#GE2015 Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on opposition tactics: "If it's good, ask for more. If it's bad, it's PAP's fault." Follow our live blog (str.sg/Z7Pd) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/STcom) for more coverage.
Posted by The Straits Times on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Vote PAP to move country forward, party leaders urge
TODAY, 10 Sep 2015
Book-ending his party’s campaign, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong - who also spoke at the party’s first rally on Sept 2 - took to the stage at Jalan Besar Group Representation Constituency and told the crowd that the PAP had worked hard over the past 50 years to improve the lives of Singaporeans.
#GE2015 “Examine what each party has promised you. Think about the characters of the people who are offering themselves to represent you, not just what they say, but what sort of people they are,” says Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. “This election is about our future.”Follow our live blog (str.sg/Z7Pd) or Twitter (www.twitter.com/STcom) for more coverage.
Posted by The Straits Times on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Speaking at a field at Boon Keng Road, Mr Lee said the party has a solid report card, unlike the Opposition, which only tries to pick on subjects to rile the people against the government but offers no concrete plans on how to go about implementing their proposals. “This election, we are showing you a report card. We are proud of it. We are asking for your mandate to work with us and help us to make things better for Singapore,” he said, to loud cheers.
“There are challenges which the Government cannot avoid, which Singapore cannot avoid. We have to deal with them, we have to work at them, we have to make progress at them, and we have done that,” he said, reminding voters that the election is one in which the future direction of the country is at stake and a wrong vote could have disastrous consequences.
“In my team, every candidate has his or her own special contribution,” said Mr Lee, who was speaking at one of six PAP rallies held last night across the island. “If we lose one, it will weaken my team. If we lose two, the loss will be obvious. Lose more, I think, it might affect people’s lives, to a point where I don’t have enough MPs to form a Government ... I think it’s not a joking matter,” he said.
Mr Lee’s underscoring of the importance of having good leaders to lead Singapore beyond SG50 was echoed by other senior PAP leaders, some of whom also joined Mr Lee in criticising the Opposition.
At East Coast GRC, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam assured Singaporeans that the Government was changing to meet the changing needs of Singaporeans and ensure social mobility. Labelling the leadership of the past top-down and “often heavy-handed”, he said different times call for different leadership styles.
At East Coast GRC, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam assured Singaporeans that the Government was changing to meet the changing needs of Singaporeans and ensure social mobility. Labelling the leadership of the past top-down and “often heavy-handed”, he said different times call for different leadership styles.
“Strong leadership means listening, actively engaging, changing your mind when the situation changes or when you get better ideas from others, continually adapting, but leading all along the way. Strong leadership is … moving with people but also moving people with you into a better future,” he said.
At Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong said the PAP had delivered on its promises over the past 50 years, and urged voters “not to have an Opposition for the sake of having an Opposition”.
At a press conference earlier in the day, Foreign Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam chastised the Opposition for not being honest and specific about how its proposals would be funded, while expressing his shock at some proposals that have been put forward, such as cutting defence spending by 40 per cent, raising corporate taxes and parking the Ministry of Health under the Ministry of Defence.
One common theme expressed by PAP leaders as the campaign drew to a close was for Singaporeans to examine clearly and dispassionately who should work with them to lead the country forward.
“Don’t think of one election, think of two elections, three elections. The question to ask, for us in a multiracial society, would there be a harmonious multiracial society 10 years down the road if there is a sudden change in the political situation?” said Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who yesterday made his second appearance in the Opposition-held Aljunied GRC in this campaign to throw his weight behind the PAP team seeking to wrestle the ward back from the WP.
In wrapping up the campaign, Prime Minister Lee spoke of how far the country has come in 50 years, but offered a reminder that moving forward is more important.With You, For You, For Singapore.
"It's not the promises we make, but the promises we keep." WATCH this 1min clip voiced by Secretary General Lee Hsien LoongTHANK YOU for being with us on this campaign trail. "We're with you, for you, for Singapore."--#GE2015 #PAP4SGCONNECT with us: Get breaking news and live updates on the go >> http://bit.ly/pap_link_upVIEW exclusive content: Rally speeches, and related clips >> https://www.youtube.com/user/PeopleActionPartyHQ
Posted by People's Action Party on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
“We’ve had a good 50 years. Third World to First, SG50, good reason to celebrate. We helped to make this journey possible. We must go forward now, to make the next journey just as fulfilling, just as successful, just as amazing to the world, and to ourselves,” he said.
“And we’d like to walk this journey together with you, the PAP, together with you. So I ask you tomorrow, think about it, Friday, when you vote, you know who to vote for on Friday.”
#GE2015: PM Lee Hsien Loong asks where the Opposition's report card is. "Everybody must have a report card right? Otherwise, not fair!" Key points from today's PAP rallies: http://tdy.sg/1JUnrkZ
Posted by TODAY on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Opposition 'riles people up for polls': PM Lee
PM Lee says WP attacks Govt at rallies but supports direction of policies in Parliament
By Janice Heng, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The Workers' Party (WP) calls for the transport system to be restructured - but the People's Action Party (PAP) Government is already doing so, observed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong last night.
"This rooster, supposed to wake up before dawn - I think it woke up late this morning," he quipped, taking up Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong's analogy for the opposition's credit-claiming tendencies: like a rooster taking credit for the sunrise. It was one of several attacks on the WP by Mr Lee and the PAP's candidates at their Jalan Besar GRC rally on the last night of campaigning.
In a 40-minute speech closing the night, Mr Lee took a look at the opposition's "report card". All they have done was try to make people unhappy, he said. "They look for subjects which they think will annoy people, rile people up, so they dredge them up and make a fuss in elections - housing, transport, immigration, healthcare."
Mr Lee's response was to give a summary of his Government's work in such areas, saying: "What I say here, I say in Parliament, I say anywhere."
He charged that the opposition has been inconsistent.
For instance, during election rallies, WP chief Low Thia Khiang "says the Government's economic policy is so inhuman, so heartless" - yet in Parliament, Mr Low welcomed the direction of the Budget. And so did Mr Low's party.
PM Lee says WP attacks Govt at rallies but supports direction of policies in Parliament
By Janice Heng, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The Workers' Party (WP) calls for the transport system to be restructured - but the People's Action Party (PAP) Government is already doing so, observed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong last night.
"This rooster, supposed to wake up before dawn - I think it woke up late this morning," he quipped, taking up Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong's analogy for the opposition's credit-claiming tendencies: like a rooster taking credit for the sunrise. It was one of several attacks on the WP by Mr Lee and the PAP's candidates at their Jalan Besar GRC rally on the last night of campaigning.
In a 40-minute speech closing the night, Mr Lee took a look at the opposition's "report card". All they have done was try to make people unhappy, he said. "They look for subjects which they think will annoy people, rile people up, so they dredge them up and make a fuss in elections - housing, transport, immigration, healthcare."
Mr Lee's response was to give a summary of his Government's work in such areas, saying: "What I say here, I say in Parliament, I say anywhere."
He charged that the opposition has been inconsistent.
For instance, during election rallies, WP chief Low Thia Khiang "says the Government's economic policy is so inhuman, so heartless" - yet in Parliament, Mr Low welcomed the direction of the Budget. And so did Mr Low's party.
Whipping out his smartphone, Mr Lee referred to the WP's website, which said: "Workers' Party supports progressive Budget, raises gaps and issues in Parliament.
"But when it comes to an election rally, wah, the tiger comes out. So fierce: PAP heartless, this, that, the other, don't care about people. Go into Parliament? Progressive Budget, very good."
Mr Lee also characterised the opposition's approach to government policy as wanting to have it both ways: "If it's good, ask for more. If it's no good, PAP's fault."
That leads into their electoral policy, he added. "If the PAP is doing no good, vote for us. We will punish the PAP... But if the PAP does good, it's also because of the Workers' Party. Vote for us. We go there, PAP will do even better."
This is a case of "heads I win, tails you lose", said Mr Lee: "Which bookie will offer you this?"
At the rally in Boon Keng, the PAP candidates for Jalan Besar GRC also criticised their WP opponents.
"They must show that they can do this for real, not just for wayang": PM Lee on Opposition. #GE2015LIVE UPDATES: http://bit.ly/paprallysep9WATCH LIVE: http://sgvotes.sg
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
This is a case of "heads I win, tails you lose", said Mr Lee: "Which bookie will offer you this?"
At the rally in Boon Keng, the PAP candidates for Jalan Besar GRC also criticised their WP opponents.
Dr Yaacob Ibrahim, the anchor minister on the slate, noted that WP East Coast candidate Leon Perera had said the election was about the PAP - a point he agreed on.
The WP's campaign has been about the PAP, said Dr Yaacob. "Their story is about the PAP because they have nothing to show for the four years they have been in Parliament."
He also cautioned voters against the WP's slogan, "Empower Your Future", saying: "They are empowering themselves and not you."
As to Mr Low's view that about 20 opposition MPs are needed for a healthy Parliament, Dr Yaacob countered: "It does not take 20 MPs to table a motion or a Bill. It takes only one MP, and a lot of guts and gumption."
Fellow Jalan Besar GRC candidate Denise Phua said voters should push politicians from all parties - not just the PAP - to work harder.
Continuing a line of attack taken at other PAP rallies, Ms Phua cast doubt on the opposition's commitment to residents on the ground.
She asked what opposition politicians have achieved for their constituents or Singaporeans, "other than filing questions in Parliament and making rowdy, great popular speeches at election rallies".
For instance, instead of talking about elderly garbage-collectors or cleaners only at election rallies, the opposition should seek them out and help them, and raise their plight in Parliament so that systemic changes can be made, she said.
Pointing to the WP's lack of local manifestos for the areas it is contesting, she further wondered if that was due to a lack of knowledge of residents' needs, or a lack of interest in them.
PAP offers report card, and says it's a good one
By Toh Yong Chuan, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The People's Action Party (PAP) has presented its report card to Singaporeans in this general election, and it is the basis on which it is seeking a new mandate, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday.
The report card shows improvements in areas like housing, where 100,000 new Housing Board flats have been built, and new schemes launched to help the middle class, young couples and low-income families, he added.
"For the seniors who deserve peace of mind in their golden years, we've got the Pioneer Generation Package (which) reduced their medical bills, we've got the CPF improved, and we've got Silver Support to help them have a pension in old age," said Mr Lee at a rally in Jalan Besar GRC last night that wrapped up the campaign.
Singaporeans have a hand in the score because their views were included in the policies, Mr Lee noted. "So if it is a good report card, we can all congratulate ourselves that we have made progress."
He said opposition parties also ought to present their report cards to Singaporeans. "Otherwise (it is) not fair," he said, drawing cheers.
By Toh Yong Chuan, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The People's Action Party (PAP) has presented its report card to Singaporeans in this general election, and it is the basis on which it is seeking a new mandate, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday.
The report card shows improvements in areas like housing, where 100,000 new Housing Board flats have been built, and new schemes launched to help the middle class, young couples and low-income families, he added.
"For the seniors who deserve peace of mind in their golden years, we've got the Pioneer Generation Package (which) reduced their medical bills, we've got the CPF improved, and we've got Silver Support to help them have a pension in old age," said Mr Lee at a rally in Jalan Besar GRC last night that wrapped up the campaign.
#GE2015: PM Lee Hsien Loong recaps what's on the People's Action Party's report card. Key points from today's PAP rallies: http://tdy.sg/1JUnrkZ
Posted by TODAY on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Singaporeans have a hand in the score because their views were included in the policies, Mr Lee noted. "So if it is a good report card, we can all congratulate ourselves that we have made progress."
He said opposition parties also ought to present their report cards to Singaporeans. "Otherwise (it is) not fair," he said, drawing cheers.
He also hit out at parties that dredge up issues like housing, transport, immigration and healthcare that annoy people and make a fuss in elections.
"They stir it up, they make rousing speeches, they see which catches fire, when people boo loudest, they make more speeches," he said. "It is upside down."
Speaking in Mandarin, he said he has presented the report card with a clear conscience. "What we should have done, we have already done, what have to be changed, we have already started.
"Think about this: The Government gives its all to serve the people, it hopes that the people will give their heart to the Government, do you think it is reasonable?"
Maintaining the report card analogy, Jalan Besar GRC candidate Denise Phua urged voters to start recognising good performance. "If Singaporeans keep on casting votes to the opposition despite the PAP Government trying harder, then you are just like the parents who keep punishing a child who brings back a good report card but is not 100 per cent perfect," she said.
Citing the outpouring of grief and eulogies after founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew died, and the messages of appreciation that outgoing transport minister Lui Tuck Yew received only after he said he was stepping down from politics, Ms Phua asked: "Why do we wait until people are gone before we recognise their diligence and their good work?"
Dr Lily Neo spelt out a local report card of her ward where she has implemented more than 20 projects and programmes.
Dr Lily Neo spelt out a local report card of her ward where she has implemented more than 20 projects and programmes.
The four-member team in the GRC has put in 60 years of service as MPs, she pointed out.
In a fluent Teochew speech, Mr Heng Chee How noted that the Boon Keng area where the rally was held saw tremendous improvements over 50 years. The progress was possible because Singaporeans supported the Government, he said.
Mr Lee said such strong public support is important for political leaders. "In the Singapore system, entering politics is not the road to wealth but a path of sacrifice and hardship," he said in Mandarin.
He warned that capable and committed people will find it meaningless to step forward and serve if all they receive are sarcasm and tirades.
"For the Singapore system to sustain and the miracle to continue, we need the Government, the PAP and the people's support," said Mr Lee.
Posted by Lee Hsien Loong on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Govt now more willing to listen and engage, says Tharman
Policy shifts include rebalancing economic and social goals, culture of lifelong learning
By Chia Yan Min, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The People's Action Party (PAP) Government has shifted away from a top-down leadership style to engaging with and listening more closely to Singaporeans, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam said at his party's East Coast GRC rally last night.
He also noted two other significant policy shifts - rebalancing economic and social goals, and developing a culture of deepening skills at all stages of life.
East Coast GRC is shaping up to be one of the hottest battlegrounds for the Sept 11 polls. The PAP's opponents, the Workers' Party, polled 45.17 per cent of valid votes there in the 2011 election - up from 36.14 per cent in 2006.
Policy shifts include rebalancing economic and social goals, culture of lifelong learning
By Chia Yan Min, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The People's Action Party (PAP) Government has shifted away from a top-down leadership style to engaging with and listening more closely to Singaporeans, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam said at his party's East Coast GRC rally last night.
He also noted two other significant policy shifts - rebalancing economic and social goals, and developing a culture of deepening skills at all stages of life.
East Coast GRC is shaping up to be one of the hottest battlegrounds for the Sept 11 polls. The PAP's opponents, the Workers' Party, polled 45.17 per cent of valid votes there in the 2011 election - up from 36.14 per cent in 2006.
At last night's rally, Mr Tharman said strong leadership today is different from strong leadership 20 or 30 years ago.
"(Strong leadership today) means listening, actively engaging, changing when the situation changes, and continually adapting," he said, adding that his frequent interactions with residents have been "a tremendous learning experience".
"We used to be a top-down government, quite heavy-handed. You know what I mean.
"It is no longer that way, because Singapore has changed, and we have changed... A changed PAP is going to lead you into the future."
Mr Tharman, who is also Finance Minister and a candidate for Jurong GRC, noted that the Government has been complementing economic policies with more active social policies in recent years, marking another significant shift.
"A successful economy by itself will not give us an inclusive and fair society," he added.
For every $1 of tax - mainly goods and services tax - that those in the bottom 10 per cent income group pay, they receive $6 back in subsidies - almost double the amount 10 years ago.
Mr Tharman cited policies such as the Workfare Income Supplement for lower-wage workers, and the progressive wage model for the cleaning and security sectors.
Unlike a minimum wage strategy, "our approaches are succeeding without losing jobs for older low-skilled workers who are the most vulnerable", he added.
The Government is also adding to the savings of lower-income Singaporeans through their Central Provident Fund accounts - a sustainable system which does not impose a burden on the next generation, unlike other pension systems in the United States, Europe and Britain.
Another major shift has been towards giving Singaporeans opportunities to maximise their potential at all stages of life and promoting greater social mobility, instead of relying on a system where success depends on grades earned early on.
"We are making sure that in Singapore birth is never destiny... Meritocracy alone will not produce social mobility.
DPM Tharman Shanmugaratnam talks about help for lower income workers.Watch the full speech here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbUfsrO5g_gGet breaking news, live updates, and exclusive content, on the go, please click http://bit.ly/pap_link_up
Posted by People's Action Party on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Another major shift has been towards giving Singaporeans opportunities to maximise their potential at all stages of life and promoting greater social mobility, instead of relying on a system where success depends on grades earned early on.
"We are making sure that in Singapore birth is never destiny... Meritocracy alone will not produce social mobility.
"We have to create opportunities for Singaporeans to maximise their potential throughout life."
This means intervening early in life to help children who start off with less, as well as investing in middle-aged workers "so no one peaks in their early 40s".
Countries like the US are now grappling with a "polarised" workforce where those at the top are moving up but "the middle is gradually disappearing, because technology and automation are taking over".
"We will do everything we can to avoid this," said Mr Tharman.
This means supporting employers who invest in Singaporeans, particularly middle-aged professionals, managers and executives.
"(We want to) make sure that middle-income Singaporeans have good careers throughout their lives, that they don't become dispensable."
Present generation 'benefiting from prudent budgeting'
By Chia Yan Min, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
While the opposition has talked about the Government squirrel-ing away large sums of money in the reserves, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam noted that the present generation is already benefiting from prudent budgeting done in the past.
For instance, investment income generated from government land sales proceeds in the reserves contributes to each year's Budget, he noted.
"This is not about saving money for great-great-great grandchildren - we're already benefiting from the money today because we have been prudent all along," said Mr Tharman at the People's Action Party East Coast GRC rally last night.
By Chia Yan Min, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
While the opposition has talked about the Government squirrel-ing away large sums of money in the reserves, Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam noted that the present generation is already benefiting from prudent budgeting done in the past.
For instance, investment income generated from government land sales proceeds in the reserves contributes to each year's Budget, he noted.
"This is not about saving money for great-great-great grandchildren - we're already benefiting from the money today because we have been prudent all along," said Mr Tharman at the People's Action Party East Coast GRC rally last night.
Mr Tharman, who is also the Finance Minister, said he was responding to several opposition parties' comments that "the Government is actually making a very large surplus and hiding it away in reserves".
PAP's Tharman on reserves, govt surplus
DPM Tharman addresses opposition claims that the Government has a large surplus that it is hiding in its reserves and that is "squirreling away the money" and denying people of it. #GE2015 http://bit.ly/1VNAKJk
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
The Singapore Government does not spend the money it earns from selling land, but instead puts it into the reserves, he said.
"This is simply prudent long-term budgeting... It means that we will draw continually on reserves every year."
The net investment returns contribution to this year's Budget came up to $9 billion, of which $4 billion can be attributed to accumulated surpluses that went into the reserves due to the sale of land over the years.
"Had we spent it before, we would not now have this $9 billion," Mr Tharman added.
"It is a way in which we are fair to today's generation, but make sure that this same fairness extends to our children's generation and for all future generations. Stick to prudent budgeting, it is fair."
Mr Tharman also refuted the notion that the Government makes "excess returns" on top of what it pays into Central Provident Fund (CPF) accounts, and stores this away in the reserves.
If Singapore's sovereign wealth fund GIC were only managing CPF monies, "it would not be investing long term and taking significant risks in order to earn high returns", he noted.
Instead, GIC would have to invest in a very safe portfolio because the interest on money in CPF accounts is guaranteed.
In addition to CPF monies, GIC is investing funds from land sales and many years of earlier government surpluses, Mr Tharman said.
The Government ran more than 30 years of budget surpluses until 2000 which, together with the sale of land, has given Singapore significant reserves, he added.
GIC can therefore invest long term and take higher risks for higher returns.
Up to half of the returns from investing past reserves may be used for current government spending under the Singapore Constitution.
"We are already benefiting today but we're doing it in a way that makes sure that future generations will get the same benefit," Mr Tharman said.
PAP's Yaacob Ibrahim on WP
“Workers’ Party is like the blue sky, it turns into the night sky in Parliament, sleeping away. Friends, they are empowering themselves, not you. Friends, do not be fooled by their excuses”: Yaacob Ibrahim. #GE2015 bit.ly/paprallysep9
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Malay/Muslim community 'can do more in partnership with PAP'
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The Malay/Muslim community has much to be proud of, and its strong partnership with the Government has paved the way for these achievements, said Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim last night.
The People's Action Party (PAP) Government, in turn, has weathered crises like the SARS epidemic and the threat of terrorist network Jemaah Islamiah - thanks to the support of the people, said Dr Yaacob at a party rally in Boon Keng.
The Malay/Muslim community's achievements did not come easy and challenges still lie ahead. But, said Dr Yaacob in Malay: "The PAP has a credible and efficient team to further the interests of the Malays and the future of Singapore."
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
The Malay/Muslim community has much to be proud of, and its strong partnership with the Government has paved the way for these achievements, said Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim last night.
The People's Action Party (PAP) Government, in turn, has weathered crises like the SARS epidemic and the threat of terrorist network Jemaah Islamiah - thanks to the support of the people, said Dr Yaacob at a party rally in Boon Keng.
The Malay/Muslim community's achievements did not come easy and challenges still lie ahead. But, said Dr Yaacob in Malay: "The PAP has a credible and efficient team to further the interests of the Malays and the future of Singapore."
This includes a slate of new, dedicated Malay MPs. Four new Malay candidates are being fielded by the party in the Sept 11 polls. The report card on the community's achievements should not be forgotten, added Dr Yaacob, who leads the PAP slate in Jalan Besar GRC.
"Good news about progress is not as exciting as sensational comments, wild accusations or mischievous untruths," he said. "This hard work to serve the people is not as glamorous, but this is the principle the PAP Malay MPs and I follow, no matter the challenges we face."
Opposition parties have claimed on the hustings that the interests of the Malay/Muslim community have not been looked after.
One issue raised is that of Muslim women not being allowed to wear headscarves in certain jobs such as those in the uniformed services.
Yesterday, speaking to reporters after a morning visit to the Beo Crescent market, Dr Yaacob said the PAP's Malay MPs, including himself, are sympathetic to those facing such restrictions. They have raised the matter with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. "PM Lee has said the policy is not cast in stone. To me, that is a very good sign," said Dr Yaacob, adding he is confident change "will come in time".
At the rally, he acknowledged that the Malay/Muslim community still faces challenges. "There are issues that need more time. Those who try to sell a quick fix - bohong!" he said, using the Malay word for "lying".
While the community's progress is testament that it is moving in the right direction, Dr Yaacob added that his team's efforts are always a work in progress. "We will continue our fight, even if we are sometimes misunderstood and ridiculed. We will not give up."
While the community's progress is testament that it is moving in the right direction, Dr Yaacob added that his team's efforts are always a work in progress. "We will continue our fight, even if we are sometimes misunderstood and ridiculed. We will not give up."
Meanwhile, at a PAP rally in Simei, Minister of State for Defence and National Development Maliki Osman, a member of the East Coast GRC team, stressed that deployments in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) are based on meritocracy and commitment to the country, regardless of race and religion.
Singapore Democratic Party candidate Damanhuri Abas had said the SAF prevented Malay men from serving in sensitive combat positions.
But Dr Maliki said: "Our Malay servicemen have been recognised year after year, quietly and based on their competency." He acknowledged former MP Abbas Abu Amin, one of the first Malay officers in the SAF, on stage and added that today, there are Malay SAF officers in various vocations, including commandos, armour officers, pilots and naval combat systems operators.
Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob, co-anchor of the PAP team in Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, pointed out at a rally in Woodlands that Muslims could worship in more than 60 mosques. The community practises its religion openly, and the Government has extended support through initiatives like the Mosque Building Fund, which collects contributions from Muslim workers.
Relating the struggles a Buddhist temple in Bukit Batok East, where she was MP, faced in raising funds, Madam Halimah said: "This is something other religions do not enjoy."
Additional reporting by Toh Yong Chuan
Additional reporting by Toh Yong Chuan
"Employers will tell you they're already paying you the minimum legal salary, so why do they have to pay you more? You see, minimum wage will become maximum wage": People's Action Party's Lim Swee Say. #GE2015RECAP: http://bit.ly/paprallysep9
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Good policies trump good politics: Swee Say
By Wong Siew Ying, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
With a hot contest looming for the East Coast GRC, the gloves came off as the People's Action Party (PAP) team took the fight to its opponents at its final election rally last night.
Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say, who is leading the PAP's four-member team to contest in the GRC, questioned proposals by the Workers' Party (WP) candidates, even pitting his experience against their paper qualifications.
"I may not have a PhD or Oxford brain, but what I have is a Singapore heart," he said. "It has been my privilege to serve our workers and our people for the last 19 years."
He was referring to sociologist Daniel Goh and Oxford-educated Leon Perera, the chief executive officer of a research and consultancy firm, who are part of WP's East Coast GRC slate.
Mr Lim and his team, comprising Senior Minister of State Lee Yi Shyan, Minister of State Maliki Osman and two-term MP Jessica Tan, spoke passionately at the rally in Simei last night.By Wong Siew Ying, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
With a hot contest looming for the East Coast GRC, the gloves came off as the People's Action Party (PAP) team took the fight to its opponents at its final election rally last night.
Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say, who is leading the PAP's four-member team to contest in the GRC, questioned proposals by the Workers' Party (WP) candidates, even pitting his experience against their paper qualifications.
"I may not have a PhD or Oxford brain, but what I have is a Singapore heart," he said. "It has been my privilege to serve our workers and our people for the last 19 years."
He was referring to sociologist Daniel Goh and Oxford-educated Leon Perera, the chief executive officer of a research and consultancy firm, who are part of WP's East Coast GRC slate.
Voters ought to consider whether a party is pursuing "good policies or good politics", said Mr Lim. The former will help to improve residents' lives, while the latter is aimed at winning votes, he said.
For example, the WP has called for the Central Provident Fund monthly payouts to start at age 60, down from the current 64. The Singapore Democratic Alliance wants it to go even lower, to 55.
"It is like doing the limbo rock, the lower the better," Mr Lim said. But these proposals do not help enhance retirement adequacy.
"Why do you think that WP and SDA, why do they push for this? Because this is good politics," he added. "Are they worried about your retirement? What are they worried about? They are worried about your votes."
He said WP's proposal to freeze foreign manpower intake will hurt SMEs. Its suggestion for a minimum wage of $1,000 is too low and could end up being the "maximum wage", said Mr Lim.
"It's easy for any party to go to Parliament to push for good politics, and not care about what is the implication on the ground."
Instead, schemes such as the Workfare Income Supplement and the Progressive Wage Model have helped workers earn more.
Meanwhile, Dr Maliki homed in on the WP's message of electing opposition members to speak up for the people in Parliament. PAP candidates can do that as well, he said.
"We will raise your issues in Parliament, but we will do more than that, we will talk to you on the ground. We will listen to you," Dr Maliki said to cheers .
Ms Tan said she will push for a more "inclusive Singapore", taking in feedback from residents that means testing needs to be refined.
Keeping Singapore's economy humming and nurturing a highly skilled workforce are areas Mr Lee will continue to champion.
"Without a growing economy, all fanciful ideas of social transfer, of subsidy, of helping needy families become empty talk," he added.
Holland-Bukit Timah GRC
Vivian: I fight back when people sell 'koyok'
Minister explains his protective stance against ideas that put Singapore at risk
By Joanna Seow and Yeo Sam Jo, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan has been getting worked up responding to the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), which is challenging his People's Action Party team in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC.
Some people have told him not to be so fierce in demolishing SDP proposals and questioning the character of the opposition candidates.
Saying this has been a "challenging" election campaign, the Environment and Water Resources Minister explained why he felt the need to respond firmly to ideas that he felt were not in Singapore's best interests. Despite its successes, Singapore remains a fragile country with major challenges, he said yesterday.
"(This is) the reason why I get so uptight, so aggressive when someone comes along, talks very well, but sells 'koyok' and puts our country in danger. I fight back," he said, using the Malay word for snake oil.
Holland-Bukit Timah GRC
Vivian: I fight back when people sell 'koyok'
Minister explains his protective stance against ideas that put Singapore at risk
By Joanna Seow and Yeo Sam Jo, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan has been getting worked up responding to the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), which is challenging his People's Action Party team in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC.
Some people have told him not to be so fierce in demolishing SDP proposals and questioning the character of the opposition candidates.
Saying this has been a "challenging" election campaign, the Environment and Water Resources Minister explained why he felt the need to respond firmly to ideas that he felt were not in Singapore's best interests. Despite its successes, Singapore remains a fragile country with major challenges, he said yesterday.
"(This is) the reason why I get so uptight, so aggressive when someone comes along, talks very well, but sells 'koyok' and puts our country in danger. I fight back," he said, using the Malay word for snake oil.
It was not that he just wanted to win an argument, he said, but the facts were that the PAP Government was compassionate, had acted to address concerns over issues such as the cost of living, healthcare and the needs of the poor, and it would continue to do so.
It had boosted social safety nets over the past decade by introducing measures such as ComCare, Workfare and MediShield Life. And it had done all this in a way that would not burden taxpayers, unlike the universal benefits model proposed by the SDP.
"We are strengthening our safety nets but we can do it in a responsible way that will not pass the bill to the next generation, and will ensure that we don't put more burdens on the middle class," he said at a PAP rally in Petir Road.
Dr Balakrishnan said he had met voters worried about issues such as living and healthcare costs, retirement adequacy and unfair competition for jobs. Solutions to these issues were already in place or in the works. For example, more hawker centres are being built so that Singaporeans "always have a low-cost option on the table". Recent enhancements to the Central Provident Fund scheme have also made withdrawals more flexible, he said.
His teammates, Mr Liang Eng Hwa, Ms Sim Ann and Mr Christopher de Souza, and Bukit Panjang SMC contender Teo Ho Pin spoke at the rally about their contributions to residents at the local level and in Parliament.
His teammates, Mr Liang Eng Hwa, Ms Sim Ann and Mr Christopher de Souza, and Bukit Panjang SMC contender Teo Ho Pin spoke at the rally about their contributions to residents at the local level and in Parliament.
"There are more than 10,000 residents aged 50 and above in Bukit Panjang. We hope to provide an environment for them to enjoy their golden years": People's Action Party's Teo Ho Pin. #GE2015LIVE UPDATES: http://bit.ly/paprallysep9WATCH LIVE: http://sgvotes.sg
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Mr Liang said he hopes to seek more help for families and workers if he is re-elected. He pledged to push for more childcare subsidies and infant-care places to help young mothers get back to work quickly, and better job opportunities for Singaporeans.
Reflecting on the campaign period, he noted that differing viewpoints had been expressed very strongly, but hoped these would be put aside after the polls.
"Life continues after the Sept 11 elections. When the dust settles, we are all still neighbours and friends."
The PAP's Holland-Bukit Timah GRC team sent the following letter to residents, revealing the hard truths about the SDP's proposed policies.
Posted by Sim Ann 沈颖 on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Redeveloped Woodlands town centre, boosting football culture: People's Action Party's Lawrence Wong highlights plans for Marsiling-Yew Tee. #GE2015 bit.ly/paprallysep9
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC
'Let's not have opposition just for the sake of it'
By Lydia Lam, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Young Singaporeans may feel the need for more opposition, but Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong said yesterday at the People's Action Party's Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC rally that we should not "have opposition for the sake of having an opposition".
Speaking at Woodlands Stadium, he said: "I know some people want diversity in Parliament. I would like diversity too, but let's not have diversity for diversity's sake. Let's not have opposition for the sake of having an opposition."
Addressing the crowd after the other three members of his team - Mr Alex Yam, Mr Ong Teng Koon and Madam Halimah Yacob - had spoken, Mr Wong said the idea of diversity in Parliament is not new.
'Let's not have opposition just for the sake of it'
By Lydia Lam, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Young Singaporeans may feel the need for more opposition, but Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong said yesterday at the People's Action Party's Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC rally that we should not "have opposition for the sake of having an opposition".
Speaking at Woodlands Stadium, he said: "I know some people want diversity in Parliament. I would like diversity too, but let's not have diversity for diversity's sake. Let's not have opposition for the sake of having an opposition."
Addressing the crowd after the other three members of his team - Mr Alex Yam, Mr Ong Teng Koon and Madam Halimah Yacob - had spoken, Mr Wong said the idea of diversity in Parliament is not new.
He quoted founding father S. Rajaratnam: "The argument that opposition by itself promotes efficient government and automatically guarantees justice and welfare for the people is not true. In Western Europe, the birthplace of democracy, oppositional politics has resulted in weak and unstable governments and, in some instances, no governments at all."
Mr Wong maintained that this is relevant today, perhaps even more so. He pointed to the political gridlock in the US two years ago. The US Congress could not agree on the Budget and the whole government had to shut down, he said.
"The world's most powerful country, America, but the government shut down. Why? Because of political fighting, because of political gridlock. So this is a real concern that we should all bear in mind."
Mr Wong spoke about a different kind of democracy for Singapore, one "involving citizen participation at all levels to solve the problems we face together".
He then made a call to Singaporeans, especially young Singaporeans: "Come and work with us to solve our problems together and shape our nation's future together."
Madam Halimah said the PAP does not "just come up with papers, with policies only" but also makes sure that these are implemented. Mr Wong added that the opposition "will sell you the benefits of their proposals" but "won't tell you to read the fine print".
"There's a price tag attached and, in the end, our children and grandchildren will be the ones who have to pay the price."
He added that the PAP's approach is honest and upfront. "Our approach is one of hard work and action on the ground. That's the PAP way."
Additional reporting by Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh
Additional reporting by Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh
"On Aug 24, 2015, I was interviewed by Lianhe Wanbao on my potential candidacy in Punggol East SMC for the then‐...
Posted by Fabrications About The PAP on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Potong Pasir SMC
Sitoh defends track record over past four years
By Jessica Lim, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
In his final rally speech, the People's Action Party man (PAP) who took Potong Pasir back from the opposition in the last general election defended his track record over the past four years.
Mr Sitoh Yih Pin listed a series of upgrading projects in the ward, showed how he improved the financial situation and defended his record in Parliament.
Speaking at a rally on a field in Potong Pasir, he rebutted several points made by his rival, Singapore People's Party candidate Lina Chiam, who spoke on Tuesday.
Sitoh defends track record over past four years
By Jessica Lim, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Mr Sitoh Yih Pin listed a series of upgrading projects in the ward, showed how he improved the financial situation and defended his record in Parliament.
Speaking at a rally on a field in Potong Pasir, he rebutted several points made by his rival, Singapore People's Party candidate Lina Chiam, who spoke on Tuesday.
At her rally, Mrs Chiam, 66, charged that Potong Pasir had lost its "kampung" spirit and that she had a better track record in Parliament than Mr Sitoh, 51.
She is mounting a second bid for the ward held by her husband, Mr Chiam See Tong, for 27 years until 2011. Mr Sitoh defeated her that year on his third try by 114 votes.
In his 90-minute-long speech, Mr Sitoh shot back at her suggestion that Potong Pasir had lost its character, noting that residents continued to show strong bonds during activities he has organised.
"Kampung spirit doesn't mean you have to stay in a kampung... with no amenities. To me, kampung spirit means caring and being happy for one another."
Mr Sitoh trotted out a long list of improvements in store, including an expanded community club gym and a free bus shuttle service. The lease for a hostel in Sennett Estate that has caused problems for residents will also not be renewed.
As for speaking up in Parliament, he likened his approach to Jackie Chan's career. He pointed out that the actor makes only one movie a year, but his show is always a hit.
"I do not talk for the sake of talking... Talk is cheap," he said.
Mr Sitoh also told voters that when the PAP took over the town council in 2011, there were 402 units that had not paid their fees - making up almost 10 per cent of households in the constituency. Not one cent of the arrears has been written off, he added.
Total arrears exceeded $300,000, he added. Since then, the number in arrears has fallen by more than half and the amount owed has also dropped.
He said he has no intention of displacing, or replicating, Mr Chiam's legacy. But what he does offer is a drive and energy to help residents with their issues, he said, throwing a challenge to Mrs Chiam.
"Even if you have all the resources I have, if you have raised all the money I have raised, do you have the energy and drive to power this through?" Mr Sitoh said.
MacPherson SMC
'Mothers capable of juggling family and work'
By Karamjit Kaur, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Mothers are more than capable of juggling family and career, said the People's Action Party's (PAP) Tin Pei Ling, who is contesting the single-seat MacPherson constituency.
Hitting back at her rival Cheo Chai Chen, who had suggested that the new mother would be more focused on her month-old son than her residents, Ms Tin said: "I would like to assure Mr Cheo Chai Chen from the National Solidarity Party that mothers will not give any less of ourselves at work, compared to our colleagues."
She added: "I would also like to remind Mr Cheo that this is no joking matter." Mr Cheo had claimed he was only joking, after his attack on Ms Tin drew much flak among netizens.
Speaking at a rally in her ward yesterday, Ms Tin, who faces a three-cornered fight, also spoke of Singapore's sound education system, which her other opponent, Mr Bernard Chen of the Workers' Party, had also benefited from. She said: "Bernard has also told his story, carefully, repeatedly over these nine days".
'Mothers capable of juggling family and work'
By Karamjit Kaur, The Straits Times, 10 Sep 2015
Mothers are more than capable of juggling family and career, said the People's Action Party's (PAP) Tin Pei Ling, who is contesting the single-seat MacPherson constituency.
Hitting back at her rival Cheo Chai Chen, who had suggested that the new mother would be more focused on her month-old son than her residents, Ms Tin said: "I would like to assure Mr Cheo Chai Chen from the National Solidarity Party that mothers will not give any less of ourselves at work, compared to our colleagues."
"Mothers will not give any less of ourselves at work compared to our colleagues. I'd also like to remind Mr Cheo that this is no joking matter": People's Action Party's Tin Pei Ling. #GE2015 bit.ly/paprallysep9
Posted by Channel NewsAsia Singapore on Wednesday, September 9, 2015
She added: "I would also like to remind Mr Cheo that this is no joking matter." Mr Cheo had claimed he was only joking, after his attack on Ms Tin drew much flak among netizens.
Speaking at a rally in her ward yesterday, Ms Tin, who faces a three-cornered fight, also spoke of Singapore's sound education system, which her other opponent, Mr Bernard Chen of the Workers' Party, had also benefited from. She said: "Bernard has also told his story, carefully, repeatedly over these nine days".
A "late bloomer" who made good, his achievement "reassures me that our education system is indeed flexible and caters to students who progress at different speeds", she said.
MacPherson residents, who spoke before Ms Tin, lauded her for her commitment and dedication, even if it meant breaking confinement norms and hitting the ground just two weeks after she gave birth to a son, Kee Hau, on Aug 5.
Sharing her vision for Singapore, Ms Tin, 31, who became an MP in 2011 as part of the Marine Parade GRC team, said she hopes it will be the best home for all - a place for young Singaporeans to start and raise families, where children have access to the best possible education and opportunities, and where seniors can age gracefully and without worry.
To realise that vision requires not just government efforts but for all Singaporeans to work together, Ms Tin stressed.
The PAP has done much but more can be done, she acknowledged. "Yes, we can do better. We are not perfect, but who is?"
Urging voters to back the PAP, she said: "We will not promise things that we cannot do... But I believe that for as long as we continue to have the trust of the people, that our people are still willing to work with us, I believe that we can achieve this (vision)."
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