Humbled, grateful, 'big shoes to fill': New & old office holders react to the Cabinet reshuffle

A New Era of Leadership Renewal

The Cabinet reshuffle announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on July 22 marks a significant step in Singapore's leadership renewal. The changes will see some younger office holders taking on larger responsibilities, and the implications for the country's economic and social policies will be far-reaching.

Gratitude and Excitement

The new Cabinet line-up has been met with gratitude and excitement from new and old office holders. Some appointees have taken to social media to pen their thoughts on the upcoming changes. For example, Minister Gan Kim Yong reflected on his ministry's upcoming name change to the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry (METI) from October 1. He noted that the new name reflects Singapore's growing focus on energy and that the core mission of METI will remain the same.

Commitment to the People

Tan See Leng, who will relinquish his role to join Gan as Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), emphasized the importance of securing Singapore's future. He noted that every portfolio is ultimately about the people and that every decision made shapes livelihoods, opportunities, and the collective future. He also reflected on his time at the Ministry of Manpower with gratitude, highlighting the key achievements of his team over the past six years.

Humility and Responsibility

Ng Chee Meng, who will return to the Cabinet as Minister in the Prime Minister's Office, wrote that he is humbled by PM Wong's invitation to serve in Cabinet and accepts it with a strong sense of responsibility. He noted that his commitment to Jalan Kayu as a Member of Parliament (MP) and his role championing better workers' wages and welfare as NTUC chief will remain unchanged. He added that being in the Cabinet will allow him to work more closely with the government in these endeavours.

Nurturing Connections

Zaqy Mohamad, who has taken on the position of Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, said he accepts the appointment with humility and a deep sense of duty. He thanked Faishal Ibrahim for laying strong foundations before him and noted that he will take time to meet members of the community over the coming weeks. He emphasized the importance of nurturing connections and building genuine relationships.

A New Chapter

Jeffrey Siow, who will become a full minister on July 27, reflected on his team's progress over the past year. He acknowledged the work of his colleagues in setting the direction for Singapore's transport network and thanked workers in the aviation, maritime, and public transport sectors for their fundamental role in Singapore's transport system. He noted that there is much more to do and learn and looks forward to taking it on together with his colleagues.

Appreciation and Gratitude

David Neo, who will become a full-fledged minister come July 27, thanked PM Wong for his trust and confidence and his colleagues at MCCY and the Ministry of Education (MOE) for their friendship and support. He noted that every conversation he had with his colleagues stayed with him and that their passion for what they do and their honesty about what's working and what isn't are qualities that he appreciates.