Singaporean Tai Chi Master Foo Shang Wee Passes Away at 72

Singaporean Tai Chi master Foo Shang Wee has passed away at the age of 72. According to Shin Min Daily News, Foo’s sudden passing occurred on Saturday, Sept. 10, shortly after completing a Tai Chi performance.

Collapsed While Resting
Foo’s son shared that his father had participated in a Tai Chi performance earlier that day and returned to his seat to rest. As Foo stood up, he suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness. Those around him immediately attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), but Foo did not regain consciousness.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) confirmed receiving a call for assistance at Singapore Sports Hub at around 1:10 p.m. on Sept. 10. Foo was taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, where he later passed away.

Sudden and Unexpected Loss
Foo’s family was devastated by his sudden passing. His son shared that although Foo had high blood pressure, he had been in good health and exercised twice daily. Foo was also a dedicated Tai Chi instructor and master, making his unexpected death a great shock to his family.

“We didn’t have the chance to see him one last time,” Foo’s son said. He added, “While my sister and I learned Tai Chi from our father as children, we never pursued it further. Despite that, he never pressured us and showed us love and care. We miss him deeply.”

Foo is survived by his wife, son, and daughter.

Tributes from Students
Foo’s students have expressed their grief on social media, sharing heartfelt condolences and praising his contributions to Singapore’s Tai Chi scene. One tribute recalled Foo’s “last performance” on Sept. 10 and the deep sadness felt by his sudden departure.

A student wrote, “I started learning Chen-style Tai Chi from Master Foo in 1993. He was my guide and inspiration. I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, and I will continue to spread the knowledge of Chinese martial arts. Rest in peace, teacher.”

Foo’s son expressed the family’s gratitude for the overwhelming support from his father’s students, many of whom attended the funeral to pay their respects. “We are very touched by their presence. It shows the impact my father had on the local wushu scene, and we are incredibly proud of his generous spirit,” he said.

A Legacy of Dedication
Foo’s dedication to martial arts began at a young age, learning wushu from his uncle before specializing in Tai Chi and wushu weaponry. He later apprenticed under a renowned Tai Chi master in China and became the 20th-generation successor of the Chen-style Tai Chi, believed to be the original form of Tai Chi.

Throughout his life, Foo devoted himself to spreading the practice of Tai Chi and regularly offered free lessons to the community. His influence and passion for martial arts left a lasting legacy that will be remembered by many.