'It's not a sacrifice': Tommy Koh retires from MFA after 55 years, shares thoughts
After 55 years with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), veteran diplomat and lawyer Professor Tommy Koh has retired from service, the ministry announced on Tuesday (Sep 1)."Throughout his 55 years of service to Singapore, there was never once when Ambassador-at-large Professor Tommy Koh doubted Singapore's ability to succeed," the ministry said in a post on Facebook."Behind his extraordinary career is a life shaped by family, conviction and a deep love for Singapore. As Professor Koh concludes his time with MFA, we reflect on his remarkable journey and enduring legacy."MFA also shared a video interview with Prof Koh, who shared his thoughts on his time with the ministry.He spoke of his appointment as Singapore's permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), stating that he felt "obliged to defend independent Singapore".When then-Minister of Foreign Affairs S Rajaratnam asked him to take up the role, Prof Koh commented that he was too young."I was 30 years old, no experience," he said. "I said I'm not qualified to be an ambassador to the UN."