Yah Lah But #648 ft. Dr Tan See Leng - Foreign Talent, Economic Anxieties & Speaking Cantonese in Parliament
Apr 21, 2025
Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry, shares his journey from the business sector to politics during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses Singapore's economic anxieties, addressing the role of foreign workers amidst public concerns. Dr. Tan reflects on the importance of effective communication in Parliament, even when speaking Cantonese, and tackles topics like healthcare funding complexities and the need for long-term strategies. His insights offer a blend of optimism and practical solutions for navigating Singapore's future.
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Unexpected Political Entry
- Dr. Tan never planned to enter politics, coming from a business and entrepreneurship background.
- He was invited by the then PM to serve during the COVID crisis, which prompted his transition.
Business Mindset in COVID Crisis
- The COVID-19 pandemic demanded rapid, multi-faceted government response including manpower and energy sectors.
- Dr. Tan applied his business mindset for efficient crisis handling and long-term energy security.
Teamwork Drives Success
- Success in business depends on uplifting the weakest link and working as a team.
- Policies must engage and impact the majority positively and be refined continually post-implementation.
