Singapore system based on merit

We refer to your article 'Promotion tightens Lee family grip' (South China Morning Post, May 21). In Singapore, appointments in the public sector and government-linked companies (GLCs) are made strictly on merit. Where appointments which are justified on merit may be politically sensitive, the Prime Minister is consulted, and makes the final decision.

Ho Ching was appointed to the post of executive director at Temasek Holdings from outside, not 'promoted', because S Dhanabalan, Temasek's chairman, thought she was the best person for the job.

Mr Dhanabalan, with the full support of the board, had originally wanted to appoint Ms Ho as CEO of Temasek in August last year, to strengthen the holding company and give strategic direction to the GLCs.

Deputy Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong consulted the Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong. Mr Lee was uncomfortable because he chaired the Ministerial Committee on GLCs and Competition Policy, even though he was then not the Minister for Finance. He felt it would be awkward if he had to decide for or against recommendations from Temasek. Mr Goh agreed with his reservation.

However, Mr Dhanabalan still wanted to use Ms Ho. In November, he proposed to Mr Goh that she be appointed as executive director. He would reconstitute the executive committee of Temasek and chair it himself. The Exco, with Ms Ho as a member, reports to the Temasek board which in turn reports to the Ministry of Finance. Ms Ho would therefore not be reporting directly to Mr Lee. The Prime Minister therefore agreed to her appointment as executive director.

ONG KENG YONG