14-5-2024 (SINGAPORE) Singapore is poised to usher in a new chapter as Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong prepares to assume the nation’s highest office. A Cabinet reshuffle announced on Monday (May 13) saw incumbent Trade and Industry Minister Gan Kim Yong elevated to the role of Deputy Prime Minister, signaling a strategic transition of leadership.
Mr. Gan, 65, will retain his current ministerial portfolio while simultaneously assuming the mantle of Acting Prime Minister in the absence of Mr. Wong. Additionally, he will take over as the chairman of the influential Monetary Authority of Singapore and oversee the Strategy Group within the Prime Minister’s Office, further solidifying his pivotal role within the government’s inner circle.
The promotion of Mr. Gan, a seasoned political veteran, is set to take effect on Wednesday, coinciding with the official inauguration of Mr. Wong as Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister. The 51-year-old Wong will succeed the long-serving Lee Hsien Loong, who announced his intention to step down after two decades at the helm.
In a press conference at the Istana on Monday, the Prime Minister-designate emphasized the importance of continuity and stability as the government approaches the end of its current term. “All the ministers already have a full plate of work to see through, and some have also just rolled out new programmes in their ministries. To avoid any disruptions, I have decided to keep them in their present roles until the end of the term,” Mr. Wong stated.
Reflecting on his partnership with the incoming Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Wong acknowledged the pivotal role played by Mr. Gan during the COVID-19 pandemic, describing him as a “pillar of strength throughout.” He further highlighted Mr. Gan’s extensive experience in international economics as a valuable asset in navigating the increasingly contested global landscape.
The reshuffle also witnessed the reappointment of Heng Swee Keat, 63, as Deputy Prime Minister, underscoring the importance of experienced leadership during this transitional phase. Mr. Wong expressed his gratitude for the support of both deputies, noting their shared journey in politics and their ability to provide “a steady hand” and mentorship to younger officeholders.
While the majority of ministers will retain their current portfolios, the reshuffle did feature several notable promotions. Minister of State Low Yen Ling will ascend to the position of Senior Minister of State, while her counterpart Desmond Tan will assume a similar role. Additionally, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Rahayu Mahzam will be elevated to Minister of State, taking on new responsibilities within the Ministry of Communications and Information.
In a bid to infuse fresh perspectives into the government, two backbenchers, Bukit Batok Member of Parliament (MP) Murali Pillai and Jurong GRC MP Shawn Huang, have been appointed as Minister of State and Senior Parliamentary Secretary, respectively.
Acknowledging the need for continuous renewal, Mr. Wong expressed his commitment to actively seeking out new candidates, particularly those in their 30s and 40s, to join the ranks of political officeholders. “There’s no higher priority for me than to form the best possible team to serve Singapore and Singaporeans,” he asserted.
