Jessica Tan, 43, and Alphonsus Pang, 47

Tan, the managing director of Microsoft Singapore, is also an MP for East Coast GRC. She has been married to Pang, a public servant, for almost 20 years. They have three children aged 18, 16 and 14.

How did you meet?

Tan: We met in 1985 while studying at NUS. I was introduced to Alphonsus by a mutual friend in the canteen. I don't quite remember what I said but I do remember he was in the middle of eating yong tau foo.
Pang: I remember saying "hi" and trying to be polite while swallowing a piece of chilli I had in my mouth.

Who made the first move?

Tan: He did, but he always claims that I did. I must confess that it wasn't love at first sight but he seemed like a really nice guy.
Pang: It wasn't love at first sight for me either but after getting to know her better, I found her to be a friendly and warm person. I made the first move. I sent her a card with a picture of a rose. It was just to say "hi".

What do you like most about your partner?

Tan: He allows me to be me and he pampers me from time to time. I guess it’s the little things that he does.
Pang: She has such a generous heart.

What is the best thing your partner has ever done for you?

Tan: He does too many things for me to name just one. I guess you could say he is my best friend.
Pang: She cooks amazing meals. We still go on dates once a week and have great conversations over coffee. She’s also given me three wonderful kids.

This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.