Topsy-turvy: Heng (right), here with fellow 4G leader Chan Chun Sing, disrupted Singapore’s well-choreographed leadership succession plan when he announced his decision to step down to make way for a younger candidate. — AFP/Ariffin Jamar/The Straits Times
A nation known for its infallible governance has been thrown a curve ball.
SINGAPORE Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat dropped a bombshell when he announced his decision to step down as the leading fourth generation leader.
This simply means he won’t succeed 69-year-old Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
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Wong Chun Wai
Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang, and has served The Star for over 35 years in various capacities and roles. He is now group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. On The Beat made its debut on Feb 23 1997 and Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for the occasional press holiday when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star.
