Full of integrity, empathy, purpose', says Maliki on East Coast successor Hazlina

He says she will take over his work in Siglap ward, did not confirm if he is leaving politics

- Wong Pei Ting

Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Maliki Osman has formally endorsed Madam Hazlina Abdul Halim, the former chief executive of Make-A-Wish Singapore, as his successor in East Coast GRC.

The 40-year-old will take over his work at the five-member group representation constituency's Siglap ward, he told reporters on the sidelines of a walkabout at Bedok 85 Market on April 12.

Dr Maliki said he has known Madam Hazlina for many years, since she started out as a journalist.

Madam Hazlina started her career as a radio presenter for Mediacorp's Ria 89.7FM. She later transitioned into television and was at one point an assignments editor on CNA's Singapore desk.

She is now the senior vice-president of strategy and communications at advisory firm Teneo.

Dr Maliki said he also knew her through her work as the president of PPIS (Singapore Muslim Women's Association) from 2020 to 2024.

Vouching for her qualities, he added that he has "known her to be one who is full of integrity, empathy, purpose", which are qualities that will bode well for her in public life.

"As a former journalist, as well as having worked and headed the non-profit sector, I believe she knows well the needs of Singaporeans and that's one of the key qualities of being in public office."

Dr Maliki, 59, first broke the news to more than 100 grassroots leaders at Siglap Community Club on April 11. During the meeting, he also asked them to throw their support behind Madam Hazlina.

The development could mean that Dr Maliki is ready to wrap up his 24-year political career, which kicked off five election cycles ago in 2001, when he was elected an MP for Sembawang GRC.

But when asked on April 12, he did not confirm if he would retire.

Also present was former brigadier-general and PAP new face Goh Pei Ming, who expressed hopes of running in the constituency.