Corrections regarding false statements of fact by Mr Jay Ish’haq Rajoo

1.     Mr Jay Ish’haq Rajoo (“Mr Jay”) published a TikTok post in video format on 26 August 2025 regarding the Government’s support for the Chinese Community Leadership Course. There are false statements of fact contained within Mr Jay’s post.

2.     These false statements of fact are:

a.     Minister Chee Hong Tat had announced that the Government will be providing money and resources to attract mainland Chinese to Singapore, and nurture them for leadership positions.

b.     The Government is using its money and resources to nurture leaders only from the Chinese race.

3.     The false statements of fact contained in Mr Jay’s post are serious. Of note, they are likely to result in a diminution of public confidence in the Government’s commitment to serve the interests of Singapore and Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion.

Facts

4.     The Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (“SFCCA”) and Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (“SCCCI”) are working together to develop a leadership course to nurture the next generation of Singaporean community leaders (the “Initiative”) recommended by the SFCCA and SCCCI. Minister Chee Hong Tat had announced the Government’s intended support of the Initiative, which will include providing funding and assistance in programme design. 

a.     Only Singapore citizens who are active in the community and have demonstrated a passion to serve are eligible for the Chinese Community Leadership Course.

b.     Citizens from other countries will not be eligible for the said course.

c.     SFCCA and SCCCI will manage the selection of participants, who will be nominated by local Chinese clans and business groups.

d.     The programme seeks to hone participants’ ability to effectively lead community organisations, while deepening their understanding of Singapore’s unique multiracial and multicultural context.

5.     The Initiative is part of the larger movement to groom young leaders of all races in Singapore, and strengthen the leadership pipeline in our community organisations.

a.     The National Youth Council runs the Our Singapore Leadership Programme to develop young leaders, which is open to youths from all races and backgrounds. Similarly, Youth Corps Singapore also nurtures youths to serve and lead in their communities.

b.     The Government provides funding support to all communities, such as through the self-help groups, to invest in similar leadership development and capacity building programmes. For instance:

i.     Yayasan MENDAKI started the Tunas Bersama M³ programme in 2022 to nurture the next generation of leaders from Malay/Muslim organisations. The 18-month programme equips emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills and networks to contribute and lead their organisations, and take on leadership roles in the community.

 ii.     The Singapore Indian Development Association Youth Club, through programmes like the SINDA Young Leaders Programme, develops Indian youths to lead with purpose and drive change in their communities and beyond.

The Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth has instructed the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (“POFMA”) Office to issue a POFMA Correction Direction (“CD”) to Mr Jay. The CD requires Mr Jay to put up a new post, with a link to the Government’s clarification. We advise members of the public not to speculate and/or spread unverified rumours.