The Singapore Millennium Foundation (SMF) was first endowed in 2001 at the turn of the millennium to contribute to the development of human capital through research and higher studies, as a way to build upon the foundation of knowledge.

More than 200 scholarships for postgraduate studies and post-doctoral research have been given out.

In the past year, 12 scholarships were awarded for research in diverse fields such as engineering, environmental sciences, renewable resources and water, life sciences, and physical and material sciences.

These included research led and published by Professor Teh Bin Tean, on the discovery of a genetic clue that could prevent the growth and spread of bile duct cancer.

SMF scholars have also gained recognition for their success in their careers. For example, Dr Yu Ting, an Assistant Professor at the Nanyang Technological University, was awarded the Young Scientist Award in 2009 by the Singapore National Academy of Science for his excellent research, including his work on the assembly of nanowires using optical tweezers.

SMF continues to sponsor the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, which recognises those who have contributed to solving global water problems. Previous winners include Professor Gatze Lettinga of the Netherlands in 2009 and Dr Andrew Benedek of Canada in 2008.