16 December 2024
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our Emeritus Consultant and former Medical Superintendent (1979–1981), Professor Chew Chin Hin. We pay tribute to the profound impact he had on the lives of patients and healthcare professionals.
Professor Chew was a true giant in Singapore's healthcare landscape. He devoted more than six decades of public service to TTSH and the healthcare field, shaping not only our hospital but also the many lives he touched with his compassion, knowledge, and dedication,"
- Adjunct Professor Tang Kong Choong, Chief Executive Officer, TTSH
Professor Chew's journey with TTSH was deeply intertwined with his personal history. His father, Dr Benjamin Chew, served here as a physician during the turbulent years of World War II, and young Professor Chew grew up witnessing his father's courageous dedication to those in need. These early experiences profoundly shaped his own commitment to medicine, instilling in him a lifelong desire to serve and heal.
Professor Chew began his career at TTSH in 1962 and served until 1981, when he was appointed Deputy Director of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health. As the founding Head of Medical Unit IV (the present Department of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology) from 1965 to 1979, he laid a foundation that has supported generations of clinicians and patients. His pivotal contributions to tuberculosis, as Chair of the Ministry's Tuberculosis Research Committee, led to groundbreaking advancements in TB treatment that significantly benefited public health.
Professor Chew tenaciously pursued excellence throughout his career. He made significant contributions to both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education. From 1973 to 1975, he held the prestigious position of Master of the Academy of Medicine Singapore. For fostering closer ties between the local medical fraternity and overseas medical colleges, he was conferred fellowships by the Royal College of Physicians of London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, and the American College of Physicians. Notably, he was the first and only Singaporean to be awarded the prestigious Mastership of the American College of Physicians. Other contributions during his career include serving in the Singapore Medical Council and the setting up of the Civil Aviation Medical Board in the 1970s. The Board was established to ensure pilots are medically certified to fly safely.
After his retirement in 1991, Professor Chew continued to contribute to the medical field. He chaired the National Medical Ethics Committee and played a pivotal role in formulating the Advance Medical Directive. He was also honorary advisor to the Division of Graduate Medical Studies, National University of Singapore, and was instrumental in the establishment of the Joint Masters of Medicine (Internal Medicine) and Royal College of Physicians, MRCP (UK) examinations in 1995. For his contributions to teaching, research, and administration, he was awarded the Public Administration Medal (Gold) in 1982, the Long Service Medal in 1991, and the title of Emeritus Consultant, TTSH, in 1998.
“Professor Chew was more than a doctor; he was physician, mentor, guide, and a compassionate presence. He embodied the highest ideals of our profession, inspiring all who had the privilege of working alongside him," remembers Adjunct Associate Professor Bernard Thong, Chairman Medical Board, TTSH. “Professor Chew leaves behind not only a formidable legacy in medicine but also a lasting impact on all of us, who will carry forward his spirit of compassion and excellence."
In honour of Professor Chew and his wife, a new professorship – the Chin Hin and Anna Chew Professorship – will be jointly established by TTSH and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore's Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine).
In a recent interview, when asked about his message to younger doctors, Professor Chew said: “Medicine is a calling, never a trade, and you must keep updating yourself. The title 'doctor' is derived from the Latin word 'docere' (to teach); thus, you have to continue teaching and imparting knowledge."
Prof Chew's legacy of compassionate care and teachings remain at the core of TTSH of as we pursue health for generations to come.