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Empathy and sympathy
Associate Professor Eugene Tan said one of Wong’s defining features was his ability to explain complex policies in simple terms to ordinary Singaporeans.
“His ability to express emotions and his firmness in implementing tough measures during the pandemic, and to say it without fear or prejudice, is impressive,” he added.
Associate Professor Tan Ern Sah noted that Wong’s approachability and empathy also helped him stand out.
Felix Tan, a political commentator at Nanyang Technological University, said Wong had been in the headlines “for all the right reasons” since the pandemic began.
“By heading one of the most critical crisis management task forces, the COVID-19 MTF, he is undoubtedly well placed to demonstrate his capabilities and Mr Wong deserves credit for achieving such a feat,” Dr Tan said.
“The nature and scope of the COVID-19 crisis is unprecedented, and it is clear that the operation of the Task Force over the past two years has better positioned him in the eyes of many Singaporeans. Moreover, as Finance Minister, he has had to make some painful, but at the same time necessary and prudent monetary and economic policy choices.”
Dr Tan also noted that Mr Wong’s public persona is “positively perceived” by many Singaporeans, and that he believes he is able to reach out to many young people and to social issues such as race and religion.
All of this helped Wong take the lead, he noted.
“His calm demeanor, although unassuming at times, clearly sets him apart from the rest,” Dr Tan said.
“Wong brings to the table rationality, persuasiveness and the ability to clearly express his ideas in the simplest terms, which sets him apart from others.”
Dr Wu Jun Jie, a senior research fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies (IPS), said Wong brought “rich policy experience” to his new leadership role.
“This includes his public service experience at the Ministry of Finance and the Energy Market Authority (EMA). His experience as EMA’s chief executive officer will be particularly important as Singapore faces potential challenges from climate change and energy shocks,” Dr Wu said.
“Most importantly, my experience as MTF Co-Chair and Minister of Finance has allowed me to gain strong experience in strategic leadership – critical roles that require me to coordinate the efforts of various ministries and agencies and gain the trust and support of other Ministers.”
Dr Felix Tan noted that the timing of the announcement would give Wong and his team more “room to maneuver” to rally support for the new effort, which is already underway.
“Announcing it at this point will give the President an opportunity to show more Singaporeans what else he can offer Singaporeans, whether that be economic and financial assistance due to the rising cost of living, or mitigating other social issues that have surfaced, such as race and religion,” he added.
Next Election
PM Lee said he would make adjustments to his cabinet following the decision and would announce the results at a later date.
Mr Lee said in November last year that Singapore’s 4G team “needs some more time” to choose its next leader, but that a decision would be made well before the next election.
“As the situation stabilises, deciding on a successor will be an important issue that cannot be postponed indefinitely,” said Lee, speaking at the Suntec Convention Centre during the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) 2021 conference.
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