The Ministry of National Development (MND) plays an indispensable role in our living environment. It works hand-in-hand with its statutory boards – the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA), the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), the Housing & Development Board (HDB), the National Parks Board (NParks), and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) – to provide Singaporeans with an endearing home. ‘Home' takes the form of world-class infrastructure, a vibrant and sustainable living environment, and rooted and cohesive communities.

Jun Chao says, "MND's work touches on many aspects of our lives and is highly visible – whether it is in the food items we see at the supermarket, the parks we visit, or the buildings that we live and work in. Knowing that I am able to contribute directly to the well-being of our citizenry gives me a sense of purpose."

The Infrastructure Division oversees policies related to food safety and supply resilience, animal management and welfare, the regulation and development of the built environment sector, and the greening of our parks and spaces. As part of his portfolio in the Infrastructure Division, Jun Chao conducted research and strove to develop the built environment sector. He also sought ways to raise the capabilities of our construction industry.

A Place to Grow

As a recipient of the MND EDGE Postgraduate Scholarship, Jun Chao is pursuing the Nanyang Fellows MBA programme at Nanyang Technological University. Of this opportunity, he tells us, "A postgraduate education will equip me with skills that will help me solve issues in a more strategic and thoughtful manner. It will also allow me to broaden my horizons and expand my network with people from different walks of life."

As an MND EDGE scholar, Jun Chao attended the MND EDGE Programme. This is an intensive three-week course conducted by MND's Centre for Liveable Cities. It brings together officers from various government agencies to learn more about the unique challenges faced by Singapore. This allows officers to understand how good and dynamic governance is essential to Singapore's progress.

Jun Chao adds, "We also had the opportunity to visit other successful cities such as Seoul and bring useful learning points that could be applied in Singapore's context. I learnt so much from the other participants in areas outside my portfolio, such as public health, education and parenthood policies. The course was an eye-opener."

Tan Jun Chao 
Recipient of the MND EDGE Postgraduate Scholarship

Former Deputy Director,
Infrastructure Division
(currently on postgraduate studies)

Overcoming Challenges

With these unique opportunities under his belt, Jun Chao will return to MND in a better position to confront its challenges. He shares that one key challenge is balancing between stakeholders' interests and transforming the built environment sector. "We had to convince stakeholders from both public and private sectors that a fundamental change was necessary to transform the built environment sector and make it more sustainable and attractive. Through a calibrated approach of using incentives, engagement and legislation, we are starting to see positive results", he said.

Jun Chao also acknowledges that another challenge is the rising public expectations of the Government. "While constructive criticism is always welcome, we do receive feedback and requests from time to time which may benefit specific individuals or groups, but may cause inconvenience to many others and utilise a substantial amount of public resources," he shares. "This is something we grapple with, and we communicate this to the public so that they understand the constraints we are facing."

He understands that coming back after his postgraduate education will mean taking bolder steps towards more effective and sustainable outcomes. He acknowledges this by adding, "While you will be given opportunities as a scholar, there would also be higher expectations to fulfil. One has to perform well and demonstrate one's capabilities in order to progress in their career."

He understands that coming back after his postgraduate education will mean taking bolder steps towards more effective and sustainable outcomes. He acknowledges this by adding, "While you will be given opportunities as a scholar, there would also be higher expectations to fulfil. One has to perform well and demonstrate one's capabilities in order to progress in their career."

Exemplifying Commitment

Apart from being able to face challenges with greater insight, Jun Chao hopes to see his scholarship experiences bear fruit on a more personal level. He shares, "I aspire to be a good manager and leader who can help others reach their full potential. I find this more fulfilling than getting recognition for a job well done. In five years, I hope to have made a significant impact on other officers."

Having benefitted from the scholarship in various ways, Jun Chao advocates the commitment of MND to its staff's development. "MND is an employer that places staff development and welfare among its top priorities," he highlights.

With all that said, he encourages prospective MND scholarship applicants to be certain about their career choice. It is necessary in order for scholarship recipients to be convinced of their future role and be receptive to MND's developmental opportunities. He shares some relevant advice to prospective scholars, "Take your time to find a scholarship programme that you are really interested in. If you are successful, commit to it fully and enjoy the journey."