Biography
Tan Jee Say, born 12 February 1954, is a prominent Singaporean politician and former civil servant who is recognized for his active role in the country’s political scene. He began his career in the civil service, notably serving as the principal private secretary to former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong.
Tan entered the political arena in 2011, running for office. Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) in the general election, although he did not win any seats. Later that year, he ran for president as an independent candidate, coming in third with 25% of the vote, demonstrating his appeal as a non-establishment figure.
After running for president, Tan Jee Say founded Singaporeans First (SingFirst) to create an alternative political force in Singapore. However, the party was dissolved in 2020 to prevent the opposition vote from being split. Throughout his political career, Tan has been a strong advocate for more open political debate, transparency and accountability in governance, regularly challenging government policies and promoting greater public discussion.
Singaporean politician
Tan Jee Say |
|
|---|---|
 Tan Jee Say: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
|
| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Real name: | Tan Jee Say |
| Stage name: | Tan Jee Say |
| Born: | February 12, 1954 (age 70) |
| Place of birth: | Singapore Colony |
| Nationality: | Singaporean |
| Education: | Do not have |
| Height: | 1.73 meters |
| Parents: | Mr. and Mrs. Tan |
| Siblings: | Do not have |
| Couple: | Patricia Khoo |
| Girlfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | Andrew Tan, Joseph Tan, Anne Tan, Sarah Tan |
| Job: | Politicians • Civil servants |
| Net worth: | 5 million dollars (USD) |
Early life and education
Tan Jee Say, born on 12 February 1954 in Singapore, has had a significant impact on politics and public service. He is of Chinese descent, reflecting the majority population in Singapore.
Although details about his religion, parents, or siblings are not widely known, he prefers to keep his personal life private. However, his career shows a family that values education and public service.
Tan Jee Say began his career in the civil service in 1979, starting with the Ministry of Finance. This indicates a solid background, be it in economics or public administration. His civil service career was highlighted by his role as the principal private secretary to former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, highlighting his abilities and the trust placed in him as he rose through the ranks.
Career
Tan Jee Say began his professional career in the civil service in 1979, initially working in the Ministry of Finance. He rose through the ranks through various roles, most notably as Principal Private Secretary to former Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong, demonstrating his competence and trust. His time in the civil service, particularly in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, provided him with valuable insights into Singapore’s economic policy and governance.
After leaving the civil service in 1990, Tan moved into finance, broadening his professional expertise. His political ambitions became clear in 2011 when he joined Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), ran for president and then for the presidency. Although he did not win, his campaigns played an important role in promoting alternative views and advocating for greater transparency and accountability in governance.
In 2014, Tan Jee Say made a significant move to form Singaporeans First (SingFirst) to create a stronger opposition force. The decision reflected his goal of unifying the opposition voice, but SingFirst was dissolved in 2020 to prevent the opposition vote from being split, highlighting his strategic thinking in politics.
Tan’s political philosophy is marked by a commitment to open political discourse and close scrutiny of government policies. He has consistently advocated the need for independent voices in Singapore’s political landscape, challenging the dominance of the ruling party.
Although he did not win the election, Tan Jee Say’s contributions enriched the discussion of Singapore’s political development. His career, spanning the civil service, finance and politics, reflected his dedication to public service and his desire to improve Singapore’s social and economic fabric, even when his views differed from those of the ruling elite.
Social media
- Instagram: Tan Jee Say (@tanjeesay)
- Facebook: Tan Jee Say 陳如斯
- Twitter: Tan Jee Say (@JeeSayTan)
Personal life
Tan Jee Say is married to Patricia Khoo, who has been a vital source of support throughout his political and public life. She has accompanied him on important occasions, such as the 2011 presidential election. Patricia is more than just a supportive wife; she plays an active role in Tan’s endeavours, providing both emotional and strategic support, highlighting the strength of their partnership.
The couple has four children: Andrew Tan, Joseph Tan, Anne Tan and Sarah Tan. They occasionally appear in public, especially during important political moments such as the presidential election, to show their support for their father.
Tan Jee Say’s height is approximately 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 metres), a detail that often appears in biographical summaries or discussions of his public appearances.
Net worth
Tan Jee Say, a prominent figure in Singaporean politics, has an estimated net worth of $5 million. His wealth comes primarily from his diverse career, which includes roles as a civil servant and investment advisor, and his active involvement in politics, most notably his 2011 presidential campaign.
