The Lawyer and Author’s Legacy Continues to Inspire
Adrian Tan, affectionately known as LinkedIn’s “King of Singapore,” passed away at 57, leaving a lasting legacy in Singapore’s literary and legal communities. Tan, who was President of the Law Society of Singapore and an acclaimed author, was celebrated for his wit and insight, with tributes flooding social media after news of his passing.
Law Minister K. Shanmugam called him a “true Renaissance man,” noting Tan’s sharp mind and compassionate heart. In addition to his law degree, Tan held a Computer Science degree and became a beloved author with The Teenage Textbook (1988), capturing the essence of growing up in Singapore in the ’80s. His work resonated with young readers and brought a sense of humor and relatability to Singaporean literature.
Throughout his presidency of the Law Society, Tan advocated for junior lawyers’ working conditions, his thought-provoking LinkedIn posts resonating beyond Singapore’s legal sphere. He once humorously argued against remakes at the Singapore Writers Festival, appearing in a Star Trek uniform and charming the audience with his wit.
Even after being diagnosed with cancer in early 2022, Tan’s dedication never wavered. He continued his role passionately, famously sharing on LinkedIn: “Life is a contact sport… I would fight cancer, fight my cases in court, and fight for lawyers until the clock runs out.”
At an NTU Convocation, he encouraged students to “play” and pursue what they loved, sharing advice that defined his own life: “Do not waste your life doing something you hate… Resist the temptation to get a job. Instead, play.” His words remain a reminder of the importance of joy and passion in work and life, a legacy that will continue to inspire many.
