Turning 37 yesterday was memorable for former lawyer Amrin Amin (right) as it coincided with his formal appointment as Parliamentary Secretary for Home Affairs.

Taking his oath at an afternoon ceremony officiated by President Tony Tan Keng Yam, the new Government's youngest office-holder was among four parliamentary secretaries sworn in.

The other first-timer (second from right) is Mr Baey Yam Keng (Culture, Community and Youth), 45. Ms Low Yen Ling (Trade and Industry, and Education), 41, and Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim (Social and Family Development, and Education), 47, are in their second term.

Mr Amrin and Mr Baey took their grassroots leaders with them to the ceremony at the Istana's West Drawing Room. Mr Amrin was also accompanied by his parents while Mr Baey's wife and three children were with him.

Parliamentary secretaries are Members of Parliament who help ministers discharge their duties.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong also attended the ceremony.