Former NTUC Enterprise CEO Tan Suee Chieh urges cultural renewal, accountability in May Day message

Former NTUC Enterprise and NTUC Income CEO Tan Suee Chieh released a May Day message on 1 May 2025, marking the conclusion of a week-long series of open letters addressing political leadership and the Allianz-Income affair.

He began his letter with greetings for May Day, offering appreciation to Singaporean workers and unionists for their vital contributions to the nation.

Tan’s letter also wrapped up two previous open messages, one addressed to the voters of Jalan Kayu and another to Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, leader of the People’s Action Party (PAP) team contesting Punggol in the upcoming General Election.

Tan served as CEO of NTUC Income from 2007 to 2013 and subsequently as Group CEO of NTUC Enterprise from 2013 to 2017.

Questions over transparency and leadership remain

In his latest statement, Tan expressed disappointment that key issues he had raised remained unanswered.

While legal and regulatory explanations were provided, he argued they did not address the deeper concerns around ethics, leadership accountability, transparency, and inconsistent narratives.

“These are not personal attacks,” Tan clarified.

“My deeper concern lies with a broader political culture — one that avoids direct engagement, reframes legitimate concerns, and in so doing, undermines public trust.”

Public maturity and expectation for integrity

Tan pointed to a growing sentiment among Singaporeans that uncomfortable truths are being deflected rather than addressed.

He asserted that the public is now more informed and expects honesty from leadership, not avoidance.

“We are not asking for perfection,” he wrote. “We are asking for integrity. And respect.”

While acknowledging the challenges ahead, Tan noted that Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has a significant opportunity to lead cultural renewal in governance.

He called for a shift towards a more open, participatory, and respectful political culture.

Citizens urged to evaluate political responses

Tan encouraged Singaporeans — particularly voters in Punggol and Jalan Kayu — to assess whether responses to the Allianz-Income issue have adequately addressed the stakes involved.

“I leave it to the voters to judge,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the democratic values of justice, equality, and public engagement.

Tan had earlier urged Jalan Kayu residents to evaluate the leadership of Ng Chee Meng, a key figure linked to the failed Allianz-Income deal.

He emphasised the importance of accountability and governance in political representation.

He also publicly called on Gan Kim Yong to clarify his role in the failed transaction and take steps to rebuild trust in Singapore’s governance.

Support for political diversity and candidate endorsement

On 29 April 2025, Tan publicly endorsed Workers’ Party candidate Harpreet Singh Nehal for the upcoming General Election.

This move, while reaffirming his respect for PAP’s leadership, sparked public discussion over the evolving political landscape.

In his endorsement, Tan advocated for stronger alternative voices in Parliament and urged Singaporeans to participate actively in shaping the country’s democratic future.