Koh Poh Koon Steps Down as Singapore Health Minister, Returns to Surgery

Koh Poh Koon, 54, resigned as Singapore’s senior minister of state for health and manpower on June 1 after 10 years in politics. The colorectal surgeon cited family reasons for his departure. He plans to return to clinical work but has not decided when or where. Koh will continue serving as an MP for Tampines GRC.

Why He Left Political Office

Koh said he had been an absent husband, father, and son since entering politics in 2015. His family needed his attention in a way that conflicted with the demands of his government role. He has two daughters with his wife, who is also a doctor. Koh announced his resignation on May 22 through the Prime Minister’s Office and formally stepped down on June 1.

His Medical Background and Career Path

Before politics, Koh was the founding director of the Colorectal Cancer Genomic Health Service at Singapore General Hospital. He started his own private practice in 2011 at Capstone Colorectal Surgery Centre in Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre. In 2012, he partnered with Fortis Healthcare Singapore to set up a dedicated colorectal diseases hospital. He told The Straits Times he wants to return to clinical work but has not decided on timing or location.

His Political Journey

Koh first contested the 2013 Punggol East by-election as a People’s Action Party candidate but lost to the Worker’s Party. He won a seat in the 2015 general election as part of the Ang Mo Kio GRC team led by then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. He assumed office in 2016 and continued winning in Tampines GRC in 2020 and 2025. He will remain as MP for Tampines despite leaving his ministerial role.

What’s Next for Koh

Koh attended a farewell lunch with Ministry of Health colleagues on June 2 and thanked them in a social media post. He expressed hope that his paths would cross with former colleagues as they support Singapore’s healthcare needs. He appreciated the thoughtful mementos marking his time at the ministry. For now, Koh plans to spend time with his family before deciding on his next clinical steps.

Final Thoughts

Koh’s departure reflects a shift in priorities after a decade balancing government duties with family life. His return to surgery signals a broader pattern of senior officials stepping back from politics to pursue other careers.

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