The Opening Ceremony of the Sea-to-Space (S2S) Building on Friday, 19 June 2009 marks one of many joint activities the Centre for Remote Imaging, Sensing and Processing (CRISP) and the Tropical Marine Science Institute (TMSI) will be working on together.
The newly completed building, located at the end of Kent Ridge Road accommodates staff from both institutes and the new 8.5m satellite antenna. Being under one roof will bring together scientists of multi disciplines from both institutes; in line with the University’s direction towards cross-disciplinary research. TMSI and CRISP have a common interest in the study, conservation and monitoring of the environment. Currently, a joint research study of the marine environment of Semakau is in progress. Scientists from TMSI are working with satellite images processed by CRISP for a long term conservation plan of the island.
In view of the many projects carried out by both CRISP and TMSI for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, it was most significant that Minister Dr Yaacob Ibrahim was able to kindly grace the occasion.
Dr Yaacob, accompanied by Prof Lui Pao Chen, the Chairman of the S2S Building Committee, Prof Peter Ng, Director of TMSI and Mr Kwoh Leong Keong, Director of CRISP arrived via the new flight of 93 steps which links Yusof Ishak House to the S2S Building.
The Minister “unveiling” the plaque. Looking on from Left – Mr Kwoh LK, Prof Lui PC, Prof Bernard Tan and Prof Peter Ng.
The Minister, Dr Yaacob Ibrahim walking up the newly-completed flight of steps.
Among the many distinguished guests present were the British High Commissioner, Mr Paul Madden; the Chief Defence Scientist, Mr Quek Tong Boon; the Chief Executive of PUB, Mr Khoo Teng Chye; the Chief Executive of NEA, Mr Andrew Tan; Faculty Deans and Department Heads of NUS as well as Members of CRISP and TMSI’s Management Boards.
Prof Barry Halliwell, Deputy President (Research and Technology), NUS in his welcome speech highlighted Prof Lui’s vital role in bringing CRISP and TMSI together to meet their respective needs for space for the antenna and staff.
Prof Halliwell addressing the guests.
Dr Yaacob accompanied by the Directors of CRISP and TMSI taking a closer look at the antenna.
The Minister then officially launched the building and was presented with a satellite image of Semakau Island. Prof Lui was also presented with a token of appreciation for his invaluable contribution to the building of S2S.
Guests were invited to lunch reception and to tour the facilities which comprise a display gallery. laboratories and office space. At the display gallery and laboratories, guests had an opportunity to view the projects done or in progress by the researchers from both institutes.
A token of appreciation for Prof Lui presented by the Minister.
Dr Holmes, Deputy Director of TMSI leads a group of guests to the labs.
