Singapore's cybersecurity skills shortage: Why it matters
By Linette Lim Posted 14 Oct 2016 15:51 Updated 14 Oct 2016 16:00
SINGAPORE: In his speech launching Singapore’s national cybersecurity strategy earlier this week, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong warned of cyberattacks and threats “becoming more frequent and sophisticated, with more severe consequences”.
He pointed to how a cyberattack on the power grid in Ukraine last December left many Ukrainians without electricity for hours, and how hackers used malware to withdraw more than US$2 million (S$2.77 million) from ATMs in Taiwan in July this year. Closer to home, he said that there have been attacks on government networks and on the financial sector.
According to a 2014 report from Center for Strategic and International Studies, cybercrime costs Singapore an estimated S$1.25 billion annually.
Yet there is a decidedly acute shortage of IT security specialists that can be engaged to help fend off such online threats.
According to Communications and Information Minister Yaacob Ibrahim, there were 15,000 vacancies in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector last year, unchanged from 2014. More than two-thirds of these vacancies, he said, were for professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) or technical specialists in areas such as development, network and infrastructure, cybersecurity and data analytics.
Additionally, 2012 data from the Economic Development Board (EDB) showed that just 0.8 per cent of Singapore’s 144,300 ICT workers were IT security specialists, with a particularly acute shortfall in the middle and senior tiers.
MANPOWER GAP HINDERING CYBERCRIME FIGHT
This is why for vendors like Quann, which hires more than 300 certified security professionals in the region, a global shortage of cybersecurity manpower means fighting cybercrime is proving to be an uphill battle.
“There is a distinct (manpower and skills) gap, and the gap has widened. The proxy for that is the wage growth that we’ve seen in this sector. Wages have gone up quite substantially in the last two to three years. Based on some reports by third-party consultancies, wages are estimated to have gone up by 20 per cent per year, over the last couple of years,” said Quann’s managing director Foo Siang-tse.
According to Mr Foo, increasing digitisation of customer and business records and the proliferation of interconnected devices have resulted in greater avenues for cybercriminals, but “until recently”, educational institutions have not expanded capacity quickly enough to keep pace with demand in the sector.
To address this, part of the national cybersecurity strategy is to boost the cybersecurity profession in a number of ways. This includes instituting clear career pathways, promoting certification, and working with the industry and institutes of higher learning to attract new graduates and convert existing professionals from related fields.
WHAT ARE THE SKILLS NEEDED?
One of these organisations is ISACA, the international professional body formerly known as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association. Its Singapore Chapter says the Government is working with industry groups like theirs to offer training and certification programmes.
“Skills that are lacking now are in the areas of intrusion detection, security architecture and analysis, security incident management, secure software development, incident response and recovery,” said Mr John Lee, President of ISACA Singapore Chapter.
“Singapore is a global financial hub with high-end manufacturing and developed service industry. The need to safeguard against a major cyber breach is paramount to prevent erosion of trust by external stakeholders.”
Among the IHLs, the Singapore University of Technology (SUTD) only opened its doors four years ago. Professor Aditya Mathur, who oversees the university’s Information Systems Technology and Design pillar, said he has seen a rise in student enrollments and a growing number of students picking security classes.
“SUTD is not only offering courses in cybersecurity at the undergraduate level but also conducting outreach programmes aimed at raising cybersecurity awareness among secondary school students,” Prof Aditya added.
TAPPING ON EXISTING TALENT POOL
But it will be some time before these students join the workforce and contribute to the core of local cybersecurity talent. In the meanwhile, Mr Foo says Quann is doing its best to meet the manpower challenge through on-the-job training, or through converting existing IT professionals with adjacent skillsets.
The local company is one of four participating in the Cyber Security Associates and Technologists (CSAT) programme, which equips ICT professionals with three years’ working experience to pick up the requisite skills to switch sectors. The other training partners are Singtel, ST Electronics and Accel Systems and Technologies.
Some business leaders who oversee ongoing efforts to help build up Singapore's cybersecurity manpower pool include Mr Boye Vanell from BAE Systems (top-left); Quann’s Mr Foo Siang-tse (bottom-left); and Microsoft Singapore’s Ms Jessica Tan (right). (Photos: BAE Systems, Quann, Microsoft Singapore).
While Quann partners tertiary institutions like the National University of Singapore, the Singapore Management University, and Ngee Ann Polytechnic to get access to talent, others, like British multinational BAE Systems, aim to build up the cybersecurity ecosystem through collaborating with researchers and helping to incubate startup ideas.
One outcome of its partnership with Nanyang Technological University is a threat operating model designed by postgraduate students, built using BAE System’s tools and techniques.
“You need to create the interest in the industry. You do that by running research programmes, and you do that by bringing niche technology to startup companies to help close the gaps that customers face,” said Mr Boye Vanell, Regional Director of Asia at BAE Systems.
Microsoft Singapore’s Managing Director Jessica Tan, who oversaw the company’s opening of a new Transparency Center and Cybersecurity Center in Singapore this month, told Channel NewsAsia that apart from technical skills, other important attributes for cybersecurity professionals include “a growth mindset, curiosity, learning and resilience".
She said: “What is critical is building an ICT foundation in every student, which they can then extend and apply to every field they pursue, regardless of whether it is in biomedicine, behavioural economics or digital manufacturing, to name a few. ICT will touch every facet of the industry and government.”
According to Ms Tan, given that more citizens’ lives are touched by technology - at home, in schools and in the workplace - the talent pipeline of cybersecurity professionals is “both an economic and security imperative for Singapore”. This implies the difficulty in relying too heavily on foreign cybersecurity professionals to plug the gaps.
The unique nature of the industry also means it is relatively labour-intensive, and there are limits to plugging the gaps with technology like big data analytics.
“At the end of the day, the person at the other end of the kill chain - the perpetrator - is still a human being. Notwithstanding that fact that we have our own R&D labs, we’re looking at tapping on big data and threat intelligence - if the adversary is human, we need humans on our side,” said Mr Foo.
- CNA/ll
- wong chee tat :)
Showing posts with label National University of Singapore. Show all posts
Showing posts with label National University of Singapore. Show all posts
Thursday, October 27, 2016
NUS and Singtel launch cybersecurity lab
NUS and Singtel launch cybersecurity lab
By Kimberly Spykerman Posted 24 Oct 2016 11:43 Updated 25 Oct 2016 00:15
SINGAPORE: The National University of Singapore (NUS) and Singtel on Monday (Oct 24) launched their joint cybersecurity laboratory aimed at protecting consumers against security breaches, data leaks and other online attacks.
Over the next five years, S$43 million from NUS, Singtel, and the National Research Foundation (NRF) will be pumped into the lab. "Such public-private R&D collaboration aligns public research to industry needs, and accelerates innovations to market," said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who is also NRF's Chairman, at the launch event.
The new laboratory will focus on areas such as network, data and cloud computing security, among others.
Singtel CEO of Group Enterprise Bill Chang pointed out that many enterprises are constantly challenged by the increasingly sophisticated nature of cyber threats, and the new lab will allow them to develop and bring to market cybersecurity offerings more quickly to help these companies.
"What really differentiates this lab from other initiatives is the fact that we have an industrial partner,” said director of NUS-Singtel Cyber Security Research and Development Lab professor David Rosenblum. “So, they have very significant business problems that are related to cybersecurity, and the researchers at NUS are going to be exposed to these business problems.”
The lab will also increase Singapore's pool of cybersecurity professionals and raise their game, hosting 100 researchers and training 120 new cybersecurity professionals over the next five years.
"This will develop a strong talent pool critical to Singapore. The training will equip them with deep expertise in this growing area, and prepare them for employment opportunities, not just with Singtel, but also in the public sector and other companies," said Mr Teo.
The national cybersecurity strategy, which was announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong earlier this month, aims to boost the cybersecurity profession. This includes instituting clear career pathways, promoting certification, and working with the industry and institutes of higher learning to attract new graduates and convert existing professionals from related fields.
Singtel said it does not rule out collaborating with the other telcos in research and capability building, or in making the solutions commercially available to them.
- CNA/kk
- wong chee tat :)
By Kimberly Spykerman Posted 24 Oct 2016 11:43 Updated 25 Oct 2016 00:15
SINGAPORE: The National University of Singapore (NUS) and Singtel on Monday (Oct 24) launched their joint cybersecurity laboratory aimed at protecting consumers against security breaches, data leaks and other online attacks.
Over the next five years, S$43 million from NUS, Singtel, and the National Research Foundation (NRF) will be pumped into the lab. "Such public-private R&D collaboration aligns public research to industry needs, and accelerates innovations to market," said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who is also NRF's Chairman, at the launch event.
The new laboratory will focus on areas such as network, data and cloud computing security, among others.
Singtel CEO of Group Enterprise Bill Chang pointed out that many enterprises are constantly challenged by the increasingly sophisticated nature of cyber threats, and the new lab will allow them to develop and bring to market cybersecurity offerings more quickly to help these companies.
"What really differentiates this lab from other initiatives is the fact that we have an industrial partner,” said director of NUS-Singtel Cyber Security Research and Development Lab professor David Rosenblum. “So, they have very significant business problems that are related to cybersecurity, and the researchers at NUS are going to be exposed to these business problems.”
The lab will also increase Singapore's pool of cybersecurity professionals and raise their game, hosting 100 researchers and training 120 new cybersecurity professionals over the next five years.
"This will develop a strong talent pool critical to Singapore. The training will equip them with deep expertise in this growing area, and prepare them for employment opportunities, not just with Singtel, but also in the public sector and other companies," said Mr Teo.
The national cybersecurity strategy, which was announced by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong earlier this month, aims to boost the cybersecurity profession. This includes instituting clear career pathways, promoting certification, and working with the industry and institutes of higher learning to attract new graduates and convert existing professionals from related fields.
Singtel said it does not rule out collaborating with the other telcos in research and capability building, or in making the solutions commercially available to them.
- CNA/kk
- wong chee tat :)
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
NUS investigating reports of inappropriate orientation activities
NUS investigating reports of inappropriate orientation activities
Posted 26 Jul 2016 18:43 Updated 26 Jul 2016 18:50
SINGAPORE: The National University of Singapore (NUS) is investigating reports of inappropriate orientation activities and will take strong disciplinary action against those found responsible, it said in a statement on Tuesday (Jul 26).
The New Paper on Tuesday reported that freshmen were asked questions which touched on taboo subjects, such as what bodily fluids they like to consume, and some were asked to re-enact a rape scene.
NUS said it expects that "orientation activities are carried out in ways that are fully respectful of the dignity of all those participating, regardless of gender".
"We do not condone any behaviour or activity that denigrates the dignity of individuals, and that has sexual connotations. Our students, particularly freshmen, must feel safe and secure at all times during orientation. If they decide to opt out of an activity, their wishes must be respected," NUS said.
It added that the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) had conducted sessions with students involved in organising and leading orientation activities before the start of the orientation period. During these sessions, do's and don'ts of orientation, as well as banned activities were meted out, NUS said.
"Students were also made aware that strong disciplinary actions will be taken against offenders. In addition, all proposed orientation programmes and activities had to be endorsed and cleared by the relevant supervisors, such as Hall Masters and Vice Deans, as well as OSA, before they could proceed. Students were asked to remove inappropriate activities," the statement said.
NUS added that separately, OSA had worked with the Deaneries in Faculties, and the Masters of Halls and Residential Colleges on the necessary steps needed to ensure all planned student orientation activities would be acceptable.
"We are very disappointed that despite these efforts, instances of offensive and completely inappropriate orientation activities that were not submitted nor endorsed have surfaced," NUS said. "OSA has met with the student leaders of the ongoing and remaining camps, and briefed them on the guidelines for acceptable orientation activities. NUS staff will also be on site at these camps."
It added that any student who has concerns about the activities carried out at orientation can contact the NUS Office of Student Affairs at osabox15@nus.edu.sg on a strictly confidential basis.
Feedback about overly sexualised orientation programmes had also been posted on the NUSWhispers Facebook page. OSA responded to this on Jul 21, saying it has taken note of the concerns raised and is working with faculties to find out more.
- CNA/dl
- wong chee tat :)
Posted 26 Jul 2016 18:43 Updated 26 Jul 2016 18:50
SINGAPORE: The National University of Singapore (NUS) is investigating reports of inappropriate orientation activities and will take strong disciplinary action against those found responsible, it said in a statement on Tuesday (Jul 26).
The New Paper on Tuesday reported that freshmen were asked questions which touched on taboo subjects, such as what bodily fluids they like to consume, and some were asked to re-enact a rape scene.
NUS said it expects that "orientation activities are carried out in ways that are fully respectful of the dignity of all those participating, regardless of gender".
"We do not condone any behaviour or activity that denigrates the dignity of individuals, and that has sexual connotations. Our students, particularly freshmen, must feel safe and secure at all times during orientation. If they decide to opt out of an activity, their wishes must be respected," NUS said.
It added that the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) had conducted sessions with students involved in organising and leading orientation activities before the start of the orientation period. During these sessions, do's and don'ts of orientation, as well as banned activities were meted out, NUS said.
"Students were also made aware that strong disciplinary actions will be taken against offenders. In addition, all proposed orientation programmes and activities had to be endorsed and cleared by the relevant supervisors, such as Hall Masters and Vice Deans, as well as OSA, before they could proceed. Students were asked to remove inappropriate activities," the statement said.
NUS added that separately, OSA had worked with the Deaneries in Faculties, and the Masters of Halls and Residential Colleges on the necessary steps needed to ensure all planned student orientation activities would be acceptable.
"We are very disappointed that despite these efforts, instances of offensive and completely inappropriate orientation activities that were not submitted nor endorsed have surfaced," NUS said. "OSA has met with the student leaders of the ongoing and remaining camps, and briefed them on the guidelines for acceptable orientation activities. NUS staff will also be on site at these camps."
It added that any student who has concerns about the activities carried out at orientation can contact the NUS Office of Student Affairs at osabox15@nus.edu.sg on a strictly confidential basis.
Feedback about overly sexualised orientation programmes had also been posted on the NUSWhispers Facebook page. OSA responded to this on Jul 21, saying it has taken note of the concerns raised and is working with faculties to find out more.
- CNA/dl
- wong chee tat :)
Friday, March 4, 2016
A-Level results: 93.1% score at least 3 H2 passes, best results since curriculum change in 2006
A-Level results: 93.1% score at least 3 H2 passes, best results since curriculum change in 2006
The 13,582 students who sat for the examination last year bettered the previous best set by the 2014 cohort, where 91.4 per cent achieved the same standard of passes.
By Holly Matthews
Posted 04 Mar 2016 15:30 Updated 04 Mar 2016 23:32
SINGAPORE: Last year’s cohort of GCE A-Level students scored the best results since the curriculum was changed in 2006, with 93.1 per cent scoring at least three Higher 2 (H2) passes, with a pass in General Paper or Knowledge and Inquiry.
The 13,582 students who sat for the examination last year topped the previous best set by the 2014 cohort, where 91.4 per cent achieved the same standard of passes.
The A-level curriculum was revised in 2006, with the first cohort of candidates taking their examinations in 2007. The pass percentage has steadily increased since then, with 87.5 per cent of the 2007 cohort achieving a similar standard of passes.
School candidates received their results at their schools on Friday at 2.30pm. Private candidates will receive their results by post, or they can use their SingPass account to obtain their results at the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board’s website from 2.30pm on Friday.
Students can now use their A-Level results to apply to the five local universities. For the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore University of Technology and Design and Singapore Management University, the application deadline is April 1st, while the Singapore Institute of Technology closes its online application on March 18.
- CNA/cy
- wong chee tat :)
The 13,582 students who sat for the examination last year bettered the previous best set by the 2014 cohort, where 91.4 per cent achieved the same standard of passes.
By Holly Matthews
Posted 04 Mar 2016 15:30 Updated 04 Mar 2016 23:32
SINGAPORE: Last year’s cohort of GCE A-Level students scored the best results since the curriculum was changed in 2006, with 93.1 per cent scoring at least three Higher 2 (H2) passes, with a pass in General Paper or Knowledge and Inquiry.
The 13,582 students who sat for the examination last year topped the previous best set by the 2014 cohort, where 91.4 per cent achieved the same standard of passes.
The A-level curriculum was revised in 2006, with the first cohort of candidates taking their examinations in 2007. The pass percentage has steadily increased since then, with 87.5 per cent of the 2007 cohort achieving a similar standard of passes.
School candidates received their results at their schools on Friday at 2.30pm. Private candidates will receive their results by post, or they can use their SingPass account to obtain their results at the Singapore Examinations and Assessment Board’s website from 2.30pm on Friday.
Students can now use their A-Level results to apply to the five local universities. For the National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore University of Technology and Design and Singapore Management University, the application deadline is April 1st, while the Singapore Institute of Technology closes its online application on March 18.
- CNA/cy
- wong chee tat :)
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Ex-NUS law professor Tey seeks reinstatement of academic position
Ex-NUS law professor Tey seeks reinstatement of academic position
High Court order filed to reverse former NUS law professor Tey Tsun Hang's ‘wrongful’ dismissal following his subsequently-overturned corruption conviction.
Ex-NUS Professor Tey Tsun Hang (Photo: TODAY)
SINGAPORE: Former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang has applied to the High Court to have his dismissal from duty quashed and to be reinstated.
Mr Tey is alleging that NUS did not carry out any disciplinary proceedings against him and had based the decision to dismiss him on the trial court conviction.
In his affidavit tendered to the court last week, Mr Tey said NUS had “jumped the gun” in its decision.
“The NUS cannot dismiss a tenured law professor based on conviction declared by the High Court to be misconceived and mistake, a conviction based on evidence misconstrued and its significance misunderstood,” he said.
In response to this, NUS said on Wednesday (June 11) that under the terms and conditions of Mr Tey's appointment, termination may be effected without prior notice and without any payment of compensation should he be convicted by a court of law of any crime that is likely to bring the university into disrepute.
The university can also exercise its rights of summary dismissal should Mr Tey be guilty of misconduct or impropriety, a spokesman added. "NUS takes a very strong stand against faculty who behave in a grossly inappropriate manner in their interactions with our students. Under our Code of Conduct, University staff are expected to conduct themselves with honesty and propriety, and perform their duties in a professional and conscientious manner."
Mr Tey was suspended from his post on July 27, 2012 after he was charged for alleged misconduct with his then-student Darinne Ko.
He was officially dismissed on May 28, 2013 upon the oral delivery judgment of his conviction which was later overturned in February this year.
Mr Tey is currently unemployed and is living in Malaysia, with his lawyer M Ravi adding that Tey feels “aggrieved” about the situation.
-TODAY/ek
- wong chee tat :)
High Court order filed to reverse former NUS law professor Tey Tsun Hang's ‘wrongful’ dismissal following his subsequently-overturned corruption conviction.
Ex-NUS Professor Tey Tsun Hang (Photo: TODAY)
SINGAPORE: Former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang has applied to the High Court to have his dismissal from duty quashed and to be reinstated.
Mr Tey is alleging that NUS did not carry out any disciplinary proceedings against him and had based the decision to dismiss him on the trial court conviction.
In his affidavit tendered to the court last week, Mr Tey said NUS had “jumped the gun” in its decision.
“The NUS cannot dismiss a tenured law professor based on conviction declared by the High Court to be misconceived and mistake, a conviction based on evidence misconstrued and its significance misunderstood,” he said.
In response to this, NUS said on Wednesday (June 11) that under the terms and conditions of Mr Tey's appointment, termination may be effected without prior notice and without any payment of compensation should he be convicted by a court of law of any crime that is likely to bring the university into disrepute.
The university can also exercise its rights of summary dismissal should Mr Tey be guilty of misconduct or impropriety, a spokesman added. "NUS takes a very strong stand against faculty who behave in a grossly inappropriate manner in their interactions with our students. Under our Code of Conduct, University staff are expected to conduct themselves with honesty and propriety, and perform their duties in a professional and conscientious manner."
Mr Tey was suspended from his post on July 27, 2012 after he was charged for alleged misconduct with his then-student Darinne Ko.
He was officially dismissed on May 28, 2013 upon the oral delivery judgment of his conviction which was later overturned in February this year.
Mr Tey is currently unemployed and is living in Malaysia, with his lawyer M Ravi adding that Tey feels “aggrieved” about the situation.
-TODAY/ek
- wong chee tat :)
Friday, February 28, 2014
Ex-law prof Tey Tsun Hang cleared of corruption by High Court
Ex-law prof Tey Tsun Hang cleared of corruption by High Court
Former professor Tey Tsun Hang exits Selarang Park Community Supervision Centre on a hired cab after having his electronic tag removed on Oct 5, 2013. High Court Justice Woo Bih Li also questioned why Mr Tey told Ms Darinne Ko he had no money to pay for the abortion in 2010 when he was working for NUS.
Selina Lum
The Straits Times, AFP
Friday, Feb 28, 2014
But even as he cleared Mr Tey of criminal wrongdoing, Justice Woo Bih Li had strong words for the ex-professor, saying that he was "a man without honour".
Sex-for-grades case takes a surprising turn
The high-profile sex-for-grades case involving former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang and his ex-student Darinne Ko took a surprising turn on Friday when the High Court acquitted him of corruption, after he had served a five-month jail term.
Singapore High Court overturns sex-for-favours conviction
AFP - Singapore's High Court has overturned the conviction of a law professor jailed for obtaining sexual favours and gifts from a female student in exchange for better grades, his lawyer said Friday.
Former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang, 42, served a five-month sentence last year after he was found guilty by a district court of six charges of corruption over his relationship with his then-student Darinne Ko in 2010.
The district court ruled that he had "exploited" the female student by obtaining sexual favours from her and also receiving gifts that included tailored shirts and a limited-edition pen.
But Tey's lawyer Peter Low said Friday that High Court Justice Woo Bih Li "allowed an appeal and overturned the conviction", five months after he completed his prison sentence.
"The crux of it is that the court found that it takes two hands to clap even though he exploited her and that she was in love with him," Low told AFP.
"I am glad that Professor Tey has been vindicated by a court of law and acquitted of all six corruption charges," he said.
The NUS, which announced last year that it had terminated Tey's employment after his conviction, did not immediately comment on the ruling. In handing down the sentence last year, Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye said Tey "abused his position and power" while in the relationship with Ko and chastised him for his "ulterior motives and corrupt intention".
The court had heard during the trial that Ko got pregnant during their affair and paid for her own abortion.
It is the second high-profile corruption case to be overturned in Singapore in the past year.
Ng Boon Gay, a former head of Singapore's narcotics police, was cleared of corruption in February 2013 after a court rejected charges that he demanded oral sex from a female contractor to help her win government deals.
- wong chee tat :)
Former professor Tey Tsun Hang exits Selarang Park Community Supervision Centre on a hired cab after having his electronic tag removed on Oct 5, 2013. High Court Justice Woo Bih Li also questioned why Mr Tey told Ms Darinne Ko he had no money to pay for the abortion in 2010 when he was working for NUS.
Selina Lum
The Straits Times, AFP
Friday, Feb 28, 2014
But even as he cleared Mr Tey of criminal wrongdoing, Justice Woo Bih Li had strong words for the ex-professor, saying that he was "a man without honour".
Sex-for-grades case takes a surprising turn
The high-profile sex-for-grades case involving former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang and his ex-student Darinne Ko took a surprising turn on Friday when the High Court acquitted him of corruption, after he had served a five-month jail term.
Singapore High Court overturns sex-for-favours conviction
AFP - Singapore's High Court has overturned the conviction of a law professor jailed for obtaining sexual favours and gifts from a female student in exchange for better grades, his lawyer said Friday.
Former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang, 42, served a five-month sentence last year after he was found guilty by a district court of six charges of corruption over his relationship with his then-student Darinne Ko in 2010.
The district court ruled that he had "exploited" the female student by obtaining sexual favours from her and also receiving gifts that included tailored shirts and a limited-edition pen.
But Tey's lawyer Peter Low said Friday that High Court Justice Woo Bih Li "allowed an appeal and overturned the conviction", five months after he completed his prison sentence.
"The crux of it is that the court found that it takes two hands to clap even though he exploited her and that she was in love with him," Low told AFP.
"I am glad that Professor Tey has been vindicated by a court of law and acquitted of all six corruption charges," he said.
The NUS, which announced last year that it had terminated Tey's employment after his conviction, did not immediately comment on the ruling. In handing down the sentence last year, Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye said Tey "abused his position and power" while in the relationship with Ko and chastised him for his "ulterior motives and corrupt intention".
The court had heard during the trial that Ko got pregnant during their affair and paid for her own abortion.
It is the second high-profile corruption case to be overturned in Singapore in the past year.
Ng Boon Gay, a former head of Singapore's narcotics police, was cleared of corruption in February 2013 after a court rejected charges that he demanded oral sex from a female contractor to help her win government deals.
- wong chee tat :)
Former professor in sex-for-grades case wins appeal against conviction
Former professor in sex-for-grades case wins appeal against conviction
By Leong Wai Kit
POSTED: 28 Feb 2014 11:09
UPDATED: 28 Feb 2014 21:07
SINGAPORE: The former National University of Singapore (NUS) professor involved in the sex-for-grades case has won his appeal against his conviction and sentence.
Tey Tsun Hang was found guilty in May last year by a district court of corruption charges.
The High Court ruled that his former student, Darinne Ko, did not give him presents or have sex with him to get better grades.
Justice Woo Bih Li said the trial judge had wrongly equated conduct which is morally reprehensible with conduct which is legally wrong.
A fine of S$514.80, which Tey was ordered to pay, will also be refunded to him.
The money is equivalent to the value of two tailored shirts and part of the cost of a dinner.
But Tey has already served his five-month jail sentence, meted out to him in May.
Peter Cuthbert Low, Tey’s lawyer, said: "I don't think he'll get any compensation because the judge made it very clear that he elected to go into prison pending the outcome of his appeal.
“He also applied for the hearing to take place after he served sentence. So although he's been acquitted of all six charges, he can't sue the authorities for compensation for having served the sentence.”
But Justice Woo said his decision vindicates Tey of the charges only.
The court does not condone the way Tey abused his position and exploited Ms Ko.
Justice Woo added Tey took advantage of her to satisfy his greed and his lust.
He also said Tey was a man without honour.
When asked, an NUS spokesperson said Tey may choose to petition to return to the university.
If he does so, the university will call for a committee of inquiry to determine if Tey is guilty of any misconduct and if so, what sanctions are warranted.
The Attorney General's Chambers said the prosecution will study the full written grounds of the High Court before deciding whether any further action is necessary.
- CNA/nd/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Leong Wai Kit
POSTED: 28 Feb 2014 11:09
UPDATED: 28 Feb 2014 21:07
SINGAPORE: The former National University of Singapore (NUS) professor involved in the sex-for-grades case has won his appeal against his conviction and sentence.
Tey Tsun Hang was found guilty in May last year by a district court of corruption charges.
The High Court ruled that his former student, Darinne Ko, did not give him presents or have sex with him to get better grades.
Justice Woo Bih Li said the trial judge had wrongly equated conduct which is morally reprehensible with conduct which is legally wrong.
A fine of S$514.80, which Tey was ordered to pay, will also be refunded to him.
The money is equivalent to the value of two tailored shirts and part of the cost of a dinner.
But Tey has already served his five-month jail sentence, meted out to him in May.
Peter Cuthbert Low, Tey’s lawyer, said: "I don't think he'll get any compensation because the judge made it very clear that he elected to go into prison pending the outcome of his appeal.
“He also applied for the hearing to take place after he served sentence. So although he's been acquitted of all six charges, he can't sue the authorities for compensation for having served the sentence.”
But Justice Woo said his decision vindicates Tey of the charges only.
The court does not condone the way Tey abused his position and exploited Ms Ko.
Justice Woo added Tey took advantage of her to satisfy his greed and his lust.
He also said Tey was a man without honour.
When asked, an NUS spokesperson said Tey may choose to petition to return to the university.
If he does so, the university will call for a committee of inquiry to determine if Tey is guilty of any misconduct and if so, what sanctions are warranted.
The Attorney General's Chambers said the prosecution will study the full written grounds of the High Court before deciding whether any further action is necessary.
- CNA/nd/xq
- wong chee tat :)
8 in 10 fresh graduates get full-time job within 6 months
8 in 10 fresh graduates get full-time job within 6 months
By John Leong
POSTED: 28 Feb 2014 18:30
SINGAPORE: About eight in 10 graduates from the three autonomous universities in Singapore found a full-time job within six months.
This was slightly fewer than in 2012.
It was one of the findings of a poll of some 10,500 graduates who were in the market for a job.
The survey was conducted by the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Singapore Management University (SMU).
Fresh graduates with engineering or accountancy-related qualifications were particularly in demand across the board, while others included business, nursing, and maritime studies.
Meanwhile, the average gross monthly salary among those in full-time jobs was about S$3,200.
The median gross monthly salary was about S$3,000.
This was comparable to what they received in 2012.
SMU graduates generally led the way, with average starting salaries hitting nearly S$3,500.
Among graduates from courses requiring practical training, nearly 98 per cent found full-time employment last year.
These were in areas such as law, medicine and architecture.
On average, they earned a monthly starting salary of about S$4,600, nearly S$100 more than in 2012.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By John Leong
POSTED: 28 Feb 2014 18:30
SINGAPORE: About eight in 10 graduates from the three autonomous universities in Singapore found a full-time job within six months.
This was slightly fewer than in 2012.
It was one of the findings of a poll of some 10,500 graduates who were in the market for a job.
The survey was conducted by the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the Singapore Management University (SMU).
Fresh graduates with engineering or accountancy-related qualifications were particularly in demand across the board, while others included business, nursing, and maritime studies.
Meanwhile, the average gross monthly salary among those in full-time jobs was about S$3,200.
The median gross monthly salary was about S$3,000.
This was comparable to what they received in 2012.
SMU graduates generally led the way, with average starting salaries hitting nearly S$3,500.
Among graduates from courses requiring practical training, nearly 98 per cent found full-time employment last year.
These were in areas such as law, medicine and architecture.
On average, they earned a monthly starting salary of about S$4,600, nearly S$100 more than in 2012.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Friday, July 19, 2013
性爱博客陈杰毅李美玲 被控三项罪名
性爱博客陈杰毅李美玲 被控三项罪名
性爱博客陈杰毅（25岁）Alvin Tan 和李美玲（24岁）Vivian Lee 因肉骨茶和性视频风波，昨天（18日）在马国法庭被控三项罪名。
马来西亚籍的前新加坡国立大学法律系学生陈杰毅和女友李美玲，去年在博客公开性爱照与视频，引起各界哗然。
上周四在回教徒的斋戒月期间，两人再度成为头条人物。他们在facebook上载一张破斋时吃肉骨茶的照片，以马来语祝马来同胞斋戒月快乐“Selamat Berbuka Puasa” ，还放了个“清真“的标签。
两人的行为立刻引起公愤，指他们在侮辱回教徒。
自从发生肉骨茶风波后，他们的facebook已关闭，并在Youtube上载视频道歉。
根据马国媒体报道，昨天下午2时左右，两人在法庭面对三项控状，包括触犯2002年电检法令、1948年煽动法令，和触犯刑事法典第298A（1）条文的交替控状。两人否认控罪，不获保释，还押监狱，案件定在8月23日过堂。
若触犯煽动法令，他们将被判入狱三年。其他有关制作色情刊物的罪名，最高惩罚将是入狱5年。
马来西亚前首相马哈迪日前 （16日）说，两人必须就他们不负责任的行为面对严重的惩罚。
他说，”说一些引起公愤的话可能会引来仇恨。这些人没有常识，孺子不可教也。“
陈杰毅曾是新加坡国立大学亚细安奖学金的得主，去年因性爱照与视频已遭大学的纪律处分，最后停学和被取消奖学金。
让我们来重温案件的发展经过。
- wong chee tat :)
性爱博客陈杰毅（25岁）Alvin Tan 和李美玲（24岁）Vivian Lee 因肉骨茶和性视频风波，昨天（18日）在马国法庭被控三项罪名。
马来西亚籍的前新加坡国立大学法律系学生陈杰毅和女友李美玲，去年在博客公开性爱照与视频，引起各界哗然。
上周四在回教徒的斋戒月期间，两人再度成为头条人物。他们在facebook上载一张破斋时吃肉骨茶的照片，以马来语祝马来同胞斋戒月快乐“Selamat Berbuka Puasa” ，还放了个“清真“的标签。
两人的行为立刻引起公愤，指他们在侮辱回教徒。
自从发生肉骨茶风波后，他们的facebook已关闭，并在Youtube上载视频道歉。
根据马国媒体报道，昨天下午2时左右，两人在法庭面对三项控状，包括触犯2002年电检法令、1948年煽动法令，和触犯刑事法典第298A（1）条文的交替控状。两人否认控罪，不获保释，还押监狱，案件定在8月23日过堂。
若触犯煽动法令，他们将被判入狱三年。其他有关制作色情刊物的罪名，最高惩罚将是入狱5年。
马来西亚前首相马哈迪日前 （16日）说，两人必须就他们不负责任的行为面对严重的惩罚。
他说，”说一些引起公愤的话可能会引来仇恨。这些人没有常识，孺子不可教也。“
陈杰毅曾是新加坡国立大学亚细安奖学金的得主，去年因性爱照与视频已遭大学的纪律处分，最后停学和被取消奖学金。
让我们来重温案件的发展经过。
- wong chee tat :)
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Sex bloggers plead not guilty to sedition charge
Sex bloggers plead not guilty to sedition charge
POSTED: 18 Jul 2013 4:36 PM
Malaysia's infamous sex blogging couple on Thursday pleaded not guilty in the district court for posting insensitive Ramadan comments on their Facebook page and pornographic pictures in their blogs.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's infamous sex blogging couple on Thursday pleaded not guilty in the district court in Kuala Lumpur to three charges related to their action in posting their insensitive Ramadan greeting on their Facebook page and pornographic pictures in their blogs.
The charges against Alvin Tan Jye Yee, 25, and Vivian Lee May Ling, 24, were read before Judge Murtazadi Amran.
The couple were denied bail and will be jailed pending trial, said a court official. The next court date has been set for August 23.
Sedition is punishable by up to three years in jail.
In the first charge, they were jointly accused of making a seditious posting on their Facebook page by uploading a photo of themselves eating bak kut teh (a Chinese herbal pork soup) with a caption "Selamat Berbuka Puasa" - a Malay greeting for breaking fast.
They allegedly committed the offence at 10.48pm between July 11 and 12.
They were charged under subsection 4(1)(c) of the Sedition Act 1948 which is punishable under subsection 4(1) of the same Act and read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code.
For the first offence, they face a fine up to RM5,000, an imprisonment up to three years or both, and imprisonment up to five years for subsequent offence.
The couple later apologised in a video on YouTube for the posting, which sparked widespread anger. Their Facebook page is no longer accessible.
Prime Minister Najib Razak criticised the couple on Wednesday while discussing implementing a new law to replace the colonial-era sedition act, which has been slammed by critics as a tool to crack down on dissent.
"The insolent and impudent act by the young couple who insulted Islam showed that freedom of expression and irresponsible opinion can jeopardise the community," he was quoted by The Star as saying.
Last year Lee, a kindergarten teacher, and Tan, who is currently unemployed and a former law student at the National University of Singapore, sparked outrage in Malaysia and Singapore by posting erotic photographs and videos of their lovemaking as well as close-ups of their genitals on a blog.
The duo, who said they aimed to destigmatise sex, shut down the blog because of family pressure in the conservative countries, where pornography is illegal.
- BERNAMA/AFP/fa
- wong chee tat :)
POSTED: 18 Jul 2013 4:36 PM
Malaysia's infamous sex blogging couple on Thursday pleaded not guilty in the district court for posting insensitive Ramadan comments on their Facebook page and pornographic pictures in their blogs.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's infamous sex blogging couple on Thursday pleaded not guilty in the district court in Kuala Lumpur to three charges related to their action in posting their insensitive Ramadan greeting on their Facebook page and pornographic pictures in their blogs.
The charges against Alvin Tan Jye Yee, 25, and Vivian Lee May Ling, 24, were read before Judge Murtazadi Amran.
The couple were denied bail and will be jailed pending trial, said a court official. The next court date has been set for August 23.
Sedition is punishable by up to three years in jail.
In the first charge, they were jointly accused of making a seditious posting on their Facebook page by uploading a photo of themselves eating bak kut teh (a Chinese herbal pork soup) with a caption "Selamat Berbuka Puasa" - a Malay greeting for breaking fast.
They allegedly committed the offence at 10.48pm between July 11 and 12.
They were charged under subsection 4(1)(c) of the Sedition Act 1948 which is punishable under subsection 4(1) of the same Act and read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code.
For the first offence, they face a fine up to RM5,000, an imprisonment up to three years or both, and imprisonment up to five years for subsequent offence.
The couple later apologised in a video on YouTube for the posting, which sparked widespread anger. Their Facebook page is no longer accessible.
Prime Minister Najib Razak criticised the couple on Wednesday while discussing implementing a new law to replace the colonial-era sedition act, which has been slammed by critics as a tool to crack down on dissent.
"The insolent and impudent act by the young couple who insulted Islam showed that freedom of expression and irresponsible opinion can jeopardise the community," he was quoted by The Star as saying.
Last year Lee, a kindergarten teacher, and Tan, who is currently unemployed and a former law student at the National University of Singapore, sparked outrage in Malaysia and Singapore by posting erotic photographs and videos of their lovemaking as well as close-ups of their genitals on a blog.
The duo, who said they aimed to destigmatise sex, shut down the blog because of family pressure in the conservative countries, where pornography is illegal.
- BERNAMA/AFP/fa
- wong chee tat :)
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Doctor says law professor Tey Tsun Hang under exceptional stress
Doctor says law professor Tey Tsun Hang under exceptional stress
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 08 May 2013 5:21 PM
The psychiatrist for law professor Tey Tsun Hang, who is accused of corruption, said his patient was under exceptional stress in April last year.
SINGAPORE: The psychiatrist for law professor Tey Tsun Hang, who is accused of corruption, said his patient was under exceptional stress in April last year.
Testifying in court on Wednesday as a defence witness, Dr Tommy Tan said this was why Tey was diagnosed with acute stress disorder.
But prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy pointed out that the duration of Tey's symptoms of acute stress disorder did not comply with international classification of the condition.
Dr Tan agreed but said he felt that the guidelines were interpreted wrongly.
At the start of the trial, the chief District Judge cancelled the warrant of arrest made out to Dr Tan.
The judge said the warrant was no longer necessary since Dr Tan has turned up in court.
On Tuesday, the judge had issued a warrant of arrest for Dr Tan after he failed to turn up in court to give evidence, despite being subpoenaed.
Dr Tan told the court on Wednesday that he was not "subpoenaed properly" as the defence did not serve the letter to him directly.
He added that he only read the letter of subpoena on Monday night.
Senior counsel Peter Low begged to differ, saying the doctor was served the subpoena properly in March, before the second tranche of the trial began.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student Darinne Ko in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 08 May 2013 5:21 PM
The psychiatrist for law professor Tey Tsun Hang, who is accused of corruption, said his patient was under exceptional stress in April last year.
SINGAPORE: The psychiatrist for law professor Tey Tsun Hang, who is accused of corruption, said his patient was under exceptional stress in April last year.
Testifying in court on Wednesday as a defence witness, Dr Tommy Tan said this was why Tey was diagnosed with acute stress disorder.
But prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy pointed out that the duration of Tey's symptoms of acute stress disorder did not comply with international classification of the condition.
Dr Tan agreed but said he felt that the guidelines were interpreted wrongly.
At the start of the trial, the chief District Judge cancelled the warrant of arrest made out to Dr Tan.
The judge said the warrant was no longer necessary since Dr Tan has turned up in court.
On Tuesday, the judge had issued a warrant of arrest for Dr Tan after he failed to turn up in court to give evidence, despite being subpoenaed.
Dr Tan told the court on Wednesday that he was not "subpoenaed properly" as the defence did not serve the letter to him directly.
He added that he only read the letter of subpoena on Monday night.
Senior counsel Peter Low begged to differ, saying the doctor was served the subpoena properly in March, before the second tranche of the trial began.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student Darinne Ko in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
- CNA/de
- wong chee tat :)
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Judge in sex-for-grades trial issues warrant of arrest for defence witness
Judge in sex-for-grades trial issues warrant of arrest for defence witness
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 07 May 2013 5:51 PM
The judge presiding over the corruption trial of a law professor on Tuesday issued a warrant of arrest, saying defence witness Dr Tommy Tan is to turn up in court on Wednesday.
SINGAPORE: The judge presiding over the corruption trial of a law professor on Tuesday issued a warrant of arrest, saying defence witness Dr Tommy Tan is to turn up in court on Wednesday.
Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye said if Dr Tan fails to show up on Wednesday, he will be arrested to court by the police.
This is the sternest warning yet from the judge, who indicated that the trial be wrapped up on Tuesday.
His warning follows Dr Tan's refusal to testify in court after being subpoenaed.
Previously, the court heard Dr Tan underwent an eye operation and was not fit to testify.
On Tuesday, Senior Counsel Peter Low, who is representing Tey Tsun Hang in the sex-for-grades trial, told the court that Dr Tan is unable to testify in court as he was “busy with clients”.
The judge ordered Mr Low to convey the ramifications to Dr Tan.
Later in the day, the court heard Dr Tan is only able to attend court on Friday.
Four witnesses also gave evidence in court, including assistant registrar Colin Seow.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student, Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
If convicted, Tey could be jailed up to five years and fined S$100,000 on each charge.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 07 May 2013 5:51 PM
The judge presiding over the corruption trial of a law professor on Tuesday issued a warrant of arrest, saying defence witness Dr Tommy Tan is to turn up in court on Wednesday.
SINGAPORE: The judge presiding over the corruption trial of a law professor on Tuesday issued a warrant of arrest, saying defence witness Dr Tommy Tan is to turn up in court on Wednesday.
Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye said if Dr Tan fails to show up on Wednesday, he will be arrested to court by the police.
This is the sternest warning yet from the judge, who indicated that the trial be wrapped up on Tuesday.
His warning follows Dr Tan's refusal to testify in court after being subpoenaed.
Previously, the court heard Dr Tan underwent an eye operation and was not fit to testify.
On Tuesday, Senior Counsel Peter Low, who is representing Tey Tsun Hang in the sex-for-grades trial, told the court that Dr Tan is unable to testify in court as he was “busy with clients”.
The judge ordered Mr Low to convey the ramifications to Dr Tan.
Later in the day, the court heard Dr Tan is only able to attend court on Friday.
Four witnesses also gave evidence in court, including assistant registrar Colin Seow.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student, Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
If convicted, Tey could be jailed up to five years and fined S$100,000 on each charge.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Judge threatens to issue arrest warrant for absentee witness
Judge threatens to issue arrest warrant for absentee witness
POSTED: 07 May 2013 3:48 PM
The judge presiding over the corruption trial of the law professor warned that a warrant of arrest will be issued if a defence witness fails to turn up in court.
SINGAPORE: The judge presiding over the corruption trial of the law professor on Tuesday warned that a warrant of arrest will be issued if a defence witness fails to turn up in court.
This is the sternest warning yet from the Chief District Judge, Tan Siong Thye, who indicated that the trial be wrapped up today.
His warning follows a defence witness, Dr Tommy Tan's refusal to testify in court after being subpoenaed. Previously, the court heard Dr Tan underwent an eye operation and was not fit to testify.
On Tuesday, Senior Counsel Peter Low, who is representing Tey Tsun Hang in the sex-for-grades trial, told the court that Dr Tan is unable to testify in court as he was "busy with clients".
However, the judge ordered Mr Low to convey the ramifications to Dr Tan.
Later in the day, the court heard that Dr Tan is only able to attend court on Friday. However, the judge said he is to turn up on Wednesday, if not the warrant of arrest will be issued.
Earlier in the day, four witnesses gave evidence in court, including assistant registrar Colin Seow.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student, Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010. If convicted, Tey could be jailed up to five years and fined S$100,000 on each charge.
- CNA/ac
- wong chee tat :)
POSTED: 07 May 2013 3:48 PM
The judge presiding over the corruption trial of the law professor warned that a warrant of arrest will be issued if a defence witness fails to turn up in court.
SINGAPORE: The judge presiding over the corruption trial of the law professor on Tuesday warned that a warrant of arrest will be issued if a defence witness fails to turn up in court.
This is the sternest warning yet from the Chief District Judge, Tan Siong Thye, who indicated that the trial be wrapped up today.
His warning follows a defence witness, Dr Tommy Tan's refusal to testify in court after being subpoenaed. Previously, the court heard Dr Tan underwent an eye operation and was not fit to testify.
On Tuesday, Senior Counsel Peter Low, who is representing Tey Tsun Hang in the sex-for-grades trial, told the court that Dr Tan is unable to testify in court as he was "busy with clients".
However, the judge ordered Mr Low to convey the ramifications to Dr Tan.
Later in the day, the court heard that Dr Tan is only able to attend court on Friday. However, the judge said he is to turn up on Wednesday, if not the warrant of arrest will be issued.
Earlier in the day, four witnesses gave evidence in court, including assistant registrar Colin Seow.
Tey, 42, faces six counts of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from his former student, Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010. If convicted, Tey could be jailed up to five years and fined S$100,000 on each charge.
- CNA/ac
- wong chee tat :)
Sex-for-grades trial resumes after law prof declared fit enough to testify
Sex-for-grades trial resumes after law prof declared fit enough to testify
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 06 May 2013 1:16 PM
UPDATED: 06 May 2013 8:10 PM
SINGAPORE: The corruption trial of law professor Tey Tsun Hang resumed on Monday after a two-week break.
The sex-for-grades trial was adjourned in late April.
Tey's lawyer, Peter Low, had made a request then to the court for his client to seek assessment from a forensic psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).
The move was for the forensic psychiatrist to determine if Tey is fit to stand trial.
On Monday morning, the court heard that Tey is well enough to testify.
With a thick scarf wrapped around his neck, the former district judge continued to take the stand as he was questioned by prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy.
The morning proceedings moved along slowly as Tey refused to answer Mr Jumabhoy's questions directly, and the prosecutor had to keep repeating himself.
At one point, Mr Jumabhoy said pointedly that Tey should not "play dumb" in court.
This upset Tey, who demanded for the prosecutor to stop the "name-calling" as it was "very insulting".
Towards the later part of the morning, the prosecution brought up IMH's report on Tey's condition.
Tey has repeatedly said that he does not remember why he told the authorities certain items such as an iPad were a gift from his student, when in reality he bought the iPad himself.
Tey's defence was that at that point in time, his memory was affected.
Previously, it was said that Tey suffered from dissociative amnesia.
On Monday, the court heard that the IMH report by Dr Gwee Kenji stated that Tey's severe memory deficiencies were consistent with "individuals with severe brain damage, or organic disorders, chronic and severe psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia".
Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that Tey did not suffer from any of these conditions, which the law professor agreed.
The prosecutor pointed out the only other basis for Tey's memory loss, as stated in the IMH report, is that he is malingering.
Tey rebutted, saying the prosecution is assuming and "making the supposition".
He said: "You are assuming, and you are making the supposition. Your line from beginning to end is, in your own phrase, flare for drama, play-acting, play dumb. For what? To land himself in this condition, suffering for a year, going to gaol?"
Later in the day, six other witnesses from the National University of Singapore's law faculty also testified.
The court heard about the grading system of the university and the role of the Board of Examiners.
The prosecution made the point that when the Board adjusts students' grades, it does not carry out the actual re-marking of the papers.
The court also heard from some professors who taught Darinne Ko - Tey's former student implicated in the case - that she was at worst a "B+" student and was a solid upper class honours graduate.
They described her as "a very bright student", who writes very well.
Tey, 42, is accused of obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from Ms Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
Just before the end of the day, Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye signalled to both the prosecution and defence that he wishes the trial to end on Tuesday.
The defence has about seven more witnesses to go.
- CNA/ac/ms
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 06 May 2013 1:16 PM
UPDATED: 06 May 2013 8:10 PM
SINGAPORE: The corruption trial of law professor Tey Tsun Hang resumed on Monday after a two-week break.
The sex-for-grades trial was adjourned in late April.
Tey's lawyer, Peter Low, had made a request then to the court for his client to seek assessment from a forensic psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health (IMH).
The move was for the forensic psychiatrist to determine if Tey is fit to stand trial.
On Monday morning, the court heard that Tey is well enough to testify.
With a thick scarf wrapped around his neck, the former district judge continued to take the stand as he was questioned by prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy.
The morning proceedings moved along slowly as Tey refused to answer Mr Jumabhoy's questions directly, and the prosecutor had to keep repeating himself.
At one point, Mr Jumabhoy said pointedly that Tey should not "play dumb" in court.
This upset Tey, who demanded for the prosecutor to stop the "name-calling" as it was "very insulting".
Towards the later part of the morning, the prosecution brought up IMH's report on Tey's condition.
Tey has repeatedly said that he does not remember why he told the authorities certain items such as an iPad were a gift from his student, when in reality he bought the iPad himself.
Tey's defence was that at that point in time, his memory was affected.
Previously, it was said that Tey suffered from dissociative amnesia.
On Monday, the court heard that the IMH report by Dr Gwee Kenji stated that Tey's severe memory deficiencies were consistent with "individuals with severe brain damage, or organic disorders, chronic and severe psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia".
Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that Tey did not suffer from any of these conditions, which the law professor agreed.
The prosecutor pointed out the only other basis for Tey's memory loss, as stated in the IMH report, is that he is malingering.
Tey rebutted, saying the prosecution is assuming and "making the supposition".
He said: "You are assuming, and you are making the supposition. Your line from beginning to end is, in your own phrase, flare for drama, play-acting, play dumb. For what? To land himself in this condition, suffering for a year, going to gaol?"
Later in the day, six other witnesses from the National University of Singapore's law faculty also testified.
The court heard about the grading system of the university and the role of the Board of Examiners.
The prosecution made the point that when the Board adjusts students' grades, it does not carry out the actual re-marking of the papers.
The court also heard from some professors who taught Darinne Ko - Tey's former student implicated in the case - that she was at worst a "B+" student and was a solid upper class honours graduate.
They described her as "a very bright student", who writes very well.
Tey, 42, is accused of obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from Ms Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
Just before the end of the day, Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye signalled to both the prosecution and defence that he wishes the trial to end on Tuesday.
The defence has about seven more witnesses to go.
- CNA/ac/ms
- wong chee tat :)
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
NUS scholar found dead in UTown campus
NUS scholar found dead in UTown campus
Yahoo! NewsroomYahoo!
UPDATED [11:25am 24 April 2013. Adds information from police and acquaintances of the deceased.]
A Year One student from the National University of Singapore (NUS) University Scholars' Programme (USP) was found dead in the varsity's UTown campus.
21-year-old Peter Huen Kam Fai was found dead in his room late Tuesday afternoon at the Cinnamon College. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed but Yahoo! Singapore understands he was found hanging.
Police said they received a call on Tuesday at 5:06pm requesting for assistance at College Ave East.
Upon arrival, they found a male Chinese motionless at the location. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said they are investigating the "unnatural death".
An NUS spokesperson revealed, in an official statement, that "the student was found in his room by a university staff" and that "police investigations are ongoing."
Huen, who was majoring in Political Science, is also understood to have been an active sportsman, and was part of the USP Foosball Club.
An NUS graduate who used to play floorball in school with the deceased but did not want to be named told Yahoo! Singapore Huen's death was "really unexpected because you could never tell he was suicidal". Huen had also stopped turning up for games "for a while", the person added.
The source further pointed out that Huen's "last Facebook post was in mid-March", despite being someone who "used to post pretty often".
News of Huen's death quickly spread on social media.
A post on popular local forum Eat Drink Man Woman by his former teacher at Hwa Chong Institution, Charles Low, said the "world has lost a good man today".
He added that Huen would be missed for his quiet confidence, his wit and self-deprecating humour and willingness to help others. It's also understood he had a passion for writing and the humanities.
A fellow resident of Cinnamon College, who also did not wish to be named, described Huen as "always well-liked... always with a smile."
This was the second piece of tragic news to hit NUS this week.
On Tuesday, the wife of NUS professor, Gong Jiangbin, was killed in an accident with an SBS double-decker bus.
Zhang Hui Rui, 43, died after being hit and dragged by bus service 78, which was turning into Clementi Avenue 3.
- wong chee tat :)
Yahoo! NewsroomYahoo!
UPDATED [11:25am 24 April 2013. Adds information from police and acquaintances of the deceased.]
A Year One student from the National University of Singapore (NUS) University Scholars' Programme (USP) was found dead in the varsity's UTown campus.
21-year-old Peter Huen Kam Fai was found dead in his room late Tuesday afternoon at the Cinnamon College. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed but Yahoo! Singapore understands he was found hanging.
Police said they received a call on Tuesday at 5:06pm requesting for assistance at College Ave East.
Upon arrival, they found a male Chinese motionless at the location. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police said they are investigating the "unnatural death".
An NUS spokesperson revealed, in an official statement, that "the student was found in his room by a university staff" and that "police investigations are ongoing."
Huen, who was majoring in Political Science, is also understood to have been an active sportsman, and was part of the USP Foosball Club.
An NUS graduate who used to play floorball in school with the deceased but did not want to be named told Yahoo! Singapore Huen's death was "really unexpected because you could never tell he was suicidal". Huen had also stopped turning up for games "for a while", the person added.
The source further pointed out that Huen's "last Facebook post was in mid-March", despite being someone who "used to post pretty often".
News of Huen's death quickly spread on social media.
A post on popular local forum Eat Drink Man Woman by his former teacher at Hwa Chong Institution, Charles Low, said the "world has lost a good man today".
He added that Huen would be missed for his quiet confidence, his wit and self-deprecating humour and willingness to help others. It's also understood he had a passion for writing and the humanities.
A fellow resident of Cinnamon College, who also did not wish to be named, described Huen as "always well-liked... always with a smile."
This was the second piece of tragic news to hit NUS this week.
On Tuesday, the wife of NUS professor, Gong Jiangbin, was killed in an accident with an SBS double-decker bus.
Zhang Hui Rui, 43, died after being hit and dragged by bus service 78, which was turning into Clementi Avenue 3.
- wong chee tat :)
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial to be assessed at IMH
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial to be assessed at IMH
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 18 Apr 2013 1:11 PM
The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial will be going to the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for assessment.
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial will be going to the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for assessment.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations of obtaining gifts and sex from his former student Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
On Thursday morning, Tey's lawyer made an application for his client to see a forensic psychiatrist at IMH to determine if he is fit to stand trial.
The move comes after Tey felt unwell on Wednesday and had to seek treatment at the National University Hospital.
There, he was diagnosed with acute hyperventilation and was referred to a forensic psychiatrist at IMH.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 18 Apr 2013 1:11 PM
The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial will be going to the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for assessment.
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial will be going to the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) for assessment.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations of obtaining gifts and sex from his former student Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
On Thursday morning, Tey's lawyer made an application for his client to see a forensic psychiatrist at IMH to determine if he is fit to stand trial.
The move comes after Tey felt unwell on Wednesday and had to seek treatment at the National University Hospital.
There, he was diagnosed with acute hyperventilation and was referred to a forensic psychiatrist at IMH.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Not wrong to have relationship with student: law prof in sex-for-grades trial
Not wrong to have relationship with student: law prof in sex-for-grades trial
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 17 Apr 2013 11:12 PM
Tey Tsun Hang on Wednesday said he did not think it was wrong for him to have a relationship with a student.
SINGAPORE: The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial on Wednesday said he did not think it was wrong for him to have a relationship with a student.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, is defending himself against six counts of corruptly obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from his then-student Darinne Ko Wen Hui, 23, between May and July 2010 in return for lifting her grades.
Tey on Wednesday told the court that he did not see anything wrong with him continuing to teach Ms Ko, even though their relationship ended in late 2010.
He however admitted that he failed to declare the relationship and gifts to the National University of Singapore (NUS), as required by the university's code of conduct.
Lead prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy then charged that Tey tried to conceal the relationship and gifts from NUS so that he could continue teaching Ms Ko.
Tey denied this, saying that he tried to stop Ms Ko from enrolling in one of his courses after their relationship ended.
Ms Ko enrolled in a course taught by Tey in 2011.
Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that by that point time, Tey had already taught Ms Ko two other subjects.
"Two out of three courses isn't bad, is it Mr Tey?" said the prosecutor, to which Tey replied: "If you are saying I advantaged her in the two courses, the results show that she was not."
Another point of contention was the payment for gifts.
Ms Ko allegedly gave Tey a Frederic Chopin edition Mont Blanc pen, two CYC tailored shirts, and an iPod. She also paid for a group dinner hosted by Tey at an Italian restaurant. The items and dinner amounted to about S$2,415.
During the first tranche of the trial in January this year, Tey said he issued a cheque amounting to S$2,500 in July 2010 before Ms Ko left for an overseas study stint.
However when Ms Ko testified in January, she said no such cheque was given to her.
Tey then said that he made the cheque out to Ms Ko but she refused to accept it, leading him to pay her in cash.
Ms Ko however also denied receiving the cash.
On Wednesday, when asked if he found it odd that Ms Ko denied ever receiving the cheque and cash, Tey said his "heart sank" when he heard her answer.
Tey also told the court on Wednesday that he was aware and concerned that Ms Ko was earning only a small allowance from her internships and thus wanted to pay her back for the gifts she had bought, as well as the dinner for which she paid.
Tey said he did an estimate before the dinner took place as he wanted to reimburse Ms Ko before she left Singapore. Ms Ko was to leave the country on 3 August 2010.
This prompted the prosecution to ask why Tey did not pay for the Mont Blanc pen and the tailored shirts first; Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that by 15 June, 2010, Tey knew the cost of the pen but did not pay her.
Tey replied saying that it was because he did not want to sully their relationship by talking about money.
Mr Jumabhoy however pointed out that on 22 June 2010, while the pair was at the tailor's, Tey could have offered to pay for Ms Ko's shirts but he did not.
Tey explained that he had, at the back of his mind, wanted to pay Ms Ko back for the pen and shirts.
However he added that it was "not nice" to reimburse Ms Ko item by item so he decided to work out the cost of the dinner and issue a cheque for all the gifts.
Tey said he innocently thought to reimburse her in one sitting, which was why he made out the S$2,500 cheque to her.
Another point of contention in court on Wednesday was a revelation by the defence, who said that Ms Ko had asked for Tey to reimburse her S$1,000 upon returning from her overseas stint in 2011. Ms Ko did so after requests from her mother, said Tey.
This lead the prosecution to stress that it was the first time the court heard Ms Ko's mother wanted S$1,000 from Tey, and that it was very different from Ms Ko's court testimony.
Ms Ko had previously testified that Tey did not pay her for the gifts or dinner. The dinner was hosted by Tey but by late 2010 the pair had broken up.
Tey on Wednesday said he paid Ms Ko as he did not want "to quibble" over it.
This led Mr Jumabhoy to point out that Tey "should be aggrieved", adding that nowhere in his statements did Tey ever mention such an important point, which could clear him of the charges.
"But this is an important point!" said Mr Jumabhoy. "The basis for saying 'I'm not corrupt' is 'I have paid back every penny'.”
The prosecutor also pointed out that if Tey's account is accurate, the law professor had gone over and beyond by paying Ms Ko the S$1,000.
This lead Tey to explain again that he did not want to quibble over money.
The prosecution's case is that Tey never paid Ms Ko for any of the gifts nor the dinner.
Ms Ko was saddled with an unpaid bill for six months for a dinner hosted by Tey before she sought reimbursement in early 2011, said the prosecution.
Tey disagreed.
After lunch, the trial was adjourned for about an hour after it started as Tey was sick and had to see a doctor.
The trial continues.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 17 Apr 2013 11:12 PM
Tey Tsun Hang on Wednesday said he did not think it was wrong for him to have a relationship with a student.
SINGAPORE: The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial on Wednesday said he did not think it was wrong for him to have a relationship with a student.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, is defending himself against six counts of corruptly obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from his then-student Darinne Ko Wen Hui, 23, between May and July 2010 in return for lifting her grades.
Tey on Wednesday told the court that he did not see anything wrong with him continuing to teach Ms Ko, even though their relationship ended in late 2010.
He however admitted that he failed to declare the relationship and gifts to the National University of Singapore (NUS), as required by the university's code of conduct.
Lead prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy then charged that Tey tried to conceal the relationship and gifts from NUS so that he could continue teaching Ms Ko.
Tey denied this, saying that he tried to stop Ms Ko from enrolling in one of his courses after their relationship ended.
Ms Ko enrolled in a course taught by Tey in 2011.
Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that by that point time, Tey had already taught Ms Ko two other subjects.
"Two out of three courses isn't bad, is it Mr Tey?" said the prosecutor, to which Tey replied: "If you are saying I advantaged her in the two courses, the results show that she was not."
Another point of contention was the payment for gifts.
Ms Ko allegedly gave Tey a Frederic Chopin edition Mont Blanc pen, two CYC tailored shirts, and an iPod. She also paid for a group dinner hosted by Tey at an Italian restaurant. The items and dinner amounted to about S$2,415.
During the first tranche of the trial in January this year, Tey said he issued a cheque amounting to S$2,500 in July 2010 before Ms Ko left for an overseas study stint.
However when Ms Ko testified in January, she said no such cheque was given to her.
Tey then said that he made the cheque out to Ms Ko but she refused to accept it, leading him to pay her in cash.
Ms Ko however also denied receiving the cash.
On Wednesday, when asked if he found it odd that Ms Ko denied ever receiving the cheque and cash, Tey said his "heart sank" when he heard her answer.
Tey also told the court on Wednesday that he was aware and concerned that Ms Ko was earning only a small allowance from her internships and thus wanted to pay her back for the gifts she had bought, as well as the dinner for which she paid.
Tey said he did an estimate before the dinner took place as he wanted to reimburse Ms Ko before she left Singapore. Ms Ko was to leave the country on 3 August 2010.
This prompted the prosecution to ask why Tey did not pay for the Mont Blanc pen and the tailored shirts first; Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that by 15 June, 2010, Tey knew the cost of the pen but did not pay her.
Tey replied saying that it was because he did not want to sully their relationship by talking about money.
Mr Jumabhoy however pointed out that on 22 June 2010, while the pair was at the tailor's, Tey could have offered to pay for Ms Ko's shirts but he did not.
Tey explained that he had, at the back of his mind, wanted to pay Ms Ko back for the pen and shirts.
However he added that it was "not nice" to reimburse Ms Ko item by item so he decided to work out the cost of the dinner and issue a cheque for all the gifts.
Tey said he innocently thought to reimburse her in one sitting, which was why he made out the S$2,500 cheque to her.
Another point of contention in court on Wednesday was a revelation by the defence, who said that Ms Ko had asked for Tey to reimburse her S$1,000 upon returning from her overseas stint in 2011. Ms Ko did so after requests from her mother, said Tey.
This lead the prosecution to stress that it was the first time the court heard Ms Ko's mother wanted S$1,000 from Tey, and that it was very different from Ms Ko's court testimony.
Ms Ko had previously testified that Tey did not pay her for the gifts or dinner. The dinner was hosted by Tey but by late 2010 the pair had broken up.
Tey on Wednesday said he paid Ms Ko as he did not want "to quibble" over it.
This led Mr Jumabhoy to point out that Tey "should be aggrieved", adding that nowhere in his statements did Tey ever mention such an important point, which could clear him of the charges.
"But this is an important point!" said Mr Jumabhoy. "The basis for saying 'I'm not corrupt' is 'I have paid back every penny'.”
The prosecutor also pointed out that if Tey's account is accurate, the law professor had gone over and beyond by paying Ms Ko the S$1,000.
This lead Tey to explain again that he did not want to quibble over money.
The prosecution's case is that Tey never paid Ms Ko for any of the gifts nor the dinner.
Ms Ko was saddled with an unpaid bill for six months for a dinner hosted by Tey before she sought reimbursement in early 2011, said the prosecution.
Tey disagreed.
After lunch, the trial was adjourned for about an hour after it started as Tey was sick and had to see a doctor.
The trial continues.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial says relationship was "loving and affectionate"
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial says relationship was "loving and affectionate"
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 16 Apr 2013 6:25 PM
UPDATED: 17 Apr 2013 1:27 AM
The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial took the stand for a second day in court.
SINGAPORE: The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial on Tuesday told the court that the relationship between him and his former student was “loving and affectionate”.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, is defending himself against six counts of corruptly obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from his then-student Darinne Ko Wen Hui, 23, between May and July 2010 in return for lifting her grades.
Tey on Tuesday disagreed with the prosecution's case that the gifts in question were corruptly received, and denied showing Ms Ko that he could influence her academic and professional career.
Lead prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy said Tey, in an attempt to impress upon Ms Ko the influence he had, called her up on 31 May 2010 and provided her with confidential information of her class ranking before the results were made public.
Tey however disagreed, saying that the information did not have an impact on Ms Ko. He said that he did not have a need to impress her then as they were already in a relationship.
He also pointed out that Ms Ko signed off an email dated 1 June 2010 with "Love, Darinne".
Going through the list of gifts Ms Ko showered on the accused, Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that Ms Ko was 21 years old at that time, while Tey had a good income.
Tey rebutted, saying that this was why he did not need the gifts.
He stressed that the gifts, including a Mont Blanc pen and tailored shirts, were Ms Ko's way of showing affection and love.
The prosecution also sought to show that the love and affection Tey had repeated during the trial was not mutual.
Pointing to their email correspondences, Mr Jumabhoy said Ms Ko was very affectionate using words like "dearest" or "hi baby".
However this, he said, was a stark contrast to Tey's emails which lacked such affectionate terms.
Mr Jumabhoy then cited an email sent by Tey to Ms Ko about the Frederic Chopin edition Mont Blanc pen she had given him as an example, pointing out that Tey had copied and pasted information of the composer in his reply to Ms Ko.
This prompted the prosecutor to remark that the email was not going to tug at heart strings.
Hearing this Tey laughed, saying that the information was included in the email for Ms Ko to understand the background of Frederic Chopin.
Tey added that while he was not affectionate in the email, he had been in phone conversations with Ms Ko.
Earlier in the day Tey corrected parts of his statements made at the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), denying that he ever made certain points.
For example, Tey said in the statements that Ms Ko did not deserve to pass one of her papers marked by him.
However on Tuesday, Tey said he never made such a statement.
He pointed out that Ms Ko was on the Dean's List during her first year at the National University of Singapore’s Law Faculty. Tey said Ms Ko was not on the Dean's List in 2010 when they were dating.
He also reiterated that his relationship with Ms Ko was without corrupt intent.
The trial continues.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 16 Apr 2013 6:25 PM
UPDATED: 17 Apr 2013 1:27 AM
The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial took the stand for a second day in court.
SINGAPORE: The law professor defending himself in a sex-for-grades corruption trial on Tuesday told the court that the relationship between him and his former student was “loving and affectionate”.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, is defending himself against six counts of corruptly obtaining gratification in the form of gifts and sex from his then-student Darinne Ko Wen Hui, 23, between May and July 2010 in return for lifting her grades.
Tey on Tuesday disagreed with the prosecution's case that the gifts in question were corruptly received, and denied showing Ms Ko that he could influence her academic and professional career.
Lead prosecutor Andre Jumabhoy said Tey, in an attempt to impress upon Ms Ko the influence he had, called her up on 31 May 2010 and provided her with confidential information of her class ranking before the results were made public.
Tey however disagreed, saying that the information did not have an impact on Ms Ko. He said that he did not have a need to impress her then as they were already in a relationship.
He also pointed out that Ms Ko signed off an email dated 1 June 2010 with "Love, Darinne".
Going through the list of gifts Ms Ko showered on the accused, Mr Jumabhoy pointed out that Ms Ko was 21 years old at that time, while Tey had a good income.
Tey rebutted, saying that this was why he did not need the gifts.
He stressed that the gifts, including a Mont Blanc pen and tailored shirts, were Ms Ko's way of showing affection and love.
The prosecution also sought to show that the love and affection Tey had repeated during the trial was not mutual.
Pointing to their email correspondences, Mr Jumabhoy said Ms Ko was very affectionate using words like "dearest" or "hi baby".
However this, he said, was a stark contrast to Tey's emails which lacked such affectionate terms.
Mr Jumabhoy then cited an email sent by Tey to Ms Ko about the Frederic Chopin edition Mont Blanc pen she had given him as an example, pointing out that Tey had copied and pasted information of the composer in his reply to Ms Ko.
This prompted the prosecutor to remark that the email was not going to tug at heart strings.
Hearing this Tey laughed, saying that the information was included in the email for Ms Ko to understand the background of Frederic Chopin.
Tey added that while he was not affectionate in the email, he had been in phone conversations with Ms Ko.
Earlier in the day Tey corrected parts of his statements made at the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), denying that he ever made certain points.
For example, Tey said in the statements that Ms Ko did not deserve to pass one of her papers marked by him.
However on Tuesday, Tey said he never made such a statement.
He pointed out that Ms Ko was on the Dean's List during her first year at the National University of Singapore’s Law Faculty. Tey said Ms Ko was not on the Dean's List in 2010 when they were dating.
He also reiterated that his relationship with Ms Ko was without corrupt intent.
The trial continues.
- CNA/jc
- wong chee tat :)
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial disputes recorded CPIB statement
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial disputes recorded CPIB statement
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 12 Apr 2013 4:52 PM
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from a former student on Friday continued to take issue with words and phrases in his statement recorded by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB).
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations that he obtained gifts and sex from his former student, 23-year-old Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
On Friday morning, Tey said he could not have used the words "corrupt intent" in the statement recorded by CPIB's Deputy Director Teng Khee Fatt, much less volunteer the definition of those words, "so he could be nailed on the wall".
"So are you seriously proposing a person under interrogation would want to volunteer to you, to describe to you in great detail, detailed meaning ‘of corrupt intent’ so he could be nailed on the wall?" said Tey.
Mr Teng replied Tey had used the words "with corrupt intent" in his previous statements and he was trying to find out from Tey what he had meant by it.
But Tey argued that Mr Teng had given "the most ludicrous proposition for a person under interrogation and psychoactive medication to volunteer the minute definition exercise of ‘corrupt intent’, so as to help himself be nailed on the wall". Mr Teng repeated that Tey had told him so.
Tey also accused Mr Teng of typing some paragraphs himself but the witness said that "was exactly what Professor Tey had told me" to do.
Tey, a former district judge, said throughout on Thursday and Friday Mr Teng's "linguistic expressions" used in court "are similarly manifested in all three statements" he had recorded on 17, 18 and 24 May 2012. Mr Teng disagreed.
A phrase raised during the hearing was described by Tey as "downright nonsensical" - "Bad faiths mean wrong conscientious".
Mr Teng again said it was what Tey had wanted to put in the statement.
In an earlier statement, Tey had said he had given better grades to Ms Ko for two papers, in Personal Property Law as well as Equity and Trust.
In his later statement recorded by Mr Teng, he was allowed to retract that point.
On Friday, Tey said it was because by then, Mr Teng had already received information from the National University of Singapore that the alteration of grades in those two modules "had no basis whatsoever".
Mr Teng explained that Tey was "trying to confuse" him by telling him that he changed Ms Ko's grades at first and saying he did not later.
Later in the day, Tey applied to recall prosecution witness Darinne Ko but was turned down by Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye.
The prosecution had also asked to review the evidence over the weekend, so that it can decide whether to close its case by Monday morning.
Once the prosecution wraps up its case, the defence's case will start.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 12 Apr 2013 4:52 PM
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruptly obtaining gifts and sex from a former student on Friday continued to take issue with words and phrases in his statement recorded by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB).
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations that he obtained gifts and sex from his former student, 23-year-old Darinne Ko, in return for giving her better grades between May and July 2010.
On Friday morning, Tey said he could not have used the words "corrupt intent" in the statement recorded by CPIB's Deputy Director Teng Khee Fatt, much less volunteer the definition of those words, "so he could be nailed on the wall".
"So are you seriously proposing a person under interrogation would want to volunteer to you, to describe to you in great detail, detailed meaning ‘of corrupt intent’ so he could be nailed on the wall?" said Tey.
Mr Teng replied Tey had used the words "with corrupt intent" in his previous statements and he was trying to find out from Tey what he had meant by it.
But Tey argued that Mr Teng had given "the most ludicrous proposition for a person under interrogation and psychoactive medication to volunteer the minute definition exercise of ‘corrupt intent’, so as to help himself be nailed on the wall". Mr Teng repeated that Tey had told him so.
Tey also accused Mr Teng of typing some paragraphs himself but the witness said that "was exactly what Professor Tey had told me" to do.
Tey, a former district judge, said throughout on Thursday and Friday Mr Teng's "linguistic expressions" used in court "are similarly manifested in all three statements" he had recorded on 17, 18 and 24 May 2012. Mr Teng disagreed.
A phrase raised during the hearing was described by Tey as "downright nonsensical" - "Bad faiths mean wrong conscientious".
Mr Teng again said it was what Tey had wanted to put in the statement.
In an earlier statement, Tey had said he had given better grades to Ms Ko for two papers, in Personal Property Law as well as Equity and Trust.
In his later statement recorded by Mr Teng, he was allowed to retract that point.
On Friday, Tey said it was because by then, Mr Teng had already received information from the National University of Singapore that the alteration of grades in those two modules "had no basis whatsoever".
Mr Teng explained that Tey was "trying to confuse" him by telling him that he changed Ms Ko's grades at first and saying he did not later.
Later in the day, Tey applied to recall prosecution witness Darinne Ko but was turned down by Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye.
The prosecution had also asked to review the evidence over the weekend, so that it can decide whether to close its case by Monday morning.
Once the prosecution wraps up its case, the defence's case will start.
- CNA/xq
- wong chee tat :)
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial says he was "in love" with former student
Law prof in sex-for-grades trial says he was "in love" with former student
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 15 Apr 2013 3:04 PM
UPDATED: 16 Apr 2013 12:02 AM
The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial said he loved his former student and that he never wanted to take advantage of her.
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruption in a sex-for-grades trial said he loved his former student and that he never wanted to take advantage of her.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations that he corruptly obtained gifts and sex from 23-year-old Darinne Ko, in return for lifting her grades between May and July 2010.
Taking the witness stand in his own defence on Monday, Tey recounted his relationship with Ms Ko, saying he was in love with her.
He added that she would address him as "dearest dinosaur" and gave him an iPod filled with songs they listened to together.
Describing Ms Ko as "charming", "vivacious" and "an intellect", Tey also told the court they would send each other poems - hers in English and his in Mandarin - as a declaration of their love for one another.
Tey also went through the list of gifts Ms Ko showered on him, which included among other things, a Montblanc pen, CYC tailored shirts and an iPod.
Tey also gave an explanation of his cheque book entries that were mentioned in court in January this year.
The court had heard then that Tey had paid Ms Ko for those gifts as well as for the dinner at Garibaldi's. The bill for that dinner was dated 21 July 2010.
Tey said he had issued a cheque for S$2,500 in July 2010 before Ms Ko left for an overseas study stint.
Back in January 2013, he said the amount is slightly more than the value of the gifts mentioned in the first four charges.
But in January this year, Ms Ko said no such cheque was given to her.
Tey said he made the cheque out to Ms Ko but she refused to accept it.
Tey said he paid her in cash after that.
At that time, lead prosecutor Mr Andre Jumabhoy pointed out that the cheque was dated early July 2010 while the dinner bill was dated 21 July.
So Mr Jumabhoy said Tey is purporting to pay for a dinner even before it had taken place.
But on Monday, Tey explained that Ms Ko had been arranging for the Garibaldi dinner weeks before the actual appointment as all nine attendees had different schedules. And because it was arranged weeks before, Tey said he had a rough idea of the cost of the dinner.
By then, Tey said he also found out from a friend, the cost of the Montblanc pen.
He said he added the costs of the dinner, pen and other gifts and wrote a cheque amounting to S$2,500 to Ms Ko for the items to reimburse her.
Tey said that prosecution's point about him being able to foretell the cost of a dinner in the future was a "hurtful supposition".
Later in the day, another key defence argument was brought up.
Tey told the court that under the National University of Singapore's robust marking system, a "collaborative effort" is needed to enter marks into the university’s examination system.
Tey explained that marks are entered into the examination system by an administrative manager and any changes to a student's grades require the approval of the Vice-Dean.
Tey said academic professors have no access to the system.
He also mentioned another of the university's precautions, which was the anonymous marking of papers.
The court heard that Ms Ko was ranked in the 82nd percentile for the subject "Equity and Trusts", and that that was before she and Tey started a relationship.
By the time she took the subject "Personal Property Law", which was also taught by Tey, Ms Ko's ranking went down to the "60 something percentile".
That was when they started going out.
When it came to her directed research paper much later, Ms Ko's percentile dropped even further - "to (the) 32nd or 33rd percentile".
Looking miserable, Tey added that their relationship right from the beginning was "pure, mutual and romantic", free of corrupt intent.
He said that he tried to explain this to the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau's (CPIB) investigating officers but they refused to listen as they had "tunnel vision".
The move for Tey to testify follows the wrap of the prosecution's case on Monday morning.
The defence has to lay out its case now.
- CNA/ck/jc
- wong chee tat :)
By Claire Huang
POSTED: 15 Apr 2013 3:04 PM
UPDATED: 16 Apr 2013 12:02 AM
The law professor accused of corruption in the sex-for-grades trial said he loved his former student and that he never wanted to take advantage of her.
SINGAPORE: The law professor accused of corruption in a sex-for-grades trial said he loved his former student and that he never wanted to take advantage of her.
Tey Tsun Hang, 41, faces six allegations that he corruptly obtained gifts and sex from 23-year-old Darinne Ko, in return for lifting her grades between May and July 2010.
Taking the witness stand in his own defence on Monday, Tey recounted his relationship with Ms Ko, saying he was in love with her.
He added that she would address him as "dearest dinosaur" and gave him an iPod filled with songs they listened to together.
Describing Ms Ko as "charming", "vivacious" and "an intellect", Tey also told the court they would send each other poems - hers in English and his in Mandarin - as a declaration of their love for one another.
Tey also went through the list of gifts Ms Ko showered on him, which included among other things, a Montblanc pen, CYC tailored shirts and an iPod.
Tey also gave an explanation of his cheque book entries that were mentioned in court in January this year.
The court had heard then that Tey had paid Ms Ko for those gifts as well as for the dinner at Garibaldi's. The bill for that dinner was dated 21 July 2010.
Tey said he had issued a cheque for S$2,500 in July 2010 before Ms Ko left for an overseas study stint.
Back in January 2013, he said the amount is slightly more than the value of the gifts mentioned in the first four charges.
But in January this year, Ms Ko said no such cheque was given to her.
Tey said he made the cheque out to Ms Ko but she refused to accept it.
Tey said he paid her in cash after that.
At that time, lead prosecutor Mr Andre Jumabhoy pointed out that the cheque was dated early July 2010 while the dinner bill was dated 21 July.
So Mr Jumabhoy said Tey is purporting to pay for a dinner even before it had taken place.
But on Monday, Tey explained that Ms Ko had been arranging for the Garibaldi dinner weeks before the actual appointment as all nine attendees had different schedules. And because it was arranged weeks before, Tey said he had a rough idea of the cost of the dinner.
By then, Tey said he also found out from a friend, the cost of the Montblanc pen.
He said he added the costs of the dinner, pen and other gifts and wrote a cheque amounting to S$2,500 to Ms Ko for the items to reimburse her.
Tey said that prosecution's point about him being able to foretell the cost of a dinner in the future was a "hurtful supposition".
Later in the day, another key defence argument was brought up.
Tey told the court that under the National University of Singapore's robust marking system, a "collaborative effort" is needed to enter marks into the university’s examination system.
Tey explained that marks are entered into the examination system by an administrative manager and any changes to a student's grades require the approval of the Vice-Dean.
Tey said academic professors have no access to the system.
He also mentioned another of the university's precautions, which was the anonymous marking of papers.
The court heard that Ms Ko was ranked in the 82nd percentile for the subject "Equity and Trusts", and that that was before she and Tey started a relationship.
By the time she took the subject "Personal Property Law", which was also taught by Tey, Ms Ko's ranking went down to the "60 something percentile".
That was when they started going out.
When it came to her directed research paper much later, Ms Ko's percentile dropped even further - "to (the) 32nd or 33rd percentile".
Looking miserable, Tey added that their relationship right from the beginning was "pure, mutual and romantic", free of corrupt intent.
He said that he tried to explain this to the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau's (CPIB) investigating officers but they refused to listen as they had "tunnel vision".
The move for Tey to testify follows the wrap of the prosecution's case on Monday morning.
The defence has to lay out its case now.
- CNA/ck/jc
- wong chee tat :)
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