Ng Yi Xin, a Singapore Sustainability Scholar and a Geography and Economics graduate, shares her scholarship journey and provides a glimpse into the diverse efforts behind building a cleaner and greener Singapore with the National Environment Agency (NEA). From coordinating island-wide cleaning initiatives at Singaporeans’ beloved hawker centres to shaping the nation’s waste management strategies, Yi Xin’s work reflects the diverse and impactful contributions needed to create a sustainable legacy for Singapore and its future generations.
From Classroom Curiosity To Real-World Impact
I was passionate about Geography in school, drawn to topics such as sustainability, climate change, and public health. Studying Economics in junior college also provided me with another perspective on environmental issues. After my GCE A-levels, as I considered the field of study to pursue in university and future job prospects, I envisioned myself in a role where I could make meaningful contributions towards a sustainable Singapore. The opportunities offered by the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship (SSS) to engage in exciting work across various environmental issues aligned perfectly with my personal and career aspirations. Applying for the scholarship felt like a natural step.
From Classroom Curiosity To Real-World Impact
It was only after joining NEA that I fully appreciated the agency’s wide-ranging responsibilities. I started with a posting in the Place Management and Operations Division (PMOD) of the Hawker Centres Group, where I planned and implemented initiatives to improve the cleanliness of hawker centres and managed integrated cleaning contracts for hawker centres. This role provided direct exposure to operations, involving stakeholder coordination with NEA’s hawker centre Place Managers and cleaning contractors to maintain a clean, hygienic environment for both patrons and stallholders. Subsequently, I had the opportunity to significantly pivot into a policy portfolio within the Policy Division (PD) of the Strategic Planning and Policy Group, where I focused on waste-related strategic policy and planning to advance NEA’s key priorities. This exposure to different fields of NEA’s work has provided me with a well-rounded perspective and a deeper appreciation of the diverse efforts contributing to a clean and sustainable Singapore.
Navigating My First NEA Experience
One of my first and most memorable experiences with NEA was during the PMOD days when we were about to commence new integrated cleaning contracts for several hawker centres. To ensure a smooth transition, our team conducted extensive engagements with various stakeholders, from NEA’s Place Managers to stallholders and cleaning contractors, to align expectations and deliverables under the new contracts and ensure high cleanliness standards are being maintained even as contractors change hands. Navigating this transition taught me valuable lessons about the importance of effective communication and building positive relationships with stakeholders.
Remaining Steadfast in the Sustainability Mission
Reflecting on my career journey with NEA, I am more certain than ever that my passion lies in contributing toa sustainable Singapore. Currently focusing on waste- related strategic policies, I hope to support efforts to push the boundaries of sustainable waste management.
This urgency stems not only from the need to reduce the burden on our only landfill, Semakau Landfill, but also from a deep conviction that we must rethink our consumption and disposal habits to ensure a healthy and viable planet for future generations. Given the great diversity of NEA’s work, I’m excited about the long-term prospect of gaining exposure across different portfolios within the agency, knowing there’s always something meaningful to contribute to Singapore’s environment and future.
How the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship Shaped My Career
The experiences afforded by the Singapore Sustainability Scholarship have put me in good stead for my future environmental career. The opportunity to study Geography and Economics provided me with diverse yet complementary skillsets to tackle environmental issues. At work, diverse postings have provided me with practical experience and exposure to NEA’s and the whole-of-government’s considerations regarding environmental issues. Additionally, the mentorship provided by leaders and supervisors has been instrumental in guiding my personal growth and career development.
Tips for Aspiring Scholars
First of all, know your “why”. Understand your reasons for applying for the scholarship and share it with conviction. Showcase your intellectual curiosity and a willingness to learn. And always accept feedback, then ask how you can use it to improve at what you do. Enjoy the conversations and let your passion for the environment shine through!
NG YI XIN
Singapore Sustainability Scholarship (NEA)
Bachelor of Science in Economics and Geography (First Class Honours), University College London
Master of Science in Applied Geographic Information Systems, National University of Singapore
Now: Assistant Manager, Policy Division, NEA