Five young bilingual professionals tapped to foster use of Mandarin

They have been selected under initiative by Promote Mandarin Council, Business China

- Chin Soo Fang

Mr Kennie Ting’s proficiency in Mandarin came in handy when it helped draw Guo Pei, China’s foremost couturier, to hold a large couture and art exhibition at the Asian Civilisations Museum ACM) in 2019.

“Guo Pei decided to work with ACM because she trusted me. She felt that I had a deep understanding of Chinese culture, and that there were no language barriers between us,” said Mr Ting, 44, director of the ACM and Peranakan Museum.

He is among five people tapped under a Young Bilingual Professionals initiative by the Promote Mandarin Council and Business China to foster the use of the language. They were selected after a call for nominations was made to various organisations.

Videos of how they have benefited from their bilingualism can now be seen on the Speak Mandarin Campaign’s social media _platforms, and they may be spotted at campaign or Business China events.

Ms Chew Lee Ching, deputy chairman of the council, said: Our bilingual advantage is beneficial and provides Singaporeans with a competitive edge, especially when exposed to opportunities presented by a rapidly changing world. Specific to a growing China economy, the value of Mandarin is in its usefulness and its ability to connect.”

She hopes the Young Bilingual Professionals move will inspire greater interest in Mandarin not only for the functional benefits, but also for how it can enrich lives through a deeper appreciation for and understanding of the Chinese culture.

Three of the professionals Mr Ian Loh, 32, senior vice-president of a blockchain fintech company; Mr Sim Cheng Yu, 29, a trade marketing manager at a multinational eyewear firm; and Ms Pey Yin Jie, 37, a principal consultant with a multinational energy group grew up in a Mandarin-speaking environment.