TikTok User Ordered to Correct Claims About singapore Leadership Program
SINGAPORE, September 7 – A Singaporean TikTok user, Jay Ish’haq Rajoo, has been directed to issue a correction notice under the city-state’s Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act (Pofma) regarding claims made about a new goverment-backed leadership program.
The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) issued the correction direction following a video posted by Rajoo on August 26th. In the video, rajoo alleged that the Singapore government was prioritizing resources and actively recruiting individuals from mainland China for leadership roles, while neglecting other communities. He specifically claimed support was exclusively directed towards Chinese community leaders.
MCCY refuted these claims as baseless, stating they “cause serious misunderstandings and erode public confidence in the government’s commitment to serve the interests of Singapore and Singaporeans, regardless of race, language or religion.”
The program in question, the Chinese Community Leadership Course, was launched on August 20th by National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat.MCCY clarified that the course is exclusively for Singapore citizens actively involved in community service and demonstrating a commitment to public service. Foreign nationals are ineligible for participation.
Selection of participants will be managed by local Chinese clan associations and business groups, with oversight provided by the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Government officials emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to cultivate young leaders across all communities in Singapore. They highlighted existing programs targeting the Malay and Indian communities, as well as nationwide schemes open to all young citizens.
Rajoo’s original TikTok post has been removed. He is now required to publish a correction notice on his account,linking to the government’s official clarification.
This is not Rajoo’s first encounter with Pofma. Authorities previously stated he received a conditional warning in 2024 for repeatedly sharing false information concerning topics such as voting procedures and public housing costs.
