In the world of diplomacy, where patience, foresight, and the ability to bridge divides are paramount, few names shine as brightly as Kesavapany Krishnasamy. A man of remarkable intellect and compassion, his journey from his early days in Malaysia to becoming one of Singapore’s most respected diplomats and community leaders is a story of dedication, resilience, and vision.
His career and social contributions remind us that leadership is not only about representing nations on the world stage but also about serving communities at home.
Kesavapany Krishnasamy: A Distinguished Career in Diplomacy
For more than five decades, Kesavapany Krishnasamy devoted his life to the service of Singapore and the international community. His career spanned seven diplomatic postings, including Indonesia, Russia (then the Soviet Union), the United Kingdom, the United Nations in Geneva, Malaysia, Jordan, Italy, and Turkey. This impressive global footprint reflects not only the trust placed in him by the Singapore Government but also his ability to handle complex and sensitive negotiations with poise.
As Singapore’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, he played a historic role in the establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO). In 1995, he was elected as the first Chairman of the General Council of the WTO, a position that allowed him to oversee the transition from the GATT framework to the newly formed WTO. His steady leadership was pivotal in concluding the long-running Uruguay Round negotiations, a turning point in global trade history.
His tenure as Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia (1997–2002) came during a particularly turbulent period in bilateral relations. Yet, with diplomacy, sensitivity, and strategic insight, he helped navigate challenges while ensuring that ties between the two neighbors were maintained. Later, he was appointed Non-Resident Ambassador to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, where his decade-long service was recognized with the prestigious Order of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (First Class).
For his outstanding contributions, Kesavapany was also conferred the Public Service (Gold) Medal along with the BBM and PBM awards for his enduring service to the nation.
Academic and Intellectual Leadership
Beyond diplomacy, Kesavapany Krishnasamy left an indelible mark in academia and intellectual discourse. From 2002 to 2012, he served as the Director of the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS). Under his leadership, ISEAS grew into a respected hub for Southeast Asian research, producing insights that continue to influence policy and scholarship in the region.
Today, he continues to inspire young minds as an adjunct professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, NUS, where he shares lessons from his vast diplomatic and leadership experience. His contributions to academia earned him the IHFS Excellence Award for Academic Achievements, a recognition that speaks to his lifelong commitment to education and knowledge-sharing.
Kesavapany Krishnasamy: Author and Storyteller
Kesavapany is also an author, having penned the inspiring book “Estate to Embassy”, co-written with Anitha Devi Pillai. The book is more than just a memoir—it is a testimony of resilience, chronicling his journey from humble beginnings in Malaysia to the heights of international diplomacy. It offers invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities that shaped his career and personal life.
When the book was launched in April 2019 by Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Kesavapany chose to donate the proceeds from the first 300 signed copies to the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS) Bursary Fund, demonstrating his constant drive to turn personal achievements into community support.
Champion of Social Service and Community Leadership
If his diplomatic achievements represent his professional success, his contributions to society reflect his humanity. Kesavapany Krishnasamy has held leadership roles in several organizations that touch lives across Singapore.
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President of the Singapore Indian Association (SIA)
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Board Member of the Hindu Endowments Board
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President of Rotary Club of Raffles City
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Governor on the Board of the Singapore International Foundation
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President of the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) from 2017 to 2018
A passionate advocate for social causes, he played a pioneering role in raising awareness about dyslexia in Singapore, ensuring broader acceptance and support for children with learning differences. His dedication to community service extended to programs for ex-prisoners, drug offenders, and immigrant families, for which he was recognized with the Community Champion Award.
Kesavapany drew much inspiration for his social work from his mentor and friend, the late former President of Singapore, Mr. S. R. Nathan, who deeply influenced his outlook on service to society.
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