If you have recently walked through the lush fairways or admired the striking plant displays around Tanah Merah Country Club’s Garden Course and Tampines Course, there is a quiet force behind that beauty: Kathy, one of TMCC’s dedicated horticulturists.
Since joining the Club in August last year, Kathy has brought with her over a decade of rich experience, a keen eye for detail, and a deep love for nature. Originally from Kuching, Sarawak, the 38-year-old holds a degree in Forestry Science and is a certified arborist. She comes with 12 years of industry experience, having worked on some of Singapore’s most iconic landscapes, including the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Gardens by the Bay, town councils, and educational institutions.
Outside of work, Kathy enjoys keeping active. She makes time for regular exercise and enjoys spending her free moments tending to her own garden at home — a personal extension of her passion for plants and nature. Her enthusiasm for the horticultural field remains as strong as ever, driven by a continued curiosity and love for transforming green spaces.
Kathy’s current role at TMCC sees her overseeing landscape care, tree management, and the visual character of both Garden Course and Tampines Course. Her day begins at 6:30am with a team briefing, followed by inspection rounds across the course. Her sharp eye quickly identifies potential hazards, pruning needs, and areas—both on and off the course—that require improvement, all before members even arrive.
“The landscape is what gives the first impression when golfers arrive,” she says.
“It is not just about aesthetics. Strategic planting can shape how a course plays, provide shade, and create a sense of calm and comfort.”
Prior to joining TMCC, Kathy spent four years at another golf and country club, refining her expertise in both horticulture and arboriculture. Her desire to explore new ground led her to golf course maintenance, which she believes demands a blend of science, design, and perseverance.
“I have always wanted to differentiate myself in the industry. Turf management fascinates me, and TMCC provided the opportunity to broaden my experience in this specialised area.”
Despite common perceptions of the landscaping sector being male-dominated, Kathy has never allowed gender to be a limitation.
“There was certainly a time when I had to work harder to be heard,” she admits.
“However, I have also met many inspiring female leaders in this field. The industry has evolved. It is collaborative, supportive, and filled with individuals who are willing to share their guidance.”
Kathy plays a critical role in preparing TMCC’s landscape for unpredictable weather events, such as the recent Sumatra squalls. Preventive inspections, resilient planting, and rapid-response strategies are part of her routine responsibilities.
Her contributions have taken on even greater significance in light of TMCC’s recent GEO Certified® accreditation. Under the leadership of the Senior Golf Course Superintendent, Kathy and her colleague Grace champion sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, the use of native and drought-tolerant plant species, and environmentally friendly methods like mulching and composting.
“We are not just designing for visual appeal. We are designing for resilience and sustainability. Everything must function effectively, conserve resources, and withstand environmental pressures.”
With the World Amateur Team Championships (WATC) approaching, Kathy is more energised than ever. She and her team are leading enhancement efforts in key visual zones, including entry points, feature planting areas, and tree lines, all aimed at showcasing the Club at its very best.
Kathy is also quick to acknowledge the people around her who have helped her grow professionally.
“I am very grateful to the management, my supervisors, and my fellow staff members at TMCC. Their support and encouragement from the very beginning have made it easier for me to adapt, contribute, and continue learning. It truly feels like a team effort here, and I could not ask for a better environment to do what I love.”
Her passion, however, extends far beyond major events.
“I love that my work revolves around the trees, the plants, and the people I collaborate with daily. Witnessing a transformation, turning a bare patch into a thriving, serene space, is deeply rewarding.”
For those considering a career in horticulture, Kathy offers heartfelt advice: “This line of work can be physically demanding, especially under intense sun or heavy rain. However, if you are passionate about nature and enjoy seeing the results of your effort come to life, this is a deeply meaningful and fulfilling career.”