S. Iswaran, Singapore's former transport minister, has been sentenced to one year in prison for corruption and obstructing justice, marking the first imprisonment of an ex-cabinet member in the city-state's history. Iswaran, who served for 13 years in various ministerial roles, pleaded guilty to five charges, including receiving over $300,000 in gifts from businessmen, such as VIP tickets to major sporting events and a private jet ride. The High Court emphasized the seriousness of the offenses, with Justice Vincent Hoong stating that the initial prosecution's request for a shorter sentence was 'manifestly inadequate'. This case has shocked Singapore, a nation known for its clean governance and minimal corruption, as it reflects a significant breach of public trust. Iswaran's conviction underscores Singapore’s commitment to maintaining integrity in its political system, following a long period without any ministerial corruption cases. His guilty plea, despite initial denials, highlights the serious nature of the court's findings in this landmark case.