Halimah Yacob to get roles in Mendaki?

SINGAPORE: Communications and Information Minister Dr Yaacob Ibrahim said he is happy with the Minister of State for Social and Family Development Halimah Yacob’s nomination as Speaker of Parliament, but feels sad that the Cabinet and the Malay community will lose an important voice.

However, Dr Yaacob said he is thinking of giving her some roles in the Malay self—help group Mendaki.

He said: "I’ve been discussing with my CEO. Certainly we want to continue to tap on her interest and her capabilities, especially in those areas where she has a passion for — dysfunctional families, youths, girls, women. So I think there are things in which we will continue to work with Halimah while she continues her role as a Speaker."

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a community event on Saturday, he also urged Punggol East voters to give Dr Koh Poh Koon at fair chance. Dr Koh is the People’s Action Party candidate for the Punggol East by—election.

He described Dr Koh as a sincere and honest person, and urged voters to get to know Dr Koh better.

— CNA/xq