Kumaran Pillai
The Online Citizen
Protegesoft
Kumaran Pillai is a member of:
Parting thoughts
Graduated from the University of Queensland and started my career in HP as a IT solutions specialist. Was inspired by Jeff Bezos of Amazon and started on my own in 2000. Received seed funding from the National Science and Technology Board but the business collapsed in 2001 with the dotcom bust.
Currently working at
I am currently the Chief Editor of The Online Citizen, the leading socio political media in Singapore. In my current post, I critique on the government's policies and run commentaries on issues ranging from social inequality to economic models to current affairs news.
The Journey So Far
I spent the last 12 years as an entrepreneur. Received the APICTA Award for innovation in 2007 and the International Itanium Solutions Award in 2008. Besides running the socio-political site, I on the board of the College Advisory Council and civic organisations and other commercial entities.
Current and Previous Responsibilities
My current role as a leading opinion maker in SG is exciting but I need to be responsible about what I say cos I need to be cognizant of the nuances of the society. Being a businessman in my previous life was easier cos I only had to worry about the ramifications to my business and self.
A Fine Balance:
Running my own business and now being involved in the civil society leaves me with a lot of time with my family. My working hours are flexible and therefore I have a better work life balance than most of my peers. I love spending time my two daughters - they keep me entertained with their antics.
Most Important Decisions
To get a university degree and I read both economics and computer science. Next big thing was to start a business on my own. Spent the last 12 years developing apps for the BFSI sector. And currently, to serve the society through a leading alt media in Singapore.
Most Important Lessons
Be punctual, earnest and give your ultimate best in whatever you do. Most of the opportunities in my life didn't look great initially but somehow I grew into it.
Plans for the Future
I see myself being more involved in tech startups as an advisor on one hand and also to be more involved in the socio political scene in Singapore.