'I do so knowing that we have good strong teams to serve you': Teo Chee Hean on retiring after 3 decades of politics

Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean will be retiring from politics after a storied career as one of Singapore's longest-serving politicians.

Teo previously shared that he will be stepping down as Member of Parliament for Pasir Ris on Apr. 21.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong subsequently confirmed Teo's retirement in a Facebook post on Nomination Day (Apr. 23).

In a letter to Pasir Ris and Punggol residents on Facebook, Teo reflected on the over 20 years spent serving the community in that area.

He added that the residents can count on the "good strong teams" that the People's Action Party has fielded at Pasir Ris-Changi and Punggol GRCs.

"I know that you have good and caring hands ready to serve you. Please give them your support."

"Giants in public service"

Commending Teo and Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, who is also retiring, Wong described both men as "giants in public service" and "remarkable individuals who have dedicated their entire careers to serving their fellow citizens, and advancing our nation’s interests".

Wong wrote:

"A strategist at heart, he brought an incisive mind to bear on complex issues, with a laser focus on effective policies that make a difference.

He was a statesman who represented Singapore with distinction on the global stage.

He created space and opportunities for our country internationally.

His contributions over the years allowed us to resolve complex and long-standing bilateral issues – including the agreements on extradition, airspace and defence cooperation between Singapore and Indonesia."

Teo has held a myriad of portfolios — the then-Ministry of the Environment, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Home Affairs.

He was appointed Deputy Prime Minister for a decade from 2009 to 2019.

Aside from his current position as Senior Minister, Teo is also Coordinating Minister for National Security, and oversees the Smart Nation and Digital Government Group, the National Security Coordination Secretariat, the National Population and Talent Division and the National Climate Change Secretariat under the Prime Minister's Office.

"His leadership has enabled our little red dot to stand tall and proud in the world," Wong said.

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong posted a tribute as well, sharing that he and Teo have known each other since university.

"Chee Hean was a steady presence in Cabinet and a pillar of strength in my 3G team," SM Lee said.

He stated how Teo was someone to rely on to deal with crises such as the pandemic, and also "never hesitated to express views that were different from mine".

"I always valued Chee Hean’s thoughtful reactions to my ideas, his strategic clarity, and sound judgment."

Three decades of politics

In his post, Wong said Teo was already a "seasoned and respected veteran" when Wong himself joined politics.

Prior to entering Parliament, Teo was part of the Singapore Armed Forces. He then ascended to the position of Chief of Navy in 1991, holding the rank of rear-admiral.

Teo made his political debut in the 1992 by-elections for Marine Parade GRC as part of a team led by former prime minister Goh Chok Tong.

In the next general election in 1997, Teo was moved to the newly-created Pasir Ris GRC, and won.

Teo has stayed there ever since, winning six general elections in a row.

Top photo from Teo Chee Hean / FB