Maria is an author, educator, storyteller, and co-founder of Ungu Pen, dedicated to creating engaging content across digital and non-digital platforms. Fluent in English and Malay, she connects with diverse audiences, as seen in her bilingual children's book, There are Saga Seeds in Our Pockets! Supported by grants from the National Heritage Board and National Library Board, the book bridges cultural and linguistic gaps. Its adaptation into a digital program for the Esplanade and translation into Mandarin further highlight Maria’s adaptability and reach.
An award-winning television producer, Maria began her career in broadcasting, scripting and directing across various genres. She holds a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education and an Advanced Certificate in Assessment and Training, and has contributed to policy-making and educational research.
Through Ungu Pen, Maria develops high-quality content for children and young adults, spearheading numerous publications and initiatives that blend technology with storytelling. A passionate advocate for well-represented literature, she has authored and produced over 20 children’s picture books, middle-grade novels, novellas, short stories, and animations.
Her middle-grade book Sahabat Hebat: Rahsia Haiwan Hibrid (Fantastic Friends: Secrets of the Hybrid Animal) was published under the Singapore Book Council and the National Arts Council’s 'Beyond Words' series. With support from the Lee Kuan Yew Fund for Bilingualism, Maria has also produced picture books featuring animation, songs, and augmented reality, exemplifying her innovative approach to education and storytelling.
