Lecture Abstract:

The world is fraught with complex challenges that call for fresh approaches and innovative solutions. In recent years, mindfulness has emerged as a novel response, adopted by a growing number of organizations, both in the public and private sectors and across different countries. Proponents have even suggested that mindfulness can be the unexpected pathway to world peace. Claims of the multiple benefits that mindfulness brings – not only at the personal, but interpersonal, organizational and societal levels – are supported by mounting scientific evidence. Studies have found that the practice of mindfulness enhances physical and emotional wellbeing, focus, creativity, leadership qualities and productivity, among others. This seminar discusses the different facets of mindfulness, its application in different domains and explores its potential to address the world’s myriad problems.

About the Speaker:

Wong Marn Heong has extensive work experience in the fields of higher education, public policy and media and communications, primarily in Singapore and Australia.

Marn received a PhD degree in Economics from the Australian National University and until recently was Assistant Dean (Academic Affairs) and Assistant Professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKY School), National University of Singapore. She has also held positions at the University of Adelaide; Macquarie Graduate School of Management; Australian Productivity Commission; Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council.

Marn has been researching on factors that impact on the productivity or competitiveness of firms and countries, particularly in ASEAN and the Asia Pacific region, including the roles of trade, investment and innovation. In recent years, she developed an interest to explore the impact of mindfulness on organizational productivity and innovation, as well as the incorporation of contemplative practices in higher education. Over the last three years, she has conducted modules on Mindful Transformations in Public Policy and Mindful Path to Emotional Intelligence as well as led mindfulness sessions at the LKY School to positive feedback.