With our glistening skyscrapers, green spaces and world-class urban infrastructure, we live in a modern city-state that Singaporeans are proud to call home. Working behind the scenes to develop the infrastructure of our global city is the Ministry of National Development (MND). Together with its statutory boards - the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA), the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), the Housing and Development Board (HDB), the National Parks Board (NParks), and the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) - the MND Family works towards creating a vibrant and sustainable living environment for Singaporeans.
27-year-old Kriss Neo Wei Ting shares about her career in MND and her role in the Engagement and Partnership unit.
Tell us about why you chose to join MND.
Kriss Neo Wei Ting: After graduating from university, I looked for a job that would be people-oriented and hands-on – my first job was with a local events company. Even though I enjoyed organising corporate events, I wanted to be a part of something more meaningful, and began to consider a career in the Public Service. I looked at the national policies and issues I felt strongly about and the areas I could value-add with my experience.
Kriss Neo Wei Ting
Manager (Engagement & Partnership)
Bachelor of Business Administration,
National University of Singapore
Diploma in Logistics & Operations Management,
Temasek Polytechnic
During my interview, I found out more about MND and the job requirements, and felt that the scope of work was challenging and inspiring. Not only would I be given the opportunity to interact with various internal and external stakeholders, but a key focus of the role would be on volunteer engagement in areas relevant to MND. My interest was piqued as I would be able to work directly with individuals and groups who are passionate about championing causes such as environmental conservation and animal welfare. When I was offered the job, I readily chose to join MND.
Tell us more about what you do at MND.
Kriss: I am in the Engagement and Partnership unit, under the Corporate Development Division. Volunteer outreach is part of MND’s efforts to directly engage our key stakeholders and work together with them to shape how we use and share our spaces. We work closely with our statutory boards to engage public volunteers by organising meaningful seminars, workshops, learning journeys, and events. Through these activities, volunteers would have a better idea of our policies and initiatives, the challenges we face, and how we respond to them.
Our MND Family volunteer profile is very diverse, and it is an eye-opener to see volunteers from different backgrounds, including Board Directors, panel experts, retirees, housewives, young adults and students, coming together to support a worthy cause. Hearing their views and interacting with them also gives me a new perspective on how our work is viewed by the public, and it is heartening to know that our efforts in creating an endearing home for all Singaporeans are appreciated.
What are the perks of joining MND?
Kriss: There are many factors which make an organisation an attractive place to work in. Working just for monetary rewards would not be sustainable or fulfilling in the long run. Before I joined MND, I thought about the factors that would keep me motivated and help me look forward to coming into work every morning. Having a job that is aligned with my interests definitely keeps me motivated, but knowing that MND is willing to invest in my development and help me to grow as a person both personally and professionally is definitely a huge plus point. I am responsible for determining my own learning plan and career path – I am encouraged to go for training programmes that will help me to improve my skills, to take a long-term approach when thinking about career progression, and to consider rotation options for better job exposure and development.
Having work-life balance is important as it gives me the time to explore other interests beyond my work. It is healthy to be able to take a step back now and then to relax and have fun. MND has our welfare at heart and recreational activities are often organised to let staff enjoy and have fun together. This builds a strong team spirit within MND and it is comforting to know that I have colleagues whom I can trust and will support me.
There is also a culture of flexibility in MND and there are flexible work arrangements such as staggered working hours and telecommuting. We are not expected to “clock in and out” and are trusted to fulfil our work commitments.
What do you have to say to students who wish to join MND in the future?
Kriss: If you want a hand in shaping Singapore’s future, and desire to be part of an organisation that cares for you – MND is the place for you. We work, learn, and play hard together. We inspire one another and grow together as one MND Family.
