Ties that Bind
s i am writing my first editor’s note, I have We are Family on repeat mode on my Spotify app. The Sister Sledge ditty from 1979 may not have been top of the pops during my growing up years, but it is a classic song that is definitive of this issue of Singapore Tatler. As the publication celebrates its 35th anniversary this month, the people behind it—editors, writers, newsmakers and readers—have all become part of the larger Tatler family. Without the strong foundation laid by the pioneering editorial teams, Singapore Tatler wouldn’t be the compelling read it is today. Neither would it be the leading luxury lifestyle title in Singapore without this family’s continued support. Speaking of family, our cover personality, former president Tony Tan Keng Yam is ingrained in the Singapore Tatler story. In fact, since its founding in 1982, the magazine has featured those instrumental in building Singapore into what it is today, including pioneers the likes of Lee Kuan Yew and Goh Keng Swee. Tan was featured in our first-ever issue in October 1982. The 77-year-old veteran politician is also a regular in our Tatler 300 list, a compilation of the who’s who of Singapore, and a regular guest of honour at charity events where Singapore Tatler is the official magazine. In that sense and more, Tan is very much a part of our family, and it is a great honour to have him grace the cover of our 35th anniversary issue to share his life after leaving office. One person who recently left the Tatler Towers is our former group editor Jane Ngiam. Her vision has indeed brought the magazine to greater heights, and helped Edipresse Media Singapore garner many awards along the way. Jane may have left the building but like others before her, will always remain part of the family. In the next chapter, Managing Director Corinne Ng, Editor-inChief Kissa Castañeda and myself are looking forward to continue this legacy of excellence. If you have noticed, this issue looks different from our usual format. We have made it into a special edition with some columns removed and others enhanced and upsized. Take the 35th anniversary section, for instance. It is a walk down memory lane as we highlight our exciting journey with you, our readers, over the past 35 years. I had a ball of a time reading the best of the best grist from the rumour mill, and I am sure you will too. I hope you continue to support Singapore Tatler the way you have through the decades as we build a bigger, stronger, and closer-knit family. Until the next milestone, cheers! — Terence Lim Editor