In a significant post-election development, Ng Chee Meng, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Jalan Kayu and secretary-general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), has publicly apologised for remarks made during a 2017 Ministry of Education (MOE) dialogue. The statements, which sparked recent public outrage, involve allegations of disrespect towards educators.
Apology for Past Dialogue
Ng acknowledged receiving feedback online regarding his interaction with participants during the MOE dialogue nearly a decade ago. He expressed regret, stating, “I regret if any of my remarks came across as disrespectful, especially when the participants had raised questions in good faith”. This admission follows allegations from a former MOE teacher, who described Ng’s behaviour as rude and reported feeling pressured to stand when addressed.
Focus on Constituency Duties
- During the recent General Election, Ng secured 51.47% of the vote, defeating Workers’ Party candidate Andre Low.
- He has requested Prime Minister Lawrence Wong not to assign him any government position for the next five years.
- Ng emphasized his commitment to serve both his constituents and the wider Singaporean workforce.
Acknowledging Teachers’ Contributions
In his statement, Ng reiterated his respect for teachers, stating they “make a tremendous difference in students’ lives.” He recognised the importance of their role in shaping Singapore’s future and committed to improving his communication in response to the feedback received.
Looking Ahead
Ng’s apology and focus on community service signify a shift in approach. He stated, “My heart will always be for Singapore and Singaporeans,” as he reassures constituents of his dedication over the next five years.