The Lim Cheng Hong Lecture was introduced in 2007 in recognition of Dr Lim’s many contributions in the field of Nephrology in Singapore. Dr Lim was actually trained in Respiratory Medicine, but his interest in renal disease and hemodialysis was sparked off when the Singapore General Hospital received a donation of a Kolff Twincoil artificial kidney in 1965. He trained in Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation in 1968-1969 at the St Mary’s Hospital in Paddington, London.

On his return from training, Dr Lim established the Department of Renal Medicine in SGH in 1973 and served as its Head for 16 years until he assumed the Chair of the Division of Medicine in SGH in 1989.

While at the helm of the Department of Renal Medicine, he pioneered the development of a comprehensive nephrology service encompassing both service and research. The “world-class” nephrology practice we have today in Singapore is testament to Dr Lim’s far-sighted vision.

In recognition of his contributions, Dr Lim was awarded the Silver Medal for Public Administration in 1977 and the Gold Medal in 1985.

The Singapore Society of Nephrology was founded in 1972 and Dr Lim was the founding President. He continued as President for 15 years till 1987 and during his tenure, he spearheaded the Society’s scientific activities in the Asian region. These include the Asian Colloquium in Nephrology, and the 3rd Asian Pacific Congress of Nephrology, which placed Singapore on the international map with regards to Nephrology.

The Lim Cheng Hong Lecture is an annual lectureship awarded to an outstanding Nephrologist who has contributed to Nephrology in terms of leadership, development of clinical or research excellence in Singapore. The Lecture is delivered during the Annual Meeting of the Society and the recipient receives a gold medallion.