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December 2017
A Q U A R T E R LY P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E P E O P L E ' S A C T I O N P A R T Y
KEEP THE TRUST WITH S’POREANS
INSIDE: More help for PMETs
MPs Louis Ng & Tan Wu Meng on how they serve their residentspg27 & 28
Desmond Lee: Let kids learn from nature pg16
Tampines North Branch’s innovative community service initiatives pg20
Inside: Listing of PAP MPs and Branch
Chairs
04 COVER STORY Deepen trust with the people, never break it PAP Secretary-General, Mr Lee Hsien Loong, emphasises the need to maintain the long-held trust between the party and Singaporeans. Four young speakers share their thoughts on issues critical to Singapore’s stability, survival and success.
Strengthening PAP-NTUC ties for the future NTUC is grateful the PAP leadership is committed to the special ties between the labour movement and the party.
Paying tribute to our activists their unstinting contributions to the PAP.
15 SPECIAL Changes to PAP CEC and PAP.SG Halimah Yacob after she resigned to contest the presidential election.
16 CONVERSATION Getting children out into the sun Minister for Social and Family Development, Mr Desmond Lee, is all for children going outdoors to learn more positive attributes.
GROUNDWORK 19 PCF Community All-rounded programme for PCF pre-schools Foundation Children will get to enjoy the arts and sports to give them an all-rounded education.
20 Branching Out Pumped up with enthusiasm Tampines North Branch bustles with innovative community service programmes to help needy residents.
24 PAP Policy Forum Many helping hands for PMETs The Government has a raft of programmes to help vulnerable PMETs adapt to new jobs.
26 Young PAP Relooking at Singapore’s social compact The social compact might have to be tweaked to meet the needs of future generations.
27 Backbencher’s Bite Hands-on MP MP Mr Louis Ng creates warmth and companionship for residents and foreign workers in his Nee Soon East ward.
28 Backbencher’s Bite Listening to Clementi’s heartbeat Viewing things through the eyes of the people guides MP Dr Tan Wu Meng in looking after his Clementi ward residents.
PUBLICITY AND PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEELawrence Wong (Chairman) Desmond Lee Chee Hong TatSeah Kian Peng Lim Wee Kiak Baey Yam Keng Zaqy Mohamad Janil Puthucheary Chiang Heng Liang Diana Pang Hamidah Aidillah Benjamin Tay Teo Lin Lee Adrian Liew
EditorChee Li Foong Editorial and DesignFocus Publishing Limited(Tel: 6319-2392) Printer KHL Printing Co. Pte Ltd Photos Singapore Press Holdings, istockphoto.com
MCI (P) 180/03/2017Petir is published by the People’s Action Party Central Executive Committee. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine are not neces-sarily those of the PAP or the Government. All rights reserved.
PAP HeadquartersBlock 57B, New Upper Changi Road, #01-1402, PCF Building, Singapore 463057 Telephone: 6244-4600Telefax: 6243-0114Internet: www.pap.org.sg
Please send feedback, suggestions and comments to [email protected].
* Also in Chinese, Malay and Tamil
PAP Awards and Convention
2017
December 20172
ContentsDECEMBER 2017
04
20
07
28
27
December 2017 3
COVER STORY
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong addressed over 2,000 activists at the PAP Party Awards and Convention on Nov 19, 2017 where he emphasised the need to safeguard the trust between the party and Singaporeans. Mr Lee, who is also the party’s Secretary-General, called for the strengthening of the long-standing symbiotic relationship between the PAP and labour movement.
Petir takes a closer look at the key issues raised by Mr Lee.
Protecting Singapore’s interests While Singapore is friends with many countries, it must take
said Prime Minister Mr Lee Hsien Loong.
said.He observed how other countries such as Australia are worried
platforms.
taken to prevent it from happening to us, said Mr Lee, who is the party’s Secretary-General.
— PM Lee urging all PAP members to maintain the trust of Singaporeans.
“Party members must stay humble and be connected to the ground, so that we are always close to the concerns of Singaporeans, and we earn the right to speak for them and they feel that we are their spokesperson, their champions.”
never break it
Deepen trustwith the people,
December 20174
Singaporeans have to understand what our core interests are, so that “when we are put to the test, we will stay united and back the Government. Then, we can stand our ground and defend
Take long-term view of relationsSingapore’s relations with its neighbours and other countries,
big and small, around the world, will experience its ups and downs but it is important that the fundamental approach remains the same.
Mr Lee said Singapore should take a long-term view and work
“When relations are going well, we should not take them for granted. More importantly, when relations are down, we must not
Mr Lee, who visited China in September and the US in October, said Singapore’s relations with both superpowers are in good order. Similarly, Singapore’s bilateral ties with Malaysia and Indonesia are good, he said.
PAP must maintain people’s trust
will continue to have a full agenda for the rest of this term – upgrade the economy, create good jobs, build infrastructure, prepare for an ageing society – and Mr Lee said the key to implementing these policies well is to get the politics right.
“The people must support the PAP. Most of all, they must trust the PAP. They must know the PAP cares about them, and is working
Mr Lee pointed out the Government has to make hard choices
has to be transparent and explain the policies well.The people and the PAP, he noted, share a legacy of strong
the party working with the people, delivering results and getting
“Because we have been frank and honest, you know the PAP means what it says, and delivers on what it promises. The PAP earned the people’s trust the hard way, and we must never take it
He cited how many countries in the West have experienced a breakdown in trust between the main political parties and their citizens. The Conservative and Labour parties in the UK, and
“ PAP has always had a close, symbiotic relationship with the unions that spans decades ... Because we stayed together, the country thrived and people’s lives improved. ..This relationship must be nurtured at the leadership level ...and PAP younger ministers will work more closely with the NTUC.”— PM Lee on the importance of close links between the PAP and NTUC.
December 2017 5
The people’s championThe PM stressed: “We must never let this happen in Singapore.
majority of Singaporeans. We must always hold the ground, stay
Voters must always know that the PAP is their party, the PAP will work with you and look after your interests.
“In the coming years, this trust between the PAP and the people will be tested, but it will be more important than ever. Like other
disruptions. But unlike other countries, in dealing with these challenges, we must hold together and not pull apart.
“We need good policies to help Singaporeans cope with these changes. We also need the good politics. MPs who represent
with and support. Activists who do community and grassroots work
said. Earlier at the convention, four people – three activists and a
union member – spoke on a range of topics, from jobs and the economy, maintaining Singapore’s place in the world, and the social compact between the Government and the people. The unionist talked about the special symbotic relationship between the PAP and the NTUC.
“All four of these issues are critical to Singapore’s survival,
younger generation was acutely aware of them.
Strengthen special PAP-NTUC tiesThe symbiotic relationship between the ruling party and the
National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is more crucial than ever, as workers will need support to cope with the challenges brought about by economic disruption.
Mr Lee stressed that unions have to work with the PAP
enable them to do the new jobs better. Workers will need all the help that unions can give them.
the PAP’s support base, the Secretary-General said the PAP has always had a close, symbiotic relationship with the unions that spans decades. Both sides have stood together to overcome tough
“Because we stayed together, the country thrived, and people’s lives improved. Whenever Singapore faced a problem, the unions,
COVER STORY
This relationship must be nurtured at the leadership level, and this is why Mr Lee has asked his younger ministers to work more closely with the NTUC.
partnership with the labour movement, and the younger PAP Members of Parliament will be involved as well.
In his Chinese speech, Mr Lee noted that while there are about two to three years to go until the next general election, the hard work has to begin now.
"If we continue to want a strong mandate, win the opportunity
Paying tribute to the PAP cadres and activists in his address, PAP Chairman Mr Khaw Boon Wan expressed gratitude for their unwavering loyalty. PM
Transport Minister, and his team. Mr Lee said he has one of the toughest jobs in his Cabinet.
December 20176
The four young speakers are (from extreme left): Ms Fang Eu Lin, Ms Asyifah Rashid, Mr Jagathishwaran Rajo and Mr David Tay.
Ms Fang Eu-LinKreta Ayer-Kim Seng Branch
Jobs and the economySingapore is now facing new challenges which impact our economy
and jobs. We need to adapt to ever-changing technology and employers are required to have a mindset change to provide employees with opportunities.
How we execute the strategies together will determine the outcome. Our world now is far too complex to take the same path and journey
at it alone. While Government can provide the strategic direction and means of support, it is important that we work together – employers and employees, to adapt, and to take jobs and skills development seriously. Once we have the right strategies and workforce in place, we can safeguard an enduring economy.
At the same time, we need to strive towards being a more fair and inclusive society, giving a chance to all Singaporeans, and reaching out to
Ms Asyifah RashidMarsiling Branch
Singapore’s place in the worldHow can Singapore, amidst the many global uncertainties, rapid
globalisation and rising competition, continue to ensure our survival as a multi-cultural society and still have a stake in the world?
As a country, we must continue to remain extraordinary. To be so, we need to equip ourselves with the right tools, resources and capabilities that would enable us to act quickly, innovate and make bold moves.
ourselves further. As individuals, we must strive to continually improve ourselves,
upgrade our skillsets and think out of the box. In short, transform ourselves.
Mr Jagathishwaran RajoZhenghua Branch
Social compact in SingaporeMaintaining our social compact is important to us as a country. If this
breaks down, we will lose a sense of rootedness and we have seen an example in Brexit where UK voters voted to withdraw from the European Union.
If we do not uphold our social compact well, our multi-racial society will be divided. Race, language and religion are fault lines that have torn
the whites and the rest continue to be a perennial problem. Hence, upholding our social compact is essential to our country.
Social compact is about our country serving us, as the people. As for us, the people serving our country, and us the people serving each other.
One of the PAP’s values is self-reliance. I urge that the party continues to emphasise the value of self-reliance.
Moving forward, our social policies should promote collective responsibility of the Government, businesses and individuals so that our social security system is sustainable. In order for our social compact to remain viable, our social policies should nurture responsible and
Mr David TayActivist, Creative Media & Publishing Union
Strengthen symbiotic relationship between PAP and NTUC for stronger Singapore
Almost 50 years ago, in 1969, at the NTUC Modernisation Seminar, the labour movement pledged to move beyond wage bargaining to become PAP’s symbiotic partner in nation-building.
PAP and NTUC developed a social compact. NTUC eschewed confrontation and embraced collaboration.
responsive governance. It mobilised support for the Government, including times when tough decisions need to be made.
In turn, the PAP-led Government leaned forward to take care of the labour movement by supporting its right to organise working people and support social enterprises to stretch the hard-earned dollar of workers. The Government also enacted pro-worker legislation.
This compact anchors our relationship, in the past and now. Now, let’s embark on a journey to ignite a new wave of
personal relationships between NTUC and PAP activists at every level, so that we can all bring our symbiotic relationship to even greater heights.
Four young speakers share
their thoughts at the PAP Awards and Convention
2017. We bring you excerpts from their
speeches
December 2017 7
COVER STORY
Perdana Menteri Encik Lee Hsien Loong berucap di depan lebih 2,000 anggota di Konvensyen dan Penganugerahan Anugerah Parti PAP pada 19 Nov 2017 di mana beliau menekankan pentingnya mempertahan kepercayaan antara parti dan rakyat.
Petir menyorot perkara penting yang ditimbulkan Encik Lee, yang merupakan Setiausaha Agung parti.
Mempertahan kepentingan Singapura
Walaupun Singapura bersahabat dengan banyak negara, ia mesti menjaga “untuk tidak berada di bawah kuasa atau pengaruh
Hsien Loong. “Tidak harus ada negara asing yang
boleh mempengaruhi perbahasan domestik atau politik dalam negara kita, atau memecahkan dan melemahkan kita, sama
katanya. Beliau menarik perhatian tentang
bagaimana negara-negara lain seperti Australia yang bimbang tentang pengaruh asing, dan Amerika Syarikat menuduh
sosial. Ini juga boleh berlaku ke atas Singapura,
dan setiap langkah harus diambil untuk mencegahnya daripada berlaku, kata Encik Lee.
December 20178
Perkukuh ikatan dengan rakyat, jangan diputuskankeutamaan kita, supaya “apabila kita diuji, kita akan kekal bersatu dan mempertahan Pemerintah. Dengan demikian, kita boleh kekal dengan pendirian kita dan mempertahankan kepentingan Singapura
kata PM. Menyentuh tentang hubungan
Singapura dengan negara jiran dan negara-negara lain di serata dunia, beliau berkata mereka juga akan mengalami pasang surut tetapi adalah penting untuk mengekalkan pendekatan asas yang serupa.
“Apabila hubungan berjalan dengan baik, kita tidak harus ambil ringan. Lebih penting lagi, apabila hubungan tergugat,
ujarnya. Hubungan dengan China dan Amerika
Syarikat, dan negara jiran Malaysia dan Indonesia adalah baik, katanya lagi.
PAP mesti kekalkan kepercayaan rakyat
Pemerintah yang menghadapi keadaan
yang sibuk sepanjang dua tahun ini sejak
yang penuh sepanjang penggal ini – mempertingkat ekonomi, mewujudkan pekerjaan yang baik, membangun prasarana, mempersiap masyarakat yang semakin tua – dan Encik Lee berkata, kunci utama pelaksanaan dasar-dasar ini adalah dengan memastikan pendekatan politik adalah betul.
penting lagi, mereka mesti percaya kepada PAP. Mereka mesti tahu bahawa PAP peduli tentang mereka, dan bekerja
katanya. “Oleh kerana kita bersikap jujur dan
berterus-terang, anda tahu bahawa PAP mengotakan apa yang dikatakannya, dan menunaikan apa yang dijanjinya. PAP mendapatkan kepercayaan rakyat dengan cara yang sukar, dan kita tidak harus menerimanya secara sambil lewa, dan kita tidak boleh membiarkannya begitu
Memperkukuh ikatan istimewa PAP-NTUC
Hubungan rapat antara parti pemerintah dan Kongres Kesatuan Sekerja Kebangsaan (NTUC) adalah amat genting sekali, kerana pekerja memerlukan sokongan dalam menangani cabaran yang disebabkan oleh gangguan ekonomi.
Menyifatkan pergerakan buruh sebagai bahagian asas sokongan yang “amat
sering menikmati hubungan simbiotik yang rapat dengan kesatuan sekerja yang telah berjalan selama berdekad-dekad.
Hubungan ini mesti dipupuk di peringkat kepimpinan dan kerana itu Encik Lee telah mengarahkan menteri-menteri mudanya agar bekerja rapat dengan NTUC. Setiap menteri generasi keempat akan membentuk kerjasama khusus dengan pergerakan buruh, dan Anggota Parlimen PAP yang muda akan juga terlibat sama.
December 2017 9
COVER STORY
December 201710
A renewed call to strengthen the symbiotic ties between the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) and the labour movement was made at the PAP Awards and Convention
Hsien Loong.He noted the labour movement is a very important part of the
NTUC leaders from the NTUC Central Committee and various unions attend the convention.
“I am happy to see the unions represented in force at the
activists and participants from the labour movement.
Maintaining the relationshipPM Lee noted that the older union leaders who had worked
closely with the PAP government understood the relationship well and strengthened it.
He added that NTUC must build this same understanding into the minds of the new generation of union leaders, so that they will continue to work closely with the PAP in the years to come.
As such, there is also a need to nurture this symbiotic relationship at the leadership levels of both the party and the labour movement.
PM Lee noted that at the NTUC Ordinary Delegates'
labour movement. He had asked the younger ministers to work more closely with
the labour movement, and this will also include younger Members
of Parliament.“This will also be a key testing ground for us to identify and
develop our future leaders and to maintain the close partnership between the party and the unions for succeeding generations of
Following up on Mr Lee’s suggestion, NTUC issued a statement
partners to strengthen their symbiotic ties more than ever.“Successive generations of labour movement and PAP leaders
must share the same understanding of this symbiotic relationship and work together to help our workers overcome the economic
Advisory rolesAll PAP MPs, where possible, will take on advisory roles
in the unions and U Associate networks and work with the
on additional advisory roles and help various segments of the labour movement family transform to become more relevant and representative for all workers, said NTUC.
“NTUC is grateful to the POHs who are contributing their time and talent to work with our labour movement in these times of rapid change and help us evolve our services and methods to better take care of all working people in Singapore. This is a testimony to the unwavering commitment of the PAP leaders to be always on
BY RAMESH SUBBARAMAN
Strengthening PAP-NTUC ties for the future
NTUC delegates receive rousing welcome at the PAP Convention.
This is an edited version.
December 2017 11
COVER STORY
By the end of this year, Mr Wong Tai Ping would have dedicated about half his life to helping at the PAP Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru Branch. He started initially
also joined the PAP branch and other grassroots organisations. He also helped out at the meet-the-people sessions, visits to residents and other branch and grassroots activities.
Singapore’s founding father, Mr Lee Kuan Yew who always emphasised the value of serving from the heart, with honesty and altruism. Tanjong Pagar grassroots veterans witnessed at
Dedicated Service
Wong Tai Ping, 71Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru Branch
Paying it forward is what keeps Mr Low Peng Kit serving in grassroots organisations and various PAP branches
for more than 30 years. Growing up in a humble background, his family struggled to make ends meet. Bursaries and donations allowed him to complete his studies until his
at an early age to support himself and his family. Years later, he obtained a management diploma from a Taiwan university.
The veteran activist began as a Boon Lay grassroots volunteer, then joined PAP in 1985
and went on to serve at Hong Kah, Hong Kah South and eventually, Yew Tee where he has been since its formation in 1997.
Four years ago at the age of 65, he retired as chairman of the Yew Tee Citizens’ Consultative Committee. Although older now, Mr Lim remains active in the PAP – and serves as chairman of the Yew Tee Active Ageing Committee. He has also been a Lead representative of North West District in the PAP.SG Exco since its inception in December 2013.
During his long years with the PAP, Mr Low had served former Minister Yeo Cheow Tong
for almost all his political career, starting from the time that he entered politics in 1984 and became an MP for Hong Kah constituency. The following year, Mr Yeo was appointed Minister of State, at the Ministries of Health and Foreign
A good example of active ageing, Mr Low is the director of two medical clinics and also manages an education centre. The
in Chinese literature and calligraphy during his leisure time, and is director of the Singapore Calligraphy Centre.
PAP.SG Award
Low Peng Kit, 69 Yew Tee Branch
“We have been raising more than $100,000 worth of bursaries every year for needy students in Yew Tee. It is heartening to see them complete their studies and realise their aspirations because I too came from a similar background and
-Mr Low Peng Kit
Paying tribute to our activists
A total of 359 activists were recognised for their contributions at the PAP Awards and Convention on Nov 19, 2017. A PAP.SG medal has been created this year to recognise the role of our activists in raising awareness and support of elderly-related issues, making it a total of nine award categories.
Petir speaks to some of the award winners.
Mr Wong (centre) meets an old army buddy when he was on a walkabout with Tanjong Pagar GRC MP, Ms Indranee Rajah, at a hawker centre.
Celebrating electoral victory with Hong Kah GRC MPs in GE2006. Mr Low (third from right with spectacles) hoisted Mr Yeo Cheow Tong aloft.
See our awardees in action
December 201712
Commendation Medal
Jayakumar Narayanan, 62 Chong Pang Branch
and ideals have transformed Singapore.
Now the vice-chairman of Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru Branch, Mr Wong said he is
the current Branch chairman and grassroots adviser for her guidance and also to Mr Freddy Ang, the Branch secretary, and activists for their contributions
Mr Ang described him as “a dedicated senior who takes pride in his work, works well with people of all ages...is capable of juggling
His father, who was an active grassroots member of Sembawang and had served former MP and Minister, Dr
Tony Tan, in the ward, inspired Mr Jayakumar Narayanan to join the PAP.
Mr Kumar, who has been at Chong Pang for
earlier this year. Prior to that, he was the
He attends the meet-the-people sessions (MPS) every Tuesday, interacting with residents who need assistance. “I feel a sense of satisfaction when I know the volunteers and
residents’ lives. One incident which has stayed on his
from kidney failure and has to go for dialysis
transport to bring her for treatment. “Incidentally, we met another resident in the same block who is a taxi driver. Naturally, we
These days, the taxi driver ferries her back-
“We serve as a bridge to connect neighbours who can help one another,’’ points out Mr Kumar.
that he has done is with the support of his wonderful team. Like his father who inspired him, the virtue of serving has come full circle. These days, his siblings and in-laws are involved in MPS and other community activities.
Ms Lee Mui Ling started her career as a PAP Community Foundation (PCF) kindergarten teacher. She is currently chairing the PAP Women’s Wing (WW) of the Cashew
Branch.She said her career has been rewarding; be it taking care of the very
young or caring for seniors who have served and toiled for the country. As chairman of the WW’s Cashew Branch, Ms Lee conceptualised the
which aims to promote volunteerism and inter-generational bonding. The annual project, which kick-started last year, took the form of
a donation drive where young children are encouraged to donate food and beverage items directly to the needy elderly in the community. This purposeful project has helped to forge bonds across the generations.
“Having served both the young and old, I am glad to bring them together. Children can learn to respect and care for our elderly, and this
“Having witnessed the dramatic transformation of Singapore, I believe the institutions and policies put in place by PAP are the best possible for our next generation and Singapore’s
-Mr Wong Tai Ping
Mr Kumar derives great pleasure in helping his fellow residents.
Ms Lee (far left, squatting), mooted the idea of bringing the kids to visit the elderly who need company so that they learn empathy from young.
Women’s Wing Medal
Lee Mui Ling, 42Cashew Branch
“By caring for others, I hope to set a good example for my children so that they will grow up -Ms Lee Mui Ling
December 2017 13
COVER STORY
“Yattitude when it comes to helping his neighbours at Braddell Heights PAP Branch where he has been serving for
His activism journey began when he volunteered with the then Malay Activities Group. He also joined the PAP Braddell Heights Branch. “Also, I was interested in getting to know more about politics and how I can contribute positively towards the
Currently, he mainly assists the Malay community in his branch. Many of them are unaware of the various platforms where they can seek help or contribute to society. “I advise them accordingly so that they are
“By interacting and assisting people, I get to see how they pick themselves up and contribute positively towards Singapore.
with the Braddell Heights Community Club Youth executive committee.
Youth Medal
Jonathan Hoe Jun Xian, 27Tampines North Branch
Aside from the usual weekly meet-people sessions and house visits, have you heard about the free
haircut service held on the last Sunday of every month in Tampines, which brings smiles to residents who need them?
Or the bi-annual free movie screening that makes the day for the less privileged children and families?
And the festive celebrations, potluck
Day that bring joy and warmth to the lower-income residents?
The kampung spirit of the good old days is being rekindled in Tampines North, thanks to activists like Jonathan Hoe and his fellow members in Young PAP (YP).
myself. Now, the Tampines North Branch
“When we serve, it is often our time, presence and attention that really matters
banker, Mr Hoe comes from a less well-to-do family and received bursaries, a
studies and is grateful for the support. He simply wishes to pay it forward.
Mr Hoe at an annual cycling trip organised by his branch recently.
Long Service Medal (Bronze)
Leong Nicole Peta, 34 Siglap Branch
After studying and living in the UK for a decade, Ms Leong Nicole Peta returned to Singapore and
found herself appreciating Singapore’s
“Many may have taken our hard-earned racial harmony for granted because it
countries, racial groups are segregated,
mainstream population which can cause
“In contrast, it’s rather amazing to see
and the people work together to make
explained the Deputy Head of Business Development at Airbus Singapore.
As the chairperson for YP in Siglap, Ms Leong has been serving the branch since
the-people sessions (MPS).
the homes of those who cannot come to the sessions. They could be someone who is aged, ill or busy parents who cannot leave their homes.
“A simple gesture like talking to the elderly, helping people to read and explain a letter or simply keeping them company for a brief moment gives me the satisfaction to be part of somebody’s life… it warms my heart and keeps me going because our
Ms Leong: Never take our racial harmony for granted.
Gold Medal
Rosli bin Osman, 59Braddell Heights Branch
Mr Rosli is always ready to help his neighbours.
December 201714
SPECIAL
Changes to PAP CEC and PAP.SGYounger leaders appointed to the Party’s Central Executive Committee and seniors advocacy group
The PAP has announced changes to its highest decision-making body after the 34th PAP Central
Executive Committee (CEC) meeting on
In a statement, it said Mrs Josephine Teo, Minister in the Prime Minister’s
Tan Chuan-Jin, Speaker of Parliament, was appointed the new PAP.SG Chairman.
positions vacated by former CEC member Madam Halimah Yacob, who is now the President of Singapore.
Already the chairman of the PAP Community Foundation executive committee, Mrs Josephine Teo was
said: “I have been fortunate to contribute in various capacities. I hope to make a contribution too as a member of CEC in
Mr Tan, who was co-opted into
portfolio as Minister for Social and Family
speech as Speaker, he pledged to facilitate robust debate, and urged Members of
of the people.
Organising Secretary and Chair HQ Exco, Mr Chan Chun Sing, said in the statement: “The CEC would like to place on record the Party's appreciation to Mdm
Halimah resigned from the party and its CEC, and also as MP and Speaker in August to contest the elected presidency.
Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok
to the Party’s senior wing. The statement said the CEC has accepted Mr Goh’s
guidance and support for PAP.SG in its formative years. PAP.SG was established in
Mrs Teo, the Cabinet’s second
female full minister, advocates the
seeding of new approaches and
capabilities in her work.
Mr Tan, the country’s 10th
Speaker of Parliament, wants to make parliamentary
processes more accessible to
the public.
December 2017 15
CONVERSATION
The future Singaporean is one who will embody the spirit of the pioneer Singaporeans: one who is robust, has a sense of resilience, adventure, and who cares for the people and the
environment around him.
for Social and Family Development hopes to put more resources into creating transformative early childhood experiences for all Singaporean pre-schoolers, to shape future generations.
that even those who start with less, will have opportunities to get a
That includes ensuring that pre-school education is accessible,
Outdoor goodness
Lee feels strongly about is going outdoors, which is also being developed by other agencies including the Education and Health ministries and NurtureSG, a plan to enhance health outcomes among the young.
He speaks fondly of numerous instances where children
DESMOND LEE Minister for Social and Family Development and Second Minister for National Development;MP for Jurong GRCAge: 41Family: Wife, and three children, aged 3, 5 and 7.Hobbies: Outdoor nature activities.
Getting children out into the sunDesmond Lee cares deeply about children, nature and creating hope for the future. The Minister for Social and Family Development also tells Petir that age is no barrier when it comes to connecting with people
December 201716
are captivated by nature, including a community gardening set designed by education organisation Kidz Meadow Childcare and Development Centre which included a baby blue shovel for boys and baby pink shovel for girls.
“The set came with some age-appropriate advice on how to grow and care for plants, which implicitly teaches young people the value of nurturing something
school centres under the Start Small Dream Big initiative.
“We have to create new outdoor-learning pathways and build these into the repertoire of skillsets of existing childcare centres, to get the kids into the playgrounds
Mr Lee himself is known as a nature
enjoys going on nature walks with his three
time to head to the reservoir and takes
discovered the joys of kayaking only a few years ago when he was asked to become the advisor to the Singapore Canoe Federation.
“It’s completely green and blue around me. I go when I have a problem to solve in
Source of strengthHe draws inspiration not only from the
green, but also from the ground.Being able to connect to the ground
and surface concerns of the man-on-the-street to a national policy level, is what Mr
In one instance, when he was a backbencher, he met a driving instructor who was about to lose his rice bowl as he
for driving instructors. Mr Lee lobbied to raise the age, and the trained lawyer even drafted the amendment regulation. The reply was that the authorities would look
into this. But vindication came a few years
Mr Lee is known to be a man who listens well, and he clearly cares. “Whatever your responsibilities are at the ministry, your legitimacy and authenticity is derived from your connection with the society you are
This especially comes through when he describes individuals and the issues they face, his expression becoming animated and his voice rising a notch.
in need, he has always championed resilience: “Don’t, through well-meaning
desire to help himself and his family,
He has encountered a few instances of
by agencies and community groups. In one case, an elderly gentleman who
despite a doctor’s report which stated he
to hire him for, if he got hurt at work, he would not be covered by insurance, but Mr Lee managed to get him a job as a security guard.
said Mr Lee. “I see him hobbling to the bus-stop with his walking stick, he’s happy. He
“Early childhood education affects generation after generation. It has broad impact. If you do it well, you will ensure that even those who start with less, will have opportunities to get a lot more for their children.”
Empowering people to be resilient is a big theme with Mr Lee (centre) who was at the launch of the WHEELS programme at Kampung Senang where senior volunteers repair wheelchairs.
Mr Lee chatting with the children at Kidz Meadow’s Start Small Dream Big gardening project which teaches them how to grow and care for plants.
December 2017 17
CONVERSATION
does that make?
ages, races and backgrounds. They must feel comfortable with you, then they will share their hopes, dreams and fears. Age is not a barrier.
But is it an advantage?Maybe you could say I am a bit more foolhardy. I would knock on doors I was told not to knock on, where I was told I would be scolded. I don’t know if it was youth or inexperience. What’s there to lose? You’d just get a scolding.
tell you what they are truly unhappy about. It’s easy and tempting to stay in a safe haven. But if you
Illuminating the futureYoung people think a job in the
construction sector entails stepping into dirty puddles of water under
with low pay and not much prospects and stature.
But in reality, technology has already transformed the way construction is conducted. For instance, some 3D models are so advanced that users can zoom right in to view, literally, the nuts and bolts of the project.
Mr Desmond Lee, the Second Minister for National Development, once visited a construction company which has invested millions of dollars in technology. “In the centre of that automated space was a control room, with computers operated by Singaporeans in shirts and ties controlling the whole process.”
The Industry Transformation Map for construction, which was launched on Oct 24, 2017, will direct the industry toward this future.
Mr Lee sees his work as one piece of a bigger mission to “drive another engine of hope and opportunity.”
“We need to uplift the spirits of Singaporeans so that they feel the future is still out there to be harnessed.
Society goes forward if the next generation feels that life is going to be better than that of an earlier generation.”
He is also concerned with conservation. A change he has made is to organise the NParks Festival of Biodiversity in the heartlands, instead of central areas like Vivo City and the Botanic Gardens, and extend the festival to an entire week, instead of a few days. “We wanted to make the festival more accessible to heartlanders,” he said.
Youngest Ministerin the House
A nature lover himself, Mr Lee believes that the joy of interacting with nature should be shared with more Singaporeans.
December 201718
TSingapore was abuzz with activity and children’s laughter on Sunday,
it. They were there to view artwork by the likes of Cultural Medallion recipient Chng Seok Tin and whimsical Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and that of their own classmates. Fifty pieces of colourful artwork by PCF pupils were on display.
For a refreshing change, PCF held its annual family day at the National Gallery to coincide with the Children’s Biennale
showcased artwork that explore the inner child in each of us to embark on a creative journey.
In his speech, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who is also the PAP’s Secretary-General, said: “Today’s event here will give you a taste of the kind of things which we are encouraging kids to do, which are beyond the normal strict curriculum, and
“So parents can be assured that at PCF, their kids will be well looked after and can learn from a wide variety of
In support of the Government’s push to enhance pre-school education for the very young, PCF, which currently operates about
such as painting, gymnastics, aikido and drama, said PM Lee.
New measures will also be taken to
education will allow all children, regardless
opportunities to succeed in life, he pointed out.
children in Singapore. It will expand its capacity to support the Government’s plans
new HDB estates. These centres will cater to children up to aged four, for which there is still a shortage of places.
The number of pre-school places in
put his child in pre-school, even at the age of two months old — which is when people
said PM Lee. He also promised that the Government
young neighbourhoods such as Punggol and
capacity over the next two to three years.
can look forward to better training and upgrading in their careers, in tandem with the improvement and expansion in capacity.
This year, a group of MPs, led by Ms
which included the Alzheimer's Disease Association and Grace Orchard School which caters to students with mild intellectual disability and mild autism spectrum disorders.
PAP Community Foundation (PCF) — the largest pre-school operator in Singapore — will enhance its pre-school curriculum to help children enjoy the arts and sports
This year’s Family Day was held at National Gallery where 50 pieces of artwork by PCF students were on display.
GROUNDWORK > PAP COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
All-rounded programmefor PCF pre-schools
December 2017 19
GROUNDWORK > BRANCHING OUT
Pumped up with
Exco members of the PAP Tampines North Branch brim with ideas to help residents
GROUNDWORK > BRANCHING OUT
enthusiasm December 201720
Ienthusiastic group of Exco members than the one at the PAP Tampines North Branch.
Never short of fresh ideas, their camaraderie is very palpable and infectious as they go about helping fellow residents. No wonder they describe
What is also impressive is the good mix of young
diversity has advantages: residents can be sure of
group to relate their problems to, when they need help. Conversely, the branch is able to reach out to
A cut above the restMembers of Tampines North have taken
community service to a higher level. In addition to tackling residents’ problems at the weekly meet-the-people sessions (MPS) conducted by Mr Baey
organise regular rice distribution programmes, movie screenings and festive dinners for lower-income residents in the constituency.
Perhaps the best example of their innovative programmes is the monthly Free Haircut service at the biggest rental block in Tampines North, which is still going strong, three years after its six-month pilot
“There are many families with several children. Then there are handicapped residents with mobility problems. Now, they just need to come down to the
residents come for the free service every last Sunday
as long as there is demand, said Ms Lim.The activities of the Exco complement the work of
grassroots teams and residents welcome the variety
Help, no questions askedNot only are the Exco members doing good,
they are doing it right by respecting the privacy of residents. When the Free Haircut service was
the needy.Mr Baey, who is also Parliamentary Secretary,
“The Exco members are also proud of their efforts in building on the reputation of Tampines being a ‘cycling town’ by holding an annual cycling event.”
The element of trust, without checking
eligibility, prevails in Tampines North Branch’s community
such as its Free Haircut for those in need.
December 2017 21
GROUNDWORK > BRANCHING OUT
Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, had said: “I do not want to check income slips, ask to see Public Assistance, CHAS cards or even ICs.
“We do not have to be so exact because those in need also have their dignity. Insisting on evidence to prove their status means that I doubt people’s
This will also be the same approach taken for the
Organised by the branch’s Young PAP, Homework
secondary students in their homework.
in building on the reputation of Tampines being a
On the day Petir interviewed them, they had just returned from this annual meet. Mr Baey said that
Tampines, including Tampines Eco-Green and the
Added the MP: “The cycling events are a good way to get residents to volunteer for our activities and
know Vincent (Chua), who is now an Exco member.
also organises trips to Malaysia twice a year, with eight coaches leaving for a weekend in Malacca at the end of November.
However, it is not all fun and games. Mohd
neighbour disputes and family problems are among the most challenging at the MPS. A PAP member of
hurts when you see parents raise their children but in the end, the children cannot even take care of one parent. So we at the PAP Tampines North Branch try
So it comes as no surprise that the Exco members themselves are becoming increasingly popular among the residents and are often greeted by their
Age diversity, from 25 to 70 years old among Tampines North Branch Exco members, makes it easier for them to engage residents. Their camaraderie is so infectious that they describe themselves as one big happy family.
December 201722
GROUNDWORK > PAP POLICY FORUM
MGovernment hopes to create in the near future will be PMET-type jobs.
Sharing the news at a PAP Policy Forum dialogue, Manpower Minister Mr Lim Swee Say said: “We want to make every job a better job, and every worker a better worker, and match them to each
The panel comprised Mr Lim; Assistant Secretary-General of
Tan; and Second Minister for Manpower Mrs Josephine Teo, who
Lim and invited to join the panel – to the audience’s delight.
Sustainable Growth TargetsIn his trademark down-to-earth style, Mr Lim explained – with
the help of a whiteboard and marker – how Singapore’s previous
sustainable as it was largely due to manpower growth.Instead, the Government is now aiming for a 3 per cent GDP
cent from productivity gains.“There are promising signs that our productivity growth may
Vulnerable PMETsIt is heartening that a majority of future job growth will be
sectors – professional services, healthcare, infocomm technology,
Job disruptions and re-structuring can present opportunities for growth
Many helping hands for
PMETs
December 201724
older you are, the more vulnerable you are. The challenge for us is to look beyond job losses, but also at where the jobs at risk are and
The number of net job growth is a far cry from the estimated
Mr Lim assured that this will be more sustainable, and a raft of initiatives are already in place to help PMETs.
like SkillsFuture and the Lifelong Learning Festival will boost the
Mr Lim added that initiatives such as the introduction of an online job market place next year will address what he described
development programmes like Adapt-and-Grow will address
employer’s needs.
Keeping up with changing job market
through video resumes for instance, are evolving.Mrs Teo described how employers want to hire people who are
hit the ground running. She said: “We are reaching out to as many employers as we can to persuade them that the jobseeker may not
This includes the Professional Conversion Programmes to re-
Government helps the employer to pay part of the jobseeker’s salary for a short period of time.
During the spirited Q&A session, the participants shared their views on a diverse range of issues, from whether a retirement age is still relevant, to Singaporeans seeking opportunities overseas.
The panelists replied that a retirement age is still relevant, as it is linked to many other considerations in Singapore.
Mrs Teo also noted: “A lot of people like their employees to have some overseas experience, for not just the global perspective but for
Summing up, dialogue organiser Mr Steven Seow, who is a member of the PPF Council, said: “The manpower dialogue gave our party activists an acute understanding of the various challenges we face as a nation. We are currently facing economic headwinds, and dealing with both structural and cyclical market changes.
“The PAP government works hand-in-hand with the labour movement to help those workers who are displaced. This symbiotic partnership also focuses on how workers can be re-skilled and up-skilled to better align with changing needs in the jobs market. With
Manpower Minister Mr Lim Swee Say at the Adapt & Grow Manufacturing Day & Technology Showcase in April 2017.
December 2017 25
GROUNDWORK > YOUNG PAP
Relooking at Singapore’s social compactSingapore’s social compact has worked well but needs some tweaking to stay relevant
Is the current social compact between the Government and people of Singapore, drawn up by the nation’s
still valid?
activists at the Young PAP (YP) bi-monthly
During the activists’ presentations after their small group discussions, it was clear that their consensus was that the social compact’s aim of ensuring that every Singaporean will have a home has been
The activists also agreed the social compact between Singaporeans and the PAP government has delivered on giving every Singaporean, regardless of race,
under the principle of meritocracy. Singaporeans also enjoy the opportunity to grow old comfortably. However, some issues have emerged in recent years
up to tackle future challenges.
Concerns raisedThe widening income gap is one of the
concerns, the activists pointed out. They noted that while home ownership was high,
contrast, those who own homes on freehold
since their properties can be passed down
for several generations.
resources to succeed in life, prompting the activists to call on the government to
Social integration – always a work in progress
The participants suggested building
among the races so that the community will become more inclusive.
In her address, guest of honour, Ms Tin Pei Ling, MP for MacPherson Single Member Constituency, said the social compact is a “very important subject as
She said her takeaway from the meeting is that the current social compact is still
relevant but needed some tweaking. Ms
to race, language and religion. This was a point that young activists felt strongly about. Sharing further, she articulated the
which was coined by Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. It refers to exercising the principles of meritocracy but tempered with compassion; that those who have succeeded understand that they have a responsibility to help the less fortunate and less able with compassion.
No room for complacency Ms Tin also said that in resource-
deprived Singapore, we have relied on our people to overcome the odds and achieve the extraordinary results we see today. In other words, our people made us extraordinary. But our Asean neighbours are catching up. She pointed out: “The average age in these Asean countries is much younger than Singapore’s. They have more people and they are eager to overtake us.
“If we become complacent, then we would have to pay the price. No one can say for sure we will make it but if we try, we
Kio-Hougang Branch) sharing his thoughts, said: “It is important to relook at the social compact from time to time since it has to cater to
Ms Tin suggested expanding the
age, in addition to race, language and religion.
December 201726
BACKBENCHER'S BITE
Hands-on MPWHO: Louis Ng, MP for Nee Soon East ward in Nee Soon GRC. He joined politics in September 2015 and is Chief Executive of ACRES (Animal Concerns Research and Education Society), a charity he founded during his undergraduate days in 2001. Since 2008, Mr Ng has been volunteering with grassroots organisations, including in Nee Soon, Kembangan-Chai Chee and Joo Chiat.
WHERE: Yishun Park Hawker Centre, 51, Yishun Avenue 11.
ON THE MENU: Vegetarian food and water.
AMr Louis Ng has put himself in the shoes of both ordinary
Singaporeans and foreign workers, to get a sense of what it is like to be on the ground. He had been, among various roles, a cleaner, chambermaid, cardboard collector, kindergarten teacher and humanitarian worker. He is currently also chairman of Nee Soon Town Council. Instilling values in daughters
I have started to bring our older girl Ella, 3, along for events and outings with children from lower-income families and foreign workers. I explain to her so that she knows what her daddy does. Fathers have an important role to play, values are passed on through observation. She observes and listens, and can say Daddy goes to Parliament to speak up for people and to help them.
The twin girls, who were born two months
point to spend lunch time with the family every day. Not possible every time but I try my best.
The roles of an MP and an activist I get questions about this very often. The simple
an MP and an activist. The next chapter in our nation-building journey is to get the community more involved. I see myself as the bridge between the Government and civil society, such as getting volunteers for advocacy to conduct research and speak to people on the ground and
It’s also a way to channel their passion towards something positive rather than remain just keyboard warriors.
My role as an MP or an activist is to engage, empower, inspire and mobilise people to take initiatives and action. Thanks to social media, we have a younger generation who is more aware of issues. There is a stronger sense of activism now. The conversational space is opening up.
Not just a matter of dollars and cents Helping people goes beyond dollars and
cents to include intangible human needs. We have to ensure the kids from lower-income families, like any other Singaporean
month, we bring the children for outings so that they can have fun and memories that will last a lifetime. We have kids in secondary schools, for instance, who have never stepped into a cinema or visited Sentosa. We also hold mentorship sessions to help them with their homework and chat with them so that they feel loved and cared for.
There are also a number of seniors who live alone in Nee Soon East. We organise outings and gatherings through which we hope to bring warmth and some companionship to ensure they don’t feel lonely.
Extending the hand of friendshipWe have in our midst many foreign
workers like cleaner Hanif who leave their families to come here to help build and clean our country. The least we can do
opportunity to forge new friendships with these migrant workers. For instance, we put up stories like that of Hanif on our HDB notice boards so that our residents get to know them better.
Singapore also has the capabilities and resources to do more to help our neighbours. That is why we organise Hearts-to-Hands trips to Asean countries to provide humanitarian aid, for example, to Rohingya refugee camps in Aceh, Sumatra where we built a library, teach English and IT skills. And simply have fun by playing games like football.
As Singaporeans, we can choose to
better place.
with Louis Ng
December 2017 27
As a doctor specialising in medical oncology, Dr Tan Wu Meng looks after cancer patients daily. As the MP for Clementi, his
residents.
BACKBENCHER'S BITE
Listening to Clementi’s heartbeat
WHO: Dr Tan Wu Meng, MP for Clementi ward in Jurong GRC. He entered politics in September 2015. Prior to GE2015, he was a councillor in the North West CDC and vice-chair of the Youth Works sub-committee between 2006 and 2009; a member of the Senja-Cashew Youth executive committee (2007 to 2011) and the Senja-Cashew Citizens' Consultative Committee from 2010 to 2013. He was also elected Organising Secretary of the national Young PAP Exco from 2008 to 2010, and had served as Holland-Bukit Timah Regional YP Chair and Cashew Branch YP Chair.
WHERE:
ON THE MENU: kopi peng)
Raising issues as a backbencherI’ve raised issues in Parliament, in op-eds,
and other channels, in particular about making government policies, services and re-training more inclusive and accessible to the elderly and vulnerable. Can we make things more
use? And where there is technology, using it to make things easier — being people-centric, not technology-centric. In policy and implementation, we must always see things through the eyes of the people.
For example, when the application process is complicated, or if paperwork is complex, it becomes harder for those who are less well-informed, less IT-literate or from more disadvantaged backgrounds to seek help or
available.Language is an issue that we have to take
into account as we move towards a Smart Nation. As many online platforms are in the English language, we have to ensure the Pioneer Generation is not left out.
Serving an older mature estateClementi is a mature and compact
estate — the oldest HDB blocks are 40 years old. So we have many elderly residents. Our older HDB blocks have character — traditional void decks where people meet and children play, which are
shared spaces are very important for residents to meet informally. As design
to interact naturally and easily, even in the newer estates.
A lot of my time is spent on home visits, walkabouts and community activities. Home visits especially because some older residents are not so mobile. Given that Clementi has a slightly older community in the workforce, we feel our middle-aged workers’ challenges as the global economy changes. We have organised job fairs in partnership with e2i and the National Trades Union Congress to help PMETs and older workers with job placements.
Heartware mattersWhen you work as a doctor, you
listen to people’s stories and try to help. It reminds you that when you reach out, you can touch lives. It is the same with community service. In Clementi,
healthcare providers — hospitals, family medicine centres, polyclinics — with the residents to ensure there is closer integration of services.
We also work closely with various agencies to make it easier for our
residents to move around the town. Together with agencies, we are reviewing the infrastructure so that it is easier and safer for the vulnerable and the elderly to get around, especially when crossing roads.
I want to stress the importance of urban design to ensure the vulnerable are able to get around and that the shared spaces and amenities help to bring people together. Of course, it’s not just about hardware but also heartware. But thoughtful hardware design can shape the heartware too.
Family time I have two young daughters, one 6 years
old, the little one 6 months old. Family time is spending time together at home, when we can.
But now, my reading time is about topical
issues and what happens around the world, since I sit on three Government Parliamentary Committees. The three committees, made up of backbenchers, are: Health; Finance, Trade and
with Dr Tan Wu Meng
December 201728
