MP Tin Pei Ling To Helm Grab’s Public Affairs And Policy, Raises Conflict Of Interest Concerns

Images credit: Jia Yeo on Maps and Gov.sg YouTube

Member of Parliament for MacPherson SMC’s new role as Grab’s Director for Public Affairs and Policy drew criticisms from netizens as they questioned the conflict of interest she might have as a policymaker and representing Grab.

She was formerly the CEO of Business China, a non-profit organisation which aims to strengthen the ties between Singapore and China, and to sustain and grow the global connectivity of Singapore.

Tin took up her new role in Grab as “an opportunity to return to the private sector” and “hone new skills”.

She also said that it would allow her to make a contribution in “a different way”.

Netizens questioned conflict of interest

However, the new position raised eyebrows among netizens.

On Reddit, there were several netizens who claimed that her appointment was an indication of some sort of corruption.

Images screenshot: Reddit.sg

Some also pointed out the unfairness of the system of allowing Members of Parliament to hold other appointments while civil servants are not allowed to do so.

The majority of the comments pointed towards conflict of interest by holding both positions.

Here’s a simple explanation of what conflict of interest means:

“A conflict of interest occurs when an individual’s personal interests – family, friendships, financial, or social factors – could compromise his or her judgment, decisions, or actions in the workplace.”

In this case, netizens were worried that Tin might use her position as a policymaker, possibly holding sensitive information, that can be used to Grab’s advantage.

Or on the other hand, Grab could use Tin’s position as a Parliamentarian, to pursue their demands.

This assumption would only come true if both positions were left unchecked.

Clear on duties: Tin

In response to the questions and criticisms, Tin said that there is a “clear and mutual understanding” between her role as a Parliamentarian and Grab.

Image screenshot Tin Pei Ling Facebook.

“I am absolutely clear that when I am discharging my duties in my capacity as a Member of Parliament, my constituents and Singapore come first,” she wrote.

She also added that when she’s working on behalf of Grab, she will have to ensure that Grab’s interests are safeguarded.”

“As to which capacity I represent at any time: I will be transparent and above board.”

Dissatisfied with response

Even as Tin laid out her duties clearly, several netizens were still dissatisfied with her response.

One comment on Tin’s Facebook post urged her to “choose a route” rather than wearing multiple hats.

Image screenshot Tin Pei Ling Facebook.

Another felt that it was difficult for Tin to balance the two roles without compromising one or the other.

Image screenshot Tin Pei Ling Facebook.

Former Nominated Member of Parliament, Calvin Cheng, however, said that Singapore does not engage in companies funding politicians as lobbyists in order to gain favourable voting on their behalf.

Image screenshot Calvin Cheng Facebook