Mr. George Goh, who introduced Harvey Norman to Asia, is the second candidate for Singapore’s Presidential Election.
SINGAPORE: George Goh Ching Wah, a seasoned businessman, announced his bid for the Singapore presidency on Monday (June 12). The 63-year-old founder of Harvey Norman Ossia aims to contest as an independent candidate, emphasizing his financial acumen and extensive managerial experience. In his statement, Goh highlighted the importance of the President’s role in being “above politics” and maintaining public trust.
President Halimah Yacob’s six-year term will conclude on September 13, and while the election could be held anytime from June 13, it must occur soon after her term if not completed by then. Goh joins Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam as a declared candidate. Here are five facts about Mr. Goh:
Family Life
Goh, married to Madam Lysa Sumali, has four children: daughters Joanna, Jovina, and Ingrid, and son Jonathan. Born in Negeri Sembilan, he was one of nine siblings and grew up in poverty. At 16, he moved to Singapore, where he started working in a shoe factory. Reflecting on his upbringing, Goh shared that his late mother would still slip him money even after he had built his career.
Entrepreneurship
Currently the chairman of Ossia International, an SGX-listed company, Goh co-founded the investment group with his brothers. Known for bringing the Harvey Norman brand to Asia, he has also been involved in various business ventures, including ITG International’s property investments in China and founding VGO Corporation, which owns the World of Sports brand. His entrepreneurial journey began at age 22 with a shoemaking business.
Public Service and Charity
In 2017, Goh became Singapore’s non-resident ambassador to Morocco, a role he recently resigned from to focus on his presidential bid. Active in philanthropy, Goh and his wife established the Border Mission Charitable Foundation in 2015, focusing on supporting elderly cardboard collectors, people with disabilities, and remote Himalayan communities.
Religious Faith
Goh is deeply involved with the Presbyterian Community, holding positions on the executive boards of the Presbyterian Community Services and Presbyterian Preschool Services. He views his life through three pillars: family, business, and mission work, which he shared in a recent interview with Salt&Light.
Musical Pursuits
Goh, a music enthusiast, earned a degree in classical singing from Trinity College London. He remains active in his church choir, balancing his love for music with his professional and personal commitments.
