Singapore – The Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) has appointed Kenneth Tan as chief operating officer, MDA, as well as director, Singapore Film Commission (SFC). Joining MDA from May 2, 2008, Tan replaces outgoing SFC director Man Shu Sum who will leave for the post of CEO, Mark Burnett Productions Asia on May 14, 2008. As MDA’s COO, Tan will oversee MDA’s operations; and will be responsible for growing local filmmaking talents and sector as director of the SFC. Dr Christopher Chia, CEO, MDA said, “(Tan’s) rich industry experience and strong business ties will improve the reach and relevance of Made-by-Singapore media content, products and services for local and international audiences and provide greater impetus to our drive to make Singapore the media gateway between Asia and the world.” Tan was formerly managing director of Golden Village Singapore and is the present chairman of the Singapore Film Society. He also chairs the Promote Mandarin Council and Advisory Committee of the School of Film & Media Studies at Ngee Ann Polytechnic. In addition, he sits on the boards of several academic and cultural institutions.