Hong Kong-born businessman under scrutiny for potential foreign influence
Philip Chan, a naturalised Singaporean originally from Hong Kong, has recently been notified by authorities that he may be designated as a politically significant person under Singapore’s foreign interference law. This designation follows assessments of his susceptibility to foreign influence and his willingness to advance foreign interests.
Chan, 59, has lived in Singapore for over 30 years and is active in various local grassroots and community organisations. He is the managing director of Wen Way Investments and Mutual Benefits Realty, as well as the CEO of C&H Properties. Additionally, he founded China Link Education Consultancy, which aims to foster better understanding of China, particularly among the youth and professionals interested in Chinese business, politics, and culture.
A prominent figure within the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association, Chan also leads the Kowloon Club, which assists new immigrants to integrate into Singapore society. He has been involved in a series of public and private initiatives, including attending China’s Two Sessions parliamentary meetings as an overseas Chinese representative in March 2023.
However, his support for promoting China’s narrative abroad, including his outspoken views on China’s portrayal in Western media, has raised concerns. Chan has been critical of the negative coverage of China, advocating for overseas Chinese to work towards spreading China’s story and culture.
In the past, Chan facilitated public discussions on Hong Kong’s protests without a permit, which led to a police warning.
Chan has 14 days to submit a representation, and if designated under the law, he can appeal the decision.
