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{{Short description|Singaporean businessman (1927–2014)}} {{Short description|Singaporean civil engineer and businessman (1927–2014)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2025}} {{Use Singapore English|date = January 2025}} {{Use dmy dates|date=January 2025}} {{Use Singapore English|date = January 2025}}
{{Family name hatnote|]|lang=Chinese}} {{Family name hatnote|]|lang=Chinese}}{{Infobox officeholder
{{Infobox officeholder
| name = Michael Fam Yue Onn | name = Michael Fam Yue Onn
| honorific_suffix = ] ] ] ] | honorific_suffix = ] ] ] ]
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| children = 2 | children = 2
| death_place = ] | death_place = ]
| image = | image = Michael Fam Yue Onn.jpg
| caption = | caption = Fam in the 2000s
}} }}


'''Michael Fam Yue Onn''' {{Post-nominals|country=||list=] ] ] ]}} (13 January 1927 – 27 December 2014) was a former Singaporean civil engineer and businessman. He was also active in the public service, serving as chairman of the Housing and Development Board from 1975 to 1983, and founding chairman of the ] (1981–1993) and ] (1983–1991).<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":4" /> '''Michael Fam Yue Onn''' {{Post-nominals|country=||list=] ] ] ]}} (13 January 1927 – 27 December 2014) was a former Singaporean ] and businessman. He is known for leading the team to complete the {{SGD|5000000000|link=on}} ] and ] ] lines two years ahead of schedule and within budget.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-11-07 |title=On schedule – and within budget... |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas19871107-1.2.2.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref>

He was active in the public service and publicly-listed companies, serving as chairman of the ] (1975–1983), ] (1983–2007), the ] (1987–1989), ] (1988),<ref>{{Cite news |date=1988-09-30 |title=New Cold Storage chairman named to replace Kee Ming |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19880930-1.2.48.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=29}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1988-09-30 |title=Lim Kee Ming retires from C Store board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19880930-1.2.37.3 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=15}}</ref> ] (1990–2001),<ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-12-08 |title=Changes at Centrepoint |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19901208-1.2.11.7.2 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Colin |date=1992-10-06 |title=Centrepoint expansion still under study |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19921006-1.2.12.7 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Raj |first=Conrad |date=2001-11-14 |title=F&N in $320m bid to take TimesPub, Centrepoint private |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20011114-1.2.6 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> ] (1990–2008) and ] (1998–2001),<ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-03-01 |title=MBL names Michael Fam as new chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19900301-1.2.13.6 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-05-05 |title=APB to give $10m to communicative arts |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19900505-1.2.35 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=16}}</ref> and founding chairman of ] (1981–1993) and the ] (1983–1991).<ref>{{Cite news |date=1991-07-01 |title=NTU COUNCIL MEMBERS |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19910701-1.2.83.7.18 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=17}}</ref> Fam also held directorships in ] (1989–2001),<ref>{{Cite news |date=1989-04-22 |title=OCBC appoints new vice-chairman and three directors |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19890422-1.2.44.10 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=29}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Gwee |first=Kevin |date=1989-04-22 |title=OCBC appoints vice-chairman and three new directors |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19890422-1.2.25.7 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=10}}</ref> Straits Times Press Group (1974–1984) and ] (1984–2004).<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fang |first=Nicholas |date=2004-11-18 |title=Michael Fam and Tang I-Fang to leave SPH board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20041118-1.2.43.36 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2004-11-18 |title=2 SPH founding directors to step down |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20041118-1.2.10.5 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=n.d. |title=Portrait of Mr. Michael Fam, former Chairman of the Council of Nanyang Technological University |url=https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/image-detail?cmsuuid=9a638b64-410c-45cf-95c4-87cdca4699fa |access-date=2025-01-15 |website=]}}</ref>


==Early life and education== ==Early life and education==
On 13 January 1927, Fam was born in ], ] (present day ]). Fam was the youngest in the family, and he had three sisters and a brother. His father, Fam Tain Yong, had a ] and some accountancy training, and his mother, Yong Khyun Chin, was a primary school teacher. In 1933, his family moved to ].<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=1982-12-27 |title=Obituaries |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19821227-1.2.109 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=19}}</ref> Fam received his early education at ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1939-08-01 |title=NINTH SON IS GOING TO ST. ANDREW'S SCHOOL |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19390801-1.2.102 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1939-08-01 |title=St Andrew's School Speech Day |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/morningtribune19390801-1.2.10 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=2}}</ref> In 1941, Fam graduated with a Senior Cambridge.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=1950-02-21 |title='Best Student' Is Malayan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19500221-1.2.77 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref> On 13 January 1927, Fam was born in ], ] (present day ]). A ], Fam was the youngest in the family, and he had three sisters and a brother.<ref name=":5">{{Cite news |last=Toh |first=Yong Chuan |date=2014-12-28 |title=Michael Fam dies at age 87 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20141228-1.2.6.3 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=2–3}}</ref> His father, Fam Tain Yong, had a ] and some accountancy training, and his mother, Yong Khyun Chin, was a primary school teacher. In 1933, his family moved to ].<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=1982-12-27 |title=Obituaries |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19821227-1.2.109 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=19}}</ref> Fam received his early education at ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1939-08-01 |title=NINTH SON IS GOING TO ST. ANDREW'S SCHOOL |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19390801-1.2.102 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=15}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1939-08-01 |title=St Andrew's School Speech Day |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/morningtribune19390801-1.2.10 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=2}}</ref> In 1941, Fam graduated with a Senior Cambridge.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |date=1950-02-21 |title='Best Student' Is Malayan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19500221-1.2.77 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref>


In January 1946, Fam was among the first two students to leave for higher studies at the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1946-01-13 |title=Chinese Boys To Study In Australia |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19460113-1.2.31 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> Fam was obtained distinction in all subjects, and in 1950, he graduated a ] in ].<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=1949-12-12 |title=Distinction For S'pore Students |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19491212-1.2.50 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref> In January 1946, Fam was among the first two students to leave for higher studies at the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1946-01-13 |title=Chinese Boys To Study In Australia |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19460113-1.2.31 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> Fam was obtained distinction in all subjects, and in 1950, he graduated a ] in ].<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=1949-12-12 |title=Distinction For S'pore Students |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19491212-1.2.50 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref>


==Career== ==Career==

=== Early career ===
Upon returning to Singapore in 1950, Fam started an engineering role in Hume Industries (Far East) ],{{Efn|Acquired in 1981 by ] as part of a {{SGD|350000000|link=on}} deal.<ref name=":7" />}} a publicly-listed company that manufactured concrete pipes, beams, and ] sheets. Hume was located at the {{Convert|8.5|mi|km|abbr=on}} of ], and it was listed on the ].<ref name=":7">{{Cite news |last=Seah |first=Richard |date=1989-01-11 |title=A garden to call his own |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19890111-1.2.29.2 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Factory of the Hume Industries (Far East) Limited at Bukit Timah Road, between 1941 and 1968 |url=https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/image-detail?cmsuuid=380f98e5-14c1-4071-8af5-2bb039cdb392 |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1967-09-24 |title=Topping your home with Hume roofing |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670924-1.2.87 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=15}}</ref> Throughout the years, Fam held several leadership positions, such as assistant general manager.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1965-03-03 |title=AUSTRALIAN COURSE FOR HUME MAN MR. FAM |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19650303-1.2.84 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In March 1967, Fam was promoted to general manager and director of Hume.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1967-03-17 |title=Hume's new manager |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670317-1.2.100.9 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Ooi |first=Teresa |date=1980-08-01 |title=Engineers make good managers too |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19800801-1.2.47 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=8}}</ref> Upon returning to Singapore in 1950, Fam started an engineering role in Hume Industries (Far East) ],{{Efn|Acquired in 1981 by ] as part of a {{SGD|350000000|link=on}} deal.<ref name=":7" />}} a publicly-listed company that manufactured concrete pipes, beams, and ] sheets. Hume was located at the {{Convert|8.5|mi|km|abbr=on}} of ], and it was listed on the ].<ref name=":7">{{Cite news |last=Seah |first=Richard |date=1989-01-11 |title=A garden to call his own |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19890111-1.2.29.2 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=10}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Factory of the Hume Industries (Far East) Limited at Bukit Timah Road, between 1941 and 1968 |url=https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/image-detail?cmsuuid=380f98e5-14c1-4071-8af5-2bb039cdb392 |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1967-09-24 |title=Topping your home with Hume roofing |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670924-1.2.87 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=15}}</ref> Throughout the years, Fam held several leadership positions, such as assistant general manager.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1965-03-03 |title=AUSTRALIAN COURSE FOR HUME MAN MR. FAM |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19650303-1.2.84 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In March 1967, Fam was promoted to general manager and director of Hume.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1967-03-17 |title=Hume's new manager |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19670317-1.2.100.9 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Ooi |first=Teresa |date=1980-08-01 |title=Engineers make good managers too |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19800801-1.2.47 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=8}}</ref>


On 2 April 1975, Fam succeeded ] as chairman of the ] (HDB), after being a member since 1 February 1969.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-03-18 |title=New chairman for Housing Board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19750318-1.2.82 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=21}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-03-19 |title=Dilantik sebagai Pengerusi Lembaga Perumahan |trans-title=Appointed as Chairman of the Housing Board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19750319-1.2.61 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8 |language=ms}}</ref> In November 1975, Fam was also appointed as chairman of ],<ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-11-01 |title=Haw Par: 5 pengarah baru dilantik |trans-title=Haw Par: 5 new directors appointed |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19751101-1.2.37 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-11-21 |title=Slater Walker, Haw Par may reach accord |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751121-1.2.151 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=32}}</ref> and lead the negotiations for disputes with ] over a {{SGD|72500000|link=on}} loan owed by Haw Par.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Tsai |date=1975-12-10 |title=Haw Par-SWS talks soon on $72.5 m loan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751210-1.2.119 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-12-13 |title=SWS chairman flies in tomorrow for talks on $72m loan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751213-1.2.9 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> Eventually, in June 1976, the dispute was resolved with Slater Walker and {{SGD|23000000|link=on}} settlement was paid to Haw Par instead.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Harry |date=1976-06-18 |title=Haw Par, Slater dispute settled |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760618-1.2.11 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1976-06-20 |title='Unprecedented success' for Singapore firm |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760620-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> In March 1977, Fam resigned as chairman of Haw Par, following the drop in profits of Hume.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Yew Meng |date=1977-03-15 |title=HAW PAR CHIEF MR FAM QUITS |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19770315-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1977-03-16 |title=Haw Par Brothers chairman Fam resigns |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19770316-1.2.22 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref> On 2 April 1975, Fam succeeded ] as chairman of the ] (HDB), after being a member since 1 February 1969.<ref name=":13">{{Cite news |date=1975-03-18 |title=New chairman for Housing Board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19750318-1.2.82 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=21}}</ref><ref name=":14">{{Cite news |date=1975-03-19 |title=Dilantik sebagai Pengerusi Lembaga Perumahan |trans-title=Appointed as Chairman of the Housing Board |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19750319-1.2.61 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8 |language=ms}}</ref> In November 1975, as the request of the ], Fam was also appointed as chairman of ], which was on the verge of bankruptcy.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-11-01 |title=Haw Par: 5 pengarah baru dilantik |trans-title=Haw Par: 5 new directors appointed |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19751101-1.2.37 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-11-21 |title=Slater Walker, Haw Par may reach accord |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751121-1.2.151 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=32}}</ref><ref name=":10" /> Fam lead the negotiations for disputes with ] over a {{SGD|72500000|link=on}} loan owed by Haw Par.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Tsai |date=1975-12-10 |title=Haw Par-SWS talks soon on $72.5 m loan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751210-1.2.119 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=28}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1975-12-13 |title=SWS chairman flies in tomorrow for talks on $72m loan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19751213-1.2.9 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> Eventually, in June 1976, the dispute was resolved with Slater Walker and {{SGD|23000000|link=on}} settlement was paid to Haw Par instead.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Miller |first=Harry |date=1976-06-18 |title=Haw Par, Slater dispute settled |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760618-1.2.11 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1976-06-20 |title='Unprecedented success' for Singapore firm |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19760620-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> In March 1977, Fam resigned as chairman of Haw Par, following the drop in profits of Hume.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Yew Meng |date=1977-03-15 |title=HAW PAR CHIEF MR FAM QUITS |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19770315-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1977-03-16 |title=Haw Par Brothers chairman Fam resigns |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19770316-1.2.22 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref>

On 1 September 1978, Fam was appointed as a director of ].<ref name=":16">{{Cite news |date=1978-09-01 |title=Two are named F and N directors |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780901-1.2.40 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref> In October 1978, Vietnam Prime Minister ] was brought to tour HDB flats in ] by Fam. During the visit, Dong was impressed by the HDB flats, and requested for models and plans from Fam.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1978-10-17 |title=Dong's request |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19781017-1.2.27 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1978-10-18 |title=Van Dong tertarik dengan projek2 perumahan awam |trans-title=Van Dong is interested in public housing projects |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19781018-1.2.10 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=S. M. |first=Muthu |date=1978-10-18 |title=Vietnam may send team to study our housing |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781018-1.2.58 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In March 1980, Nepal King ] and Queen ] were also brought by Fam to tour HDB flats in Toa Payoh.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1980-03-02 |title=Royal couple sees layout of the housing estates |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19800302-1.2.23 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref>

On 1 August 1981, Fam was appointed as the first chairman of the ] (NTI).<ref name=":6">{{Cite news |date=1981-08-11 |title=Michael Fam to head NTI council |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810811-1.2.9 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Teo |first=Anna |date=1991-03-23 |title=NTU going the Ivy League way |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19910323-1.2.36 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=18}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Cham |first=Tao Soon |title=Cham Tao Soon: Life at Speed |publisher=] |year=2020 |isbn=978-9-8112-2798-1 |location=Singapore |doi=10.1142/12012}}</ref> In his inaugural speech, Fam said that NTI will train experienced engineers to work in high-technology industries, and NTI lecturers and staff will be expected to be updated with latest technological developments.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=NTI gives pledge |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19810820-1.2.17.4 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=Kejuruteraan gunaan lebih ditumpu di NTI |trans-title=Applied engineering is the focus of NTI |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19810820-1.2.15 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=2 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=Spirit of Nanyang pioneers will be a spur |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810820-1.2.33 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref>

=== Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (1983–1991) ===
On 1 August 1983, Fam gave up his chairmanship at HDB to become chairman at the newly-formed ] (MRTC).<ref name=":15">{{Cite news |date=1983-04-30 |title=Fam will be the MRT boss |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830430-1.2.2 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref name=":22">{{Cite news |date=1983-04-30 |title=Michael Fam to be MRT chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19830430-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref name=":23">{{Cite news |date=1983-07-24 |title=10-man board will head the MRT Authority soon |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830724-1.2.42 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=13}}</ref> His successor was ], deputy chairman of the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-07-29 |title=New HDB chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19830729-1.2.7.1 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-07-29 |title=Owyang to be new HDB chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830729-1.2.39 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In 1984, as chairman of MRTC, Fam signed a {{SGD|581500000|link=on}} contract with ] for the supply of 396 passenger train cars.<ref name="jp-parts">{{cite news |last1=Sherwell |first1=Chris |date=1984-04-12 |title=Kawasaki wins major Singapore metro contract |work=] |publisher=] |page=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1984-06-03 |title=$581 m contract for rolling stock signed |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19840603-1.2.31 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref><ref name="khi">{{cite web |script-title=ja:シンガポール向け地下鉄電車を納入 |url=http://www.khi.co.jp/sharyo/since_final/since_1989.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100324204155/http://www.khi.co.jp/sharyo/since_final/since_1989.html |archive-date=24 March 2010 |access-date=8 November 2008 |publisher=Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Archived) |language=ja}}</ref>

In February 1986, Fam was appointed as chairman of a committee in charge of divesting and privatising more than 500 government-owned companies.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ahmad Osman |date=1986-02-03 |title=Fam heads new divestment committee |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860203-1.2.5 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-02-04 |title=Usaha swastakan 500 syarikat dirancang |trans-title=Planned efforts to privatise 500 companies |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19860204-1.2.17 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=2 |language=ms}}</ref> Named the Public Sector Divestment Committee, substantial shares owned by the Government in publicly-listed companies, such as ] and ], were divested, and profitable statutory boards, such as the Telecoms Board (now known as ]) and the ], were privatised.<ref>{{Cite news |last=N. |first=Balakrishnan |date=1986-02-04 |title=Govt likely to start with smaller firms |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860204-1.2.39.7 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=19}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-10-10 |title=Consultants study how PUB can be privatised |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871010-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref>

In July 1986, as chairman of MRTC, Fam announced a gratuity scheme for about 250 expatriates working in engineering and technical roles for the ] (MRT) system. As there was a cut in employer's contribution to the ], expatriates found themselves receiving lesser salary than initially promised. The gratuity scheme was meant to make up for the difference.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dhaliwal |first=Rav |date=1986-07-07 |title=Gratuity scheme for MRT expats |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860707-1.2.11 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-07-08 |title=250 pakar asing MRTC pilih skim gratuiti |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19860708-1.2.57.3 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=8 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-07-08 |title=MRTC bayar gratuiti kepada pakar asing |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19860708-1.2.18 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=2 |language=ms}}</ref> Most expatriates decided to opt for the scheme.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2025-01-15 |title=Most MRT expats opt for new gratuity scheme |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860708-1.2.21.7 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref> Fam elaborated:

{{Quote|text=We can't just run the trains if there is just one link missing. Had the CPF cut been small — one to two percent — the gratuity scheme would not have been necessary. Insofar as Singaporeans are concerned, the appeal is on the basis that we are going through a rough patch. We ask you to make sacrifices now and when the good times return, all the sacrifices will be made up for. At the MRT, we do not have the ability to make up in subsequent contracts. The expatriates are here for two years; when they finish, they take their pay and go off. Whatever they lose out on, there's no possibility of recovering in subsequent contracts because there will not be any. Therein lies the uniqueness, the distinction between the MRT expatriates and all the other expatriates, whether they be in the medical service or education service...<br />Here's a project costing billions of dollars, we require the men in charge of this project — the payment of this project, the passing of this project, the inspection of this project — to be completely enthusiastic and dedicated to the job. If the MRT, as a national project, were to go awry, you can imagine the loss of dignity that can result to Singapore.<ref>{{cite news|title=MRT chief on why gratuity scheme is necessary|work=]|page=11|url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860707-1.2.25.14|date=1986-07-07|access-date=2025-01-15}}</ref>}}

In response, the ] criticised the scheme, with its secretary-general ] questioning how Singapore would suffer any loss of dignity if the MRT was not completed on time, and said the explanation by Fam on the rationale behind implementing the gratuity scheme was not understood.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-07-10 |title=Workers' Party hits at MRTC gratuity plan |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860710-1.2.26.25 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-07-10 |title=Exclude expats from scheme |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19860710-1.2.22.1 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=8}}</ref>

In August 1987, Fam was appointed chairman of the ].<ref name=":18">{{Cite news |date=1987-08-29 |title=MRTC chairman named to head transport council |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19870829-1.2.27.26 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=22}}</ref><ref name=":19">{{Cite news |date=1987-09-10 |title=Fam gives up post on MRT-bus panel |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19870910-1.2.32.6 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In November 1987, Fam and ] escorted ] for an MRT ride to and from ], making her the first foreign dignitary to take the MRT.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Prema |first=L. E. |date=1987-11-15 |title=Princess Anne makes MRT history |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871115-1.2.29.15 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=21}}</ref> Later in November, Fam and Fock also escorted Sultan of Brunei ] for a ride, this time from Orchard to ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-11-29 |title=Sultan Brunei menikmati kemudahan MRT |trans-title=The Sultan of Brunei enjoys the convenience of the MRT |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19871129-1.2.11.3 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=2 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-11-29 |title=Sultan of Brunei takes a ride on the MRT |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871129-1.2.27.17 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=16}}</ref> In less than a month later, the Sultan's brother ] tried out the MRT system together with his wife. Likewise, he was accompanied by Fam and Fock from ] to Yio Chu Kang, then to ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-12-24 |title=Brunei Sultan's brother tries out the MRT |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871224-1.2.24.13 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=14}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Saini Salleh |date=1987-12-24 |title=Sufri, Mazuin selesa naik MRT |trans-title=Sufri, Mazuin comfortable riding the MRT |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19871224-1.2.8 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref>

In December 1991, Fam stepped down as chairman of MRTC, and he was replaced by ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1991-12-03 |title=Michael Fam leaves MRTC, his deputy D'Aranjo takes over |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19911203-1.2.55.43.6 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=40}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1991-10-16 |title=Pegawai kanan Mindef dilantik pengerusi MRTC |trans-title=Senior MINDEF official appointed as MRTC chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19911016-1.2.21.8 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=10 |language=ms}}</ref>

=== Later career ===
On 27 December 1991, Fam was appointed as an adviser in the Council of Presidential Advisers for presidents ],<ref>{{Cite news |date=1991-12-28 |title=President Wee's Advisers sworn in |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19911228-1.2.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1991-12-28 |title=Lima anggotai Majlis Penasihat Presiden |trans-title=Five members of the Council of Presidential Advisers |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19911228-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Chuang |first=Peck Ming |date=1991-12-28 |title=Kim San is chairman of presidential council |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19911228-1.2.8.5 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=2}}</ref> ] and ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1997-12-24 |title=Istana on presidental advisers |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19971224-1.2.9.7.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1997-12-24 |title=President re-appoints 3 advisers |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19971224-1.2.13.3 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1998-01-03 |title=Kim San anggota Majlis Penasihat Presiden |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19980103-1.2.22.12 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=16 |language=ms}}</ref>

On 11 May 1992, as chairman of ], Fam signed an agreement with ] to set up a joint venture company to take over the soft drink businesses of both companies in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Fam was appointed as chairman of the joint venture, named F&N Coca-Cola ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1992-05-12 |title=Coca-Cola likely to buy stake in F&N's Malaysian business |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19920512-1.2.52.37 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=39}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1992-05-12 |title=It's final — F&N Coca-Cola is it! |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19920512-1.2.57.8 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=40}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Wong |first=Sylvia |date=1992-05-12 |title=F&N and Coca-Cola sign long-awaited deal |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19920512-1.2.11.1 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref>

In July 1993, Fam stepped down as chairman of the ] council, and he was replaced by ].<ref name=":8">{{Cite news |date=1993-07-11 |title=Koh Boon Hwee is new chairman of NTU council |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19930711-1.2.32.22 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=26}}</ref><ref name=":9">{{Cite news |date=1993-07-12 |title=Boon Hwee pengerusi baru majlis NTU |trans-title=Boon Hwee is the new NTU council chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19930712-1.2.11.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=3 |language=ms}}</ref> In November 1994, Fam lead an independent panel to review the salary benchmarks for ministers and top civil servants.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chuang |first=Peck Ming |date=1994-11-19 |title=Michael Fam to head panel on PM's, ministers' pay |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19941119-1.2.11.3 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1994-11-19 |title=Michael Fam to head panel to verify ministers' salary |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19941119-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1994-11-19 |title=Fam heads salary review panel |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newpaper19941119-1.2.6.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref> In January 1995, the panel recommended a {{SGD|1600000|link=on}} annual salary for the prime minister, pegged to twice the new salary of the Staff Grade I benchmark.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chuang |first=Peck Ming |date=1995-01-13 |title=Independent panel recommends $1.6 m annual salary for S'pore PM |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19950113-1.2.8 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1995-01-13 |title='Aras gaji yang wajar untuk PM' |trans-title='A reasonable salary for the PM' |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19950113-1.2.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref>


On 1 September 1978, Fam was appointed as a director of ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1978-09-01 |title=Two are named F and N directors |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19780901-1.2.40 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref> In October 1978, Vietnam Prime Minister ] was brought to tour HDB flats in ] by Fam. During the visit, Dong was impressed by the HDB flats, and requested for models and plans from Fam.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1978-10-17 |title=Dong's request |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19781017-1.2.27 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1978-10-18 |title=Van Dong tertarik dengan projek2 perumahan awam |trans-title=Van Dong is interested in public housing projects |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19781018-1.2.10 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=S. M. |first=Muthu |date=1978-10-18 |title=Vietnam may send team to study our housing |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19781018-1.2.58 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In March 1980, Nepal King ] and Queen ] were also brought by Fam to tour HDB flats in Toa Payoh.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1980-03-02 |title=Royal couple sees layout of the housing estates |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19800302-1.2.23 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref> On 9 May 1998, Fam replaced ] as chairman of ] (SIA).<ref name=":11">{{Cite news |last=Chia |first=Jean |date=1998-04-11 |title=Dhana to quit SIA for DBS |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas19980411-1.2.5.3.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Raj |first=Conrad |date=1998-04-07 |title=Dhanabalan to leave SIA to head DBS |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19980407-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1998-04-07 |title=Dhanabalan ketuai DBS Bank mulai 30 Mei |trans-title=Dhanabalan to head DBS Bank from 30 May |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19980407-1.2.37.5 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=18 |language=ms}}</ref> At the 1998 annual general meeting, Fam shared that SIA will begin selling flight tickets via the internet, complementing the existing network of travel agents and its own ticketing offices.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Chan |first=Dennis |date=1998-07-12 |title=SIA will sell tickets on the Internet next year |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19980712-1.2.46.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=34}}</ref>


On 1 August 1981, Fam was appointed as the first chairman of the ] (NTI).<ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-11 |title=Michael Fam to head NTI council |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810811-1.2.9 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> In his inaugural speech, Fam said that NTI will train experienced engineers to work in high-technology industries, and NTI lecturers and staff will be expected to be updated with latest technological developments.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=NTI gives pledge |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19810820-1.2.17.4 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=Kejuruteraan gunaan lebih ditumpu di NTI |trans-title=Applied engineering is the focus of NTI |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19810820-1.2.15 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=2 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1981-08-20 |title=Spirit of Nanyang pioneers will be a spur |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19810820-1.2.33 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref> In July 2001, Fam retired as chairman of SIA and he was replaced by ].<ref name=":12">{{Cite news |last=Divyanathan |first=Denesh |date=2001-06-07 |title=Top-level reshuffles in SingTel, SIA boards |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20010607-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2001-06-07 |title=New chairmen to take the helm at SIA, SingTel soon |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20010607-1.2.5 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Distant |first=Denis |date=2001-07-25 |title=Directors, don't forget friendly ties |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20010725-1.2.16.11 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=6–7}}</ref> In January 2006, Fam stepped down as executive chairman of ] (F&N), while staying on as an interim non-executive chairman. Initially reported as {{SGD|3000000|link=on}}, he was awarded {{SGD|4000000|link=on}} as a gratuity payment for his 23 years of service to F&N.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Raj |first=Conrad |date=2006-01-05 |title=F&N rewards Michael Fam for long service |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes20060105-1.2.8.1 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Su Shyan |date=2006-01-05 |title=F&N chairman Michael Fam to get $3m gratuity |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20060105-1.2.55.26.26 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=19}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Su Shyan |date=2007-01-06 |title=F&N chairman's retirement payout was $4m instead of $3m |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20070106-1.2.100.23 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=78}}</ref> Fam officially left F&N as chairman in 2007, while remaining as a consultant for the company.<ref name=":17">{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Su Shyan |date=2007-01-26 |title=Michael Fam to step down as F&N chairman this year |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20070126-1.2.101.23 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=81}}</ref> Succeeding the chairmanship was ].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Choo |first=Johnson |date=2007-09-06 |title=Lee Hsien Yang to head Fraser & Neave Group |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20070906-1.2.10.1 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2007-09-06 |title=Ex-SingTel boss heads F&N |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newpaper20070906-1.2.6.1.4 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=5}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Hui Yee |date=2007-09-06 |title=Lee Hsien Yang to be F&N chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20070906-1.2.64.24 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=48}}</ref>


On 1 August 1983, Fam gave up his chairmanship at HDB to become chairman at the newly-formed ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-04-30 |title=Fam will be the MRT boss |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830430-1.2.2 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-04-30 |title=Michael Fam to be MRT chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19830430-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-07-24 |title=10-man board will head the MRT Authority soon |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830724-1.2.42 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=13}}</ref> His successor was ], deputy chairman of the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-07-29 |title=New HDB chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19830729-1.2.7.1 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-07-29 |title=Owyang to be new HDB chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830729-1.2.39 |access-date=2025-01-14 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In January 2008, after 18 years of service, Fam stepped down as chairman of ].<ref name=":20">{{Cite news |last=Yang |first=Huiwen |date=2007-11-28 |title=Temasek executive director named as APB's chairman |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20071128-1.2.76.20 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=60}}</ref><ref name=":21">{{Cite news |last=Cheow |first=Xin Yi |date=2008-01-30 |title=APB's Fam hands over to Israel |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/today20080130-1.2.41.6 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=32}}</ref>


==Personal life== ==Personal life==
While studying in university, Fam met Dulcie Shem, an Australian-born Chinese girl from ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1951-01-06 |title=LOVE CONQUERS ALL-SO DULCIE WILL WED MIKE |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/maltribune19510106-1.2.44 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> In January 1951, Shem and her mother arrived in Singapore on ], and on 3 February 1951, Fam and Shem held their marriage at the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1951-02-04 |title=Miss Dulcie Shem, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Shem of Perth, Western Australia who was married at St. Andrew's Cathedral yesterday to a Singapore engineer, Mr. Michael Fam Yue Onn |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19510204-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> They have a son and a daughter.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=1983-08-17 |title=Educated parents and kind bosses |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830817-1.2.24.2 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8}}</ref> While studying in university, Fam met Dulcie Shem, an Australian-born Chinese girl from ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1951-01-06 |title=LOVE CONQUERS ALL-SO DULCIE WILL WED MIKE |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/maltribune19510106-1.2.44 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> In January 1951, Shem and her mother arrived in Singapore on ], and on 3 February 1951, Fam and Shem held their marriage at the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1951-02-04 |title=Miss Dulcie Shem, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Shem of Perth, Western Australia who was married at St. Andrew's Cathedral yesterday to a Singapore engineer, Mr. Michael Fam Yue Onn |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19510204-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref> They have a son and a daughter.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news |date=1983-08-17 |title=Educated parents and kind bosses |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830817-1.2.24.2 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=8}}</ref>


On 27 December 2014, Fam died, and Prime Minister ] described him as a "a rare, selfless individual who contributed greatly to Singapore throughout his life".<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=2014-12-14 |title=Ex-F&N CEO Michael Fam was ‘rare, selfless individual’: PM Lee |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ex-fn-ceo-michael-fam-was-rare-selfless-individual-pm-lee |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=]}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Angela |date=2014-12-29 |title=Michael Fam was a rare and selfless individual: PM Lee |url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/michael-fam-was-rare-and-selfless-individual-pm-lee |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=]}}</ref> In 1994, Fam was diagnosed with ], and he underwent medical treatment in the United States.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1994-02-08 |title=Michael Fam to undergo medical treatment in the US |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19940208-1.2.49.44 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=31}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1994-02-08 |title=Michael Fam goes on medical leave |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19940208-1.2.46.10.1.2 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Heng |first=Janice |date=2014-12-29 |title=Michael Fam used to go to work 'with three briefcases' |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20141229-1.2.24.6 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> On 27 December 2014, Fam died.<ref name=":5" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=2014-12-18 |title=Friends, family pay last respects to Michael Fam |work=]}}</ref> In a condolence letter address to Shem, Prime Minister ] described Fam as a "a rare, selfless individual who contributed greatly to Singapore throughout his life".<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |date=2014-12-14 |title=Ex-F&N CEO Michael Fam was 'rare, selfless individual': PM Lee |url=https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/ex-fn-ceo-michael-fam-was-rare-selfless-individual-pm-lee |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=]}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite news |last=Tan |first=Angela |date=2014-12-29 |title=Michael Fam was a rare and selfless individual: PM Lee |url=https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/michael-fam-was-rare-and-selfless-individual-pm-lee |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=]}}</ref>


==Awards and decorations== ==Awards and decorations==


* ] ] (1st Class), in 1990.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-08-09 |title=NATIONAL DAY HONOURS LIST 1990 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19900809-1.2.37.7 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=26}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-08-09 |title=Sumbangan pemimpin lama dihargai |trans-title=Contributions of previous leaders appreciated |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19900809-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Lim |first=Serene |date=1990-11-10 |title=Old Guard among 184 Singaporeans honoured |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/stoverseas19901110-1.2.7.1 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=4}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-11-10 |title=Jasa bekas ahli politik dihargai |trans-title=Appreciation for the services of former politicians |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19901110-1.2.5 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref> * ] ] (1st Class), in 1990.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-08-09 |title=Sumbangan pemimpin lama dihargai |trans-title=Contributions of previous leaders appreciated |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19900809-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1990-11-10 |title=A rare and selfless individual |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19901110-1.2.38.6.2 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=30}}</ref>
* ] ], in 1983.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-08-09 |title=Anugerah tertinggi untuk Fam |trans-title=Highest award for Fam |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830809-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-08-09 |title=696 in the National Day awards list |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19830809-1.2.30 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=9}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-11-19 |title=Highest praise for Michael Fam's work with HDB |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19831119-1.2.24 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=7}}</ref> * ] ], in 1983.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-08-09 |title=Anugerah tertinggi untuk Fam |trans-title=Highest award for Fam |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19830809-1.2.3 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1983-11-19 |title=Highest praise for Michael Fam's work with HDB |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19831119-1.2.24 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=7}}</ref>
* ] ], in 1976.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1976-08-09 |title=374 orang termasuk 47 wanita dianugerah pingat Hari K'saan |trans-title=374 people including 47 women awarded medals |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19760809-1.2.14 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Lee |first=Philip |date=1977-01-29 |title=Four get nations top service awards |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19770129-1.2.32 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=7}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1977-01-29 |title=The outstanding four... |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19770129-1.2.5 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1977-01-29 |title=The Top Four—medals for their services to the nation |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19770129-1.2.15 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref> * ] ], in 1976.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1976-08-09 |title=374 orang termasuk 47 wanita dianugerah pingat Hari K'saan |trans-title=374 people including 47 women awarded medals |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19760809-1.2.14 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1977-01-29 |title=The Top Four—medals for their services to the nation |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/newnation19770129-1.2.15 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref>
* ] ], in 1974.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1974-08-09 |title=NATIONAL DAY HONOURS FOR 332 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19740809-1.2.74 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=7}}</ref> * ] ], in 1974.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1974-08-09 |title=NATIONAL DAY HONOURS FOR 332 |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19740809-1.2.74 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=7}}</ref>
On 3 September 1986, Fam's daughter graduated from the ] with a law degree, and Fam was awarded an ] ] degree.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=1986-09-04 |title=It's a red-letter day for two families |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860904-1.2.37.12 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> On 3 September 1986, Fam's daughter graduated from the ] with a law degree, and Fam was awarded an ] ] degree.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |date=1986-09-04 |title=It's a red-letter day for two families |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19860904-1.2.37.12 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1986-09-03 |title=Honorary degree for Michael Fam |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/biztimes19860903-1.2.12.13 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=3}}</ref>


On 21 February 1988, Fam was awarded an honorary ] degree from the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-11-29 |title=MRTC chief to get highest honour from alma mater |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871129-1.2.27.15 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1988-02-24 |title=MRT chairman honoured |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19880224-1.2.27.19.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In 1993, Fam was awarded from the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1993-08-05 |title=Michael Fam dapat ijazah Doktor Persuratan |trans-title=Michael Fam awarded a Doctor of Letters degree |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19930805-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref> On 21 February 1988, Fam was awarded an honorary ] degree from the ].<ref>{{Cite news |date=1987-11-29 |title=MRTC chief to get highest honour from alma mater |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19871129-1.2.27.15 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=16}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1988-02-24 |title=MRT chairman honoured |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19880224-1.2.27.19.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=12}}</ref> In 1993, Fam was awarded the first honorary ] from ].<ref name=":10">{{Cite news |last=Leong |first=Chan Teik |last2=Tan |first2=Rachel |date=1993-08-05 |title=Michael Fam receives NTU's first honorary doctorate award |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19930805-1.2.28.10 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=24}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1993-08-05 |title=Michael Fam dapat ijazah Doktor Persuratan |trans-title=Michael Fam awarded a Doctor of Letters degree |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/beritaharian19930805-1.2.4 |access-date=2025-01-13 |work=] |pages=1 |language=ms}}</ref>


== Legacy == == Legacy ==


* Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology, a {{SGD|1200000|link=on}} fund in ], is named after him.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology |url=https://www.ntu.edu.sg/engineering/home_v3/faculty/endowed-professorship/michael-fam-chair-professorship-in-food-science-and-technology |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=] |language=en}}</ref> * Michael Fam Visiting Professorship in Engineering, a professorship in ] (NTU) established in 1998, is named after him.<ref>{{Cite news |date=1998-11-24 |title=Two men honoured for contributions |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes19981124-1.2.30.6 |access-date=2025-01-18 |work=] |pages=22}}</ref>
* Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology, a {{SGD|1200000|link=on}} NTU professorship established in 2014, is named after him.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Davie |first=Sandra |date=2014-01-18 |title=NTU to offer food science course with Dutch uni |url=https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/newspapers/digitised/article/straitstimes20140118-1.2.53.9 |access-date=2025-01-15 |work=] |pages=11}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology |url=https://www.ntu.edu.sg/engineering/home_v3/faculty/endowed-professorship/michael-fam-chair-professorship-in-food-science-and-technology |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=] |language=en}}</ref>


== Notes == == Notes ==
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Latest revision as of 16:19, 19 January 2025

Singaporean civil engineer and businessman (1927–2014)

In this Chinese name, the family name is Fam.
Michael Fam Yue OnnDUNU DUBC PJG BBM
Fam in the 2000s
Chairman of the Housing and Development Board
In office
2 April 1975 (1975-04-02) – 1 August 1983 (1983-08-01)
Preceded byLee Hee Seng
Succeeded byHsuan Owyang
Personal details
Born(1927-01-13)13 January 1927
Sandakan, North Borneo
Died27 December 2014(2014-12-27) (aged 87)
Singapore
SpouseDulcie Shem (m. 1951)
Children2
Alma materUniversity of Western Australia (BEng)
St. Andrew's School
Chinese name
Traditional Chinese範佑安
Simplified Chinese范佑安
Transcriptions
Standard Mandarin
Hanyu PinyinFàn Yòuān
IPA

Michael Fam Yue Onn DUNU DUBC PJG BBM (13 January 1927 – 27 December 2014) was a former Singaporean civil engineer and businessman. He is known for leading the team to complete the S$5 billion North–South and East–West Mass Rapid Transit lines two years ahead of schedule and within budget.

He was active in the public service and publicly-listed companies, serving as chairman of the Housing and Development Board (1975–1983), Fraser and Neave (1983–2007), the Public Transport Council (1987–1989), Cold Storage (1988), Centrepoint Properties (1990–2001), Asia Pacific Breweries (1990–2008) and Singapore Airlines (1998–2001), and founding chairman of Nanyang Technological Institute (1981–1993) and the Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (1983–1991). Fam also held directorships in OCBC Bank (1989–2001), Straits Times Press Group (1974–1984) and Singapore Press Holdings (1984–2004).

Early life and education

On 13 January 1927, Fam was born in Sandakan, North Borneo (present day Sabah). A Hakka, Fam was the youngest in the family, and he had three sisters and a brother. His father, Fam Tain Yong, had a Senior Cambridge and some accountancy training, and his mother, Yong Khyun Chin, was a primary school teacher. In 1933, his family moved to Singapore. Fam received his early education at St. Andrew's School. In 1941, Fam graduated with a Senior Cambridge.

In January 1946, Fam was among the first two students to leave for higher studies at the University of Western Australia. Fam was obtained distinction in all subjects, and in 1950, he graduated a Bachelor of Engineering in civil engineering.

Career

Early career

Upon returning to Singapore in 1950, Fam started an engineering role in Hume Industries (Far East) Ltd, a publicly-listed company that manufactured concrete pipes, beams, and asbestos sheets. Hume was located at the 8.5 mi (13.7 km) of Bukit Timah Road, and it was listed on the Stock Exchange of Malaysia and Singapore. Throughout the years, Fam held several leadership positions, such as assistant general manager. In March 1967, Fam was promoted to general manager and director of Hume.

On 2 April 1975, Fam succeeded Lee Hee Seng as chairman of the Housing and Development Board (HDB), after being a member since 1 February 1969. In November 1975, as the request of the Monetary Authority of Singapore, Fam was also appointed as chairman of Haw Par International, which was on the verge of bankruptcy. Fam lead the negotiations for disputes with Slater Walker over a S$72.5 million loan owed by Haw Par. Eventually, in June 1976, the dispute was resolved with Slater Walker and S$23 million settlement was paid to Haw Par instead. In March 1977, Fam resigned as chairman of Haw Par, following the drop in profits of Hume.

On 1 September 1978, Fam was appointed as a director of Fraser and Neave. In October 1978, Vietnam Prime Minister Phạm Văn Đồng was brought to tour HDB flats in Toa Payoh by Fam. During the visit, Dong was impressed by the HDB flats, and requested for models and plans from Fam. In March 1980, Nepal King Birenda and Queen Aishwarya were also brought by Fam to tour HDB flats in Toa Payoh.

On 1 August 1981, Fam was appointed as the first chairman of the Nanyang Technological Institute (NTI). In his inaugural speech, Fam said that NTI will train experienced engineers to work in high-technology industries, and NTI lecturers and staff will be expected to be updated with latest technological developments.

Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (1983–1991)

On 1 August 1983, Fam gave up his chairmanship at HDB to become chairman at the newly-formed Mass Rapid Transit Corporation (MRTC). His successor was Hsuan Owyang, deputy chairman of the Post Office Savings Bank. In 1984, as chairman of MRTC, Fam signed a S$582 million contract with Kawasaki Heavy Industries for the supply of 396 passenger train cars.

In February 1986, Fam was appointed as chairman of a committee in charge of divesting and privatising more than 500 government-owned companies. Named the Public Sector Divestment Committee, substantial shares owned by the Government in publicly-listed companies, such as Singapore Airlines and DBS Bank, were divested, and profitable statutory boards, such as the Telecoms Board (now known as Singtel) and the Public Utilities Board, were privatised.

In July 1986, as chairman of MRTC, Fam announced a gratuity scheme for about 250 expatriates working in engineering and technical roles for the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system. As there was a cut in employer's contribution to the Central Provident Fund, expatriates found themselves receiving lesser salary than initially promised. The gratuity scheme was meant to make up for the difference. Most expatriates decided to opt for the scheme. Fam elaborated:

We can't just run the trains if there is just one link missing. Had the CPF cut been small — one to two percent — the gratuity scheme would not have been necessary. Insofar as Singaporeans are concerned, the appeal is on the basis that we are going through a rough patch. We ask you to make sacrifices now and when the good times return, all the sacrifices will be made up for. At the MRT, we do not have the ability to make up in subsequent contracts. The expatriates are here for two years; when they finish, they take their pay and go off. Whatever they lose out on, there's no possibility of recovering in subsequent contracts because there will not be any. Therein lies the uniqueness, the distinction between the MRT expatriates and all the other expatriates, whether they be in the medical service or education service...
Here's a project costing billions of dollars, we require the men in charge of this project — the payment of this project, the passing of this project, the inspection of this project — to be completely enthusiastic and dedicated to the job. If the MRT, as a national project, were to go awry, you can imagine the loss of dignity that can result to Singapore.

In response, the Workers' Party criticised the scheme, with its secretary-general J. B. Jeyaretnam questioning how Singapore would suffer any loss of dignity if the MRT was not completed on time, and said the explanation by Fam on the rationale behind implementing the gratuity scheme was not understood.

In August 1987, Fam was appointed chairman of the Public Transport Council. In November 1987, Fam and Fock Siew Wah escorted Princess Anne for an MRT ride to and from Orchard, making her the first foreign dignitary to take the MRT. Later in November, Fam and Fock also escorted Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah for a ride, this time from Orchard to Yio Chu Kang. In less than a month later, the Sultan's brother Sufri Bolkiah tried out the MRT system together with his wife. Likewise, he was accompanied by Fam and Fock from Outram Park to Yio Chu Kang, then to City Hall.

In December 1991, Fam stepped down as chairman of MRTC, and he was replaced by Wesley D'Aranjo.

Later career

On 27 December 1991, Fam was appointed as an adviser in the Council of Presidential Advisers for presidents Wee Kim Wee, Ong Teng Cheong and S. R. Nathan.

On 11 May 1992, as chairman of Fraser and Neave, Fam signed an agreement with The Coca-Cola Company to set up a joint venture company to take over the soft drink businesses of both companies in Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei. Fam was appointed as chairman of the joint venture, named F&N Coca-Cola Pte Ltd.

In July 1993, Fam stepped down as chairman of the Nanyang Technological University council, and he was replaced by Koh Boon Hwee. In November 1994, Fam lead an independent panel to review the salary benchmarks for ministers and top civil servants. In January 1995, the panel recommended a S$1.6 million annual salary for the prime minister, pegged to twice the new salary of the Staff Grade I benchmark.

On 9 May 1998, Fam replaced S. Dhanabalan as chairman of Singapore Airlines (SIA). At the 1998 annual general meeting, Fam shared that SIA will begin selling flight tickets via the internet, complementing the existing network of travel agents and its own ticketing offices.

In July 2001, Fam retired as chairman of SIA and he was replaced by Koh Boon Hwee. In January 2006, Fam stepped down as executive chairman of Fraser and Neave (F&N), while staying on as an interim non-executive chairman. Initially reported as S$3 million, he was awarded S$4 million as a gratuity payment for his 23 years of service to F&N. Fam officially left F&N as chairman in 2007, while remaining as a consultant for the company. Succeeding the chairmanship was Lee Hsien Yang.

In January 2008, after 18 years of service, Fam stepped down as chairman of Asia Pacific Breweries.

Personal life

While studying in university, Fam met Dulcie Shem, an Australian-born Chinese girl from Perth. In January 1951, Shem and her mother arrived in Singapore on MS Maetsuycker, and on 3 February 1951, Fam and Shem held their marriage at the St. Andrew's Cathedral. They have a son and a daughter.

In 1994, Fam was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and he underwent medical treatment in the United States. On 27 December 2014, Fam died. In a condolence letter address to Shem, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong described Fam as a "a rare, selfless individual who contributed greatly to Singapore throughout his life".

Awards and decorations

On 3 September 1986, Fam's daughter graduated from the National University of Singapore with a law degree, and Fam was awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.

On 21 February 1988, Fam was awarded an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree from the University of Western Australia. In 1993, Fam was awarded the first honorary Doctor of Letters from Nanyang Technological University.

Legacy

  • Michael Fam Visiting Professorship in Engineering, a professorship in Nanyang Technological University (NTU) established in 1998, is named after him.
  • Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology, a S$1.2 million NTU professorship established in 2014, is named after him.

Notes

  1. Acquired in 1981 by Hong Leong Group as part of a S$350 million deal.

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  132. Davie, Sandra (18 January 2014). "NTU to offer food science course with Dutch uni". The Straits Times. p. 11. Retrieved 15 January 2025.
  133. "Michael Fam Chair Professorship in Food Science and Technology". Nanyang Technological University. Retrieved 13 January 2025.
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