author-image

Sumiko Tan

Chief Columnist & Senior Editor, Publications

Sumiko is Chief Columnist & Senior Editor, Publications at The Straits Times. She helms the Lunch With Sumiko interview series and a column on ageing well in Singapore, Sumiko At 61. From 1994 to 2016, she wrote a popular Sundays With Sumiko column, which was compiled into a best-selling book. She has written, co-written and edited best-selling books since 1990. They include Lee Kuan Yew: The Man And His Ideas (1998) and In This Together: Singapore’s Covid-19 Story (2022).

Latest articles

Why Putien restaurant founder keeps one eye on China

Sumiko at 61: 5 free (or almost free) non-negotiable habits for a longer and healthier life

Research shows that just 15 minutes of daily movement can significantly improve long-term health outcomes, especially in older adults.

South Korean celeb chef Choi Hyun-seok leads the global rise of Korean cuisine

South Korean celebrity chef Choi Hyun-seok was in Singapore in September to promote a collaboration with Bulgogi Syo, a Korean barbecue restaurant chain.

Sumiko at 61: ‘No, your body won’t collapse like a jellyfish.’ How I live with osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a silent disease. In the early stages, it often has no symptoms and may go undetected until a fracture occurs.

Sumiko at 61: A fresh start at 72 - why a retiree swopped her condo for a 4-room flat

Right-sizing in retirement can be emotionally fraught. Here’s how to plan it properly, says Sumiko Tan.

The 5am call that changed Faishal Ibrahim’s life, and why he says leadership can be soft but effective

Sumiko at 61: Hearing loss is linked to dementia risk. Here’s why you should not ignore it

Beyond communication, hearing loss also affects overall brain health.

Lessons learnt from Singapore’s love-hate relationship with e-scooters

Sumiko at 61: 7 facts about facial skin ageing, and skincare ingredients that actually work

Ageing skin isn’t just about fighting wrinkles. It’s also about understanding why the skin changes, and what can be done about it, says the writer.

Celebrating The Straits Times’ legacy while embracing change

Yishun Innova Junior College students taking part in a game at the semi-finals of ST Whats the News! quiz competition at Our Tampines Hub on May 21, 2025.