Microbiology in Singapore had its origin in the investigation and control of infectious diseases of humans and animals. Both veterinary microbiology and medical microbiology played a significant role in the evolution of the science of microbiology locally.

The formation of the Singapore Society for Microbiology (SSM) in 1972 provided an impetus to the development of microbiology in Singapore*. The society was inaugurated by the founder, A/P Chan Yow Cheong at the college of medicine building (now Ministry of Health building).

The President of the 1st Council was the then head of department of Bacteriology, University of Singapore, Prof. Lim Kok Ann and A/P Chan Yow Cheong was the Secretary with the Mr J.J Periera the Treasurer and other council or active participating members include Mr Lim Ek Wang, Dr Jimmy Sng, Dr Goh Kee Tai, Dr Chan Kai Lok, Dr Chua Sin Bin, Dr Ho Hong Fatt, Dr Tham Sai Keong, Dr May Lim, Dr Moses Yu, Dr Ling Ai Ee, Dr Mavis Yeo , Dr Selena Lam and others.

Thus, the first executive committee of SSM comprised scientists from NUS and Nanyang University, Malayan Breweries from the industry and the Primary Production Department of the Ministry of National Development.

In 1997, the name of the society was changed from Singapore Society for Microbiology (SSM) to the Singapore Society for Microbiology and Biotechnology (SSMB). This was the logical direction for the society as it moves towards the 21st century and it signals the society’s commitment to expand its agenda to encompass the biotechnology.

Infection Control Association (Singapore) was founded in February 2000 with the objectives to:

• To facilitate exchange of information and data on infection control principles and practices through workshops, and publications.
• To formulate recommendations, guidelines or standards by the consensus of working groups.
• To educate all trainees and members of the health care professions on the importance and practice of good infection control measures both within medical institutions and in the community.
• To foster research into patterns of established and emergent infections and their modes of transmission, and into new and improved measures designed to interrupt such transmissions.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore (PSS) is the national professional organisation representing pharmacists in Singapore. Established in 1905 under the name Straits Pharmaceutical Society, PSS has evolved over the decades to provide pharmaceutical services. The Society is currently governed by an elected Council, comprising a President and eleven Council Members, who collectively steer its strategic direction. PSS is a non-profit organisation whose membership encompasses pharmacists from diverse practice settings, including community pharmacies, hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry. PSS is committed to promoting the delivery of high-quality pharmaceutical care in Singapore, with a focus on safe, effective, and cost-efficient medication use.

Mission

The Society’s mission is to “Maximise the contribution of pharmacists to the healthcare of Singaporeans.” In pursuit of this mission, PSS adopts a two-pronged approach: (1) to support and elevate the professional development of pharmacists, and (2) to engage the public through health education and awareness initiatives.

Objectives

To provide high quality pharmaceutical services that fosters the efficacy safety and cost-effectiveness of drug manufacturing, distribution and use.
To contribute to programmes and services that emphasise the health needs of Singaporeans and the prevention of disease.
To promote pharmacy as an essential component of the healthcare team.

Goals

To serve as a primary advocate for advancing professional pharmacy practices.


To contribute to continuing education programmes fpr pharmacy practitioners.


To promote good health by fostering the optimal and responsible use of drugs.


To conceptualise and articulate pharmacy services to other members of the healthcare team and general public
To provide leadership

• In the identification, analysis and evaluation of the healthcare trend
• In the development of public policy and
• To address legislative and regulatory initiatives of concern to pharmacy

The Singapore Society of Pathology was founded in 1976. The Society membership comprises practitioners of various sub-specialties in Pathology, including Histopathology, Forensic Pathology, Chemical Pathology, Haematology and Microbiology. The SSP is involved in organising and co-organising various educational (CME-provider) activities as well as social gatherings to promote collegiality amongst professionals involved in the field of pathology.