New Leadership at the National Arts Council: Elaine Ng Set to Take Charge

In a significant transition, Mrs. Elaine Ng is poised to succeed Mr. Low Eng Teong as the chief executive officer of the National Arts Council (NAC) in Singapore, according to an announcement from the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) on December 23. With an impressive background in public service and arts administration, Ng’s leadership is anticipated to steer the NAC into a new era of cultural engagement and artistic development.

Mrs. Ng is set to assume the role of CEO-designate on January 1, 2026, before officially taking on her new position on March 1. Mr. Low will conclude his tenure on February 28, 2026, marking the end of his impactful leadership.

Currently serving as the deputy secretary of administration at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) since 2019, Ng has effectively headed the defence management group. Her responsibilities included crafting and executing policies related to National Service, manpower, and finance. Ng has played a crucial role in overseeing substantial infrastructural projects such as the new Central Manpower Base and is the chair of Defence Collective Singapore, which manages Singapore’s military museums, including the upcoming NS Gallery. Additionally, she holds positions on the boards of NS Square, the Defence Science and Technology Agency, and DSO National Laboratories.

Mr. Low’s Impactful Tenure at NAC

Mr. Low stepped into the role of NAC CEO in 2023 after five years as deputy and assistant CEO for sector development in the arts. During his tenure, he was instrumental in championing the SG Arts Plan 2.0, significantly enhancing digital adoption across the sector and fostering deeper audience engagement. His leadership also helped expand arts education pathways through the National Arts Council-Arts Education Programme, which currently offers over 1,400 programs led by more than 300 artists and arts organizations in schools.

Low has been a pivotal figure on the boards of several cultural institutions, including the Singapore Chinese Orchestra Company, Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, Singapore Art Museum, and The Esplanade Co.

The Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, David Neo, expressed enthusiasm for Mrs. Ng’s upcoming role, acknowledging Mr. Low’s substantial contributions. He remarked, “Under Eng Teong’s steadfast leadership, NAC has broadened access to the arts, strengthened support for the sector, and deepened the role that culture plays in shaping who we are as Singaporeans. I thank him for his invaluable contributions and for working closely with our artists, partners, and the wider community.”

MCCY also extended its gratitude to Mr. Low for his significant impact and leadership within the NAC and the broader MCCY family.