Home Affairs and Law Minister Mr K Shanmugam SC

Statement of Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law Mr K Shanmugam SC

         I am proud to endorse the intention of the Singapore National Group to the Permanent Court of Arbitration to nominate Ambassador for International Law Rena Lee for election to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2026. 

         As a small State, Singapore is steadfastly committed to promoting and advancing the international rule of law. The ICJ, as the United Nations’ principal judicial organ, plays a vital role in this regard. To this end, we are backing this intended nomination of Ambassador Lee to be a Judge at the ICJ.

          Ambassador Lee has distinguished herself in various capacities in the Singapore Government, as a legal advisor and diplomat. Most recently, as the Chief Executive of the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore, she has led her team to strengthen and elevate Singapore’s position as a leading intellectual property hub.

        In each role, Ambassador Lee brings with her deep legal expertise, an unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law, a vision for growth and development, and importantly, sensitivity to differing views.

         Ambassador Lee’s nomination underscores Singapore’s enduring commitment to the primacy of international law. It also reaffirms Singapore’s staunch support for the ICJ’s important role in upholding international law, fostering the peaceful resolution of disputes, and safeguarding the interests of all countries.

         I am confident that Ambassador Lee would continue making valuable contributions to the development of international law as a Judge of the ICJ. She has Singapore’s full support.