Kiat Wai's Creative Leap into Experiential Design
Kang Kiat Wai (Class of 2024) received the prestigious Lee Hsien Loong Award for Outstanding Achievement in Design & Media. The top graduate shares his inspiring journey and memorable experiences at NYP.

Initially leaning towards design, I decided on NYP’s Diploma in Experiential Product & Interior Design (XPID) since I wanted a field that focused on a comprehensive design approach.
NYP’s XPID Diploma allowed me to innovate across various experiential dimensions, from interactive products to engaging interior spaces. Though daunting, this choice was driven by a desire to create impactful work.
Beyond academic excellence, I also grew my leadership skills.
- I served as the Event Manager for the Society of Interior Designers, Singapore (SIDS) Student Chapter. I also participated in various activities, from creative events like the Spectrum Art Competition and the Sketch Art Club to taking on leadership roles in events like the NYP Open House and Freshmen Orientation.
- I was also the President of the SketchArt Club, orchestrating events to connect students with the broader design community. Engaging in community service initiatives like SDM CARES and Kayak N Klean gave me additional opportunities to collaborate and effect positive change.
My diploma’s focus on experiential learning spurred me to investigate design's broader impacts, culminating in my final-year project, Dive Oasis. This venture aimed to establish an ecological sanctuary on Pulau Hantu, blending my passion for environmental sustainability with practical design solutions. It further demonstrates the profound influence of mindful design on ecological harmony.
Looking back, I’m so glad I chose XPID. Its diverse curriculum expanded my understanding of design and equipped me with a creative and resilient problem-solving approach. My experience here has given me a clearer understanding of the huge potential design has, particularly to create a positive impact on people and the environment.
Post National Service, I aim to study architecture or landscape architecture at university. This step will enable me to broaden my design perspective, learning from various cultural approaches to develop innovative design.