During a recent parliamentary debate on political salaries, Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry, Tan See Leng, expressed concerns that the nation’s pool of potential political leaders could dwindle if the personal costs associated with entering public service escalate. He highlighted the significant sacrifices required for public service, which include extended working hours, increased responsibilities, continuous public scrutiny, and a loss of privacy. For many professionals, particularly those on the cusp of reaching their peak in private-sector careers, the transition into politics often entails leaving behind substantial opportunities.
Tan noted the experiences of prominent figures such as Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan and former Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen, who both transitioned from successful medical careers into politics. He emphasized that the financial remuneration of ministerial positions could not compete with the lucrative prospects they forfeited. By entering politics, these individuals demonstrated a commitment to public service despite the financial drawbacks. Tan stressed the importance of attracting seasoned professionals, including entrepreneurs and finance experts, who are in their prime working years and often have familial obligations.
However, Tan cautioned that these potential candidates face a dilemma when weighing the personal costs of public service, such as the sacrifice of future career opportunities, personal ambitions, privacy, and income. The fear is that if these costs become excessive, Singapore might miss out on talented individuals ready to serve but deterred by the high personal price. This sentiment reflects the delicate balance required to ensure that public service remains an attractive option for skilled professionals.
Tan himself joined politics at the age of 55 after a substantial career spanning over thirty years in the private sector. Prior to his political career, he held senior executive roles in the healthcare industry, including serving as the group CEO and managing director of Parkway Pantai. He acknowledged that his extensive experience in the private sector provided him with financial stability and autonomy when deciding to enter the political arena. Drawing from his own journey, Tan remarked that no feasible ministerial salary could have equaled the earnings he had enjoyed in the private sector.