Tembusu Forum

The flagship event of our college — the Tembusu Forum — takes place twice a semester, and is hosted and moderated by our Rector, Professor Tommy Koh. Compelling, important, and occasionally controversial, issues — often suggested by students — are taken up, discussed, and debated by eminent personalities at the forefront of their respective fields. Hearing the different views of experts will help you develop and expand your own thoughts on the crucial issues of the day. The forum is also one of the few of its kind, as all questions to our prominent guests are directed by students, allowing you to hone your public speaking skills.

The Tembusu (Fagraea fragrans) is a large evergreen tree in the family Gentianaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia. Its trunk is dark brown, with deeply fissured bark, looking somewhat like a bittergourd. It grows in an irregular shape from 10 to 25m high. Its leaves are light green and oval in shape. Its yellowish flowers have a distinct fragrance and the fruits of the tree are bitter tasting red berries, which are eaten by birds and fruit bats.