PAQS
Pacific Association of Quantity SurveyorsHistory of the Young Quantity Surveyors Group
Celebrating the journey of PAQS's youth initiative from its founding in 2009 to present day
Explore HistoryOrigins of the YQSG
Contributor
Joseph CHONG
Involvement
2006 - 2014
Position
Founding Chairman (2009-2014)
The Young Quantity Surveyors Group (YQSG) of PAQS was conceived in 2007 during a brainstorming session at the PAQS Congress. Inspired by the successful Young Surveyors Group (YSG) model from Hong Kong, Joseph Chong proposed establishing a similar platform within PAQS to nurture future leaders and create an exchange platform for young quantity surveyors across the Asia Pacific region.
The Historic 2007 Meeting
During the 2007 PAQS Congress, a pivotal brainstorming session was held to discuss establishing a young group within PAQS. The meeting was chaired by Sr TT Cheung and included the following key participants:
In this meeting, Joseph Chong introduced the wide range of activities organized by the Young Surveyors Group (YSG) in Hong Kong and suggested that the YSG model could be successfully adopted within PAQS. After productive discussions, the meeting participants unanimously agreed to establish a young group within PAQS.
The initiative received support from across PAQS member organizations who recognized the value of engaging young professionals early in their careers to ensure the continued growth and development of the quantity surveying profession in the region.
Key Milestones
2007: The Idea is Born
Brainstorming session during PAQS Congress about setting up a young group within PAQS. Proposed adopting the Hong Kong Young Surveyors Group (YSG) model.
2008: Official Approval
PAQS Board Meeting in Edmonton decided to form a "Young Quantity Surveyors Group" for professionals aged 40 or younger.
2009: Inaugural Committee
Formation of the inaugural YQSG committee with Joseph Chong elected as Chairman. The committee structure followed the HKIS YSG model.
2010: First Young Programme
Historic first event held in Singapore before the main PAQS Congress, featuring professional development activities and networking opportunities.
2011: First Newsletter
Launch of the PAQS YQSG newsletter, providing a platform for young QSs to share knowledge and experiences across different countries.
2011-2014: Regional Expansion
YQSG programmes expanded across the Asia Pacific region with events in Brunei, Sri Lanka, Xian, and Hong Kong.
2014: Leadership Transition
Joseph Chong passed the YQSG Chairmanship to Yeap Soon Kiat, ensuring continuity and new leadership.
PAQS YQSG Leadership
Since its founding in 2009, the Young Quantity Surveyors Group has been guided by visionary leaders who have each contributed significantly to the development of young professionals across the Asia Pacific region.
| Chair | Member Association | Term of Office |
|---|---|---|
| Sr Joseph CHONG Hok Ching | HKIS (Hong Kong) | 2009–2014 |
| Yeap Soon Kiat | RISM (Malaysia) | 2014–2016 |
| Aaron Wong Chuan Xing | PUJA (Brunei) | 2016–2018 |
| Hasitha Gunasekara | IQSSL (Sri Lanka) | 2018–2022 |
| Wong Yi Min | SISV (Singapore) | 2022–2024 |
| Karen Wong Shuk Yu | HKIS (Hong Kong) | 2024–Present |
Leadership terms updated per member organization records
Key Contributors
The establishment and growth of YQSG was made possible through the dedication and support of many individuals across PAQS member organizations:
YQSG Through the Years
Explore memorable moments from YQSG events and activities across the Asia Pacific region:
Legacy and Impact
The establishment of the YQSG created a vibrant platform for young quantity surveyors across the Asia Pacific region to connect, learn, and grow together. By modeling the group after Hong Kong's successful YSG and adapting it to PAQS's international context, the founding committee created an enduring structure that continues to benefit young professionals today.
YQSG Achievements
- 15+ international events since 2010
- 10+ newsletters published
The regular programmes, newsletters, and networking opportunities established during these formative years set a strong foundation for the YQSG's ongoing mission to develop future leaders of PAQS and the quantity surveying profession across the region.