Dr. Tan Bee Wan, Chairman of the Integrative Learning Corporation and host of the Breakthroughs Podcast in Singapore, recently discussed the evolving Singaporean dream in a podcast episode. The Forward Singapore report highlighted a shift from material success to a pursuit of fulfillment, meaning, and purpose in life. Dr. Tan invited Anson Ng, the Singaporean of the Year 2022 and founder of Hao Ren Hao Shi, to share insights on how to lead a purposeful, meaningful, and happy life.
Anson’s Journey
Anson Ng, a self-made man, shared his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Born in 1967 and adopted into a large family, Anson faced early hardships, including the loss of his father at the age of nine. Despite a lack of formal education, he joined the army at 16 and later became a successful car salesman, eventually starting his own company in 1996.
The Birth of Hao Ren Hao Shi
Anson’s philanthropic journey took a significant turn in 2001 when he met Dr. Umar Rajan, the medical director at a nursing home. Inspired to contribute to society, Anson started organizing events and outings for the elderly. In 2007, he joined the hospice movement, cooking and serving meals to patients. This experience led to the founding of Hao Ren Hao Shi in 2018, a charity that not only provides food to the less fortunate but also engages volunteers, including over 14,000 students, in community service.
Fulfilling Last Wishes
Anson shared heartwarming stories of fulfilling the last wishes of hospice patients, ranging from arranging a final trip to a patient’s hometown to fulfilling smaller requests like providing a mobile phone for communication. These experiences underscored the importance of personal interaction and understanding the unique needs of individuals.
Family Support and Personal Sacrifice
Anson emphasized the significance of balancing personal and philanthropic endeavors. He clarified to his family that his charitable contributions come from his salary and commissions, ensuring that family needs are prioritized. He believes in having a compassionate heart and a strong community spirit to create a more cohesive and caring society.
Building a Compassionate Society
Anson highlighted the crucial role of education, compassion, and a community spirit in fostering a purposeful life. He stressed the importance of a compassionate heart, encouraging individuals to go beyond financial assistance and engage in personal interactions to truly understand and address the needs of others.
Anson Ng’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of compassion and community engagement. His insights remind us that a meaningful life involves not only personal success but also contributing to the well-being of others. As Singaporeans strive for fulfillment, meaning, and purpose, Anson’s story serves as an inspiration for building a more compassionate and interconnected society.
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