Vivian Balakrishnan : In the dynamic world of politics, leadership is often defined by vision, dedication, and the ability to inspire positive change. Vivian Balakrishnan, born in 1961, is a name synonymous with these qualities. He is not just a Singaporean politician; he is a visionary leader who has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Singapore’s political and diplomatic arena.
Balakrishnan’s journey from a medical doctor to a prominent political figure is nothing short of remarkable. This article delves into the life, education, medical career, and political accomplishments of Vivian Balakrishnan, highlighting his unwavering commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education of Vivian Balakrishnan
Vivian Balakrishnan’s story begins in Singapore in 1961, where he was born to a unique heritage—a Chinese mother with roots tracing back to Fuqing, Fujian, and an Indian Tamil father. His multicultural upbringing would later shape his approach to politics, fostering a deep sense of inclusivity and unity.
His educational journey was equally impressive. Balakrishnan attended the Anglo-Chinese School and National Junior College before receiving the prestigious President’s Scholarship in 1980. This scholarship paved the way for his pursuit of a medical degree at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore.
During his time at NUS, Balakrishnan distinguished himself not only as a medical student but also as a leader. He served as the president of the NUS Student Union and later as the chairman of the union council. This early foray into leadership foreshadowed his future role in Singaporean politics.
Vivian Balakrishnan chose to specialize in ophthalmology and achieved the esteemed status of a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 1991, marking the pinnacle of his medical career.
Medical Career
Balakakrishnan’s medical journey took him across borders and into the global medical community. From 1993 to 1995, he worked at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London as a specialist senior registrar, where he honed his skills in pediatric ophthalmology. This experience not only expanded his medical expertise but also broadened his horizons, preparing him for the diverse challenges he would later face in his political career.
Upon his return to Singapore, Vivian Balakrishnan became a consultant ophthalmologist at the prestigious Singapore National Eye Centre and National University Hospital. Simultaneously, he assumed the role of an associate professor of ophthalmology at the National University of Singapore in 1998, contributing to both the medical field and academia.
In 1999, Balakrishnan took on the significant responsibility of being the medical director of the Singapore National Eye Centre. His leadership skills were further demonstrated as he assumed the position of chief executive officer of the Singapore General Hospital in 2000. This dual role showcased his ability to excel in both medical practice and healthcare administration.
Additionally, Balakrishnan’s dedication to serving his country was evident in his role as the commanding officer of the 2nd Combat Support Hospital of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) between 1999 and 2002. This period saw him balancing multiple roles, showcasing his ability to manage high-stress situations, a skill that would serve him well in his future political career.
Notably, during the 1990s, Vivian Balakrishnan was also a familiar face on Singaporean television as the host of the series “Health Matters,” where he played a pivotal role in promoting public health awareness and education.
Political Career
While Balakrishnan’s medical career was undeniably impressive, it was his transition into politics that truly set him on a path of significant influence and impact. His political journey began in earnest with his debut in the 2001 general election as part of the People’s Action Party (PAP) team contesting in Holland–Bukit Panjang GRC, which resulted in an uncontested walkover victory.
His rapid ascent within the political sphere was evident when he was appointed as Minister of State for National Development in 2002, followed by his role as Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry in 2004. These appointments underscored his ability to tackle complex policy issues and drive positive change within Singapore.
Vivian Balakrishnan & His Tenure
In 2004, Balakrishnan took on the role of acting Minister for Community Development, Youth, and Sports, becoming a full member of the Cabinet in 2005. His tenure saw significant policy changes, including raising the public assistance scheme to support single-person households from $260 in 2007 to $400 in 2011.
The 2011 general election marked a pivotal moment in Balakrishnan’s political career as he led the PAP team in Holland–Bukit Timah GRC, securing a 60.1% majority vote. This election was notable as it was the first contested election for the GRC since its formation in 2001.
During the campaign, Balakrishnan faced various challenges, including addressing concerns related to a YouTube video featuring a member of the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) team. Despite the intensity of the campaign, Vivian Balakrishnan remained steadfast in his commitment to public service.
Balakrishnan’s versatility in handling diverse issues came to the fore during the election when he addressed questions regarding government spending for the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics, which he had overseen as Minister for Community Development, Youth, and Sports. Balakrishnan’s transparency and accountability reassured the public that their interests were at the forefront of his decisions.
In May 2011, Vivian Balakrishnan assumed the role of Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, taking on the crucial task of environmental sustainability and resource management. His leadership in this area set the stage for Singapore’s commitment to environmental conservation.
After the 2015 general election, Balakrishnan’s responsibilities expanded as he was appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs. In this role, he played a pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s foreign policy and representing the nation on the global stage.
Also Read : Schengen Visa : Digitalization A Smoother Journey for Travelers