Singapore’s Home Affairs Minister Clarifies His Stance Amid Controversy Over Social Media Post
Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam has publicly stated that his position on the Israel-Palestinian conflict is “very sharply different” from that of former Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) Calvin Cheng. His remarks follow a backlash against Cheng’s recent Facebook post regarding a pro-Palestinian activist group, which has resulted in legal threats and a police report.
While addressing reporters on Wednesday (Apr 2) about ongoing cases under the Internal Security Act, Mr Shanmugam was asked to comment on Cheng’s social media statements.
“Mr Calvin Cheng expresses opinions on various issues – I don’t follow all of them. When I do see them, some I agree with, others I strongly disagree with,” he stated. “On Israel and Palestine, my perspective is significantly different from his.”
The minister reiterated his stance, previously voiced in November 2023, that Israel’s actions are “illegal and oppressive to Palestinians.” He emphasised that his view remains unchanged.
Unauthorised Social Media Activity
The controversy deepened when Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan reported unauthorised activity on his Facebook page. A “like” had appeared on Cheng’s contentious post under his name, prompting Dr Balakrishnan to clarify that he does not endorse those views.
“I did not ‘like’ Calvin Cheng’s post on March 13, 2025. These are not my opinions,” he wrote on Facebook. He added that he has taken steps to enhance his account security.
His press secretary confirmed that Meta, the platform’s parent company, has been notified and is investigating the incident.
Backlash and Legal Actions
Cheng’s original post criticised a group known as Monday of Palestine Solidarity, whose members have allegedly disrupted Meet-the-People Sessions. In the post, he controversially suggested funding their relocation to Gaza, offering business-class tickets to their leaders and providing walking shoes to their 928 followers for a “slow hike.”
Following widespread criticism, a police report was lodged against Cheng, accusing him of Islamophobia. In response, he announced legal action against individuals and platforms he claims have defamed him, including Reform Party leader Kenneth Jeyaretnam, activist Martyn See, and The Online Citizen.
“I have sought legal counsel and have been advised that these statements are highly defamatory,” Cheng wrote on Facebook. He added that his lawyers have issued demands for retractions and public apologies.
The incident has reignited debate over public discourse on sensitive geopolitical issues in Singapore, with government officials reaffirming their commitment to measured and respectful dialogue.
