Tan Suee Chieh backs Harpreet Singh Nehal in Punggol GRC, calls for political culture renewal

On 29 April 2025, former NTUC Income CEO Tan Suee Chieh published an open letter endorsing Workers' Party candidate Harpreet Singh Nehal in the upcoming General Election, in a move that sparked public discussion on evolving political dynamics. Tan clarified that his support for Harpreet Singh Nehal did not represent a shift in political allegiance. He reaffirmed his support for the People’s Action Party (PAP), stating he has voted for the party since becoming a citizen in 2014. “I remain supportive of the PAP's leadership and its ability to deliver for Singapore, particularly under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong,” Tan wrote. He praised Wong’s focus on “broader measures of success” and ensuring inclusivity, calling his leadership emotionally resonant and promising. Harpreet is leading the Workers' Party team in the contest for Punggol GRC in GE2025, standing against the ruling PAP team led by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong.

Call for a more open, pluralistic political culture

Despite his endorsement of the PAP, Tan urged for reform in Singapore’s political culture. He expressed concern that a top-down approach may no longer be sustainable in today’s rapidly changing global environment. “We need a more open, engaged, and engaging leadership—one less top-down, more willing to acknowledge mistakes, accept change, kinder, and embrace critical but loyal voices,” he wrote. Tan emphasised that resilience is rooted not in rigidity or hierarchy but in courage, imagination, and pluralism.

Civil service reform and citizen engagement

He also called for transformation within Singapore’s civil service, describing the need for a “citizen-centric” model that prioritises cross-agency collaboration and pragmatic responses to real-life issues. “A civil service less focused on process, better at breaking down silos between ministries, and responsive to Singaporeans’ challenges is essential,” he added. Reflecting on the legacy of Lee Kuan Yew’s generation, Tan urged the nation to renew its founding spirit in light of modern challenges. Whether the country succeeds in this renewal will define the next era, he stated. “I hope PM Wong succeeds in leading a transformational national reset,” he said. He also noted that a more diverse Parliament—with potentially fewer PAP seats—should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. “If handled well, this will not weaken Singapore—it will strengthen it,” Tan asserted.

Professional relationship with Harpreet Singh Nehal

Tan’s endorsement of Harpreet Singh Nehal stems from their past professional engagement, not political alignment. He recounted their work together in 2022, when Harpreet acted as his legal counsel concerning the corporatisation of NTUC Income. Their first communication was on 7 February 2022. Tan said he had no knowledge of Harpreet’s political interests at the time, nor did Harpreet raise them during subsequent meetings. The Allianz-Income matter in 2024 further reinforced Tan’s trust in Harpreet’s capabilities and integrity. “This issue was about integrity and public trust, not politics,” he said. Tan described Harpreet as a professional of high standards, strategic clarity, and unwavering confidentiality. “He has never sought my endorsement for his political activities in any way,” Tan clarified.

Tan explains why Harpreet Singh Nehal deserves a place in Parliament

According to Tan, Harpreet’s qualifications and character would strengthen Singapore’s governance, not undermine it. “I believe that someone of Harpreet’s calibre, professionalism, and ethical standards serving in Parliament would strengthen—not weaken—Singapore’s governance, resilience, and adaptability,” he stated. Tan concluded his letter by reaffirming his belief that strengthening alternative voices is essential to Singapore’s continued success. “Supporting PM Lawrence Wong’s leadership does not mean rejecting capable alternative voices like Harpreet’s,” he wrote. “On the contrary, such voices may be critical for Singapore’s long-term strength and prosperity.” Tan expressed optimism that Singapore can continue to evolve through openness and courage. “The road ahead will be more complex, but with openness and courage, Singapore can renew its spirit and meet the future with confidence.”