In a significant ruling, Singapore’s High Court has sentenced former Transport Minister S Iswaran to 12 months in prison after he was found guilty of receiving gifts worth over S$400,000. Iswaran, 62, had pleaded guilty to four counts of receiving gifts and one count of obstructing justice.
Justice Vincent Hoong handed down the sentence, which is in line with the country’s strict laws against corruption. According to Singaporean law, accepting gifts from individuals with whom a public official has dealings can carry a jail term of up to two years and a fine. Obstructing justice, on the other hand, is punishable by up to seven years’ imprisonment and a fine.
The investigation into Iswaran’s activities revealed that he had accepted lavish gifts from businessmen, including tickets to high-profile events such as English Premier League soccer matches, the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix, and London musicals. He also received a ride on a private jet, among other luxuries.
Iswaran’s conviction and sentencing serve as a strong reminder of Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach to corruption and its commitment to upholding the integrity of public officials.