Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen retiring from politics, will not contest GE2025

He will step down after over two decades in the Cabinet; cites leadership succession

- Hariz Baharudin

Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, who guided Singapore's military strategy through an increasingly complex security environment, will retire from politics after over two decades in Cabinet.

The five-term MP announced on April 18 that he will not be contesting the general election.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the PAP's slate for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Marymount SMC, Dr Ng said leadership succession is a cardinal strength of the party and that it was time for him to step down to make way for new candidates.

"I had informed (Prime Minister Lawrence Wong) some months back that it was time for me to continue that virtuous tradition to make room for renewal and regeneration of the PAP slate. I will not be contesting the next general election," he said, thanking residents in the constituency for their trust over 24 years.

"It's been an honour and privilege to serve my residents and Singaporeans at large," Dr Ng, 66, said.

Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat will succeed Dr Ng as the new anchor minister for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC.

"Mr Chee Hong Tat is more than capable, well established, and has proven himself over the last 10 years to have improved the lives of residents here," Dr Ng said.

A surgical oncologist by training, Dr Ng entered politics as part of the PAP's slate in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC at the 2001 General Election. He was appointed Minister of State for Education and Manpower shortly after, and became a full minister in 2004.

Dr Ng's long association with Singapore's defence fraternity began in 2005, when he was appointed Second Minister for Defence, while retaining his manpower portfolio. He took over as Defence Minister from Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean in 2011.

Responding to questions about his potential successor as defence minister, Dr Ng said PM Wong has confidence that his new team will have the resolve to face the challenges of a new world.