Quek Meng Kiang, affectionately known as MK, brings decades of experience across education, youth development, and outdoor learning to 1.Adventure. With a career that spans classroom teaching, high rope courses, and mountaineering expeditions, MK has dedicated his life to empowering young people through adventure and challenge—all while perfecting the art of the cold joke and the perfectly aged whisky.

Professional Background & Training

MK’s foundation in adventure education began with a Degree in Sports Science, which led him to become a trained Ministry of Education Physical Education teacher. From 2004 to 2011, he shaped young minds (and bodies) at Maris Stella High School (Primary), where he discovered that the best classroom is often one without walls—preferably somewhere up a mountain or dangling from a rope.

Uniformed Groups & Youth Leadership

Since 1998, MK has been a cornerstone of the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC), beginning his journey as an Honorary Officer and working his way up to his current appointment as Assistant Commandant. His dedication extends beyond the parade square—he served as Head of the Executive Committee of NTU NPCC for two out of three terms, helping to develop the next generation of leaders at the tertiary level.

Through NPCC, MK has mentored countless cadet volunteers and conducted officer training for teachers and volunteer officers, proving that leadership isn’t just taught in lectures, but forged through experience, challenge, and the occasional well-timed dad joke.

Outdoor Learning & Industry Involvement

MK is a co-opted Executive Committee member of the Outdoor Learning & Adventure Education (OLAE) Association, where he channels his passion into shaping national standards for outdoor practitioners and elevating the outdoor learning industry across Singapore.

When he’s not in committee meetings, you’ll find him supporting instructor duties at the High Rope Course at Camp Resilience, Pulau Ubin—a fitting environment for someone who believes that real learning happens when you’re outside your comfort zone (and possibly suspended 15 meters in the air).

Other things you didn’t know about MK

Born in 1976, MK is a proud member of the Dragon generation in the Chinese zodiac—fitting for someone who brings fire, determination, and a dash of mythical energy to everything he does. It’s also the same year where mankind first scaled Mount Everest’s Southwest Face!

As a mountaineer, MK has scaled peaks and navigated challenging terrain, developing deep expertise in land skills including trekking, rope work, rigging, and height supervision. His technical mastery isn’t just for show—it’s the foundation upon which he builds safe, transformative experiences for others.

Off the mountain, MK enjoys good conversation with friends over kopi, or a good singing session (that test the resolve of his lungs and the AV system). “Loved” for his dry humour and legendary cold jokes and his discerning taste as a whisky enthusiast.

Whether it’s scaling up a peak, or gently downing a smooth Highland, MK appreciates complexity and character—in spirits as in life.

Through 1.Adventure LLP, MK continues his mission to turn learning into adventure, one rappel, one expedition, and one terrible pun at a time.

In His Own Words

What’s one expedition you’ll never forget?

MK: Gunung Tahan, during my NTU days. I signed up alone, didn’t know anyone — and came back with unforgettable memories and new friends.

It was 11 days in the jungle. Tents, river water, endless rain, leeches, near- vertical climbs. We crossed strong currents holding onto each other’s backpacks so no one would be swept away. Everyone was exhausted, but no one was left behind.

It wasn’t my highest summit, but it’s still the most meaningful. That trip taught me what real teamwork looks like!

MK: At a hawker centre, someone asks, “你叫什么?” (What did you order?)

I reply, “我叫明强. Nice to meet you.”

It annoys my friends every time. That’s the point. You can’t overuse it though. Cold jokes need proper timing.

MK: Not really. During NS days, we drank without thinking too much about it. It was only later, in a jazz pub, sipping whisky properly from a tulip glass, that I realised what I’d been missing. I started noticing the aroma, the depth, the finish.

Since then, I’ve learned to slow down and appreciate it properly.

MK: They connect differently. The younger instructors understand the slang, the energy, they relate naturally. So I let them lead certain programmes. I’m happy setting up the campfire and making sure everything runs safely!