Subramaniam Iswaran, a senior cabinet minister in Singapore, has been sentenced to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to accepting bribes worth more than S$403,000 ($311,882) while in public office, as well as obstructing justice. The gifts included Formula 1 Grand Prix tickets, a luxury bicycle, alcohol, and a private jet ride.

In delivering the sentence, Justice Vincent Hoong of Singapore’s High Court underscored Iswaran’s abuse of power, stating that his actions damaged public trust in government institutions. He noted that Iswaran initially believed he would be acquitted, which undermined any display of remorse.

Iswaran, who will begin his sentence on 7 October at Changi Prison, is Singapore’s first political figure to face trial in nearly 50 years. His case has tarnished the country’s reputation for strict anti-corruption measures and public integrity.

Singapore prides itself on its clean image, with its political leaders among the highest-paid in the world, a practice intended to deter corruption. However, ministers are required to declare gifts and pay the government for their market value if they wish to keep them.

The former transport minister’s actions have been seen as a severe breach of ethical conduct. Prosecutors argued for a 6-7 month sentence, highlighting that Iswaran was “more than a passive acceptor of gifts,” while the defense requested a lighter sentence of eight weeks. Justice Hoong emphasized the heightened responsibility of public officials to maintain high standards of integrity, citing the significant influence such figures wield over public perception.

The case has also implicated billionaire property mogul Ong Beng Seng, who was involved in bringing the Formula 1 Grand Prix to Singapore and is now under investigation for his role in the scandal.

Iswaran’s sentencing marks one of Singapore’s highest-profile political corruption cases since 1975.