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Recap: Faishal Ibrahim resigns

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PAP chairman Desmond Lee said that no by-election will be called in
\r\nMarine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.

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Edited by Ang Qing, Aqil Hamzah

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Published: July 20, 2026

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\r\n","liveBlogId","2331","isLiveBlog",true,"isMultidayLiveblog",false,"multidayLiveBlogMapping",[],"uniqueName","live-singapore-faishal-Ibrahim-resignation","infiniteScroll",{"_46":47},"additionalStories",[],"advertisements",[50,58,62],{"_5":51,"_52":53,"_54":55,"_56":57},"lb1","page","liveblog","slot","/5908/st/lb1/liveblog","id","dfp-ad-lb1",{"_5":59,"_52":53,"_54":60,"_56":61},"catfish","/5908/st/catfish/liveblog","dfp-ad-catfish",{"_5":63,"_52":53,"_54":64,"_56":65},"prestitial","/5908/st/prestitial/liveblog","dfp-ad-prestitial","metaData",{"_20":21,"_68":21,"_69":21,"_70":43,"_24":71,"_72":71,"_73":74,"_75":76,"_77":78,"_79":80},"ogTitle","twitterTitle","slug","PAP chairman Desmond Lee said that no by-election will be called in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC. Follow ST's live coverage.","ogDescription","jsonLd","{\"@context\":\"https:\\/\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"LiveBlogPosting\",\"@id\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/live-singapore-faishal-Ibrahim-resignation\",\"headline\":\"Live: Faishal Ibrahim resigns over inappropriate text messages with woman\",\"description\":\"The Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs said there was no physical relationship between him and the woman, who is a member of the public.\",\"coverageStartTime\":\"2026-07-20T12:30:00+08:00\",\"coverageEndTime\":\"2026-07-21T23:59:00+08:00\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/assets\\/ST-logo-default-aoeSLh4S.png\",\"width\":\"1228\",\"height\":\"96\"}},\"liveBlogUpdate\":[{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Code of conduct reminds office holders of standards to uphold, says Desmond Lee\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T18:26:19+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T20:08:27+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"When asked about the boundaries MPs should observe, given that they frequently communicate with residents through WhatsApp and social media, Desmond Lee said there is a code of conduct for all office holders and MPs, which applies to their everyday actions.He added that it applies to MPs whether it involves physical interactions, online communications or in the things that they say or do.\\u201cAnd I think when it comes to online communication, this applies with equal force,\\u201d he said.He said that the standards that PAP holds all MPs and office holders to has been clearly outlined, and PM Wong sends the code of conduct to all of them every year.He added that Faishal\\u2019s decision to resign is painful, but the correct one.In response to a follow-up question about whether this has damaged public trust in the PAP, he said: \\u201cWhen these things happen, it\\u2019s always painful, it\\u2019s always difficult. People, of course, will be concerned... We will double down on looking out for their interests and needs in order to maintain public trust.\\u201dST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No by-election will be called: Desmond Lee\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T18:14:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T20:04:41+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"When asked if there will be a by-election, PAP chairman Desmond Lee said: \\u201cThere will be no by-election called.\\u201dCiting the past cases of Jurong GRC and Sengkang GRC, Lee said the key is whether residents' needs are adequately provided for.\\u201cWe will make sure that all the existing MPs step up, step forward and look after the residents of Kembangan,\\u201d he said, adding that further arrangements on how the the team will be strengthened will be announced in due course.ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Mak Mun San\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"'A very good MP': Some Kembangan residents saddened by Faishal\\u2019s resignation\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T19:39:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T19:41:28+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Several Kembangan residents who spoke to ST today said they were shocked by Faishal\\u2019s resignation, as they had a good impression of him as an MP.Describing him as \\u201cfriendly and approachable\\u201d, retiree Rita Chan said it was a pity he had to step down in this manner.\\u201cI feel very sad,\\u201d said Nor Mala, who works as a cook, adding that she hopes another Malay MP will be assigned to the ward.Joreen Liu, who is self-employed, added that the Kembangan estate was clean and well taken care of.\\u201cPeople always say MPs only visit during election time, but I see the MPs around,\\u201d she said. \\u201c(Faishal) was a nice guy, patient and sincere. It\\u2019s a waste.\\u201dEarlier on Monday, MPs of Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC said their immediate priority is to ensure Kembangan residents are taken care of.ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ian Cheng\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Seah Kian Peng assures residents of Kembangan that MPs will work \\u2018doubly hard\\u2019\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T18:34:34+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T19:30:43+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng told the media that his team will look after residents of the ward.Said Seah: \\\"We will step up, we will step forward and we will work doubly hard.\\u201dReferring to the planned Meet-the-People session for the ward on Monday nights, he said \\u201cbusiness will go on as usual\\u201d, adding that other MPs in the GRC \\u201cwill be around\\u201d. He was flanked by Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC MPs Diana Pang and Goh Pei Ming. Seah explained that the other GRC teammate Tin Pei Ling is overseas.Seah said Faishal\\u2019s departure from the team will be felt by the residents.Seah recalled speaking to Faishal over the weekend and before he could utter his first words, the former minister had told him that he felt sorry for the residents and volunteers.Seah said the MPs will ensure that all community activities continue because the mission does not end.He also addressed a question on how the MP for Kembangan had changed for a second time over three years, saying that it was \\u201cunfortunate\\u201d.Former Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin, who was MP for Kembangan, had quit in July 2023. Seah added: \\u201cAs a team, we always focus on what we need to do going forward, and the commitment we made to the residents at Kembangan is that\\u2026with the team behind us, we got a good team, a strong team.\\u201dST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Mak Mun San\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal was on leave of absence from June 29 to July 19\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T19:00:44+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T19:25:53+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal was granted leave of absence from his duties as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs and Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs from June 29 to July 19, according to a notification on the Government e-Gazette dated July 20.His leave was granted by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, with the advice of PM Wong.He had previously been on leave of absence from May 16 to June 3.PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM E-GAZETTE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"What we know so far about Faishal Ibrahim\\u2019s resignation\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T19:10:33+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T19:13:06+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"About a month ago, the Prime Minister\\u2019s Office received an e-mail from a female member of the public concerning her interactions with Faishal, who was Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs and MP for the Kembangan ward of Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.PM Wong said he had asked for the matter to be looked into immediately.Both Faishal and the woman were spoken to separately to understand their accounts. It was revealed that most of their interactions took place through online messages. They also met on the sidelines of public events.Both parties then made allegations of harassment against each other, and the matter was referred to the Police. The Attorney-General's Chambers assessed that no criminal offence had been committed by either party.Faishal said while there was no physical relationship between him and the woman, there was a lapse of judgment in the way he had handled the interactions, and in failing to establish clearer boundaries at an earlier stage.Faishal accepted that his conduct fell short of the standards expected of a political office holder and MP so he tendered his resignation.Faishal, who is married and has two children, said he decided to step away from politics so that he can devote his time and attention to his family.Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad was appointed as Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs, while the remaining MPs in Marine-Parade Braddell Heights will continue to serve residents in Kembangan.It was revealed that Faishal was granted a leave of absence from his duties from June 29 to July 19.PAP chairman Desmond Lee said there will be no by-election for the GRC.READ MORE HEREPHOTO: MDDI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PAP chairman Desmond Lee, Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng prepare to speak to media\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T18:05:05+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T18:26:20+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Party chairman Desmond Lee, as well as MPs of Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC are currently at the PAP Kembangan branch to deliver comments to the media.The branch office at Block 413 Eunos Road is where Faishal\\u2019s Meet-the-People sessions are conducted.We\\u2019ll bring you more on this shortly.ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PAP to make additional arrangements to strengthen Marine Parade-Braddell Heights team: Desmond Lee\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T18:14:00+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T18:14:57+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"PAP chairman Desmond Lee said that the party will make additional arrangements to strengthen the team at Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC, following Faishal\\u2019s resignation.Details will be made known in due course, he added.Lee, who is also Education Minister, said: \\u201cWe know that many residents and supporters will be disappointed by what has happened, and we are deeply sorry to have let them down.\\u201cMaintaining high standards of integrity and conduct is fundamental to the PAP, and we will continue to hold ourselves to those standards.\\u201dHe added that for now, the other Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC MPs will continue to serve residents and ensure that their needs are well looked after. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal resigns over online messages with woman: What happened\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T17:45:44+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T17:45:44+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\" \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal\\u2019s resignation a setback for 4G team, may hasten Cabinet reshuffle: Analysts\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T17:13:27+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T17:31:12+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal\\u2019s resignation is a setback for the 4G leadership and its connection to the Malay-Muslim community, said Singapore Management University law professor Eugene Tan.He cited how Faishal was made Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs to shore up support of the Malay-Muslim ground after the 2025 General Election, and that he was similarly redeployed to Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC to bolster the team.Teo Kay Key, a senior research fellow at IPS Social Lab, said that with two 4G political office-holders leaving in short succession, the party leaders may need to now spend more effort thinking of how to update the slate.Former senior minister of state for manpower and health Koh Poh Koon had stepped down from his posts in June.\\u201cWhile the current front-bench numbers still look adequate, we also have to remember that most are balancing multiple portfolios on top of their regular MP duties, hence, it might not be always sustainable to look within the group for further succession planning, and instead expand to the backbenchers or newer MPs,\\u201d she said.Political observer Zulkifli Baharudin noted that the position of a Minister for Muslim Affairs is unique to Singapore. It is the highest position in the Constitution that reflects how society and the Government want to preserve and protect the dignity of Malays, their race and religion, he said.Given this, anyone holding the position must be someone of solid integrity and must have moral authority, said the former Nominated MP.\\u201cMalays treat this position as a sacred position. It\\u2019s not an ordinary minister. If you are the Malay Muslim minister, you have to be able to stand up to certain moral positions,\\u201d he said. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"There was a lapse of judgment on my part: Faishal in resignation letter to PM Wong\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T12:53:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T17:17:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal, in a letter of resignation to PM Wong on Monday, said there was no physical relationship between him and the woman, and he had not intended for the interactions to develop into one.But he said on reflection, he recognised that conduct \\u201cfell short of the standards expected of me and was not consistent with the responsibilities entrusted to me\\u201d.\\u201cThere was a lapse of judgment on my part in the way I handled the interactions and in failing to establish clearer boundaries at an earlier stage,\\u201d said Faishal, who is married and has two children.\\u201cI have therefore decided it is right for me to step away from politics so that I can devote my time and attention to my family.\\u201dIn a letter accepting Faishal\\u2019s resignation dated Monday, PM Wong said: \\u201cI am saddened that you are leaving politics under these circumstances.\\u201cBut I appreciate your acknowledgment that your conduct fell short of the standards expected of you, and your decision to take responsibility for it.\\u201d\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"\\u2018I pray we move past this chapter,\\u2019 says Hazlina Abdul Halim\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T17:03:01+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T17:08:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Describing the news as \\u201cshocking and disappointing\\u201d, East Coast GRC MP Hazlina Abdul Halim said Faishal had given so much of himself over decades of public service and added that she hopes society can move past this chapter.\\u201cI pray we move past this chapter and continue to build upon Prof\\u2019s good work which does not go away,\\u201d she said in a Facebook post.Hazlina added that she had previously worked with new Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad when she sat on the board of Yayasan Mendaki, as well as in the capacity of a community leader.She added that she appreciates Zaqy for his candour and willingness to listen to different perspectives.\\u201cI pray for Acting Minister Zaqy to assume this mammoth responsibility with humility, conviction, and care, God willing.\\u201d \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal Ibrahim\\u2019s political roots\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:39:41+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T16:43:41+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal was first introduced as a PAP candidate for Marine Parade GRC during GE2006.The then real estate lecturer at the National University of Singapore had been involved in the party\\u2019s work since 1997.The third of four children of a driver father and a factory operator mother had hit the books to improve his grades after realising how hard his parents worked. To earn extra income, his father had driven taxis at night and was a part-time musician, while his mother took on odd jobs.Faishal was asked to join the PAP by former MP for Holland-Bukit Panjang GRC Teo Ho Pin, who had invited him to help out at his Meet-the-People sessions. In 1997, he saw up close how these sessions were often the place of last resort for residents in need of financial and other forms of help.He left Singapore later that year for Manchester to start his doctorate in management sciences on an NUS scholarship.When he returned, the then assistant professor at NUS resumed his work with the party, and became involved in community work, including helping out at Malay-Muslim groups.He began to help out with Meet-the-People sessions at then Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC MP Penny Low's Punggol North ward.In an interview with The Straits Times introducing him as a candidate in April 2006, the academic, aged 38 at the time, described himself as being hesitant to take up positions as he was happy to help the community as an ordinary volunteer.He said he had been convinced about leadership and serving the community by then Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports Vivian Balakrishnan.When asked about his one weakness then, Faishal said his friends often tell him that he is too kind, such that it can become a disadvantage because some people may want to take advantage of him.Faishal was among four new candidates, including now Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, that had been fielded for a six-member PAP team for Marine Parade GRC led by then Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.PHOTO: BH FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal\\u2019s resignation reflects values of the party: Baey Yam Keng\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T16:26:08+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T16:40:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In an Instagram post, Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Ministry of Transport Baey Yam Keng recounted how he and Faishal entered politics at the same time in 2006.Describing Faishal\\u2019s resignation as unfortunate, Baey said the former minister has shown great courage and sense of responsibility to make this decision.He added: \\u201cThis also reflects the values of the party and the expectations of people in public office.\\u201dBaey said he has known Faishal as a humble and hard-working colleague over the last 20 years.He added:\\u201cSoft-spoken and unassuming, he takes his work very seriously.\\u201cHe used to live in my former constituency in Tampines North, and when I visited his block, his former neighbours would share good words about him.\\u201dBaey revealed that Faishal had quietly helped support the PAP\\u2019s campaign in Tampines during GE2025, and had shared guidance on how to serve the Malay-Muslim community over the past year. View this post on Instagram \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Past instances of MPs resigning over personal indiscretions\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T16:40:04+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T16:40:04+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal\\u2019s resignation on July 20 comes about three years after other MPs similarly stepped down for personal indiscretions.In this case, the Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC MP said there was no physical relationship between him and the woman. He also did not plan for their online interactions to develop into one.During the past cases that transpired in July 2023, however, the three MPs who stepped down had all been involved in affairs.Then-Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin and former Tampines GRC MP Cheng Li Hui were the first to resign from PAP on July 17, 2023.Then-PM Lee Hsien Loong said he learnt about their relationship some time after GE2020, but did not know when it began. The pair were counselled, but continued the relationship.This was followed by WP MP Leon Perera resigning on July 19, 2023, alongside senior party leader Nicole Seah. A video of the two out at dinner and behaving intimately was leaked online, although they denied the allegations at first.Faishal returned to the Marine Parade area in 2026, when the PAP team retained Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC in the first walkover at a general election since 2011. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"In pictures: Faishal's political career\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T16:14:13+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T16:14:13+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In 2006, Faishal Ibrahim was introduced as a PAP new face. Then 38 years old, he was part of a six-member team in Marine Parade GRC that won the contest in a walkover.Five years later, he would move to Nee Soon GRC after his previous Kaki Bukit Ward was absorbed into Aljunied GRC.Faishal (second from left), along with members of the PAP team contesting Nee Soon GRC in 2015. That year, he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Social and Family Development. Before that, he had been Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Transport.His first ministerial appointments would take place in 2020, when he was made Minister of State for Home Affairs and Minister of State for National Development.After 14 years in Nee Soon GRC, Faishal would return to Marine Parade, contesting in the newly created Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC. His team won in a walkover, and he was subsequently appointed Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, replacing Masagos Zulkifli.PHOTOS: ST, BH FILE \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Zaqy assures Muslim community that he will do his best in place of Faishal\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:03:31+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T16:09:34+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Speaking to the media at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information\\u2019s headquarters at Old Hill Street, Zaqy Mohamad said he \\u201cwill do his best\\u201d to serve the Muslim community as Acting Minister-in-charge for Muslim Affairs.\\u201cThere is still a lot of important work ahead for us, but we must continue building the progress our community has made,\\u201d the Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, as well as Defence, said in both English and Malay.Recounting that he has worked with Faishal for about 20 years, he said that he is saddened by the resignation, noting that he is sorry this happened.He declined to take questions from the media.READ MORE HEREST PHOTO: GIN TAY\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal stepping down is the honourable thing to do: Wan Rizal\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T15:53:32+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:53:32+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Jalan Besar GRC MP Wan Rizal said Faishal\\u2019s resignation came as a shock, leaving many deeply saddened.\\u201cProf himself acknowledged that the way he handled these interactions did not meet the standards expected of him,\\u201d he added.\\u201cTaking full responsibility and stepping down, in these circumstances, is the honourable thing to do. Let us give him and his family the space and time they need to work through this privately.\\u201dWan Rizal said Faishal\\u2019s warmth and care for the community were real.\\u201cHis contributions over nearly two decades in public office, and especially this past year as Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs, do not disappear,\\u201d he added.\\u201cThe work he put in to strengthen our community continues.\\u201dWan Rizal endorsed new Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad, noting that he has spent close to 10 years with Malay-Muslim community self-help group MENDAKI. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Association of Muslim Professionals says looking forward to working with Zaqy\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T15:41:45+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:41:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Responding to ST\\u2019s queries, chairperson of the Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) Fathurrahman Dawoed said the association had worked closely with Faishal on initiatives.This includes the Development & Reintegration Programme that supports the rehabilitation and reintegration of male Muslim drug offenders, as well as M3+ - a collaborative effort between key institutions in the Malay\\/Muslim community.\\u201cWe appreciate his support and contributions to these efforts,\\u201d he said.He added: \\u201cAs we continue to address important priorities for the community, it is important that we remain focused on the work ahead.\\u201cAMP looks forward to working closely with Mr Zaqy Mohamad and our partners, to continue advancing initiatives that strengthen the resilience, progress and economic well-being of the Malay\\/Muslim community.\\u201d \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal\\u2019s case reflects PAP\\u2019s expectation that its MPs are \\u2018whiter than white\\u2019\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T15:15:22+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:29:53+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The manner in which the PAP has handled former acting minister Faishal Ibrahim\\u2019s case reflects the ruling party\\u2019s expectation that its MPs are \\u201cwhiter than white\\u201d.In his resignation letter to PM Wong, Faishal said he recognised that his conduct in interacting with a female member of the public had fallen short of the standards expected of him. PM Wong replied that he appreciated Faishal\\u2019s acknowledgement, and his decision to take responsibility for it.What remains unclear in Faishal\\u2019s case is exactly what he did that made it untenable for him to continue in politics.Several PAP MPs have resigned over the years to take responsibility for their personal indiscretions - Michael Palmer did so in 2012 over an affair, as did David Ong in 2016. In 2023, then-Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin and PAP MP Cheng Li Hui resigned over an affair between them.Then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also set out the party\\u2019s expectations for its MPs when he announced Tan and Cheng\\u2019s resignations at a press conference. He said they had \\u201cfallen short of the high standards of propriety and personal conduct that we expect from all PAP MPs\\u201d.The PAP has to maintain party discipline and standards of conduct, even if it is politically embarrassing or costly, he said then - an approach that is consistent with Faishal\\u2019s resignation.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"\\u2018I do so with humility and a deep sense of responsibility\\u2019: Zaqy on new appointment\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:36:00+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:28:10+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Following his statement to the media earlier in the afternoon, new Acting Minister-in-charge for Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad said on Facebook that he takes on the role \\u201cwith humility and a deep sense of responsibility\\u201d.Citing his own experiences working with Faishal, he said he witnessed the latter\\u2019s dedication first-hand in working towards the development of the Muslim community, such as through initiatives like MENDAKI 2030 and TUNAS.\\u201cHis contributions to our community will not be forgotten,\\u201d said Zaqy.READ MORE HERE \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Immediate priority is to take care of Kembangan residents: Goh Pei Ming\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:26:23+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:14:26+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC MP Goh Pei Ming said in a Facebook post at 1.07pm that the \\u201cimmediate priority\\u201d for his team is to take care and serve the needs of Kembangan residents.Faishal was the MP overseeing the ward prior to resigning.Goh added that the remaining four MPs will handle all the Meet-the-People session cases and appeals for the ward, as well as continue ongoing community initiatives there.Describing Faishal as a \\u201cvaluable member\\u201d of the team, Goh said: \\u201cWe have watched how he connected well with Kembangan residents and how he cared deeply about the progress and welfare of our Malay-Muslim community.\\u201dNoting that he \\u201calways carried a smile on his face\\u201d despite working tirelessly, Goh also said that the team respected him for \\u201cdoing the right thing\\u201d by choosing to take responsibility and resign. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Former NMP Calvin Cheng thinks Faishal should not resign\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:41:59+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T15:01:09+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Weighing in on the resignation, former Nominated Member of Parliament Calvin Cheng said Faishal should not step down as the exchange did not involve any physical interaction, much less an affair.He said: \\u201cFaishal is a great guy, the friendliest, most amiable person you can ever meet. I think one has to balance losing a good minister\\/MP, with small failings that all human beings have.\\u201dCheng added that the PAP\\u2019s \\u201cwhiter-than-white, holier-than-thou attitude, will cost them in the long run\\u201d.Faishal was the minority candidate for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.In a separate post, Cheng questioned if a by-election needs to be called for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC, as group representation constituencies are meant to guarantee minority representation. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No by-elections for GRCs after recent incidents of minority MPs resigning\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:51:04+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T14:55:42+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"There has been no precedent for a by-election to be called after a member of a GRC steps down, even if that seat represented a minority ethnic group.The GRC scheme, which requires multiracial teams to be fielded in constituencies, was introduced during the 1988 general election with the view of ensuring minority representation in Parliament.No by-elections were called in recent history after minority MPs left their seats in Parliament.In 2021, former WP MP Raeesah Khan, who represented Sengkang GRC, resigned after lying in Parliament. Then Aljunied GRC MP Faisal Manap stepped in to help with her duties.In January 2024, former Transport Minister S. Iswaran, who represented West Coast GRC, resigned from Parliament and the PAP after the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau formally notified him of criminal charges.West Coast GRC MP Desmond Lee said then that his team will work with residents to continue serving the ground.However, in the cases involving former WP MP Yaw Shin Leong, former PAP Speaker of Parliament Michael Palmer and former PAP MP David Ong, by-elections were held in Hougang, Punggol East and Bukit Batok respectively as these were SMCs.READ MORE HERE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ang Qing\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Watch: Zaqy Mohamad on Faishal Ibrahim\\u2019s resignation as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:33:35+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T14:33:35+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Zaqy Mohamad said he \\u201cwill do his best\\u201d to serve the Muslim community as Acting Minister-in-charge for Muslim Affairs, following the resignation of Faishal Ibrahim from political office.Here is his full statement to the media. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"\\u2018Our work to help our community progress must continue\\u2019: Masagos\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T14:25:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T14:26:41+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Former Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Masagos Zulkifli urged the Muslim community to support Zaqy Mohamad in his new role.\\u201cOur work to help our community progress must continue,\\u201d he said in a Facebook post at 2.15pm, noting that Faishal was committed to \\u201cstrengthening families, lowering recidivism, empowering our youths and building bonds that hold our community together\\u201d.Masagos, who is on a work trip in Japan, said he was \\u201cdeeply saddened\\u201d to hear news of Faishal\\u2019s resignation, and called for privacy to be extended to Faishal and his family \\u201cat this very difficult time\\u201d. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Zaqy Mohamad gives media doorstop\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:56:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T14:00:45+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Zaqy, who will take over as Acting Minister-in-charge for Muslim Affairs, is delivering a statement to the media.We\\u2019ll bring you more on this shortly.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal was a responsible, empathetic and highly supportive member: Tin Pei Ling\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:47:42+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:52:01+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Marine Parade-Braddell Heights MP Tin Pei Ling called Faishal a responsible, empathetic and highly supportive member of the constituency\\u2019s team in a Facebook post at 1.26pm.\\u201cHe has a good heart for the people and Singapore,\\u201d she said, adding that \\u201cwhat happened was unfortunate\\u201d.\\u201cOur immediate priority now is to continue our care and support for Kembangan residents, as we continue to care for and support our respective divisions in the GRC. Our commitment remains.\\u201dMeanwhile, fellow MP Diana Pang, who is responsible for the Geylang Serai ward, shared Goh Pei Ming\\u2019s Facebook post about Faishal\\u2019s resignation. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong's response to Faishal in full\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:34:56+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:48:55+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Mr Muhammad Faishal IbrahimDear FaishalI have received your letter of resignation dated 20 July 2026. I accept your decision to resign as a Political Office Holder, and as a member of the People's Action Party. I note that you have also resigned as Member of Parliament (MP) for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.I am saddened that you are leaving politics under these circumstances. But I appreciate your acknowledgement that your conduct fell short of the standards expected of you, and your decision to take responsbility for it.You have made significant contributions over the last 20 years of public service. In particular, I appreciate your service over the past year as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs. I thank you for your many contributions to Singapore.I wish you and your family all the best as you take the time and space you need to focus on your family.Lawrence Wong \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal deactivates social media accounts\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:21:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:41:00+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Faishal Ibrahim has deactivated his official Instagram profile, which had about 19,000 followers, as well as his X, TikTok and LinkedIn accounts. His official Facebook page remains active.The former Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs and Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC MP had posted on Facebook on July 18 about a walk at Jurassic Mile with residents.That day, he had also joined Jurong Central SMC MP Xie Yao Quan for a racial harmony lunch organised by the Cheng Hong Welfare Service Society.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal says he will not say more out of respect for family\\u2019s privacy\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:05:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:40:25+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In a Facebook post at 1.02pm, Faishal said: \\u201cI am deeply sorry to have let down my residents and supporters, who placed their trust in me.\\u201cI know that this news will come as a surprise to many. I hope you will understand my decision not to say more, out of respect for my family's privacy.\\u201dHe said that he will now be spending more time with his family.\\u201cI'm grateful for their support, especially my wife who has been standing by me throughout this difficult period,\\u201d he added.Faishal said the work to strengthen the community is a collective effort that is far bigger than any one individual.He added: \\u201cI have every confidence that SMS Zaqy Mohamad and the team will continue with this work with commitment and care.\\u201cI also know that Kembangan residents will continue to be well looked after by the MPs of the Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC.\\u201dFaishal has limited who can comment on his Facebook post. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Mak Mun San\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong\\u2019s statement in full\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:30:09+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:34:08+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim resigned today as a Political Office Holder, Member of Parliament (MP), and a member of the People\\u2019s Action Party, citing personal reasons. I have accepted his decision to resign. My exchange of letters with him is attached.This matter came to our attention about a month ago when the Prime Minister\\u2019s Office received an email from a female member of the public concerning her interactions with Associate Professor Faishal. I asked for the matter to be looked into immediately.Both Associate Professor Faishal and the lady were spoken to separately, to understand their respective accounts. Most of their interactions took place through online messages. They also met on the sidelines of public events. Both parties subsequently made allegations of harassment against each other, and the matter was referred to the Police. The Police investigated the allegations.After carefully considering the facts and circumstances, and in consultation with the Attorney-General's Chambers, it was assessed that no criminal offence had been committed by either party. Accordingly, no criminal action will be taken against either of them.But there was a separate question of whether Associate Professor Faishal\\u2019s conduct met the standards expected of a Political Office Holder and MP. Upon reflecting on the matter, Associate Professor Faishal accepted that his conduct fell short of these standards, and tendered his resignation.Associate Professor Faishal made significant contributions over two decades of public service. He played key roles in advancing initiatives that strengthened community resilience, supported the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders, and improved the outcomes for vulnerable families. He has worked hard as an MP and served his residents diligently. I thank him for his many contributions.SMS Zaqy Mohamad will be appointed Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs. The remaining MPs in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC will continue to serve residents in Kembangan.Prime Minister\\u2019s Office\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal\\u2019s letter to PM Wong in full\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:30:46+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:30:46+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Dear Prime MinisterI am writing to inform you of my decision to resign as a Political Office Holder, Member of Parliament, and a member of the People\\u2019s Action Party with immediate effect, for personal reasons.A situation has arisen involving my conduct with a female member of the public. While there was no physical relationship between us, and I did not intend for the interactions to develop into one, there was a lapse of judgment on my part in the way I handled the interactions, and in failing to establish clearer boundaries at an earlier stage.On reflection, I recognise that my conduct fell short of the standards expected of me and was not consistent with the responsibilities entrusted to me. I have therefore decided it is right for me to step away from politics, so that I can devote my time and attention to my family.I thank PM and the Party for your support and friendship over the years.Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"haqil\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal has asked Seah Kian Peng to apologise on his behalf to his residents and grassroot leaders\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T13:00:34+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:11:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng posted on Facebook at 12.50pm that Faishal has asked him to apologise on his behalf to all his residents and grassroots leaders.\\u201cIn this period of transition, our immediate priority is to ensure that Kembangan residents are taken care of,\\u201d said Seah.\\u201cTogether with the rest of the Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC team \\u2014 Pei Ming, Pei Ling, and Diana \\u2014 we will do our best to look after the residents of Kembangan.\\u201dSeah said the remaining MPs will handle all the Meet-the-People Sessions cases and appeals, as well as continue the ongoing community initiatives that provide support for the elderly, vulnerable families, as well as improve community cohesion within Kembangan.He assured his residents at Braddell Heights that his work in Kembangan will not affect his commitment and the level of support to the constituents, which he has served since 2006. Seah said he has known Faishal for over 20 years. He added: \\u201cHe is a good friend of mine, one with a big and kind heart for all. I ask all to give him space and privacy as this is a difficult period for him and his family.\\u201d \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Mak Mun San\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"PM Wong says matter involving Faishal came to his attention about a month ago\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T12:55:14+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T13:09:04+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"In a statement on Monday, PM Wong said the matter had come to his attention about a month ago when his office received an e-mail from the woman involved concerning her interactions with Faishal.PM Wong said he asked for the matter to be looked into immediately, and both Faishal and the woman were spoken to separately.Both parties then made allegations of harassment against each other, and the matter was referred to the police.The police investigated the allegations, and in consultation with the Attorney-General\\u2019s Chambers, it was assessed that no criminal offence had been committed by either party and no criminal action would be taken.But there was a separate question of whether Faishal\\u2019s conduct met the standards expected of a political office-holder and MP, PM Wong said.\\u201cUpon reflecting on the matter, Associate Professor Faishal accepted that his conduct fell short of these standards and tendered his resignation.\\u201d \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Faishal Ibrahim resigns over online messages with a female member of the public\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-07-20T12:51:16+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-20T12:53:10+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Faishal Ibrahim has resigned from political office over a \\u201clapse of judgment\\u201d in handling his interactions with a woman, who is a member of the public.Most of their interactions took place through online messages and they also met on the sidelines of public events, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a statement on Monday.Zaqy Mohamad, who is currently Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment and Defence, will take over as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs.Faishal, 58, has also resigned as an MP for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC and from the PAP. READ MORE HEREPHOTO: BERITA HARIAN\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Ng Huiwen\"}}]}","keywords","Faishal Ibrahim, faishal resigns, PAP, resignation, Singapore Parliament, Live blog, Singapore politicians, Members of Parliament, Singapore Politics, MPs, Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC, Muslim Affairs, latest, live updates, Zaqy Mohamad, news, faishal statement","robots","index, follow, max-image-preview:large, max-snippet:-1, max-video-preview:-1","image","https://static1.straitstimes.com.sg/s3fs-public/articles/2026/07/20/faishal-ibrahim.jpg?VersionId=U4dFNilewH394sOtB.NgYZsmrZja4lpo","gaData",{"_83":84,"_85":23,"_86":23,"_20":87,"_88":89,"_90":91,"_92":93},"level2","23","chapter1","chapter2","Live:_No_by-election_will_be_called_following_Faishal’s_resignation","title_ga","Live: No by-election will be called following Faishal’s resignation","pagination","1","contenttype","live blog","dependentPaths",[],"actionData","errors"]