ISS-Magazine_v7

The Stalwarts of ISS
Mdm Kartar Kaur w/o Sham Singh
Secretary (1963 to 1990)
Mdm Kartar Kaur devoted almost three decades of her life in selfless service under the umbrella of ISS. She was the
Secretary of the organisation from 1963 to 1990.
Mdm Kartar was endearingly called “Mami” by her team and was well respected for her dedication and devotion, and
in the execution of her responsibilities. She was a strict disciplinarian who was steadfast in ensuring that the team
continuously worked towards the objectives of ISS.
She did not hesitate to correct and counsel when things were not going as planned. Through her work, she inspired
others to put their heart and soul into sewa. She would roll up her sleeves and work side by side with the team in spring
cleaning exercises and participation during gurpurabs.
Mdm Kartar’s selfless service to humanitarian needs was also highly commendable. She set the path and overcame
obstacles with patience, tact and skill so that the programmes and activities of ISS were successful. It is due to pioneers
such as Mdm Kartar that there is a vibrant ISS which contributes actively to the community at large.
“Mdm Kartar organised religious programmes,
Sukhmani sat sang, masia (moonless night) and other
jormelehs (religious fairs). She played a key role as a founding
member of ISS which is the only registered Sikh-women society
in Singapore. Her setting the examples of moral dignity, service
and self-sacrifice will remain a source of inspiration to the new
generations of Sikh women.
ISS
”
16
Executive Council