Ong had invited Iswaran on a fully paid, undeclared trip to Qatar in 2022, including private flights and hotel costs. Although the offence carries a maximum penalty of seven years in jail, prosecutors have recommended judicial mercy due to Ong’s terminal illness and other severe medical conditions.

The 79-year-old businessman pleaded guilty on Monday to one charge of abetting obstruction of justice. His sentencing is set for August 15.

The charges are related to flights, a hotel stay in Doha and Formula One tickets that former Transport Minister S.Iswaran had received when he headed the Singapore Formula One night race steering committee.