Credit: NUS Business School
In the world of Singaporean politics where politicians often walk a fine line between speaking candidly and exercising diplomacy, former Speaker of Parliament Tan Soo Khoon’s bold honesty made him stand out.
His speech in 2002, memorably remembered as the “Seven Wonders of Singapore” speech exemplified this, as he boldly challenged his peers on issues like inflation and the rising GST, which is slated to increase from 3% to 5% at the time (For those that didn’t know, it is now 9%).
Besides his speeches, Soo Khoon was also known for his humour.
His unique sign-off to fellow MPs — “The Watchman” — was a nod to both his role as Speaker and his watch distribution business.
Vintage Radio catches up with Soo Khoon as he reflects on his career. Tune in to this digital streaming station, available online or through its mobile app for exclusive interviews and nostalgic hits.
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Tan Soo Khoon: Early childhood and education
Soo Khoon grew up in Newton, beginning his education at Nanyang Kindergarten before moving to an English kindergarten at a convent. Thereafter, he attended Anglo-Chinese School from primary one till he completed his A-levels. He pursued business administration at the National University of Singapore, completing his tertiary education there.
Credit: Vintage Radio
While he was in university, his father, who was running a watch distribution business, suffered a severe stroke that left him semi-paralysed. His deteriorating health made it difficult for him to continue running the business.
While Soo Khoon’s original plan after graduation was to find a job in marketing or the finance sector, he decided to accede to his father’s request.
The day after Soo Khoon finished his final exam, he reported for work.
This choice helped shape Soo Khoon and prepared him for other challenges that he would face later on in his life.
Soo Khoon took over his father’s business and managed it until 1978 when his father passed away. Following his father’s death, he established his own company named Crystal Time, continuing his involvement in the watch distribution industry in Singapore.
Tan Soo Khoon: Political career
After graduating from university in 1972, Soo Khoon met Pathmanaban Selvadurai who was serving as a Minister of Parliament (MP) for Kuo Chuan, a constituency in Toa Payoh.
The MP asked him to help at the constituency.
This incident sparked his interest to give back, leading Soo Khoon to participate more actively in grassroots activities. Subsequently, Soo Khoon became a community leader in Kuo Chuan.
In 1976, Soo Khoon was selected to be a candidate for the People’s Action Party and was subsequently elected as an MP for the single-member constituency of Alexandra.
In 1984, his political career took a new direction when he was appointed Deputy Speaker of Parliament, eventually becoming the Speaker of Parliament in 1989. His tenure as Speaker lasted until 2001, where his candidness and straightforwardness earned him recognition.
During this time, in 1991, Soo Khoon transitioned to representing Bedok Group Representation Constituency (GRC), which would later expand into East Coast GRC. He continued to serve there until his retirement from politics in 2006.
During his time as an MP, Soo Khoon made a speech that became known as the “Seven Wonders of Singapore” speech.
At the time, there was fierce protest against raising the GST from 3% to 5%. Soo Khoon expressed that while the government had been prudent in its spending, further caution could potentially avoid the tax increase.
He pointed out the construction of new buildings by ministries and statutory boards, questioning the necessity of such projects and their luxurious furnishings. In his speech, he coined the term “seven wonders of the world” to describe these projects, not realising the phrase would overshadow the core message of his concerns about spending.
Even when it wasn’t easy, Soo Khoon always spoke his mind, and his sharp wit became a big part of who he was. He carried this same straightforwardness throughout his time as an MP in East Coast GRC until he retired from politics in 2006.
Balancing his career as a politician and a business owner was not an entirely smooth sailing journey for Soo Khoon.
Thankfully, Soo Khoon has the support of his wife in managing Crystal Time.
Tan Soo Khoon: Hobbies and legacy
While navigating the pressures of both politics and his business, Soo Khoon found solace in music. As a child, he spent time at his grandfather’s house, where he was often listened to classics like Love Me Tender by Elvis Presley. This love for music stayed with him throughout his life.
In fact, to unwind from his demanding schedule, Soo Khoon often turns to his guitar. Music not only became a form of relaxation but also a way for him to bond with friends.
Credit: Vintage Radio
This content was originally aired on Vintage Radio. To listen to the complete podcast, click here.
