Tan Chuan-Jin to appear at SMF Masterclass following political resignation

Former Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin is set to make his first public appearance since his resignation from Parliament at an upcoming masterclass series hosted by the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) Centre for Corporate Learning.

The series, which begins on Wednesday, 10 July 2024, will take place at the SMF’s new office from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

This educational initiative, which is charged at S$1,000, comprises three series, each with two sessions designed to enhance leadership skills and strategic communication. The courses aim to equip participants with a deeper understanding of critical issues facing Singapore, develop their leadership philosophies, and explore the dynamics of shaping public perceptions.

Mr Tan, a former brigadier-general, has had a distinguished career in both the military and politics in Singapore. A member of the governing People’s Action Party (PAP), he served as the Speaker of Parliament from 2017 to 2023 and as Member of Parliament (MP) for Marine Parade GRC from 2011 until his resignation in 2023.

The session marks Mr Tan’s return to the public eye following his controversial resignation as Speaker of Parliament and Member of Parliament in July 2023. His departure was prompted by revelations of an extramarital affair with fellow People’s Action Party (PAP) member, Cheng Li Hui, which began in 2020.

The Facebook post promoting the course appears to have been removed as of Monday evening after receiving significant attention from netizens, with over 90 shares. Screenshots of the post were taken and shared via private messaging; however, the signup form remains accessible.

In his resignation, Mr Tan expressed regret over his actions and committed to mending his personal relationships. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong accepted the resignations, emphasizing the necessity of upholding high standards of propriety within the PAP.

In a poignant address to Parliament in August last year, PM Lee commented on the situation: “Regrettably, in the end, Mr Tan and Ms Cheng did not stop the affair, and both had to go. On reflection, as I said, I should have forced the issue earlier, certainly before midterm. These sorts of relationships happen from time to time. They have happened in the past, and no doubt will happen again in the future. In such cases, what is done depends on many factors – the circumstances, how inappropriate or scandalous the behaviour is, and the family situations.”

Further reinforcing the party’s stance, PM Lee added, “We also have to be conscious of the impact on innocent parties – particularly the spouses and children… This is not a new position – it reflects the PAP’s longstanding practice, since the days of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew.”

According to rumours, actions eventually had to be taken as legal proceedings were initiated by Mr Tan’s wife in family court. No confirmations or clarifications were ever issued regarding these speculations. However, this would explain the sudden decision (or order) to resign alongside his extramarital affair partner, especially since the affair had already been brought to PM Lee’s attention first in November 2020.

Regarding a Facebook post promoting a course led by Mr Tan, netizens inquired about the type of leadership training to expect. Some responded humorously with “Leadership in workplace relations.”

Renowned marathon runner Soh Rui Yong also weighed in on the post before it was removed, offering a lengthy suggestion about what the course might entail.