Khaw Boon Wan to step down as SPH Media Trust chairman

SPH Media Trust chairman Khaw Boon Wan will step down after five years following the approval of the changes by regulatory authorities, with effect from October 1, 2026. The announcement was made through a statement, with Khaw expressing his intention to retire and wind down his involvement in the project. Prior to becoming chairman, Khaw was a coordinating minister for infrastructure and minister for transport, retiring from politics in 2020.

He was appointed chairman of the SMT in May 2021 following a restructuring of Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) into a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. The change in business model has shifted accountability to the SMT’s institutional members, relieving short-term profit and dividend pressures faced by SPH. Khaw praised SPH Media's growth and achievements, including its comprehensive media portfolio and digital transformation efforts.

He expressed confidence in the new leadership team, particularly CEO Chan Yeng Kit, who will continue in his role while taking on additional responsibilities as chairman. Chan, who has no prior experience as a Cabinet minister, is seen as a strong fit for the position.