My Journey

Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité

I am Singaporean by nationality but my academic journey abroad began in France. In 2010, I undertook my BA programme with Sciences Po Paris, at their regional campus in Menton (near the Franco-Italian border). This unique Political Science curriculum focused on the Middle East and was conducted in French.

Movement is a blessing

الحركة بركة

Having spent my year abroad in Kuwait (2012-13), my interest in the Gulf Arab states would develop — starting with the society and the culture of the peoples. From the customs and traditions, one of my first major projects undertaken focused on the majlis, or the sitting/reception rooms used for establishing (inter-)family connections and runs as far as politicking.

The Land of the Queen (and now, King)

The thirst for a greater understanding of the states in the Gulf Cooperation Council led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Defence, Development, and Diplomacy, and later a PhD in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies.

Both higher degrees were completed at Durham University, UK. The PhD was fully funded by the Al-Sabah programme at the same university.

Completing my tour at home

My time at the Middle East Institute, National University of Singapore, came full circle with a tenure just shy of 6 years (April 2020 to December 2025).

During this period, I gained a great deal of skills and was exposed to both policymakers and private sector stakeholders.