Soul of Ink” by Woon Tai Ho Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Singapore’s Cultural Icon

The first-ever Dr Alan HJ Chan ‘Spirit of Singapore’ Book Prize has been awarded to Soul of Ink: Lim Tze Peng at 100, a moving biography of the celebrated Singaporean artist, written by TV producer and author Woon Tai Ho. The book captures the extraordinary life of Lim Tze Peng, a former teacher and school principal who achieved national acclaim as an artist in his later years, particularly in his 80s and beyond.

Presented at an award ceremony on April 23 at the Conrad Centennial Singapore, the prize, which carries a $30,000 reward, is Singapore’s richest literary honor. The event was graced by Madam Halimah Yacob, the Chancellor of Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS), who presented the award to Woon Tai Ho.

The book, published by World Scientific, explores Lim’s humble beginnings, the controversies and breakthroughs in his artistic journey, and his unwavering commitment to innovation. The judges praised Soul of Ink for its eloquent prose and insightful reflection on Lim’s life. They noted that the biography not only highlights his artistic achievements but also encapsulates the resilience and spirit that define Singaporean identity.

In addition to celebrating Lim’s life, the book embodies the essence of the Singaporean spirit—dedication to personal growth, excellence, and a deep sense of national pride. The late Dr Alan Chan, a philanthropist and scholar, donated $1 million to establish the award, which aims to inspire writers and publishers to explore the unique qualities that have shaped Singapore’s success.