Emcee - Pure Vocals, Bridging Every Moment Through Voice, SMA Annual Dinner 2026

Emcee Ivan
May 23
4 min read

Updated: May 27

Date - 23rd May 2026

Venue - Conrad Singapore Orchard

Event - SMA Annual Dinner 2026: A Night of Honour, Legacy, and Medical Excellence

Emcee - On the evening of 23rd May 2026, the ballroom of Conrad Singapore Orchard played host to a truly memorable celebration of the medical profession. The Singapore Medical Association (SMA) held its much-anticipated Annual Dinner 2026, a signature event that brings together distinguished physicians, healthcare leaders, and honoured guests from across the region. Guiding the evening’s proceedings with warmth and precision was the evening’s emcee Ivan, who ensured that every segment of the night flowed seamlessly, from the arrival of VIPs to the final toast.

But what exactly does the Singapore Medical Association do, and why was this dinner such a significant occasion? Founded in 1959, the SMA is the largest representative body for medical practitioners in Singapore, dedicated to advancing the art and science of medicine, upholding professional ethics, and supporting the well-being of its members. The association plays a pivotal role in continuing medical education, publishing the Singapore Medical Journal, advocating for public health policies, and providing charitable support through the SMA Charity Fund. The Annual Dinner serves not only as a festive gathering but as a key platform to recognise outstanding contributions to the profession, celebrate medical excellence, and strengthen bonds within the healthcare community. As emcee Ivan reminded the audience early in the evening, this was far more than a dinner—it was a celebration of dedication and service.

The evening began with a formal reception, and emcee Ivan soon called for attention as the Guest of Honour, Dr Ng Eng Hen, Minister for Defence of Singapore, made his entrance. Dr Ng was accompanied by a distinguished lineup of VIPs, including Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi, Senior Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of National Development, and Member of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC; Dr Hamid Razak, Member of Parliament for West Coast-Jurong West GRC; and from abroad, Datuk Dr. Thirunavukarasu Rajoo, President of the Malaysian Medical Association. Emcee Ivan then invited SMA President, Dr Daniel Lee, to deliver his welcome address, setting a gracious and inspiring tone for the rest of the evening.

A highlight of the night, as narrated by emcee Ivan, was the conferment of the SMA Honorary Membership upon Dr Ng Eng Hen. This prestigious award, established in 1969, recognises exceptional contributions to the medical profession or to the association itself. The citation was delivered by Adjunct Associate Professor Prema Raj Jeyaraj, after which Dr Daniel Lee presented the award to Dr Ng. In his speech, Dr Ng thanked the SMA for the honour and reflected on the evolving challenges and triumphs of Singapore’s healthcare system. Emcee Ivan then guided the audience through the presentation of the SMA Merit Awards, honouring individuals who have gone above and beyond in medicine and community service. Among the recipients were Professor Fong Kok Yong, Deputy Group CEO (Medical and Clinical Services) at SingHealth; Dr Angel Lee Onn Kei, a pioneer in geriatric and palliative medicine; Dr Lim Wee Kiak, co-founder of Eagle Eye Centre and former Member of Parliament; and Adjunct Assistant Professor Mok Ying Ren, a consultant in sports surgery and former national athlete. Emcee Ivan ensured each recipient received a warm and personal introduction.

The evening also shone a light on the SMA Charity Fund (SMACF), with emcee Ivan welcoming Dr Chong Yeh Woei, Chairperson of the SMACF, to share insights into the fund’s work supporting vulnerable communities. A brand new corporate video was unveiled, offering a moving glimpse into the charity’s mission. Later, emcee Ivan called upon Dr Daniel Lee once more to introduce the 67th SMA Council, followed by a group photo on stage. The association also took time to honour its long-serving volunteers, presenting 30-year, 20-year, and 10-year Long Service Awards, as well as acknowledging the dedication of SMA Secretariat staff. Emcee Ivan continued to steer the programme with grace, even as the audience enjoyed a multi-course dinner served throughout the evening.

In a testament to the SMA’s commitment to academic excellence, emcee Ivan announced the presentation of the Singapore Medical Journal (SMJ) Best Research Paper Awards for 2025. The awards were presented by Professor Poh Kian Keong, Past Editor-in-Chief and Honorary Advisor of the SMJ, recognising outstanding original research published in the journal. Among the winning papers were studies on machine learning for sleep apnoea diagnosis, deep learning for paediatric elbow radiographs, and ethnic disparities in nephrology referrals. Emcee Ivan also congratulated the recipients on behalf of the association, encouraging continued submissions to the SMJ. The evening also included a lucky draw, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

As the night drew to a close, emcee Ivan invited all guests to join in thanking Dr Ng Eng Hen for gracing the occasion before he took his leave. Shortly after, emcee Ivan delivered the final address, expressing gratitude on behalf of the organising committee and specifically thanking the Organising Chairperson, Dr Calvin Tjio, and the SMA Secretariat for their hard work. With a warm reminder to drive safe, emcee Ivan brought the SMA Annual Dinner 2026 to a close, leaving attendees with lasting memories of an evening that truly celebrated the heart of Singapore’s medical community.