A recent corruption investigation in Singapore has sent shockwaves through the city-state’s reputation for its clean government. The probe has implicated the country’s transport minister and a prominent billionaire hotelier, marking the first time in almost 40 years that a government minister has been involved in a corruption investigation.
The announcement of this probe has sparked widespread speculation on social media, and local officials have moved quickly to emphasize their commitment to zero tolerance for corruption. They have assured citizens that a thorough investigation will be conducted.
In response to the probe, Singapore’s Prime Minister has placed Transport Minister S. Iswaran on leave while the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) carries out its investigation.
The CPIB has also reached out to hotelier Ong Beng Seng to gather information regarding his interactions with Minister Iswaran. A notice of arrest has been issued to Ong, according to a corporate filing by Hotel Properties where Ong serves as the managing director. Ong has posted bail, provided the requested information to the CPIB, and is fully cooperating with the agency, as stated in the filing.
CPIB Interviews Iswaran in Investigation Case
The CPIB announced on Wednesday that it is in the process of interviewing Iswaran as part of an ongoing investigation. However, no further details have been provided regarding the case. During his absence, Iswaran will remain in Singapore without access to any official resources or government buildings, according to a statement from the prime minister’s office.
Both Iswaran and Ong have not been accused of any wrongdoing. In a corporate filing, Ong mentioned that he couldn’t disclose more information due to the ongoing nature of the matter.
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong assured the public that the ruling People’s Action Party will maintain transparency throughout the investigation. He emphasized that they will not conceal any potentially embarrassing or damaging information concerning the PAP and the government.
Singapore is renowned for its low corruption rates, which have contributed to its status as a preferred global investment hub. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index 2022 ranked Singapore as Asia’s least corrupt country and fifth globally, surpassing other nations like Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, and Norway.
