SPCA appoints Walter Leong as new executive director

SINGAPORE – The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has appointed Mr Walter Leong as its new executive director, it said in a statement on July 18.

He takes over from Ms Aarthi Sankar, 38, who has held the role since November 2021.

Mr Leong, 59, has held senior roles across the private, public and non-profit sectors. These include technical and operational positions in multinational corporations, leadership roles in public agencies, and founding an agritech company. He was most recently deputy executive director at the Singapore Environment Council.

The animal welfare group said Mr Leong brings with him a deep commitment to sustainability, the environment and animal welfare.

As executive director, Mr Leong oversees SPCA’s operations, including its animal welfare programmes, outreach and advocacy, fund raising, stakeholder engagement and administration. He leads a team of about 50 staff.

In his new role, Mr Leong aims to strengthen the organisation’s efforts to promote kindness towards animals and protect those most in need.

The goal is to continually enhance the organisation’s services while, at the same time, working towards a future where these are no longer needed, Mr Leong said.

He added that in an ideal world, all animals would be safe, cared for and cherished, not just in the eyes of the law but also in the hearts of people.

SPCA chairwoman Tang Wai Ying said: “(Walter’s) appointment comes at a challenging moment, when the rise in animal cruelty demands more than compassion – it calls for action.

“(He) brings heart, conviction and leadership to strengthen partnerships and rally Singaporeans to build a kinder world for our animals.”

She also paid tribute to Ms Aarthi, saying: “Her commitment has moved mountains. We, and the animals, say thank you.”

In response to media queries, SPCA said Ms Aarthi “remains supportive of the organisation’s work”.