Syed Harun Taha Alhabsyi
Syed Harun Alhabsyi is a former Nominated Member of Parliament, psychiatrist, medical director, and community leader. He is the Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director of The Starfish Clinic of Psychiatry & Mental Wellness.
Previously, he served as a Consultant Psychiatrist at the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and was a Visiting Consultant Psychiatrist at the Institute of Mental Health.
He has been active in both medical and social service sectors, holding various leadership roles in government ministries, statutory boards, and charity organizations.
Dr Syed Harun was appointed by President Halimah Yacob on 24 July 2023, and took his oath in 2 August 2023.[1]
Early Life and Education
Dr Syed Harun studied medicine at the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and later attained Specialist Accreditation as a Psychiatrist in 2019. His academic interests include forensic psychiatry, military psychiatry, healthcare ethics, neuropsychiatry, and community mental health.
Professional Career
Dr. Syed Harun has served in various psychiatric roles, including:
- Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Director at The Starfish Clinic of Psychiatry & Mental Wellness.
- Former Consultant Psychiatrist at the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).
- Former Visiting Consultant Psychiatrist at the Departments of General Psychiatry & Forensic Psychiatry at the Institute of Mental Health.
- Adjunct lecturer and clinical tutor at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University.
In addition, he is an active member of the Singapore Mental Well-Being Network, a national initiative to improve mental health literacy and community support.
Achievements and Awards
- 2019: Nominated for the Singapore Youth Award, where he was one of 15 finalists and received a Special Commendation for the Most Inspiring Story.
- Named to: National Council of Social Services 40-under-40, recognizing promising leaders in the social services sector.
Community Involvement and Leadership
Dr. Syed Harun is actively engaged in community service and holds several voluntary appointments, including:
- Council Member of the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS)
- Member of the 17th National Youth Council
- President of Lembaga Biasiswa Kenangan Maulud (LBKM), an IPC charity providing bursaries and scholarships
- Honorary Secretary of the Singapore Psychiatric Association
- Vice Chairperson of the Review Committee (Welfare Homes) under the Ministry of Social and Family Development
- Member of the SCDF Medical Advisory Committee
Resignation and Speculation on Political Involvement
On 14 February 2025, Dr Syed Harun resigned from his NMP appointment, nearly a year before the end of his 2.5-year term.[2]
His resignation was announced via an email to Members of Parliament, and his biodata was promptly removed from the Parliament website.
His sudden departure came just before the annual Budget debate, a crucial period in the parliamentary calendar.
In his resignation letter, Dr. Syed Harun stated that he was stepping down to "explore opportunity for political service," indicating a possible transition into electoral politics.
His resignation, along with Raj Joshua Thomas, has led to speculation that the two may be preparing to contest in the 2025 General Election, widely expected to take place in early May.
Personal Life
Dr. Syed Harun enjoys mentoring youth, medical students, and medical officers in his free time. His work focuses on improving mental health services and advocating for community-based mental wellness initiatives.
Social Media and Contact
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