Elaine Ng Appointed New CEO of National Arts Council, Succeeding Low Eng Teong

In a significant leadership transition, Elaine Ng will take over as the chief executive officer of the National Arts Council (NAC) in Singapore, succeeding Low Eng Teong. The Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) announced this change on December 23, 2023. Mrs. Ng will assume the role of CEO-designate on January 1, 2026, before officially starting her tenure on March 1. Mr. Low will step down on February 28, marking the end of his term at the helm of the NAC.

Currently, Mrs. Ng serves as the deputy secretary of administration at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), a position she has held since 2019. In her capacity there, she leads the defence management group responsible for developing and implementing policies across various sectors, including National Service, manpower, and finance. Her portfolio includes oversight of major infrastructural projects, such as the new Central Manpower Base.

Background and Experience of Elaine Ng

In addition to her role at MINDEF, Mrs. Ng chairs Defence Collective Singapore, which manages Singapore’s military museums, notably the upcoming NS Gallery. Her extensive experience also includes service on several boards, including NS Square, the Defence Science and Technology Agency, and DSO National Laboratories. Prior to her current role, she was the deputy CEO of the National Heritage Board and the CEO of the National Library Board from 2011 to 2019.

Mrs. Ng’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of administrative experience and a fresh perspective to the NAC, which plays a crucial role in shaping the arts landscape in Singapore. Her background in managing large-scale projects and her commitment to cultural initiatives will likely influence her strategic direction for the council.

Achievements of Low Eng Teong and Future Challenges

Low Eng Teong has been at the forefront of NAC since 2023, having previously served as deputy and assistant CEO of sector development in the arts for five years. During his tenure, he was instrumental in the development of the SG Arts Plan 2.0, which aimed to enhance the arts sector’s resilience and adaptability, particularly in the face of digital transformation.

His leadership fostered greater audience engagement and strengthened arts education pathways through the National Arts Council-Arts Education Programme, which currently offers over 1,400 programmes organized by more than 300 artists and arts groups in schools. Mr. Low’s influence also extended to various cultural institutions, where he served on the boards of the Singapore Chinese Orchestra Company, Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, Singapore Art Museum, and The Esplanade Co.

Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, David Neo, expressed his support for Mrs. Ng’s appointment, stating, “Under Eng Teong’s steadfast leadership, NAC has broadened access to the arts, strengthened support for the sector, and deepened the role that culture plays in shaping who we are as Singaporeans.” He acknowledged Mr. Low’s invaluable contributions to the NAC and the wider artistic community.

As Mrs. Ng prepares to lead the NAC, she will face the continuing challenge of nurturing the arts sector amid evolving societal needs and technological advancements. Her background suggests a strong capacity to tackle these challenges while maintaining the council’s mission to promote and develop the arts in Singapore.