Just 10 years ago, ophthalmic research was almost unheard of in Singapore. With little money and no infrastructure, ophthalmologists and scientists expressed scant interest in research. Today, however, ophthalmic research in Singapore is at a high international level, as exemplified by the activities of the Singapore Eye Research Institute (SERI), which is capable of competing with and challenging the world's leading eye research centers. Indeed, the world-class research carried out at SERI has helped to extend Singapore's international reach as the country moves towards its goal of becoming a global city and a leading nation influencing developments across Asia and the world. This book summarizes a decade of hard work, dedication, and commitment by a handful of doctors and researchers in their efforts to establish SERI and ensure its success. In particular, the remarkable contributions of two of Singapore's ophthalmic pioneers, the late Associate Professor Chew Sek Jin and current Professor Donald Tan, are acknowledged. The book will inspire leaders of developing nations in visualizing how research can develop rapidly in their own country, and how support and facilities may materialize if they can gather a few dedicated, intelligent researchers.
