Merdeka Generation: She quit corporate life and took steep pay cut to serve the elderly

While the pioneer leaders were the architects of Singapore, everyday heroes helped build society here. This is another story of the Merdeka Generation, those born in the 1950s who lived and persevered through a tumultuous period.

In 2006, Madam Yong Yin Hoong (in red) accepted a hefty pay cut to join Touch Senior Activity Centre in Geylang Bahru, which looks after the welfare of the area's seniors, many of whom live in rental apartments. She is now an assistant manager there.
In 2006, Madam Yong Yin Hoong (in red) accepted a hefty pay cut to join Touch Senior Activity Centre in Geylang Bahru, which looks after the welfare of the area's seniors, many of whom live in rental apartments. She is now an assistant manager there. ST PHOTO: GIN TAY
In 2006, Madam Yong Yin Hoong (in red) accepted a hefty pay cut to join Touch Senior Activity Centre in Geylang Bahru, which looks after the welfare of the area's seniors, many of whom live in rental apartments. She is now an assistant manager there.
After completing her O levels, Madam Yong Yin Hoong started work in 1975 in the army. She helped to replenish the supply of vehicle spare parts. She is fourth from the left. PHOTO: COURTESY OF YONG YIN HOONG
Rahimah Rashith
Updated
Published
June 19, 2019 at 5:00 AM
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Madam Yong Yin Hoong, 60, lived through tough times when she was young but persevered to become the operations manager of a German company, helping to run its local factory.

But, at the height of her career, she decided on a switch, giving up nearly half of her pay cheque in the process.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 19, 2019, with the headline Merdeka Generation: She quit corporate life and took steep pay cut to serve the elderly. Subscribe

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