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Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen Steps Down After 5 Terms in Politics

 




Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen has officially announced his retirement from politics, marking the end of a distinguished political career spanning over two decades. He will not be contesting in the upcoming General Election, making him the first minister confirmed to be stepping down this election cycle.

Speaking from the PAP's Toa Payoh West-Thomson branch on Friday (Apr 18), the 66-year-old said it has been “an honour and privilege” to serve his residents in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Singaporeans at large since entering politics in 2001. He has served five terms and held key portfolios including Education, Manpower, and Defence.

“For any government, there's always tension between renewal and experience… If older ones don't step aside for new ones, you don't prepare for the future. It's as simple as that,” he said, reaffirming the PAP’s commitment to leadership renewal.

Dr Ng said he is stepping down in the same spirit of renewal shown by his predecessors when he first entered politics, adding: “The PAP forces itself to renew, and that for more senior politicians like myself, we emulate the examples that we saw when we came in as newbies.”

Throughout his career, Dr Ng has been known not only for his domestic leadership but also for his commanding presence on the global stage. As Minister for Defence since 2011, he was a central figure at international forums such as the Shangri-La Dialogue, where his confident and strategic communication style elevated Singapore’s voice in global defence discussions.

Observers note that his departure leaves a significant gap, especially as no clear successor has emerged among the 4G leadership to take on the defence portfolio — a role that demands both technical expertise and diplomatic acumen.

Before his Defence portfolio, Dr Ng served as Minister for Education and Minister for Manpower. He was also Leader of the House from 2011 to 2015. His varied contributions have made him one of the most recognisable figures in Singapore’s political scene, respected for his calm, firm approach and ability to handle complex issues.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr Ng said: "It's been a meaningful and fulfilling journey, and I have every confidence that the next generation of leaders will continue to serve Singapore and Singaporeans with the same dedication."

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