he has given the reader a kaleidoscopic view of how he has helped to build a better Singapore. Another interesting feature of this autobiography are his thoughts on the future, the technological impact on the future of education, work and society. I have no doubt readers of any age and from anywhere, will find this autobiography a rich source of knowledge, in getting to know a prominent son of Singapore and in learning, reflecting, reminiscing, or understanding Singapore's transformation as well as into the foreseeable future."; Lee Pui Mun; Professor, School of Business; Singapore University of Social Sciences; "I am impressed by the range and depth of his contributions to Singapore over the 50 years of his active life. Prof Cham is well respected, especially for his insights into education, governance and businesses, and his vision on the way forward for education in light of Industry 4.0 with emphasis on re-skilling and up-skilling. He has consistently shown a unique grasp of problems, always sought to aid fellowmen in their hour of need. Prof Cham has gained the respect, esteem and affection of friends and colleagues. A must-read."; Dr Tan Lay Pheng; Assistant Director; Republic Polytechnic;