Former Workers’ Party MP Yaw Shin Leong dies aged 47
SINGAPORE: Former Workers’ Party (WP) Member of Parliament Yaw Shin Leong has died, according to an obituary on his social media accounts on Tuesday (Nov 14) night.
He died on Nov 10 at the age of 47, according to the obituary which was posted on LinkedIn and Facebook.
The cause of death was not mentioned.
"Our hearts are broken with grief. You left us too soon, too sudden," said the obituary, which was posted on the pages belonging to Amos Rao, which was a name used by Mr Yaw.
"Your sudden passing leaves a void in our hearts that cannot be filled. We know you are in a better place. We love you deeply. You will live on forever in our hearts."
"Rest in Peace, Amos, Beloved Husband, Papa, Brother, Leader and Soldier".
"To friends of media, Shin Leong’s passion for Singapore, his service in the National Service, and his contributions beyond politics have left indelible marks," said the obituary.
Mr Yaw was elected MP for Hougang SMC in the 2011 General Election. This was the seat held by then party leader Low Thia Khiang, who moved to contest in Aljunied GRC in the 2011 polls.
In January 2012, rumours emerged that Mr Yaw was involved in an extramarital affair and he was expelled from the party in February that year, triggering a by-election.
The WP said in 2012 that he was expelled for "failing to uphold transparency and accountability" after he failed to present himself to the party's Central Executive Committee to "explain and discuss" the allegations.
Png Eng Huat from the WP won 62.08 per cent of the vote during the by-election for Hougang SMC in May 2012.
In 2021, Mr Yaw posted on Facebook under his Amos Rao name after WP Chief Pritam Singh said he did not account himself to the party after the allegations were made. Mr Yaw said he "immediately accounted" to then party chief Low Thia Khiang and chair Sylvia Lim when the allegations of an extramarital affair surfaced and was "advised to stay silent". The WP refuted his claim.
Cna. (2023c, November 15). Former Workers’ Party MP Yaw Shin Leong dies aged 47. CNA. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/former-workers-party-mp-yaw-shin-leong-dies-aged-47-3920971