Tze Whay: charting a path of purpose through life's labyrinth
Dr Stefan Phang Tze Whay and I were moulded by the same hands, shaped by the same brilliant and dedicated teachers at La Salle School in Penang, Malaysia. Those formative years, shared with some of the most inspiring educators, laid the foundation for our lives. We were taught to think critically, to understand that our actions impact those around us, to hike, to camp and to revel in the embrace of nature. Our education transcended the classroom, preparing us for life at large. "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire," as WB Yeats once said. Our teachers ignited that fire within us.
Standard 4 class photograph with Tze Whay seated on the right of the class teacher, Mrs Philippa Ooi.
No Lasallian from our year left school without knowing how to swim. Those who did not, attended swimming classes at the Chinese Swimming Club led by Ng Kok Lum. He taught us English and Art, and nearly every one of us scored an A in his subjects for our SRP examinations. His commitment to our success exemplified the dedication of our educators.
Left photograph: Front row, Tze Whay (left) and Adrian (right) at Mohd Reza's (standing, right) Raya open house.
Hiking and enjoying the great outdoors, always in the company of friends.
In the 1970s and 1980s, teachers genuinely cared for each and every one of their students. It was a time when the school supported those in need. Free food (biscuits and Milo), was provided to poorer students during recess, along with bags, shoes and uniforms. The Buku Bantuan (Book Loans) scheme ensured textbooks were available on loan. It was a different era, a time when we were taught to care deeply, to play freely, to climb trees and to be fearless. Race was not an issue and we could crack unforgivable racist jokes about each other without anyone batting an eyelid. We laughed at each other, at ourselves and learned not to take things too seriously. Only in hindsight can we truly appreciate how fortunate we were.
A group photograph of La Salle lower secondary school teachers who inspired and taught us.
During our time, the La Salle School building was already demolished as the eroding riverbank consumed its grounds. We took the afternoon session and shared the building with Batu Lanchang School. We were like "squatters", yet our teachers made all the difference in our development. They nurtured us, instilling values that went beyond academics.
A school play (Tze Whay in a singlet) highlighting the diverse activities at La Salle School that supported creative growth and development.
As childhood friends, Tze Whay and I navigated the labyrinth of adolescence together, dreaming and learning within those classrooms. Tze Whay, always the top student in class, exemplified academic excellence while we absorbed not just the curriculum but also the enduring values imparted by our teachers. Our experiences were shaped not just by the lessons we learned, but by the profound influence of these mentors whose wisdom continues to guide our paths.
Our roots are intertwined, yet our branches have spread in different directions. From a young age, art has always ignited a spark within me. Even as a student, I approached things with a distinct perspective. While my classmates carved their Form 3 woodcarving projects from one-inch thick wood blocks, I opted for a two-inch block, seeking to create something unique. This passion for creativity led me to a career in graphic design, where I have the privilege of working on exciting projects, from books and advertising campaigns to gallery exhibits, websites and more. While my current focus is on finding inner peace and living a life true to myself, Tze Whay's journey has taken him to the frontlines of humanitarian efforts. At 56, our priorities may differ, but the core values instilled in us during those school years remain steadfast.
Mrs Foong Kim Choong with her cub scouts (left) and maintaining close bonds with her students well into their 50s (right).
Tze Whay's life is a testament to resilience and dedication. From an early age, he learned the importance of empathy and leadership from growing up in the "au boey lor" (backstreet alleys), where the young and weak were often bullied by older people. He protected the younger kids from being bullied. The experience, coupled with the guidance of our remarkable teachers, shaped Tze Whay into the man he is today.
His journey has not been without its share of obstacles. Life's unpredictability has led him through twists, turns and detours. Yet, Tze Whay embraced these challenges, seeing them not as roadblocks, but as opportunities for growth. His advice to his younger self, "to embrace life's journey and to avoid being unkind", reflects a wisdom born from experience.
Tze Whay demonstrating soap-making to villagers as part of the Soap for Hope initiative in Cambodia.
One cannot discuss Tze Whay without mentioning his work with the Soap For Hope programme. This initiative, aimed at helping impoverished families by recycling used hotel soaps, is a beacon of his dedication to child protection and poverty alleviation. The programme's success, now spanning 223 cities across 53 countries, speaks volumes about his commitment and the impact of his work.
Tze Whay demonstrates the straightforward process of soap making.
But what really drives a man like Tze Whay? Is it the accolades and recognition, or is there a deeper, more profound motivation? An old classmate once cynically remarked, "It's just his job, isn't it?" implying that Tze Whay's humanitarian work was merely motivated by financial gain. I beg to differ. Having known him for decades, I am convinced that his efforts stem from a genuine desire to make a difference.
In our conversations, Tze Whay often emphasises the importance of passion and perseverance. He encourages young people to follow their vision, to go MAD (Make A Difference). His own life is a testament to this philosophy. Each project he undertakes, each life he touches, reflects his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. How many of us can honestly say the same?
Reflecting on his life journey, Tze Whay acknowledges the profound shifts and seasons of change he has navigated. From the ambitious career to embracing the responsibilities of a family man, his path has been shaped by evolving priorities. Today, what resonates most deeply with him are the simple yet profound values of good health, a clear conscience and peace of mind. He recognises his limitations. He endeavours to make a meaningful impact within those bounds, inspired by the story of the boy who, after a storm, diligently throws starfish back into the sea to save them. Each starfish represents a small act of kindness that contributes to a larger, positive change in the lives of those he touches.
Yet, amidst his successes and the lives he has transformed, there are moments of introspection. Tze Whay's reluctance to delve into past regrets hints at the complexities of his inner world – a world shaped by profound experiences and a deep-seated commitment to making a difference. Daily pursuits, I believe they may sometimes serve as distractions from confronting our inner demons. Tze Whay has seen so much and given so generously, but I believe that true peace comes from confronting and understanding oneself fully.
Tze Whay demonstrating soap-making techniques to help displaced families create sustainable livelihoods at the Caritas Typhoon Relocation Camp, Cagayan de Oro, Philippines.
As Tze Whay looks to the future, his resolve remains unshaken. He envisions a life dedicated to child protection, driven by the belief that "no child deserves to be sold or sacrificed so that the rest of the family can survive''. His goals are not bound by geography but by the impact he can make.
In writing about Tze Whay, I find myself pondering the nature of purpose and fulfilment. What does it mean to lead a meaningful life? How do we measure the worth of our actions? Tze Whay's journey challenges us to reflect on our own paths, to consider the impact we have on others and to strive for a life that resonates with our deepest values.
His story is not just one of personal achievement, but a call to action. It invites us to look within, to find our passions, and to make a difference in our own unique ways. Tze Whay's life is a reminder that while the road may be unpredictable, it is our choices and commitments that define our legacy.
In the end, Tze Whay's odyssey navigates a labyrinth of purpose and passion, embodying resilience, empathy, and unwavering dedication. His narrative inspires, challenges and ultimately invites reflection on the profound meaning of a life well-lived.
Written by Adrian Cheah
Photographs by Phang Tze Whay and Adrian Cheah © All Rights Reserved
12 July 2024
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In Shilonda, India, happy kids proudly display soap alongside Tze Whay.
Dr Stefan Phang, Global Director of Sustainability & Creating Shared Value at Solenis, is a dedicated advocate of CSV – Creating Shared Value – integrating societal needs into business models. Specialising in sustainable livelihood programmes for needy communities, he oversees 150+ active projects across 50+ countries. His initiatives include Soap For Hope™, Linens For Life™, CoffeeBriques and PlasticShreds, focusing on child protection, anti-human trafficking and disaster relief.
Stefan holds a Bachelor’s (Honours) in Microbiology (1992), a Master’s in Molecular Epidemiology (1995) from the National University of Singapore, and a Doctor of Business Administration from the European Institute of Management & Technology, Switzerland (2024).
Accredited as a Child Protection Advocate with the International Child Protection Network, he has received numerous accolades, including the UK Crown’s Medal for combating human trafficking and the Eco-Business A-List 2020 for sustainability leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.