This case happened when he was not a PM yer, the ex PM might already aware of it (like TCJ case) but chose not to take action immediately.
So, who to make a call to investigate, present or ex PM?
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Serious Singapore Dinnergate scandal
- Thread starter Leepotism
- Start date
So, who to make a call to investigate, present or ex PM?
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The eerie quietness from Lawrence is deafening....
If LW wants to be like LKY with zero tolerance of scandals, he would lost at least 5 ministers, OYK, CHT, Tan SL, Shan & Vivian, can he handle it? People are watching !
LW might do it like LKY, prepared to start all.over again (SIA) by terminating all the trounle making pilots.
This on other people will be damn serious. But own people, gone so small till can have home stay for crime. But sinkies deserved the govt they selected. One standard for elites & whites, one standard for coolie genes & blue. Don't even understand what is social justice in our pledge.
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Ong Ye Kung loves to take pictures?
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It Looks like there is an internal battle going on between the "generals" and the non generals who moved up the administrative system. And the person silently behind the scenes calling the shots is still Ho Jinx. If LW has enough balls he should put her in her place. Until that happens , LW is still the puppet no matter how you look at it.
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Singapore is a Rule of Law Nation & a DEMOCRACY. Thus DO NOT fall into the trap of being sympathizers of election sore losers syndrome, whom will do anything, anything to bring down an ELECTED govt.
1. There are an estimated 600,000 registered companies with another est 70.000 registering each year in Singapore.
To ensure that each is a bona-fide company, it will need a BIGGER govt & civil officers EMPLOYED to CHECK & VERIFY their status, including submission of PRIVATE information such as where their wealth came from, their sources of income, their bank statements, etc, etc for ANYONE - local or foreign whom have more than $100,000 in their financial accounts, as it is such sums that can do wonders....
With such increases of govt employees, it WILL NEED an INCREASES in taxes from TAXYPAYERS revenue. None works for free. In this manner, then when one hits $100,000 in financial accounts, then it is time to meet up with a BLOATED IRAS for a cup of coffee, to ensure only HONEST local & foreigners live here.
Face REALITIES - is this what citizens want? For those whom live hand to mouth with often less than $100k in their accounts including CPF would love it as misery loves company, but in the end, with increases in taxes to employ a BLOATED IRAS, how would a 15% GST tax from today sound to them???
2. If being caught in an innocent photo with an unknown YET, convicted criminal is a crime, then by all means - SACK the individual, if such is how citizens want it. However, the Rule of Law is ACROSS THE BOARD & NONE will be SPARED, in order that JUSTICE BE SERVED, as being in a mere photo is a crime enough to CONVICT another person or deprive his or her privacy & liberty.
Thus that means EVEN FAMILIES of convicted criminals - mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, wives, kids, relatives, friends & even those happened to be innocently in such a photo - SHOULD EQUALLY BE DENIED OF THEIR PRIVACY & LIBERTY - no schools, employment, recreation, opportunities in life, etc, etc.
The LAW is BLIND. Is this what citizens wants to be legislated?
It is said that those holding Public Office must have a higher moral standing standing. However, EACH of us should uphold such virtues as the Family is the building block of civilization. It begins with us.
However, what moral standing would we mere mortals have when we have NO powers to discern even the next second of what will happen, let alone the hidden hearts of others?
1. There are an estimated 600,000 registered companies with another est 70.000 registering each year in Singapore.
To ensure that each is a bona-fide company, it will need a BIGGER govt & civil officers EMPLOYED to CHECK & VERIFY their status, including submission of PRIVATE information such as where their wealth came from, their sources of income, their bank statements, etc, etc for ANYONE - local or foreign whom have more than $100,000 in their financial accounts, as it is such sums that can do wonders....
With such increases of govt employees, it WILL NEED an INCREASES in taxes from TAXYPAYERS revenue. None works for free. In this manner, then when one hits $100,000 in financial accounts, then it is time to meet up with a BLOATED IRAS for a cup of coffee, to ensure only HONEST local & foreigners live here.
Face REALITIES - is this what citizens want? For those whom live hand to mouth with often less than $100k in their accounts including CPF would love it as misery loves company, but in the end, with increases in taxes to employ a BLOATED IRAS, how would a 15% GST tax from today sound to them???
2. If being caught in an innocent photo with an unknown YET, convicted criminal is a crime, then by all means - SACK the individual, if such is how citizens want it. However, the Rule of Law is ACROSS THE BOARD & NONE will be SPARED, in order that JUSTICE BE SERVED, as being in a mere photo is a crime enough to CONVICT another person or deprive his or her privacy & liberty.
Thus that means EVEN FAMILIES of convicted criminals - mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, wives, kids, relatives, friends & even those happened to be innocently in such a photo - SHOULD EQUALLY BE DENIED OF THEIR PRIVACY & LIBERTY - no schools, employment, recreation, opportunities in life, etc, etc.
The LAW is BLIND. Is this what citizens wants to be legislated?
It is said that those holding Public Office must have a higher moral standing standing. However, EACH of us should uphold such virtues as the Family is the building block of civilization. It begins with us.
However, what moral standing would we mere mortals have when we have NO powers to discern even the next second of what will happen, let alone the hidden hearts of others?
Last edited:
His son just died few years ago, but not sure before or after the dinner?Sam Goi is the Gui 鬼 in all this
He must be PAP 金主。
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The Online Citizen
Singapore
Alleged WhatsApp from Su Haijin casts doubt on Sam Goi’s timeline of dinner with Ng Chee Meng
An alleged WhatsApp message from Su Haijin suggests a dinner with Ng Chee Meng took place in September 2021, during a period of strict COVID-19 dining restrictions. This contradicts businessman Sam Goi’s account that the gatherings with Su and the ministers occurred before pandemic rules were implemented.
Published on 6 May 2025
By The Online Citizen
Photos of billionaire Sam Goi and Ng Chee Meng with Su Haijin
Billionaire businessman Sam Goi has confirmed that he organised and paid for dinners attended by ministers and convicted money launderer Su Haijin, describing the gatherings as informal and held prior to the implementation of Singapore’s COVID-19 restrictions in early 2020.
“It’s all for friends and I paid for them all,” Goi told Bloomberg News in an interview from mainland China.
Photos showing Su dining with several PAP ministers began circulating widely on social media in the days following the ruling People’s Action Party’s strong showing in the 3 May general election. Former Reform Party chairman Charles Yeo shared the images along with commentary questioning the ministers’ proximity to Su.
A separate photo of NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng — the PAP candidate who narrowly won Jalan Kayu SMC — with Su had surfaced earlier on Sammyboyforum the previous Saturday.
Goi’s remarks appear to align with an earlier statement issued on 6 May by the press secretaries of Health Minister Ong Ye Kung and Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat.
The ministers said they had attended social dinners at the invitation of a friend, where Su happened to be present, and that they had no personal or professional relationship with him.
However, a WhatsApp message shared by Yeo has cast doubt on the timeline provided by Goi — particularly regarding a dinner involving Ng Chee Meng.
In the screenshot, allegedly sent by Su Haijin on 24 September 2021, Su wrote: “What do you think? I’m having dinner with the minister,” alongside a photo of himself with Ng at a round dining table.
Screenshot of WhatsApp message shared by Charles Yeo on his Instagram, showing a date stamp of 24 September 2021.
At least four individuals are visible in the images shared in the messages, suggesting a small group dinner.
While the number of diners was permissible under the regulations at the time, the message contradicts Goi’s claim that such events took place before COVID-19 rules were introduced in the later part of 2020.
On Tuesday, Ng Chee Meng issued a statement acknowledging his presence at the dinner. He explained that it was part of his role to engage private sector stakeholders and stated that he had no further contact with Su after learning of the charges against him.
The photos circulated online show various combinations of Su with Ong, Chee, and other prominent individuals, including former PAP minister Lim Swee Say, billionaire Oei Hong Leong, businessman Sam Goi, and UOB-Kay Hian Chairman Wee Ee Chao.
In contrast to the dinner with Ng, there are no accompanying messages or metadata that would allow the dates of the other dinners to be verified.
Questions have also been raised about whether the meals were declared in line with civil service protocols.
Under the Public Service Code of Conduct, gifts or benefits exceeding S$50 must be declared. The PAP’s 2015 Rules of Prudence also advise MPs to avoid accepting personal favours or hospitality that may give rise to a sense of obligation or perceived influence.
A media query was sent to Ministers Ong and Chee on 6 May to ask whether they had declared the dinners in accordance with civil service rules.
As Sam Goi has since confirmed that he paid for the meals, the remaining question is whether the ministers disclosed this hospitality. As of publication, no response has been received.
Correction: It has been noted that there was a period from 10 August 2021 during which dining in groups of up to five was allowed. However, due to an exponential rise in COVID-19 cases, restrictions were reimposed on 24 September, reducing the allowed group size back to two. From 22 November 2021, group sizes for dine-in and social gatherings were increased from two to five persons.
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Natural Stupidity is more dangerous than Artificial Intelligence
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Died Feb 2019
The son also gui Yao siew gui
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_Letter from PM Lee Hsien Loong to PAP MPs on Rules of Prudence on 31 Jul 2020_
www.pmo.gov.sg
A letter from PM Lee Hsien Loong to all People's Action Party Members of Parliament on 31 Jul 2020, released to the media on 1 Aug 2020.
All PAP MPs
*RULES OF PRUDENCE*
It is a tradition for the Prime Minister to send a letter on “Rules of Prudence” to all the PAP MPs after every general election. The context each time may be different, but the subject remains constant. Integrity, honesty and incorruptibility are fundamental to our Party. We must never tire of reminding ourselves of their importance.
Our Party has won 83 out of 93 seats in the just concluded General Election, with all seats contested. Overall, the PAP won 61.2% of the votes.
The people have endorsed what we have done in our previous term, and given us a clear mandate to take Singapore forward, through the crisis and beyond. Now we must work with Singaporeans to keep COVID-19 in check, protect jobs and livelihoods, and make sure everyone comes through safely together.
Be humble in victory. Always remember that as MPs we are servants of the people, not masters. Listen closely to Singaporeans, help them to tackle pressing needs, and express their worries and aspirations to the Government. Never break faith with the people. Always carry out our duties responsibly, addressing their concerns and advancing their interests. This will help us persuade Singaporeans to support policies which are to their own long-term benefit. It will also enable the Government to formulate good policies and stay in close touch with the people.
*UPHOLDING OUR REPUTATION AND INTEGRITY*
One vital factor that has enabled the PAP to retain the trust of Singaporeans all these years is honesty and integrity. The PAP’s reputation for clean, incorruptible government is one of our most precious assets. As PAP MPs, your personal standing reflects this high standing of the Party as a whole. I cannot stress strongly enough that every MP must uphold the rigorous standards that we have set for ourselves and do nothing to compromise them. Never give cause for allegations that you are misusing your position, especially your access to Ministers. That would discredit both you and the Party.
As MPs, you will come across many different sorts of people. Many altruistic, public spirited individuals will help you without wanting anything in return, spending time and money to get community projects going and to serve residents. But a few will cultivate you to obtain benefits for themselves or their companies, to gain respectability by association with you, or to get you to influence ministries and statutory boards to make decisions in their favour. Gift hampers on festive occasions, dinners and entertainment, and personal favours big and small are just some of the countless social lubricants which such people use to ingratiate themselves to MPs and make you obligated to them.
You must distinguish between these two groups of people, and be shrewd in assessing the motives of those who seek to get close to you. At all times be seen to be beyond the influence of gifts or favours.
Be scrupulously proper in your contacts with government departments or public officers. Do not lobby any ministry or statutory board on behalf of anyone who is not your constituent or grassroots volunteer. Do not raise matters with public officers on behalf of friends, clients, contractors, employers, or financiers to advance their business interests. Conduct business with government agencies in writing and avoid making telephone requests. If you have to speak, follow up in writing to put your requests on record.
MPs are often approached by friends, grassroots leaders or proprietors and businessmen to officiate at the openings of their new premises or other business events. They usually offer a gesture in return, such as a donation to a charity or constituency welfare fund. Though it may be awkward to refuse such requests, once you accept one, you will be hard-pressed to draw a line. As a rule, you should decline invitations to such business events. If you feel you should attend, please seek prior approval from the Whip.
*SEPARATING BUSINESS AND POLITICS*
Separate your public political position from your private, professional or business interests. MPs who are in business, who occupy senior management positions in companies, or who sit on company boards should be especially vigilant. You must not exploit your public position as Government MPs, your close contacts with the Ministers, or your access to government departments and civil servants, for your personal interest or the benefit of your employers. Your conduct must always be above board.
MPs who are employed by companies or industry associations may at times have to make public statements on behalf of their company or industry association. If you have to do so, make it clear that you are not speaking as an MP, but in your private, professional or business capacity.
Do not use Parliamentary questions or speeches to lobby the Government on behalf of your businesses or clients. When you raise matters in Parliament related to your own businesses or your clients, be careful to first declare your pecuniary interest in the issue.
You may, however, relay feedback and speak freely to Cabinet Ministers, who are your Parliamentary colleagues. Ministers will listen carefully to arguments on principles, especially when they relate to the general policy of their Ministries. But Ministers will not exercise their discretion to change individual decisions without very good reasons which they can justify publicly. Parliamentary Secretaries and Ministers of State who intervene in their Ministries to reverse or alter decisions should promptly report the matter to their Ministers to protect themselves against the suspicion of misconduct. The Government must always base decisions on the merits of the issues, and not yield to pressure from interested parties.
*PARLIAMENT*
MPs are expected to attend all sittings of Parliament. If you have to be absent from any sitting, seek permission from the Government Whip. Please inform the Whip if you have to leave the Parliament premises while a sitting is on.
If you travel abroad, or need to be absent from Parliament for any reason, you must apply to the Speaker for leave, with copies to the Leader of the House and the Government Whip. You should also inform the Whip where you can be reached while abroad.
I have asked the Speaker to give all MPs, particularly new MPs, ample opportunity and latitude to speak in Parliament. Your first opportunity will be during the debate on the President’s Address at the opening of Parliament in August 2020. Following that, at the Budget Debate and the Committee of Supply, all MPs should speak up. Script your speeches or put your key points in note form and deliver these clearly, to enable your audience and the media to grasp your points well.
With more opposition MPs in the new Parliament, and a Leader of the Opposition formally designated, we must expect sharper questioning and debate in Parliament. PAP MPs should express their views frankly, whether for or against Government policies. During debates, speak freely and with conviction. Press your points vigorously, and do not shy away from robust exchange. Be prepared to engage the opposition, to clarify their interventions and scrutinise their ideas. However, please exercise judgement when putting your points across, and do not get carried away playing to the gallery.
Bring out questions and issues that Singaporeans and your constituents have concerns about, and grapevine talk for the Government to address, but avoid unwittingly lending credence to baseless gossip. This will show that you and the Party are in touch with the ground, and speaking up for Singaporeans. Bringing up pertinent issues and questions in a timely manner helps Ministers to put across the facts, explain the reasons for policies and decisions, and maintain public confidence in the openness and integrity of our actions.
Your honest, informed views are an important political input to Ministers when they formulate and review policies. Ministers will accept valid, constructive suggestions, but they have to challenge inaccurate or mistaken views. Over time, the public will see that PAP backbenchers are as effective as opposition MPs, if not better, at holding Ministers to account, getting issues fully debated, and influencing policies for the better.
*GIFTS*
You should not accept gifts which might place you under obligations which conflict with your public duties. If you receive any gifts other than from close personal friends or relatives, you must declare them to the Clerk of Parliament who will have the gifts valued. If you wish to keep the gifts, you must pay the Government for them at the valuation price.
*FUND-RAISING*
Party Branches should not raise funds on their own without permission, for example by soliciting advertisements for a souvenir magazine or a carnival. If you intend to raise funds, please clear it beforehand with the Organising Secretary. When your branch embarks on a collective fund-raising activity, e.g. a Family Day or Walk-A-Jog, or is offered a donation from a well-wisher or supporter, you must follow the rules strictly.
For constituency and grassroots organisations, you will from time to time need to raise funds, e.g. to build a new community club or to sponsor community events. But even for these non-political purposes, be careful when raising funds and accepting donations. Make an effort to gather multiple small contributions, rather than depending heavily on one or two large donors. Avoid incurring obligations which may expose you to awkward requests later.
*FINANCIAL PRUDENCE*
As MPs, you should manage your personal financial affairs prudently. Do not over-extend yourself or become financially embarrassed. This would be not only a potential source of personal embarrassment, but also a weakness which may expose you to pressure or blackmail.
In particular, be careful about making major financial commitments assuming that you will continue to receive your MP’s allowance. While MPs typically serve several terms, you cannot assume that you will automatically be fielded in future General Elections, or that if fielded you will definitely be re-elected. There is neither tenure nor job security in politics.
*DIRECTORSHIPS*
MPs are often invited to serve on the Boards of private and publicly listed companies. This is a sign that the private sector values PAP MPs’ integrity and experience, and reflects the high standing of PAP MPs in general. The Party permits MPs to serve as directors, provided you keep your private and public responsibilities rigorously separate, and your private appointments do not compromise your duties and performance as an MP.
The public will closely scrutinise your involvement in companies, because you are a PAP MP. Conduct your business activities so as to bring credit to yourself and to the Party. Adverse publicity on your performance as a director, or lapses in the companies you are associated with, will tarnish your reputation as an MP and lower public regard for the Party.
You should not solicit Directorships in any companies, lest you appear to be exploiting your political position to benefit yourself.
You should not accept directorships where your role is just to dress up the board with a PAP MP or two, in order to make the company look respectable.
Some grassroots leaders are businessmen who own or manage companies. You should not sit on any boards of companies owned or chaired by grassroots leaders appointed by you, so as to avoid the perception that you are obligated to them or advancing their business interests.
If you are offered a Directorship, you have to decide for yourself whether to accept. The Party is not in a position to vet or approve such decisions. Before accepting, consider the possible impact of the Directorship on your political life. Ensure that the company understands that you are doing so strictly in your private capacity, and will not use your public position to champion its interests, or lobby the government on its behalf.
Make every effort to familiarise yourself with the business, track record and background of the key promoters of the company. Satisfy yourself that the company is reputable, and that you have a meaningful contribution to make. Specifically, just like anyone else contemplating a Directorship, you should ask yourself:
How well do you know the company, its business strategy, financial status, shareholding structure and the underlying industry?
Do you know your fellow directors, the way the Board and its committees fulfil their responsibilities, the reporting structure between Board and Management and the relationship between shareholders and the company?
Do you have sufficient industry, financial or professional expertise to fulfil your expected role and responsibilities as a Director? Do you understand your obligations under the law and the Code of Corporate Governance? Will you be able to discharge your fiduciary duties properly and without fear or favour?
Will you face any conflicts of interest, and if so can you manage them?
If in any doubt, you should decline.
*DECLARATION OF DIRECTORSHIPS AND INCOME*
For your own protection, every MP should disclose to me, in confidence, your directorships, business and professional interests, your latest employment and monthly pay, all retainers and fees that you are receiving, and whether your job requires you to get in touch with officers of Government Ministries or statutory boards on behalf of employers or clients. Detailed reporting requirements are listed in the Annex. This should be done by 28 August 2020. Office holders need not do so because you are subject to the reporting requirements of the Code of Conduct for Ministers.
*SOCIAL MEDIA*
Social media has become a part of our daily lives. By all means use social media to let the public know about your work, or get to know your views better. Have some fun with the medium and try out different platforms.
However, be mindful you are a public figure elected by your residents. So observe decorum, ensure factual accuracy as this is an absolute requirement for us, and remember every social media post will be permanently associated with you and the Party.
Be honest, empathetic, positive and affirming in all your messages. Know your audience and be sensitive to how they feel. Do not use social media to attack another person.
While social media is another way to connect with people, do not end up in long and extended engagement online. You also need to interact with your residents and attend to their needs in person.
*IMPORTANT PUBLIC OCCASIONS*
On certain occasions, like the National Day Parade and the Investiture Ceremony for National Day Awards, the whole Establishment, i.e. the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary, will be present. Those who cannot attend must have very good reasons. Those who have accepted the invitation must attend, otherwise they leave empty seats, which does no credit to them or to the Party.
At all public functions and constituency events, punctuality is of paramount importance.
*GENERAL BEHAVIOUR*
The PAP has held our position in successive elections because our integrity has never been in doubt, and because we are sensitive to the views and attitudes of the people we represent. MPs must always uphold the high standards of the Party and not have lifestyles or personal conduct which will embarrass themselves and the Party. Any slackening of standards, or show of arrogance or indifference, will erode confidence in the MP, and ultimately in the Party and Government. New MPs can pick up the dos and don’ts from older MPs. Always conduct yourselves with modesty, decorum and dignity, particularly in the media. You must win respect, not popularity, to stay the course.
*MEDIA PUBLICITY*
I am releasing a copy of this letter to the media so that the public knows the high standards we demand of PAP MPs.
LEE HSIEN LOONG
cc: Government Whip
www.pmo.gov.sg
A letter from PM Lee Hsien Loong to all People's Action Party Members of Parliament on 31 Jul 2020, released to the media on 1 Aug 2020.
All PAP MPs
*RULES OF PRUDENCE*
It is a tradition for the Prime Minister to send a letter on “Rules of Prudence” to all the PAP MPs after every general election. The context each time may be different, but the subject remains constant. Integrity, honesty and incorruptibility are fundamental to our Party. We must never tire of reminding ourselves of their importance.
Our Party has won 83 out of 93 seats in the just concluded General Election, with all seats contested. Overall, the PAP won 61.2% of the votes.
The people have endorsed what we have done in our previous term, and given us a clear mandate to take Singapore forward, through the crisis and beyond. Now we must work with Singaporeans to keep COVID-19 in check, protect jobs and livelihoods, and make sure everyone comes through safely together.
Be humble in victory. Always remember that as MPs we are servants of the people, not masters. Listen closely to Singaporeans, help them to tackle pressing needs, and express their worries and aspirations to the Government. Never break faith with the people. Always carry out our duties responsibly, addressing their concerns and advancing their interests. This will help us persuade Singaporeans to support policies which are to their own long-term benefit. It will also enable the Government to formulate good policies and stay in close touch with the people.
*UPHOLDING OUR REPUTATION AND INTEGRITY*
One vital factor that has enabled the PAP to retain the trust of Singaporeans all these years is honesty and integrity. The PAP’s reputation for clean, incorruptible government is one of our most precious assets. As PAP MPs, your personal standing reflects this high standing of the Party as a whole. I cannot stress strongly enough that every MP must uphold the rigorous standards that we have set for ourselves and do nothing to compromise them. Never give cause for allegations that you are misusing your position, especially your access to Ministers. That would discredit both you and the Party.
As MPs, you will come across many different sorts of people. Many altruistic, public spirited individuals will help you without wanting anything in return, spending time and money to get community projects going and to serve residents. But a few will cultivate you to obtain benefits for themselves or their companies, to gain respectability by association with you, or to get you to influence ministries and statutory boards to make decisions in their favour. Gift hampers on festive occasions, dinners and entertainment, and personal favours big and small are just some of the countless social lubricants which such people use to ingratiate themselves to MPs and make you obligated to them.
You must distinguish between these two groups of people, and be shrewd in assessing the motives of those who seek to get close to you. At all times be seen to be beyond the influence of gifts or favours.
Be scrupulously proper in your contacts with government departments or public officers. Do not lobby any ministry or statutory board on behalf of anyone who is not your constituent or grassroots volunteer. Do not raise matters with public officers on behalf of friends, clients, contractors, employers, or financiers to advance their business interests. Conduct business with government agencies in writing and avoid making telephone requests. If you have to speak, follow up in writing to put your requests on record.
MPs are often approached by friends, grassroots leaders or proprietors and businessmen to officiate at the openings of their new premises or other business events. They usually offer a gesture in return, such as a donation to a charity or constituency welfare fund. Though it may be awkward to refuse such requests, once you accept one, you will be hard-pressed to draw a line. As a rule, you should decline invitations to such business events. If you feel you should attend, please seek prior approval from the Whip.
*SEPARATING BUSINESS AND POLITICS*
Separate your public political position from your private, professional or business interests. MPs who are in business, who occupy senior management positions in companies, or who sit on company boards should be especially vigilant. You must not exploit your public position as Government MPs, your close contacts with the Ministers, or your access to government departments and civil servants, for your personal interest or the benefit of your employers. Your conduct must always be above board.
MPs who are employed by companies or industry associations may at times have to make public statements on behalf of their company or industry association. If you have to do so, make it clear that you are not speaking as an MP, but in your private, professional or business capacity.
Do not use Parliamentary questions or speeches to lobby the Government on behalf of your businesses or clients. When you raise matters in Parliament related to your own businesses or your clients, be careful to first declare your pecuniary interest in the issue.
You may, however, relay feedback and speak freely to Cabinet Ministers, who are your Parliamentary colleagues. Ministers will listen carefully to arguments on principles, especially when they relate to the general policy of their Ministries. But Ministers will not exercise their discretion to change individual decisions without very good reasons which they can justify publicly. Parliamentary Secretaries and Ministers of State who intervene in their Ministries to reverse or alter decisions should promptly report the matter to their Ministers to protect themselves against the suspicion of misconduct. The Government must always base decisions on the merits of the issues, and not yield to pressure from interested parties.
*PARLIAMENT*
MPs are expected to attend all sittings of Parliament. If you have to be absent from any sitting, seek permission from the Government Whip. Please inform the Whip if you have to leave the Parliament premises while a sitting is on.
If you travel abroad, or need to be absent from Parliament for any reason, you must apply to the Speaker for leave, with copies to the Leader of the House and the Government Whip. You should also inform the Whip where you can be reached while abroad.
I have asked the Speaker to give all MPs, particularly new MPs, ample opportunity and latitude to speak in Parliament. Your first opportunity will be during the debate on the President’s Address at the opening of Parliament in August 2020. Following that, at the Budget Debate and the Committee of Supply, all MPs should speak up. Script your speeches or put your key points in note form and deliver these clearly, to enable your audience and the media to grasp your points well.
With more opposition MPs in the new Parliament, and a Leader of the Opposition formally designated, we must expect sharper questioning and debate in Parliament. PAP MPs should express their views frankly, whether for or against Government policies. During debates, speak freely and with conviction. Press your points vigorously, and do not shy away from robust exchange. Be prepared to engage the opposition, to clarify their interventions and scrutinise their ideas. However, please exercise judgement when putting your points across, and do not get carried away playing to the gallery.
Bring out questions and issues that Singaporeans and your constituents have concerns about, and grapevine talk for the Government to address, but avoid unwittingly lending credence to baseless gossip. This will show that you and the Party are in touch with the ground, and speaking up for Singaporeans. Bringing up pertinent issues and questions in a timely manner helps Ministers to put across the facts, explain the reasons for policies and decisions, and maintain public confidence in the openness and integrity of our actions.
Your honest, informed views are an important political input to Ministers when they formulate and review policies. Ministers will accept valid, constructive suggestions, but they have to challenge inaccurate or mistaken views. Over time, the public will see that PAP backbenchers are as effective as opposition MPs, if not better, at holding Ministers to account, getting issues fully debated, and influencing policies for the better.
*GIFTS*
You should not accept gifts which might place you under obligations which conflict with your public duties. If you receive any gifts other than from close personal friends or relatives, you must declare them to the Clerk of Parliament who will have the gifts valued. If you wish to keep the gifts, you must pay the Government for them at the valuation price.
*FUND-RAISING*
Party Branches should not raise funds on their own without permission, for example by soliciting advertisements for a souvenir magazine or a carnival. If you intend to raise funds, please clear it beforehand with the Organising Secretary. When your branch embarks on a collective fund-raising activity, e.g. a Family Day or Walk-A-Jog, or is offered a donation from a well-wisher or supporter, you must follow the rules strictly.
For constituency and grassroots organisations, you will from time to time need to raise funds, e.g. to build a new community club or to sponsor community events. But even for these non-political purposes, be careful when raising funds and accepting donations. Make an effort to gather multiple small contributions, rather than depending heavily on one or two large donors. Avoid incurring obligations which may expose you to awkward requests later.
*FINANCIAL PRUDENCE*
As MPs, you should manage your personal financial affairs prudently. Do not over-extend yourself or become financially embarrassed. This would be not only a potential source of personal embarrassment, but also a weakness which may expose you to pressure or blackmail.
In particular, be careful about making major financial commitments assuming that you will continue to receive your MP’s allowance. While MPs typically serve several terms, you cannot assume that you will automatically be fielded in future General Elections, or that if fielded you will definitely be re-elected. There is neither tenure nor job security in politics.
*DIRECTORSHIPS*
MPs are often invited to serve on the Boards of private and publicly listed companies. This is a sign that the private sector values PAP MPs’ integrity and experience, and reflects the high standing of PAP MPs in general. The Party permits MPs to serve as directors, provided you keep your private and public responsibilities rigorously separate, and your private appointments do not compromise your duties and performance as an MP.
The public will closely scrutinise your involvement in companies, because you are a PAP MP. Conduct your business activities so as to bring credit to yourself and to the Party. Adverse publicity on your performance as a director, or lapses in the companies you are associated with, will tarnish your reputation as an MP and lower public regard for the Party.
You should not solicit Directorships in any companies, lest you appear to be exploiting your political position to benefit yourself.
You should not accept directorships where your role is just to dress up the board with a PAP MP or two, in order to make the company look respectable.
Some grassroots leaders are businessmen who own or manage companies. You should not sit on any boards of companies owned or chaired by grassroots leaders appointed by you, so as to avoid the perception that you are obligated to them or advancing their business interests.
If you are offered a Directorship, you have to decide for yourself whether to accept. The Party is not in a position to vet or approve such decisions. Before accepting, consider the possible impact of the Directorship on your political life. Ensure that the company understands that you are doing so strictly in your private capacity, and will not use your public position to champion its interests, or lobby the government on its behalf.
Make every effort to familiarise yourself with the business, track record and background of the key promoters of the company. Satisfy yourself that the company is reputable, and that you have a meaningful contribution to make. Specifically, just like anyone else contemplating a Directorship, you should ask yourself:
How well do you know the company, its business strategy, financial status, shareholding structure and the underlying industry?
Do you know your fellow directors, the way the Board and its committees fulfil their responsibilities, the reporting structure between Board and Management and the relationship between shareholders and the company?
Do you have sufficient industry, financial or professional expertise to fulfil your expected role and responsibilities as a Director? Do you understand your obligations under the law and the Code of Corporate Governance? Will you be able to discharge your fiduciary duties properly and without fear or favour?
Will you face any conflicts of interest, and if so can you manage them?
If in any doubt, you should decline.
*DECLARATION OF DIRECTORSHIPS AND INCOME*
For your own protection, every MP should disclose to me, in confidence, your directorships, business and professional interests, your latest employment and monthly pay, all retainers and fees that you are receiving, and whether your job requires you to get in touch with officers of Government Ministries or statutory boards on behalf of employers or clients. Detailed reporting requirements are listed in the Annex. This should be done by 28 August 2020. Office holders need not do so because you are subject to the reporting requirements of the Code of Conduct for Ministers.
*SOCIAL MEDIA*
Social media has become a part of our daily lives. By all means use social media to let the public know about your work, or get to know your views better. Have some fun with the medium and try out different platforms.
However, be mindful you are a public figure elected by your residents. So observe decorum, ensure factual accuracy as this is an absolute requirement for us, and remember every social media post will be permanently associated with you and the Party.
Be honest, empathetic, positive and affirming in all your messages. Know your audience and be sensitive to how they feel. Do not use social media to attack another person.
While social media is another way to connect with people, do not end up in long and extended engagement online. You also need to interact with your residents and attend to their needs in person.
*IMPORTANT PUBLIC OCCASIONS*
On certain occasions, like the National Day Parade and the Investiture Ceremony for National Day Awards, the whole Establishment, i.e. the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary, will be present. Those who cannot attend must have very good reasons. Those who have accepted the invitation must attend, otherwise they leave empty seats, which does no credit to them or to the Party.
At all public functions and constituency events, punctuality is of paramount importance.
*GENERAL BEHAVIOUR*
The PAP has held our position in successive elections because our integrity has never been in doubt, and because we are sensitive to the views and attitudes of the people we represent. MPs must always uphold the high standards of the Party and not have lifestyles or personal conduct which will embarrass themselves and the Party. Any slackening of standards, or show of arrogance or indifference, will erode confidence in the MP, and ultimately in the Party and Government. New MPs can pick up the dos and don’ts from older MPs. Always conduct yourselves with modesty, decorum and dignity, particularly in the media. You must win respect, not popularity, to stay the course.
*MEDIA PUBLICITY*
I am releasing a copy of this letter to the media so that the public knows the high standards we demand of PAP MPs.
LEE HSIEN LOONG
cc: Government Whip
- Joined
- Jul 25, 2008
- Messages
- 60,519
- Points
- 113
nothing will happen. ministar elites are still having social interactions with money launderers and bosses of criminal syndicates who have not been sexposed and caught yet. so many of them lurking among elites in sg. they are using ministars to legitimise their presence and dealings in sg. nothing new.
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- Joined
- Jan 23, 2022
- Messages
- 2,045
- Points
- 83
My previous post is neither a threat or an attempt to do nothing against criminals. Far from it.
We already do have the means & ability to prevent the many DEVIOUS ways that criminals sought to take advantage of or democratic laws & ways of lives.
However, it will need extensive funds to to be proactive, with huge costs to taxpayers. But there are many other innovative ways than to raise taxes.
IRAS had officially offered $100,000 to any WHISTLE BLOWER whom are willing to come forward on dubious property transactions, rather than to bloat the dept with more hires.
There are many more other ways, & most CRITICALLY, the help from upright fellow citizens to assist IRAS or other govt depts such as security, with EVIDENCES of suspects whom have suspicious dealings, regardless if money laundering, crime, drugs, trafficking, terrorism, etc - so that we & innocent generations may live & progress in peace....
We already do have the means & ability to prevent the many DEVIOUS ways that criminals sought to take advantage of or democratic laws & ways of lives.
However, it will need extensive funds to to be proactive, with huge costs to taxpayers. But there are many other innovative ways than to raise taxes.
IRAS had officially offered $100,000 to any WHISTLE BLOWER whom are willing to come forward on dubious property transactions, rather than to bloat the dept with more hires.
There are many more other ways, & most CRITICALLY, the help from upright fellow citizens to assist IRAS or other govt depts such as security, with EVIDENCES of suspects whom have suspicious dealings, regardless if money laundering, crime, drugs, trafficking, terrorism, etc - so that we & innocent generations may live & progress in peace....
- Joined
- Dec 6, 2018
- Messages
- 16,944
- Points
- 113
He must be a very special stranger. Able to join 3 different ministers/ex minister on different occasions.
.
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