Press Statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong

I intend to nominate Mdm Halimah Yacob to be elected as the Speaker of Parliament when Parliament next sits on Jan 14th. I briefed PAP MPs on this at a party caucus this afternoon, and received their full support.

As the Speaker cannot be elected from members who are office holders, Mdm Halimah will be resigning as Minister of State (MOS) on 13 January 2013.

I wish to thank Mdm Halimah for her many valuable contributions in the Cabinet, and as MOS(Community Development, Youth and Sports) and subsequently MOS(Social and Family Development) over the past two years. In Cabinet, Halimah spoke up with a practical, compassionate voice, helping us to shape effective policies with a human touch.

In her portfolio, Halimah oversaw the expansion of home- and community-based eldercare services, and introduced innovative concepts such as Senior Care Centres and Senior Home Care Services. She enhanced ComCare support for the poor and needy, and strengthened services for children and families in need of care and protection. Halimah also worked with women’s groups to expand the space for women to contribute to our economy and society. She is passionate about these issues, and threw her heart and soul into the work, as she had done during her time in NTUC, tirelessly championing the cause of low-wage workers.

I look forward to Mdm Halimah continuing her interest in social issues and pre-school education, in a suitable capacity that is compatible with her role as Speaker.

PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE
08 JANUARY 2013