IBF Awards

Biography

Mr. Matthew Kang is a Senior Vice-President of Financial Services at EaglePlanners, an agency branch representing Manulife (Singapore) Pte Ltd, where he leads a high-performing agency. With more than three decades at Manulife, he has been instrumental in nurturing talent, driving productivity, and raising professional standards within the industry.

Matthew’s leadership extends well beyond his firm. He has been deeply involved with the Asia Pacific Financial Services Association (APFinSA) since its inception in 1991, first serving as a Task Force Member at the inaugural Asia Pacific Life Insurance Congress (APLIC). Over the years, he has held numerous leadership roles, culminating in his tenure as APFinSA Chairman for two consecutive terms from 2021 to 2025. Under his stewardship, APFinSA expanded its reach and influence, strengthening collaboration across the region’s financial services sector.

A strong advocate for professional development, Matthew played a pivotal role in introducing and expanding the Fellow Chartered Financial Practitioner (FChFP) programme throughout the Asia Pacific, including in Singapore. He was also instrumental in bringing the prestigious Asia Pacific Life Insurance Congress (APLIC) to the region, providing an international platform for knowledge sharing and raising industry benchmarks.

Matthew served as National President of the Life Underwriters Association of Singapore (LUA Singapore) – now known as the Insurance and Financial Practitioners Association of Singapore (IFPAS) – for two terms from 1999 to 2001. During his presidency, he championed initiatives to enhance competency, ethics, and public trust in the profession.

Beyond the financial sector, Matthew is an active volunteer in the community and is a Senior Grassroots Leader, serving at the Ang Mo Kio – Hougang Constituency. He also volunteers as a Town Councillor at Ang Mo Kio Town, contributing his expertise as a member of its Audit & Risk Management Committee. In addition, he serves as a volunteer Licensed Marriage Solemnizer, helping couples embark on their lifelong journey together. His community work reflects his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and the betterment of society.

In recognition of his outstanding service to the nation, Matthew has been conferred the National Day Awards twice by the President of the Republic of Singapore – an honour that underscores his significant contributions in the community.

Respected as a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for professional excellence, Matthew continues to shape the future of the financial services industry while making a lasting difference in the community he serves.