(Singapore, 13.06.2025) Indonesian philanthropist and billionaire Dr. Tahir has donated a total of S$2 million to support Indonesian students studying in Singapore, with S$1 million each contributed to the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). The funds will be used to establish scholarships to help more Indonesian students pursue higher education locally.
The signing ceremony took place at Kent Ridge Guild House on 12 Jun, where representatives from both universities expressed deep gratitude for Dr. Tahir’s generosity and long-standing commitment to education.
Dr. Tahir, founder of the Mayapada Group, is a Singapore-educated entrepreneur who graduated from NUS Business School in 1976. He is widely recognized in Indonesia for his contributions to sectors such as finance, healthcare, education, and media, and has long been an advocate for regional cooperation and youth empowerment. In 2012, he received the Distinguished Alumni Award from NUS.
“Education can transform lives and change a nation’s destiny,” Dr. Tahir remarked. “I am grateful for what Singapore gave me, and I am committed to giving back—not just for this generation, but for the next.”
Both NUS President Prof. Tan Eng Chye and NTU President Prof. Ho Teck Hua expressed appreciation for Dr. Tahir’s contribution and welcomed more Indonesian students to further their studies in Singapore. Prof. Tan added that the gift would not only benefit students, but also strengthen the relationship between Indonesia and Singapore.
“The Indonesian students who benefit from this will go on to contribute meaningfully to the global community,” said Prof. Ho. “We are grateful for Dr. Tahir’s deep belief in the power of education.”
Dr. Tahir, who has four children and 12 grandchildren, shared that his son graduated from NUS and has been based in Singapore for more than a decade. He concluded the ceremony by expressing hope that his contribution would help foster more opportunities for young Indonesians and deepen ties between the two nations.
