NTUC’s Jean See sworn in as Labour Nominated Member of Parliament; Seah Kian Peng becomes 11th parliamentary speaker

Leader of the House Indranee Rajah extends welcome to both on 2 August sitting.

By Ian Tan Hanhonn 02 Aug 2023
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NTUC U FSE Director Jean See and NTUC Enterprise Group CEO Seah Kian Peng have taken their seats as Labour Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) and Speaker of the House in Parliament respectively.

 

Ms See was sworn into parliament along with eight other NMPs during the 14th parliament of Singapore on 2 August 2023. Please see ANNEX A for the list of former and current NMPs from the Labour Movement.

 

Meanwhile, Mr Seah – who was the deputy speaker of the house between 2011 to 2016 – became the 11th Speaker of Parliament.

 

They were both welcomed to parliament by Leader of the House Indranee Rajah, together with eight other new NMPs.

 

She said: “With the speaker’s seat filled, we can once again focus our attention on the pressing issues that are at the top of people’s minds, and push ahead with the Government’s agenda for the remainder of this term of parliament … To our NMPs, a warm welcome and we look forward to your participation in Parliament.”

 

Two decades of championing workers

 

Ms See joined NTUC Industrial Relations Department in October 2003.

 

Since then, she has held positions in the former Metal Industries Workers’ Union (now known as Advanced Manufacturing Employees’ Union [AMEU]), Education Services Union (ESU), as well as Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU).

 

She now serves as the executive secretary to the Visual, Audio, Creative Content Professionals Association (VICPA); National Delivery Champions Association (NDCA); the National Instructors and Coaches Association (NICA).

 

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The 11th Speaker of Parliament

 

Mr Seah, in his inaugural speech as the speaker of parliament, urged all members respect the rules of parliament as they execute their responsibilities in representing the people of Singapore.

 

He added that it is crucial for members to establish rigorous ethical benchmarks to meet the standards of a parliamentarian.

 

He said: “I look forward with cautious optimism that even during spirited debates, you honourable members will maintain the highest standards of decorum and conduct that are fitting for this esteemed house.

 

“By all means, debate and speak with passion and conviction but let us all ensure we keep to and uphold the rules that we all signed up to when we became parliamentarians in this house. This applies to elected members of parliament, non-constituency or nominated members of parliament.”

 

In her welcome speech, Ms Indranee recounted Mr Seah’s notable contributions such as twice successfully moving a Private Member’s Bill to amend the Maintenance of Parents Act, and his service in various committees of parliament.

 

She said: “Sir, you bring a wealth of experience to the Chair. You have served as a Member of Parliament for Marine Parade GRC since 2006, and since that time you have given voice to the aspirations and concerns of your residents and Singaporeans in this House. As a Labour MP, you have been a strong advocate for the Labour Movement.

 

“Mr Speaker Sir, congratulations once again on your election and our best wishes as you take up the chairmanship of proceedings in this House.”

 

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ANNEX A

 

Former and Current NMPs from the Labour Movement

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