SINGAPORE: The punishment of past Singapore transport secretary S Iswaran has garnered worldwide notice, in a situation that runs counter to the city-state’s reputation for excellent governance.
It was a theme that ran through many articles about Thursday’s ( Oct 3 ) sentencing.
A prosecutor handed Iswaran a 12-month prison sentence, a word even harsher than the six to seven months sought by the trial.
Here’s how some foreign internet sources covered the week proceedings.
BBC
The trial’s unique circumstances were reflected in the article” Singapore ex-minister gets prison in unusual case” on the BBC.
” The country prides itself on its squeaky clean image and lack of corruption”, said the reporter, who went on to write about how this circumstance had hurt not only Singapore’s image but also that of the ruling , Women’s Action Party.
The topic of governmental salaries, which is a hot topic in Singapore, was also mentioned.
NIKKEI
Japan’s Nikkei went with the more clear” Singapore ex-minister Iswaran sentenced to a month in prison” for its title.
But the starting paragraphs focused on Singapore’s status, stating that this was  ,” a corruption case that has gripped a state known for fresh government”.
The post also brought attention to Justice Vincent Hoong’s comment regarding the impact of “holders of great company” setting the tone for public servants by acting in accordance with high standards of integrity.
It also referred to the ruling bash- with the event having “rocked” the PAP-led state.