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Planning for the future may not always be easy, but it’s something many members are now more prepared to face—thanks to the return of SMOU’s Will Writing Workshop on 26 April 2025. Held at the Lifelong Learning Institute, the session drew 29 members who were eager to gain clarity on a topic often seen as complex or intimidating.
Guiding the session was Mr Francis Goh, Business Development Manager at SimplyWills and a Certified Will Planner. With practical examples and down-to-earth advice, he walked participants through the essentials of writing a will—why it matters, what to include, and what to watch out for.
Beyond the basics, Mr Goh also tackled common myths and misconceptions that often hold people back from taking action. He introduced the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) as well—a legal safeguard that allows someone you trust to act on your behalf if you lose mental capacity. For many, this was a first encounter with the concept, and it sparked thoughtful questions.
One of the more eye-opening segments was the explanation of what happens when someone passes away without a will. Mr Goh broke down the Intestate Succession Act (ISA) and its 9 Rules of Distribution, giving members a clearer picture of how the government handles estate matters in such cases—and why planning ahead can help avoid unnecessary conflict among loved ones.
The session ended with an open Q&A, where no question was too small. Members asked about everything from the cost of hiring a lawyer to the legal standing of handwritten wills and how divorce affects existing arrangements. Mr Goh addressed each query with clarity, making the legal jargon easier to understand.
Informative, approachable, and highly relevant—the workshop gave members the tools they need to start planning confidently. Whether they came out ready to draft their first will or simply felt more informed, the session served as a helpful step forward in protecting what matters most.
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