Cabinet reshuffle sees Ng Chee Meng appointed Minister in Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced that NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng will be appointed as Minister in Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) with effect from 27 July 2026.

The decision came as part of a Cabinet reshuffle announced on 22 July 2026. The move is part of Mr Wong’s broader effort to refresh his Cabinet and align ministerial responsibilities with Singapore’s evolving economic priorities.

Mr Ng will continue to serve as NTUC Secretary-General.

Focus on jobs and workforce transformation

The appointment comes as the Government places greater emphasis on jobs, workplace transformation and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on workers and businesses, said the Prime Minister.

During a press conference held at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), Mr Wong explained that while Mr Ng had previously asked to focus on his work in Jalan Kayu and at NTUC, circumstances have changed over the past year.

“Jobs and workplace transformation have become a much higher priority for the Government,” said Mr Wong.

The Prime Minister felt it was timely for Mr Ng to return to Government and Cabinet, where he could contribute not only as the labour chief, but also as a minister in his team.

“I think he will be able to make a more impactful contribution to tackle a national challenge which we face. So I approached him and he agreed to do so,” he said.

Mr Ng reaffirms commitment as NTUC leader and Cabinet Minister

Mr Ng thanked the Prime Minister for his trust and confidence. With his new appointment, he committed to work more closely with the Government in supporting workers and ensuring Singapore’s progress.

He said: “Having spent time with residents, union leaders, workers and tripartite partners on the ground, I am deeply encouraged by the support, feedback and trust shown to me.”

Mr Ng also thanked residents of Jalan Kayu for their trust and support, saying he remained committed to serving them and representing their interests. He also expressed his gratitude to union leaders, NTUC members and tripartite partners for their partnership and support.

“Let us continue to work hand in hand for fellow Singaporeans, our workers and our Singapore,” he said.

Since the 2025 General Election, Mr Ng has devoted himself to serving the needs of his residents in Jalan Kayu, while continuing to champion the interests of workers.

Over the past year, he oversaw the launch of AI-Ready SG to equip workers with future-ready skills, advanced the Company Training Committees (CTC) initiative to support workforce and business transformation, drove the formation of the Tripartite Jobs Council (TJC) to strengthen support for worker transitions, and advocated for stronger support for displaced workers, lower-income workers and vulnerable families.

Changes at MOM and MTI

Meanwhile, as part of the reshuffle, Minister of State for both Information and Education Jasmin Lau will join the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) as Acting Minister. She will also been promoted to Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information. She will relinquish her appointment in the Ministry of Education (MOE).

She will take over the manpower portfolio from Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.

Dr Tan will be moving to the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). MTI will be renamed the Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry (METI) from 1 October 2026.

Under the new appointment, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong will oversee trade and economic strategy, while Dr Tan will take charge of the energy and industry portfolio.