1940s–1950s: Consolidating the Developmental Forces of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Singapore
1947: Founding of the Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association
Following the end of World War II, several local TCM practitioners recognised that in a major city such as Singapore, with a population of one million, there was a need to form an organisation to unite members of the TCM community, promote the advancement of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and facilitate academic research in the field.
On 18 August 1946, under the initiative of Physician Wu Rui Fu, a renowned TCM physician from Xiamen residing in Singapore, the first preparatory meeting was held at the Shanghang Clan Association. A total of 23 participants attended the meeting: Wu Rui Fu(Wu Xi Huang), You Xing Nan(Yew Hen Nam), Zeng Zhi Yuan(Chan Chi Yen), Chen Zhan Wei(Chin Chan Wei), Zeng He Sheng, Chen Rui Tang, Fang Zhan Lun, Huang Shaoyu, Rao Shi Quan(Ngeow Sze Chan), Xu Yun zhi, Zhong Hui Wo, Deng Song Ru, Chen Qing Yuan(Tan Kheng Guan), Hong Wei Tang, Luo Xiao Chuan, Guan Long Fei, Liao Pei Ru, Huang Shao Wen, Yang Yi Feng, Chen Jian Ji, You Hong Nan(Yew Hong Nam), Chen Xue Qiao, and Huang Wen Xian. During the meeting, a resolution was passed to establish the Singapore Chinese Medical Society (新加坡中国医学会), with Wu Rui Fu appointed as Chairman of the Preparatory Committee. The founding assembly and inauguration ceremony of the first Board of council were held on 27 October 1946.
In 1947, during its second General Meeting, the Society—following the naming guidelines issued by the Chinese authorities for TCM organisations—was renamed the Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association.
1952: Establishment of Chung Hwa Free Clinic – Caring for the Poor and Needy
In the aftermath of World War II, with the collapse in rubber and tin prices and a weak economy, poverty and illness became increasingly widespread. Government hospitals were unable to cope with the growing demand for medical services. Members of the Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association strongly believed that it was the moral duty of Chinese physicians to provide aid and relief to those in need. As such, in 1952, the Association established the Chung Hwa Free Clinic, temporarily operating from the Zhongshan Association’s premises.
Two years later, members agreed that a permanent facility was essential for both academic exchange and the provision of medical services. Through united fundraising efforts, the Association acquired a three-storey building on Telok Ayer Street in 1956, which became both its headquarters and the new site of the clinic, renamed Chung Hwa Medical Institution.
1953: Establishment of the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine – Training the Next Generation of TCM Practitioners
During the British colonial period, TCM practitioners from China were scattered across Singapore, serving the Chinese community. However, with the introduction of immigration restrictions by the colonial government, the influx of Chinese-trained physicians slowed, and the existing practitioners in Singapore and Malaya grew older. Recognising the looming shortage of successors in the TCM profession, the Association saw the Chung Hwa Free Clinic as an ideal training ground for new practitioners.
At the same time, unscrupulous individuals exploited public trust in TCM, posing as physicians and engaging in fraudulent practices. To ensure systematic training and safeguard professional standards, the Association initiated the creation of a dedicated TCM institution.
In 1953, it founded the Chinese Medical School (renamed Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1976) and registered it with the Ministry of Education. The School’s mission was to impart TCM knowledge, train skilled professionals, protect public health, and contribute to Singapore’s medical and healthcare development. Its guiding principle was “TCM as the foundation, Western medicine as a complement,” and it operated a four-year part-time curriculum.
1959: Establishment of the Chinese Medicine Research Institute
With the aim of fostering professional collaboration, advancing the study of TCM, and improving therapeutic efficacy, the Association established the Chinese Medicine and Materia Medica Research Institute on 20 September 1959 (later renamed the Chinese Medical and Drugs Research Institute), following a resolution passed at a Council meeting.
1960s: Establishing Branch Clinics and Promoting Benevolence
In response to the needs of the underprivileged, the Association began establishing branch clinics of the Chung Hwa Medical Institution during the 1960s.
1961: Establishment of the First Branch
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Lam Chin Keong, who unconditionally donated two adjoining shop units at 233 and 235 Serangoon Road to the Association, the First Branch of the Chung Hwa Medical Institution was officially opened on 17 March 1961, coinciding with TCM Day. Due to the government’s urban redevelopment programme, the branch ceased operations on 1 November 1986 after 25 years of service.
1967: Establishment of the Second Branch
In the 1960s, Geylang was a densely populated area with a large land area but lacked a sizable charitable hospital. In response to this, under the initiative of the Association’s members, the building at No. 707 Geylang was purchased and converted into a branch clinic. On October 27, 1967, the opening ceremony was held, with the Education Minister Mr. Ong Pang Boon officiating, in conjunction with the Association’s 21st anniversary celebrations. On July 4, 1970, the government announced the requisition of the land occupied by the second branch. The Association actively negotiated with the authorities for a land swap. On January 20 of the following year, the Ministry of National Development informed the Association of available land at the junction of Lorong 4 and Lorong 5 in Toa Payoh for the hospital’s relocation. Although the land was requisitioned, the authorities had no immediate development plans, so the second branch continued operating under a lease agreement with the Housing Development Board until it ceased operations in November 1993 and was officially closed in June 1994.
From 1995: Opening of New Branches to Meet Community Needs
Following Singapore’s independence in 1965, rapid economic growth and urban redevelopment transformed the city. As older urban neighbourhoods gave way to commercial and financial developments, residents moved to the suburbs. From 1995 onwards, to meet the growing demand for accessible TCM services in residential areas, the Chung Hwa Medical Institution established new branches in Yishun, Woodlands, Bukit Panjang, and Joo Chiat.
1970s: Steering Traditional Chinese Medicine onto a Standardized Path
1976: Construction of the Toa Payoh Chung Hwa Medical Institution
When the government acquired the site of the Chung Hwa Medical Institution’s Second Branch in 1970, the Association’s committee members recognised that the Institution had progressed beyond merely providing outpatient services. They believed it was necessary to expand the medical facilities and collaborate closely with the College and Research Institute to focus collective efforts on research and innovation.
Upon receiving an allocation of a 19,500-square-foot plot at Lorong 4, Toa Payoh for the new hospital site, the committee engaged in thorough deliberation and collectively issued a public appeal to society to support the establishment of the “Chung Hwa Hospital.” They declared their mission and planned extensive fundraising activities to realise this development.
On July 4, 1972, the “Toa Payoh Chinese Hospital Fundraising Committee” was formed, led by Mr. Chan Chee Seng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs, together with representatives from Singapore’s four major Chinese newspapers — Nanyang Siang Pau, Sin Chew Jit Poh, Shin Min Daily News, and Ming Pao — as well as prominent community leaders. The initiative received overwhelming support from all sectors of society, inspiring many supporters of Traditional Chinese Medicine to participate in various fundraising events, including charity performances, sales, drives, walks, volunteer efforts, donations, exhibitions, auctions, and more.
This vigorous fundraising campaign lasted over three years and successfully raised more than S$5 million, an unprecedented achievement in the history of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Singapore, leaving a legacy. To ensure transparency in fund management, on August 27, 1972, government officials, community leaders, and heads of the Association’s institutions jointly established the “Chung Hwa Hospital Foundation,” which was responsible for fundraising, safeguarding, and disbursing the funds.
Originally planned as a modern seven-story building of considerable scale, the project was scaled down due to practical constraints to a three-story building housing outpatient clinic, an auditorium, and a library, with a basement car park. In 1976, the new facility covering 2,672 square meters and costing over S$3.7 million was officially named “Toa Payoh Chung Hwa Medical Institution.” The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Dr. Toh Chin Chye, then Minister of Health.
On September 20, 1977, the foundation laying ceremony was led by Mr. Soon Peng Yam, Chairman of the Chung Hwa Hospital Foundation. Construction was completed in 1979, and the official opening was held on 27 October, officiated by Minister for Labour and Association Advisor Mr. Ong Pang Boon, in the presence of government officials, prominent community leaders, and overseas guests.
1973: Enhancement of Admission Qualifications for the Chinese Medical College
From its establishment until 1972, the Chinese Medical School admitted new students biennially. However, beginning in 1973, following the introduction of an afternoon session, admissions were held annually. Prospective students were required to have completed at least Secondary Four education or possess an equivalent qualification to be eligible for the entrance examination. Only those who successfully passed the examination and were selected were admitted to the School.
In the early years, students were generally older and had stronger academic backgrounds, mainly coming from pharmacy workers, clerks, and shop assistants, along with experienced practitioners seeking further study. Chinese language teachers were a minority, and university graduates were rare.
After 1973, the situation changed significantly. The rapid development of Traditional Chinese Medicine stimulated widespread interest in its study, resulting in a surge of applicants. Many tertiary-educated graduates from institutions such as Nanyang University, the University of Singapore, and the Polytechnic joined the ranks of Chinese medicine students. Among them, teachers from both Chinese- and English-medium primary and secondary schools constituted nearly half of the student population.
The influx of this well-educated cohort, capable of comprehensively understanding the principles of Chinese medicine, played a vital role in elevating the effectiveness and standards of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Singapore. This development marked a significant advancement in the profession’s progress.
1978: Establishment of the Chung Hwa Acupuncture Research Institute
During the 1970s and 1980s, acupuncture research and practice flourished globally, sparking widespread interest in acupuncture treatment. Unfortunately, this popularity also attracted unqualified practitioners falsely claiming to be “acupuncture experts.” To uphold rigorous and ethical research standards, the Association decided to establish a formal acupuncture research institution in Singapore. This body would serve as a liaison with international acupuncture organizations and promote formal acupuncture research and development locally.
In 1978, the Chung Hwa Acupuncture Research Institute was officially established. It actively recruited members to form research teams and conducted extensive studies in the field of acupuncture.
1980s: Expanding Regional Exchanges
1978: First Delegation Visit to China
In advancing academic exchange in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Association, along with its affiliated institutions such as Chung Hwa Medical Institution and the Chinese Medical College, has played a pivotal role.
In June 1978, the Singapore Chinese Physicians Association organized its first delegation visit to China, marking the beginning of formal connections with China TCM institutions and universities, which significantly facilitated future collaborations.
The 37-member delegation, led by Team Leader Mr. Ngoh Eng Kok, Deputy Leaders Mr. Chia Chay Soon and Mr. Thian Aik Siong, traveled to China to study and gain insights into the achievements in Chinese medicine and acupuncture. During the visit, they toured several prestigious medical and research institutions including the First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Xiyuan Hospital affiliated with the Beijing Chinese Medicine Research Institute, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Shanghai Medical Machinery Manufacturing, Changbai Hospital in Shanghai’s Yangpu District, and Longhua Hospital affiliated with Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
1978: Joining the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies
In November 1987, the Association and its affiliated Chung Hwa Acupuncture Research Institute became corporate members of the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies (WFAS). The Federation was officially established in Beijing on 22 November 1987, where the Association’s representative, Mr. Tan Chwee Heng, was elected as an Executive Member of the inaugural WFAS Council.
In December 2003 and November 2021, the Association, together with the Chung Hwa Acupuncture Research Institute as Singapore’s member representative to WFAS, successfully hosted two WFAS International Academic Conferences on Acupuncture-Moxibustion at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
1983: Initiation and Organisation of the ASEAN and International Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic Conferences
ASEAN countries enjoy strong political, economic, and cultural ties underpinned by friendly relations. In 1983, the Association took the initiative to organize the “ASEAN Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic Conference” and has since served as its secretariat. The conference facilitates academic exchanges and collaboration among TCM practitioners across ASEAN countries, playing a vital role in the development of TCM, improvement of healthcare standards, and enhancement of public wellbeing throughout the region.
ASEAN Traditional Chinese Medicine Academic Conferences: Years and Venues
| Edition | Year | Venue |
| 1st | 1983 | Singapore |
| 2nd | 1986 | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| 3rd | 1989 | Bangkok, Thailand |
| 4th | 1992 | Singapore |
| 5th | 1996 | Malaysia |
| 6th | 2000 | Bangkok, Thailand |
| 7th | 2003 | Jakarta, Indonesia |
| 8th | 2006 | Surabaya, Indonesia |
| 9th | 2009 | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| 10th | 2012 | Singapore |
| 11th | 2016 | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia |
| 12th | 2019 | Bangkok, Thailand |
| 13th | 2023 | Singapore |
| 14th | 2025 | Klang, Malaysia |
1990s: Actively Participating in TCM Legislation
1994: Establishment of the Singapore TCM Organisations Coordinating Committee
In March 1994, then Minister for Health, Dr. Yeo Cheow Tong, announced in Parliament that the Ministry of Health would establish an internal committee to assist in the reorganization and regulation of the local Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) sector. The Ministry also encouraged TCM organizations to jointly form a “United TCM Committee” to engage with the Ministry at appropriate times on how to raise the academic and professional standards of TCM.
In response to the Ministry of Health’s call, our Association invited local TCM organisations for in-depth discussions. After multiple rounds of deliberation, consensus was reached with eight TCM organisations, and on 4 December 1994, the Singapore TCM Organisations Coordinating Committee (“the Coordinating Committee”) was officially formed. The Committee sought to promote cooperation, unity, and effective coordination, to strengthen and encourage closer ties among TCM organisations nationwide, to deliberate on major issues concerning the TCM profession and its prospects, and to establish channels of communication and dialogue with relevant government agencies. Through these efforts, the Committee aimed to enhance the credibility of TCM and make greater contributions to the health and well-being of the people of Singapore.
Following its establishment, the Coordinating Committee set up a Code of Conduct Working Group, a TCM Education and Training Planning Group, and a TCM Practitioners’ Registry Group. The Committee gradually implemented recommendations from the TCM Organisations Committee Report, introducing measures for self-regulation within the profession. These included improving coordination of activities among member bodies; publishing the Guidelines on Professional Conduct for TCM Practitioners (1996); issuing the Memorandum on TCM Education in Singapore (October 1996), which launched the “Six-Year Part-Time Diploma in TCM” programme; releasing the Singapore Register of TCM Practitioners (October 1997); and actively participating in the development of transitional registration standards for TCM practitioners.
2000s: Strengthening International Collaboration
2000: Joining the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies
In 2000, the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS) was initiated by international Chinese medicine professionals, and the Singapore Chinese Physicians Association was invited to join. After three years of preparation, the founding conference was held in Beijing, China, in 2003.
In November 2007, the Association successfully hosted the 4th International Traditional Medicine Conference at the Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event attracted participants from 35 countries and was officiated by Singapore’s Minister for Health, Mr. Khaw Boon Wan.
Our senior council members have held key positions such as Vice-Chairpersons and Executive Committee members in both the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies and the World Federation of Acupuncture-Moxibustion Societies. They attend the annual council meetings of both organizations. The Association organizes delegations each year to attend the World Chinese Medicine Conferences, often with groups of 30 to 40 members participating enthusiastically. These events provide valuable platforms for international academic exchange, enabling members to build friendships worldwide and acquire the latest advancements and research findings in Chinese medicine.
Active Participation in Other Regional and International Conferences
The Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association (SCPA) has been an active participant in numerous regional and international conferences, including the World Conference on Andrology in TCM (Tianjin, Nanjing, and Sichuan, China), the International Conference on Orthopaedics and Traumatology in TCM (Perak, Malaysia), the International Training Camp on Traditional/Alternative Medicine (Taichung, Taiwan), the Fujian TCM Academic Exchange and Chinese Herbal Medicine Industry Development Seminar (Fujian, China), the World Health Organization Conference on Traditional Medicine (Beijing, China), the China–ASEAN Traditional Medicine Summit Forum (Guangxi, China), the International Congress on the Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Sichuan, China), the Asia Acupuncture Summit Forum and International Academic Congress (Nanjing, China), the WFAS International Meeting on the Development of the International Standard for Moxibustion Techniques (Beijing, China), the International Academic Exchange Conference on Paediatrics in TCM (Shanghai, China), the Cross-Strait TCM Andrology Forum and 4th WFCMS Academic Conference on Andrology (Taipei, Taiwan), the 6th International Conference on Andrology in TCM (Taipei, Taiwan), the Quanzhou–Southeast Asia TCM Academic Symposium (Fujian, China), the International Sun Simiao Forum on TCM (Taipei, Taiwan), the Singapore–Malaysia TCM Academic Forum (Penang, Malaysia), the Malaysia–Singapore TCM Academic Seminar (Johor, Malaysia), and the ASEAN TCM Summit Forum (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), among others.
The SCPA’s active role on the international stage has not only fostered robust exchange and cooperation in talent, programmes, and expertise for its affiliated institutions — the Chung Hwa Medical Institution and the Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine — but also created valuable opportunities for the advancement of TCM healthcare and education in Singapore. These efforts have contributed significantly to enhancing the technical standards, service quality, and professional development of both the institutions and the Association’s members.
2010s: Driving Transformation towards Professionalization
Independent Registration of Chung Hwa Medical Institution and Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine
The march of time never stands still, and progress demands adaptation. To promote the further development of its affiliated institutions, the Chung Hwa Medical Institution and the Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine were independently registered as members guaranteed, non-shareholding private limited companies under the Companies Act on April 20, 2011, and January 17, 2012, respectively.
Although these two institutions now operate independently as required by law, they continue to uphold their historical roots and close ties with the Association. They remain committed to the original tripartite mission of medical care, education, and research, cooperating closely with the Association in a familial spirit to continue working together and moving forward.
2012: Strengthening Relations with Affiliated Institutions
In 2012, all 31 members of the Council of the Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Association became members of both the Chung Hwa Medical Institution and the Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Members of the two institutions elect a new Board of Directors every three years.
As a charitable and public-benefit organisation, half of Chung Hwa Medical Institution’s Board members serve as independent directors. Under the Board’s guidance, the Institution has established clear missions, policies, and objectives, while investing resources to enhance physician training and management. It has also developed and implemented an inventory management software system, as well as integrated platforms for donations, finance, and human resources — accelerating the automation, systematisation, institutionalisation, and professionalisation of its operations.
The Singapore College of Traditional Chinese Medicine elects its core Board members through its Annual General Meeting, with regular Board meetings convened thereafter. In addition, the College has established specialised committees — including the Academic Affairs Committee, Faculty Evaluation Committee, Student Discipline Committee, and Finance Committee — to oversee different operational domains.
Regular faculty exchange meetings are held to report on institutional matters, reaffirm protocols for handling medical incidents, and complete teaching evaluations. The College has also formed a Bursary Committee dedicated to assisting students facing financial difficulties in continuing their studies. Through its Continuing Education Centre, the College organises a variety of lectures, broadening students’ interests and horizons while enriching their knowledge base and academic depth.
2013: Recognition as a Traditional Chinese Medicine Continuing Education Provider
From January 1, 2013, the Ministry of Health and the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Board implemented a voluntary Continuing Traditional Education (CTE) program, encouraging TCM practitioners and acupuncturists to continuously update their knowledge and skills to keep pace with developments.
Accordingly, the Board’s Continuing Education Group formulated voluntary CTE credit requirements (25 credits per year, 50 credits over two years), project categories, and evaluation standards. Practitioners could participate in approved courses hosted by recognized medical or auxiliary medical organizations to earn CTE credits. Starting April 2020, the voluntary CTE became mandatory Continuing Professional Education (CPE), requiring practitioners to complete 50 credits over two years to renew their practice licenses.
The Singapore Chinese Physicians Association is among the certified organizations authorized by the Practitioners Board to offer TCM courses as CTE programs. The Association submits course details for Board approval and once approved, conducts CTE programs that enable practitioners to earn continuing education credits.
2017: Amendment of Council Election Rules to Introduce Professionals
In April 2017, the Association’s Annual General Meeting approved amendments to the council election rules. Of the 31 council members per term, 21 are elected, and 10 are appointed through nomination. This amendment aims to bring in capable members who may not participate in elections but can contribute meaningfully to the Association.
President Prof. Teo Eng Kiat explained that the amendment intends to find successors and change the previous system where “default candidates” were common due to difficulty finding nominees. He emphasized that the council should be a consensus-driven team willing to promote the Association’s affairs. Given the importance of member mandates, only one-third of council members are appointed.