Ng Chee Meng Appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office

Singapore, Singapore Jul 22, 2026 ALN: SINGAPORE - Labour chief Ng Chee Meng will be appointed Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office from July 27. This announcement was made during a press conference at the National Press Centre on July 22, where Prime Minister Lawrence Wong outlined several cabinet changes, emphasizing the increasing importance of jobs and workforce transformation in the Government's agenda.

Prime Minister Wong articulated that the current economic landscape, characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifts in workforce dynamics, necessitated Ng's return to the Government and Cabinet. He stated, “I felt given the concerns about the economic and workforce challenges we face, it was timely for him to return to the Government, to return to Cabinet, and contribute not just as Secretary-General of NTUC, but as the Minister in my team.” This reflects a broader commitment by the Government to address pressing issues related to employment and the evolving demands on the workforce.

The significance of jobs as a focal point in parliamentary discussions has been underscored repeatedly in recent sessions. Ng Chee Meng, who previously introduced a motion regarding the implications of artificial intelligence on employment, has been recognized for his proactive stance on workforce issues. His engagement with the community in his ward at Jalan Kayu over the past year has also been noted, highlighting his commitment to local constituents.

In the 2025 General Election, Ng won the newly created Jalan Kayu single seat with 51.47 percent of the vote, securing a victory against the Workers' Party's (WP) candidate Andre Low in a closely contested race. However, shortly after the May 3 polls, Ng expressed a desire to focus on his responsibilities within the NTUC and his constituency, requesting Prime Minister Wong not to assign him a governmental role at that time. Wong respected this request but anticipated Ng's return to the Cabinet in the near future.

The position of the NTUC secretary-general within the Cabinet has historical precedence, beginning with Lim Chee Onn's appointment in 1980, establishing a tradition that underscores the importance of labor representation in governance. Ng, who has served as NTUC secretary-general since 2018, was notably the first labor chief in decades to not hold a Cabinet position, marking a departure from this established norm. His political career began in 2015 when he was elected as part of the People's Action Party (PAP) team in Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC. Since then, he has held various Cabinet roles, including Minister for Education (Schools) and Second Minister for Transport. In 2020, he led the PAP team in the newly formed Sengkang GRC but faced defeat against a WP team.

In a media statement released on July 22, Ng expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Wong for placing his trust in him and inviting him back to serve in the Cabinet. He stated, “I am humbled by this appointment and accept it with a strong sense of responsibility.” Ng emphasized the progress made in Jalan Kayu, where he has worked with a dedicated team to enhance local infrastructure, including the development of sheltered linkways, upgraded playgrounds, fitness corners, sports facilities, new bus services, and ongoing enhancements to the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system.

On the topic of labor and employment, Ng highlighted the NTUC's priority to prepare the workforce for the impending transformations driven by artificial intelligence. He articulated a vision for an AI transition that avoids job losses, stating, "NTUC is working towards an AI transition with no jobless growth." Central to this initiative is the AI-Ready SG program, which aims to equip workers, including professionals, managers, and executives (PMEs), with the skills necessary to adapt to these technological changes.

The Tripartite Jobs Council, which includes representatives from NTUC, the Ministry of Manpower, and the Singapore National Employers Federation, plays a crucial role in this strategy. The Council is focused on enhancing workforce skills and assisting companies in redesigning jobs while integrating new technologies in response to disruptions caused by AI advancements. Ng's leadership within this framework is expected to bolster efforts to ensure that workers are prepared for the future job market.

Ng's dual role as NTUC Secretary-General and Cabinet Minister positions him uniquely to advocate for better wages, welfare, and employment opportunities for workers. He remarked, “Being in Cabinet means I can work even more closely with the Government to support workers and Singapore’s progress, alongside unions and employers.” This collaboration is seen as essential in addressing the challenges posed by an evolving economy and workforce.

The NTUC's central committee expressed satisfaction with Ng's return to the Cabinet, commending Prime Minister Wong for recognizing Ng’s ongoing contributions to both residents and workers. They emphasized that Ng’s appointment will reinforce the representation of workers' interests within national policymaking, particularly during a time marked by significant economic transformation, technological disruptions, and changes in the workforce landscape.

Furthermore, the NTUC highlighted that Ng’s experience as a former Cabinet Minister, combined with his current role as Secretary-General, provides him with a comprehensive understanding of both national policy and the concerns of workers. This dual perspective is expected to enhance his ability to champion workers’ interests while contributing to Singapore’s broader development and progress.

In conclusion, Ng Chee Meng's appointment as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office signifies a strategic move by the Government to address the critical issues surrounding employment and workforce transformation in Singapore. His experience and commitment to labor issues are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that support workers in navigating the complexities of an AI-driven economy, ensuring that their voices are heard in the corridors of power as Singapore continues to evolve in the face of global challenges.