How Stage 4 lung cancer changed this former nightlife boss: From 5 litres of beer a night to Everest Base Camp

“Go on, try hugging it,” Michael Chuah said, gesturing to a tree at Singapore Botanical Gardens where the interview took place.

Sensing this writer’s hesitation, the 67-year-old demonstrated, gently wrapping his arms around the trunk, eyes closed and forehead rested against the rough bark.