The Disabled People’s Association (DPA) is excited to announce the appointment of Mr. Choy Weng Leong as our new Executive Director. Since 2 January 2024, Mr. Choy has taken over the helm from outgoing Executive Director Dr. Marissa Lee Medjeral-Mills.
Mr. Choy is a veteran in the social services sector and brings with him over two decades of managerial expertise. His experience spans diverse charities, including noteworthy tenures at the Riding for the Disabled Association of Singapore, the Children’s Aid Society, and most recently the Singapore Rugby Union.
“DPA is delighted to welcome Weng Leong as our new Executive Director,” said Ms. Cassandra Chiu, President of DPA’s Board of Management. “Weng Leong’s wealth of experience and enthusiasm put him in good stead to bring DPA to the next level as we work towards a more accessible and inclusive Singapore for disabled people.”
“As the new Executive Director of Disabled People’s Association, I’m thrilled to embark on this journey of advocacy and empowerment,” Mr. Choy said. “I eagerly look forward to collaborating with the incredible community as we strive to foster inclusivity, amplify the voices of disabled persons, and create meaningful change. I hope to contribute to DPA’s success in championing inclusion and accessibility as we continue to drive policy changes that enhance the lives of persons with disabilities.”
With Mr. Choy’s appointment, DPA bids farewell to Dr. Medjeral-Mills, who was at the helm of the organisation for the past 12 years. Since 2012, Dr. Medjeral-Mills has led DPA in advocating for the rights of disabled persons and a more inclusive Singapore.
“Under Marissa’s leadership, DPA has achieved many milestones and we are grateful for her tireless commitment and contributions,” said Ms. Chiu. Under Dr. Medjeral-Mills’ leadership, DPA launched the Inclusion Ambassadors program which has reached over 13,000 people and developed access guides for Singapore landmarks such as the National Gallery and the Singapore Zoo. She also oversaw DPA’s participation in the inaugural periodic review of Singapore’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
“During my 12 years of running the DPA, I have had the pleasure of being part of the significant shifts in the disability sector in Singapore,” said Dr. Medjeral-Mills. “I look forward to DPA cementing its role as providing a platform for persons with disabilities and collaborating with more companies and organisations who share a vision of a more inclusive Singapore under the experienced leadership of Weng Leong.”
In addition to Weng Leong, DPA also welcomed a new Board of Management which was elected at our Annual General Meeting in October 2023. Ms. Chiu takes over from Mr. Richard Kuppusamy as President. The Board also comprises Ms. Theresa Goh (Vice-President), Mr. Ian Leo Chen (Honorary Treasurer), Ms. Yan Qian Yin (Apple) (Assistant Honorary Treasurer) Mr. Daryl Yang (Honorary Secretary), Ms. Husnah Jamaludin, Ms. Patience Lim, Mr Shalom Lim, Ms. Somya Sugandha, Mr. Alvan Yap, Mr. Navin Nair; with Advisors – Mr Richard Kuppusamy and Mr. Arsalan Ali.
