Born: 1974 (Singapore)
Biography:
Gan Siow Huang PPA(P) (Chinese: ; pinyin: Yán Xiofng; born 1974) is a Singaporean politician and former brigadier-general who has been serving as Minister of State for Education and Minister of State for Manpower concurrently since 2020. A member of the governing People’s Action Party (PAP), she has been the Member of Parliament (MP) representing Marymount SMC since 2020.
Gan Siow Huang was born in 1974 and grew up in Singapore. She received her education at Victoria Junior College before being awarded the Singapore Armed Forces Merit Scholarship (Women) in 1993. With this scholarship, she pursued her higher education at the prestigious London School of Economics, where she graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science degree in economics. Her academic achievements laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors.
Following her studies, Gan embarked on a distinguished military career in the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). She started as a weapon systems officer and quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership and competence. Throughout her time in the Air Force, Gan held various command and staff appointments, including serving as the Commanding Officer of the 203 Squadron, Commander of Air Surveillance and Control Group, and Head of the Joint Manpower Department in the Ministry of Defence.
Gan’s dedication and commitment to her military service earned her the Public Administration Medal (Silver) (Military) in 2013. However, her achievements did not stop there. On July 1, 2015, Gan made history by becoming the first woman to hold a general rank in the Singapore Armed Forces. Her promotion to the rank of Brigadier-General not only shattered the glass ceiling but also served as an inspiration to women across Singapore.
In a speech at a Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women forum held in October 2015, Gan was lauded as a trailblazer who broke barriers and paved the way for future generations. Her accomplishment as the first female general in the Singapore Armed Forces was a testament to her determination, resilience, and ability to thrive in a male-dominated field.
Gan’s exemplary military career continued, and in October 2016, she assumed the role of Commander of the Air Power Generation Command, succeeding Brigadier-General Neo Hong Keat. Her leadership and strategic expertise were further recognized when she was appointed Chief of Staff – Air Staff in July 2019, succeeding Brigadier-General Tommy Tan Ah Han.
Despite her success in the military, Gan felt a strong desire to contribute to her country in a different capacity. In March 2020, she made the monumental decision to leave her position as Chief of Staff – Air Staff to enter the political arena. Gan made her political debut later that year in the 2020 general election, representing the People’s Action Party (PAP) as a candidate in Marymount SMC. Her campaign resonated with the voters, and she emerged victorious with 55.04% of the vote, defeating Progress Singapore Party’s Ang Yong Guan.
Following her election victory, Gan was appointed Minister of State for Education and Minister of State for Manpower concurrently. In her dual roles, she plays a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape and ensuring the development of a skilled workforce in Singapore. Gan’s extensive background in leadership, management, and strategic planning positions her well to contribute to these important policy areas.
Gan Siow Huang’s journey from the military to politics reflects her unwavering commitment to serving her country and making a positive impact on Singapore’s society. Her achievements, both in the military and now in politics, exemplify her dedication to breaking barriers, empowering women, and contributing to the progress and prosperity of her nation.
Awards:
– Public Administration Medal (Silver) (Military) in 2013