Dr Low Boon Yong

From strangers to schoolmates to friends for life, the NUS Medical Class of 1976 shares an unbreakable bond to this day. Now, Dr Low Boon Yong is tapping into that long-lasting friendship for a good cause.

Dr Low and his batchmates are raising funds to establish a grant for financially needy undergraduates who are studying to become doctors, nurses, dentists or pharmacists. The Alumni Association Centennial Celebration – Medical Class of ’76 Bursary will commemorate the Medical Alumni Association’s 100th anniversary in 2023.

“I wanted to do something meaningful with the team of 1976. I’m very thankful for the medical education which allowed us to contribute to society as a doctor. Our hope is to nurture young medical students to achieve their aspirations, and that they will care for the public with empathy and love,” shared Dr Low, Emeritus Consultant, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Changi General Hospital.

Throughout his 45 years in service, Dr Low has made an indelible impact on the medical landscape and the lives of countless patients. He was a transformative force that shaped the Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments of hospitals nationwide. He implemented the triage system at the A&E department, decreasing patients’ waiting times by over 60 percent.

Taught by great mentors along the way, Dr Low is inspired to nurture the next generation of physicians and surgeons. Today, he teaches junior doctors in the hospital, as well as students at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.

In recognition of his contributions, Dr Low was conferred as Emeritus Consultant at the SingHealth Doctors and Dentists Long Service Awards 2022.

When asked what personal beliefs have made him who he is today, he said: “A doctor should be committed to the profession and passionate about care for their patients. When serving patients, one should always have the mind of a versatile scientist, the heart of a saint and the passion of a master chef.”