Singapore appoints ex-police chief Hoong Wee Teck as GRA chairman
Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has appointed Hoong Wee Teck as its new chairman with effect from 1 April 2026. The appointment was confirmed in a press release issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Hoong, who is currently Deputy Chairman of the GRA, succeeds Tan Tee How, who had served as chairman since 2018.
According to the ministry, Hoong is the former Commissioner of Police. He served in the Singapore Police Force for 38 years, including 11 years as Commissioner.
Ministry highlights Tan Tee How’s tenure
The Ministry of Home Affairs thanked Tan Tee How for his service and contributions to the GRA. In its statement, the ministry said that under Tan’s leadership, the authority underwent a strategic transformation. It moved from being a casino regulator to the national regulator of all forms of gambling in Singapore.
The ministry stated that Tan steered the authority’s priorities and development while maintaining strong governance oversight.
It added that his leadership helped the GRA carry out its responsibilities of keeping gambling in Singapore free from criminal influence and minimising harm to society.
GRA’s expanded regulatory role
The ministry said the GRA now acts as a single regulator covering all gambling activities in Singapore. It brings different types of gambling, including casino and non-casino activities, under one framework. The authority oversees licensing, compliance and regulation within the sector.
Recent focus on products with elements of chance
Recently, Singapore has taken steps to examine products that involve elements of chance.
In February 2026, the Ministry of Home Affairs said it is working with the Gambling Regulatory Authority to develop rules for the sale of blind boxes and similar products. These include items such as trading card packs, where buyers do not know the contents at the time of purchase.
Earlier in March, the ministry said it is preparing regulations to govern such sales, citing concerns that these products may encourage gambling-like behaviour.
Blind boxes are sealed packages containing items such as toys, figurines, models or trading cards, where the contents are not revealed before purchase. Officials said draft regulations are being prepared, although details and timelines have not yet been announced.
Measures under consideration
The issue has also been discussed in Parliament. In a written reply, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Home Affairs K Shanmugam said the government had studied the matter and decided that conditions should be specified for the sale of blind boxes.
One measure under consideration is whether sellers should be required to disclose the probability of obtaining specific items.
Some products include rare versions with lower chances of being obtained, which may influence purchasing behaviour.
Singapore does not currently have specific laws for blind box sales or trading cards. Authorities have indicated that the focus is on setting conditions rather than banning such products.
Market context and wider developments
Blind boxes and trading cards have become more popular, especially among collectors. These products are sold in a way where the outcome depends on chance. Similar systems are also used in digital settings, including games where users receive random rewards.
The approach has led to increased attention from regulators, especially where repeated purchases are involved. Authorities have stated that the aim of the proposed regulations is to reduce potential risks while allowing legitimate retail activity to continue.
Asia’s undisputed regional heavyweight lands in Manila, 01–03 June 2026. Backed by PAGCOR and powered by 16,000 delegates, SiGMA Asia delivers two levels of game-shaping influence. If you’re serious about the region, this is the room for you.
