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Celebrating the first women of Singapore!

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Singapore (Commonwealth Union)_ In commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day, we are highlighting the significant events and courageous trailblazers who shattered barriers and paved the way for progress in Singapore. These women are inspiring individuals who have achieved significant milestones in their respective fields.

Maria Dyer, founder of Singapore’s first girls school in 1842

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The Chinese Girls’ School, now known as St Margaret’s School is the oldest and the first girls’ school in Singapore. Maria Dyer, a missionary, established the School with the objective of saving “mui tsai” or bonded domestic servants. This was the oldest school for girls in the country. The students were taught English, the Christian faith, and home economics. In 1949, the institution was renamed St Margaret’s School.

Lee Choo Neo, Singapore’s first woman doctor in 1920

Lee Choo Neo, the daughter of a Straits Chinese merchant, graduated from medical school in 1919, becoming the first female medical practitioner in Singapore. She established her own clinic on Bras Basah Road in 1930 and specialized in providing maternity care.

 Mary Quintal, Singapore’s first female police officer in 1950

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In January 1950, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) welcomed its inaugural group of ten female officers. Mary Quintal, a graduate of Raffles Girls’ School, was one among them. In 1961, she became the first female Assistant Superintendent of Police, making her the top-ranking female officer in the organization at the time.

Tang Pui Wah, Singapore’s first female Olympian in 1952

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Tang Pui Wah, a sports icon, participated in the 100m sprint and 80m hurdles at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics when she was just 19 years old. She later excelled in long jump and high jump events before retiring from athletics at the young age of 22 in 1955.

Kanwaljit Soin, Singapore’s first woman NMP in 1992

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Kanwaljit Soin, the first female Nominated Member of Parliament in Singapore, was also the country’s first female orthopedic surgeon. Her achievements are a long list. She established the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) and served as its president from 1991 to 1993. She was also the founder of the Singapore chapter of the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) and the first president of Women’s Initiative for Ageing Successfully (WINGS).

Anastasia Gan, Singapore’s first female commercial pilot 2001

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Anastasia Gan, a trailblazer, soared in two different domains – military and civilian. She was among the first group of female pilots in the Republic of Singapore Air Force in 1979 and served in the force for more than two decades until 2000. She then joined Silkair in 2001 and made history as Singapore’s first female commercial pilot.

Khoo Teh Lynn, Singapore’s first female fighter pilot in 2003

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Khoo Teh Lynn entered the RSAF in 2000 when she was only 19. Her rise through the ranks of the RSAF is a testament to her dedication and hard work, and her induction into the Singapore Women’s Hall of Fame recognizes her contributions to the country.

Yip Pin Xiu, Singapore’s first gold at Paralympics in 2008

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Yip Pin Xiu’s success as a para-swimmer is remarkable, having won several Paralympics gold medals and making Singapore proud on the international stage. Her resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic is commendable. She won the fourth and fifth Paralympics gold medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.

Zuraidah Abdullah, Singapore’s first woman SAC of Police in 2013

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Zuraidah Abdullah’s trailblazing career in the SPF, becoming the first woman to hold the rank of Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of the Airport Police Division, is a testament to her leadership and commitment to service.

 Shirley Ng, Singapore’s first female Red Lion parachutist jumps at NDP in 2014

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2WO Shirley Ng’s determination to become the first female Red Lion parachutist is a testament to her courage and perseverance. Her second chance at the National Day Parade allowed her to achieve her goal and inspire others to pursue their dreams. Overall, these women serve as role models for future generations and showcase the capabilities and achievements of Singaporean women.

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