Tan Chuan-Jin says not to 'over-interpret' Facebook post
Minster Tan Chuan-Jin has urged the public “not to read too much” into a Facebook post he put up following Tuesday’s (5 September) announcement of his nomination as the next Speaker of Parliament.
Tan, 48, had wrote “May God continue to grant me wisdom, courage and love in all that I do. However inadequate as I may be, I hope that I can fight the good fight, finish the race and keep the faith. And of course. My family. Words cannot express how much your continued love and support mean to me in carrying out my duties and responsibilities.”
The post quickly attracted attention and has since garnered more than 450 comments and 250 shares. Some of the comments were about the meaning behind his choice of words. Tan, however, clarified in an edit made on Wednesday evening that the post is a personal one on “faith and family”.
“It’s an affirmation of what I believe and cherish, as best as I can manage. I’ve shared these sentiments before so relax… no need to over-interpret LOL,” Tan wrote in the edit, which included two smiling emojis.
Tan, who has accepted the nomination, will step down as Minister for Social and Family Development. He will no longer be part of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s Cabinet.
If nominated successfully, he will be replacing Halimah Yacob, who resigned in August to contest in the upcoming presidential election. All changes will take effect on Monday (11 September).
In another Facebook post he made on Thursday morning, Tan thanked the public for their support.
“I give up. Paiseh. I can’t respond to every post! Too many… But thanks for all the What’sApp messages, FB posts, FB messages, emails. Really appreciate the effort to pen down your thoughts and sharing! It has always been a privilege and honour to serve and that doesn’t change with the role. Will do my best. And more,” he wrote.
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