Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced a Cabinet reshuffle and a series of new political appointments as part of the government’s leadership transition following the recent resignations of several political office holders.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said most of the new appointments will take effect from 27 July, with a few exceptions.
One of the key changes sees K Shanmugam promoted to Senior Minister, while retaining his roles as Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs.
Shanmugam will join Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong as the two most experienced members of Wong’s Cabinet.
Speaking at a press conference, Wong said both senior leaders will continue providing valuable advice while mentoring younger ministers as they take on greater responsibilities.
Wong also announced that the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) will be renamed the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry (METI) from 1 October.
The ministry will be jointly led by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Tan See Leng.
Gan will continue overseeing Singapore’s trade and overall economic strategy, while Tan will take charge of the country’s energy and enterprise portfolios.
Wong said Tan has already been closely involved in the sector as the minister responsible for energy, science and technology, and will now focus fully on those responsibilities after stepping down from his duties at the Ministry of Manpower.
The Prime Minister also promoted Jeffrey Siow and David Neo to full ministers. They will continue serving as Minister for Transport and Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, respectively.
Meanwhile, Sim Ann has been promoted to Second Minister for Foreign Affairs while continuing as Second Minister for Home Affairs.
Several younger political office holders were also given expanded roles.
Jasmin Lau was promoted to Senior Minister of State at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, while also being appointed Acting Minister for Manpower.
Goh Pei Ming was elevated to Senior Minister of State at the Ministry of Social and Family Development as well as the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Alvin Tan was appointed Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and will continue serving at the Ministry of National Development after stepping down from the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
Meanwhile, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng was appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, while Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim became Minister of State for both the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs.
Other appointments include Foo Cexiang as Minister of State for the Ministries of Manpower and Trade and Industry, while Shawn Loh was appointed Minister of State for the Ministries of Education and Health.
Wong said the reshuffle is aimed at giving younger leaders greater responsibilities while ensuring continuity through the guidance of experienced senior ministers.
He added that maintaining a balance between experience and renewal is essential as Singapore navigates current challenges while preparing its next generation of leaders.
