New NCSS Council Takes Office as Amended NCSS Act Takes Effect

1. The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) today announced the appointment of the governing body (known as the Council) of the National Council of Social Service (NCSS) for a three-year term from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2029. The new Council takes office as the amended NCSS Act comes into effect, marking a significant milestone in strengthening NCSS’ role as the social service Sector Developer. In this expanded role, NCSS will work in close partnership with Social Purpose Entities – social service agencies (SSAs), community partners and other stakeholders – to strengthen services, build sector capabilities and drive better outcomes for individuals and families in need. 

2. Mr Gregory Vijayendran has been appointed Chairman of the Council succeeding Ms Anita Fam, as earlier announced in June 2026. Ms Ong Toon Hui has been appointed as the Deputy Chairman of the Council and Mr Danny Koh has been appointed as the Chairman of the Community Chest.

3. The incoming Council consists of 21 members, appointed by the Minister for Social and Family Development, Mr Masagos Zulkifli. Eleven have been appointed from among the candidates nominated by NCSS member organisations. A Sector Nominations Committee, chaired by then-NCSS President Ms Anita Fam and comprising individuals with deep sector experience and expertise, had been appointed to assess the sector nominees and recommend suitable candidates to the Minister. The full list of Council members is in Annex A.

4. In the coming term, the Council will guide NCSS’ priorities as Sector Developer at a time when social needs are becoming more complex and SSAs face increasing demands to meet the needs of service users. A key priority will be the review of the roadmap for the social service sector for the next decade. As part of this effort, NCSS will engage with the sector to build shared ownership of the future directions for social services and co-create the shifts needed to foster a more effective, future-ready and sustainable social services sector in Singapore. 

5. “Social needs are becoming more complex, multifaceted, and interconnected. As Sector Developer for the social service, NCSS works closely with partners across the ecosystem to strengthen capabilities, shape effective services and standards, foster sustainable philanthropy, and improve service delivery. Our overall aim is to improve the quality of life of those we serve. I look forward to working closely with the sector as we continue in our shared journey together,” said Mr Gregory Vijayendran, Chairman, NCSS.