Is the SMRT a poison chalice?

This is the question posed by a Dr Lee Siew Peng in a letter of
encouragement to the new CEO Neo Kian Hong. This is the first para of
the article posted in TRE.

“Dear Mr Neo
 
I trust that “Congratulations” are in order for your new appointment.
Some people see this job as a kind of poisoned chalice. Hopefully your
big risk will lead to big rewards. Not just for you, but for the
Singapore