On March 25, 2024, S. Iswaran, Singapore’s former Minister of Transport, was charged with eight new counts of obtaining various items valued at S$18,956.94, including golf clubs, whisky, and a Brompton bicycle worth approximately S$7,900. These items were allegedly received from David Lum Kok Seng, managing director of Lum Chang Holdings, between November 2021 and November 2022 while the company was engaged in projects with the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

The charges are filed under Section 165 of the Penal Code, which prohibits public servants from receiving valuable items without proper payment. Iswaran pleaded not guilty to these new charges, which bring the total number against him to 35, involving S$403,297.92 overall, including the earlier 27 charges made in January.

The prosecution’s statement noted that Lum Chang Holdings’ managing director and subsidiary would be investigated further after the conclusion of Iswaran’s trial. The LTA confirmed it has not awarded any contracts to Lum Chang since 2019, despite two ongoing projects linked to the company.

Iswaran’s previous charges include two counts of corruption related to alleged bribes from businessman Ong Beng Seng, and he faces significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Following his court appearance in January, he was released on S$800,000 bail.

Iswaran has consistently maintained his innocence, stating his intention to clear his name as he navigates this complex legal situation. A hearing is scheduled for April 2 to facilitate the exchange of evidence between the prosecution and defense ahead of the trial.