SINGAPORE - The resignation of Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim leaves gaps in Cabinet and its Malay/Muslim representation that could further hasten a reshuffle, said analysts.

They also said that Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s resolute and swift handling of the matter reaffirms the high standards expected of politicians in Singapore, and shows that the Government prioritises accountability over political convenience.

Faishal had on July 20 resigned as a political office-holder, MP and member of the PAP after a “lapse in judgment” in his interactions with a female member of the public that fell short of the standards expected of him.

Their interactions, mostly through online messages, came to PM Wong’s attention about a month ago when his office received an email from the woman.

In his statement on July 20, PM Wong said Senior Minister of State for Defence and Sustainability and the Environment Zaqy Mohamad would replace Faishal as Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs.

Singapore Management University (SMU) law professor Eugene Tan said Faishal’s resignation is a “significant setback” for the 4G leadership.

“Faishal was popular on the ground with his unassuming ways and ease of connecting with people. So his resignation has come as a rude shock to some,” he added.

He and other analysts also said that the development could affect Cabinet strength in the short term, and leadership succession in the longer term.

IPS Social Lab senior research fellow Teo Kay Key noted that another 4G politician Koh Poh Koon had also in June stepped down from his roles as senior minister of state for manpower and health, citing the need to focus on his family.

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