UNSW has awarded an Honorary Doctorate to leading Singapore businessman Jimmy Koh at a ceremony in Singapore.

Mr Koh was made a Doctor of the University in recognition of his eminent service to UNSW. A University alumnus, Mr Koh's relationship with UNSW has spanned more than four decades. He has made a significant contribution to building a strong and dynamic UNSW alumni network, locally and globally.

Graduating from UNSW with a Bachelor of Engineering in 1964, Mr Koh began his career with the development of several high-profile bridge construction projects in Malaysia. After posts in Malaysia and Thailand, Mr Koh was appointed President of the Singapore Contractors Association Ltd, where he worked to improve the relationship between local and foreign contractors. In recognition of his meritorious service to the construction industry, he received the IFAWPCA-ATSUMI Award in 2003.

His fundraising and philanthropic endeavours earned Mr Koh the Mr Charity Award in 2000, and he has been widely applauded for his advocacy of safer conditions for engineering and construction contractors.

Mr Koh was the Founder President (1961-1963) of the UNSW Overseas Student Association and also council member of the Student Union in 1962. He is the founder of the UNSW Alumni Association Singapore Chapter. In 2004 he received the International Alumni Award for services to the community.

Mr Koh is currently the Managing Director of Antara Koh Private Ltd, a leading construction company in the field of piling, foundation engineering, civil engineering and marine structure services.