Ng Eng Hen Keynote Speaker

Singapore’s longest-serving Minister for Defence (2011–2025) and former Minister for Education
Key architect of Singapore’s defence strategy during a period of major geopolitical change and regional security challenges
Internationally respected voice on security, geopolitics, defence policy and strategic leadership

Ng Eng Hen's Biography

Dr Ng Eng Hen is one of Asia’s most respected statesmen and strategic thinkers, having served as Singapore’s Minister for Defence from 2011 to 2025, making him the nation’s longest-serving defence minister. Over a distinguished public service career spanning more than two decades, he played a central role in shaping Singapore’s security strategy during a period marked by rising geopolitical competition, technological disruption and evolving regional threats.

Before entering politics, Dr Ng was a consultant surgical oncologist and held senior leadership positions in Singapore’s healthcare sector. Following his election to Parliament in 2001, he served in several ministerial portfolios, including Education, Manpower and Defence, before assuming leadership of the Ministry of Defence in 2011.

During his tenure, Dr Ng oversaw the modernisation of the Singapore Armed Forces and strengthened defence relationships with major powers and regional partners across Asia, Europe and North America. He was instrumental in advancing Singapore’s role as a trusted strategic partner and advocate for regional stability, while helping the country navigate increasingly complex security challenges, including tensions in the Indo-Pacific, terrorism, cybersecurity threats and the implications of great-power competition.

A strong advocate for international cooperation and strategic dialogue, Dr Ng became a highly regarded voice on issues including defence policy, geopolitical risk, technological competition, energy security and the future of international order. His speeches at global forums such as the Munich Security Conference have been widely cited for their clarity and strategic insight.

Following his retirement from politics in 2025 after 24 years in Parliament, Dr Ng continues to contribute to discussions on leadership, national resilience, security and global affairs, drawing on his unique experience at the highest levels of government and international diplomacy.

Geopolitics and the Future of the Indo-Pacific

Leadership and Decision-Making in an Uncertain World

Defence, Deterrence and National Security Strategy

China, the United States and the Changing Global Order

Building Resilience in an Era of Geopolitical Risk and Disruption

He shaped Singapore’s security and defence strategy for more than a decade as the nation’s longest-serving Defence Minister, helping steer the country through an era of intensifying geopolitical competition and regional uncertainty.
He translates complex developments in geopolitics, defence, technology and international affairs into clear strategic insights that help leaders understand the risks and opportunities shaping the global landscape.
He has worked closely with political, military and diplomatic leaders across Asia, Europe and North America, bringing first-hand perspectives on international cooperation, strategic competition and national resilience.
He combines experience in healthcare, government and national security, offering audiences a unique understanding of leadership, decision-making and institution-building in high-stakes environments.
His briefings help executives, policymakers and boards anticipate geopolitical change, assess strategic risk and navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world.