SG proposes bill allowing president and ministers to accept roles in int'l organisations

Allowing such will enhance SG's international standing, said the PMO.

Singapore is proposing to create a legal framework allowing the president and ministers to accept appointments in foreign and international organisations in their private capacities should the Cabinet find that the appointment "is in the national interest."

Currently, there are no provisions for the president, as the head of state, to take up public roles where he acts in his private capacity.

The Constitution of the Republic of Singapore (Amendment No. 3) Bill was introduced in Parliament on 6 November.

"The president or ministers are invited to take up key positions in foreign and international organisations. These organisations typically invite individuals to serve in their private capacities instead of their official capacities," said the Prime Minister's Office (PMO).

“Accepting such positions can enhance Singapore's international standing and help to advance our national interest,” said the PMO.