Ng Teong Min’s deception lasted 30 years from 1995 until August this year, when a whistle-blower exposed his double life in an email to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.

The 67-year-old pleaded guilty to the offence of bigamy and was sentenced to one year and five months’ jail on Tuesday.

Ng, now a grandfather, shed tears while telling the judge he took “full responsibility for the pain, confusion and harm” he had caused.

“I have reflected deeply on the choice I made. I understand that I have broken the trust of my family and the law. This has been a painful lesson that I will carry for the rest of my life,” he said.

“I promise to uphold the law and to be a better father, grandparent and family member. I want to spend the rest of my years setting a proper example for my children and grandchildren – one built on modesty, integrity and responsibility.”