SINGAPORE: Dr Beh Swan Gin will be appointed managing director of the Economic Development Board (EDB) from August 1.

He takes over from Ko Kheng Hwa, who will be joining the private sector after 29 years in the public sector.

Dr Beh, a medical doctor by training, is an Administrative Service officer who is currently EDB's assistant managing director responsible for corporate development, as well as planning and policy groups.

A joint statement by EDB and the Trade and Industry Ministry said Dr Beh has also played a leading role in developing Singapore's biomedical sciences cluster.

EDB chairman Lim Siong Guan was quoted as saying that Dr Beh has been immersed in many areas of EDB's work, and is intimately familiar with the challenges of developing Singapore's economy.

Dr Beh's predecessor, Mr Ko, was thanked for his distinguished service and invaluable contributions to the EDB. - CNA/ir