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Independent Singapore
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Independent Singapore
GE2025: Edwin Tong leads PAP team to victory at East Coast GRC
SINGAPORE: The ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has won over the opposition Workers' Party (WP) at East Coast Group Representation Constituency (GRC). After the votes were tallied, it was shown that the PAP team, led by Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, 55, received 58.76% of the votes, while the WP team, led by former Non-Constituency Member of Parliament (NCMP) Yee Jenn Jong, 60, won 41.24%. The rest of the PAP team comprised incumbent Members of Parliament (MPs) Tan Kiat How, 47, and Jessica Tan, 58, together with new candidates Hazlina Abdul Halim, 40, and Dinesh Vasu Dash, 50. The WP, meanwhile, fielded Nathaniel Koh, who had contested at Marine Parade GRC with Mr Yee in GE2020, along with three new candidates: Paris V. Parameswari, 51; Sufyan Mikhail Putra, 33; and Jasper Kuan, 46. The election at East Coast GRC in 2020 had been a close one, with the PAP winning 53.39% of the votes and the WP receiving 46.61% of the votes. However, many things have changed since then. First, some estates were moved to the newly created Pasir Ris-Changi GRC , and the Joo Chiat ward, which had been part of Marine Parade GRC, became part of East Coast GRC. Mr Yee quipped at a WP rally earlier this week that while he has always lived in the same place, he is now contesting his third constituency, Joo Chiat, Marine Parade, and East Coast. In 2011, Mr Yee won 48.99% of the votes at Joo Chiat Single Member Constituency (SMC). Having served as an NCMP from 2011 to 2015, he has been active on the ground in the area since then. Another major change is that Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, who had been announced as a last-minute candidate at East Coast GRC in 2020 after representing Tampines Central in Parliament since 2011, announced he would not be seeking reelection. Thirdly, the popular former WP candidate Nicole Seah, who had led the WP slate at East Coast GRC in 2020, left the party after a scandal in 2023. Although the PAP will continue to remain in power in the coming five years, this year's General Election has largely been perceived to be a test of how much ground the opposition will gain. It has also been seen as a test for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who was sworn into office on May 15, 2024. The increased cost of living in one of the most expensive cities in the world was widely reported to be the issue that was foremost in voters' minds in the run-up to this year's polls, and support for the opposition appeared to be on the rise, at least among commenters online. /TISG Read also: Yee Jenn Jong: Edwin Tong must have something better than the East Coast Plan
Independent Singapore
30-04-2025
- Politics
- Independent Singapore
Yee Jenn Jong: Edwin Tong must have something better than the East Coast Plan
SINGAPORE: Workers' Party (WP) candidate Yee Jenn Jong was in no mood to mess around as he took to the stage at the rally on Tuesday night (April 29), saying that his rival at East Coast GRC, the People's Action Party (PAP)'s Edwin Tong, needs to come up with 'something better than the East Coast Plan.' The phrase 'East Coast Plan' is a memorable one from GE2020, when they were uttered by then Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, who had served as Member of Parliament at Tampines GRC for nine years before it was suddenly announced he would stand at East Coast GRC on Nomination Day. Mr Heng went viral that year when he seemed to be at a loss while talking about the 'East Coast Plan,' saying he had a 'plan for East Coast residents. Also, a plan for East Coast. We have a East Coast, Singapore, we have a together and East Coast Plan. We care for East Coast'. In 2011, Mr Yee won 48.99% of the votes at Joo Chiat SMC, which is now part of East Coast. Having served as a Non-Constituency MP from 2011 to 2015, he has been active on the ground in the area since then. On Tuesday night, though his voice gave out several times during his speech, the candidate was nevertheless in fine form. This is the fourth time for Mr Yee to contest. However, he pointed out that although he has always lived, and stood as a candidate in the same place, he is contesting his third constituency, Joo Chiat, Marine Parade, and now, East Coast. 'So many Singaporeans have experienced this now, moving constituency without moving house. This is Uniquely Singapore,' he quipped. He took aim at Mr Tong, who said in a rally on April 26. 'A good policy is not just a good idea alone. There is a lot more that is needed to turn a good idea into something that can work well.' 'Dear Singaporeans. We are so, so fortunate to have Mr Edwin Tong. He must have a very practical and sensible plan to get Singapore to the World Cup finals in 2034! A plan better than the East Coast Plan! Let's get back to reality. A few of our speakers and I had shared in earlier rallies about proposals that we have made that were eventually executed by the government. The WP's proposals must have made some sense for the government to agree with them,' he added. He also pointed out how capable Singapore's civil service is, and that it's their responsibility to implement policies, saying that the Workers Party would be happy to work closely with them 'to improve Singapore.' He went on to say that many have asked why he is back, but he has told them that he never left. 'I told the Party that I did not need to be a candidate. I am still a soldier with fire in my belly. I was happy to prepare the ground,' said Mr Yee. One community project he appears to be particularly proud of concerns food rescue, where he and some friends bought a truck for securing excess food from establishments, distributing this daily to communities and soup kitchens around Singapore, which benefits 18,000 people every month. 'I continued with the daily cooked food distribution in Marine Terrace and Eunos Crescent. For five years, we distribute meals from charity sources to some 300 people, 365 days a year, even on public holidays,' he added, saying that residents have stepped up as volunteers in these efforts and also oting that 'This is the community spirit I hope to bring across East Coast GRC.' He also asked East Coast residents to take a good look at the WP's slate. 'They say that heroes are ordinary people who do extraordinary things. The commitment of this team is extraordinary. East Coast residents, believe in us. Believe in us as voters in Hougang believed in a then-young Low Thia Khiang in 1991, as voters in Aljunied and then Sengkang believed in our teams. They have not repented. We will not let East Coast voters down. This is service. This is commitment. They stepped forward without any safety net to fall back on. This is a team that I am proud to lead. This is Team East Coast – bringing blue skies to the east, because after the lightning, comes blue skies!' /TISG Read also: GE2025: Yee Jenn Jong—From edutech pioneer to Parliament champion, WP's voice for youth and community
Online Citizen
25-04-2025
- Business
- Online Citizen
Chia Yun Kai eyes East Coast GRC as registration remains pending ahead of Nomination Day
SINGAPORE: With Singapore's General Election approaching, a new political contender is preparing to enter the fray in East Coast GRC. Chia Yun Kai, a 32-year-old entrepreneur and founder of The Most Valuable Party (MVP), has expressed his intent to contest in the five-member constituency despite his party not yet being officially registered. In an interview with 8 World News on 19 April 2025, Chia confirmed that while MVP submitted its application to register with the authorities in March, approval has not yet been granted. Nevertheless, he remains determined to form a full slate of candidates ahead of Nomination Day on 23 April. As of 21 April, a check of the prospective candidates' list for GE2025 shows that Chia's name has not yet appeared. Candidate recruitment ongoing as deadline looms At present, MVP has confirmed two candidates, including Chia himself. However, two more are still being actively sought, with applications open until 22 April. Chia said he is in talks with several individuals, but no further names have been finalised. 'We are committed to building a team that reflects our values and determination,' Chia said, adding that every candidate is expected to pay their own election deposit of S$13,500. 'This ensures they are serious about serving, not just showing up,' he added. Chia also revealed that post-nomination campaign expenses will be funded through donations, with social media forming the backbone of their campaign strategy to keep costs low. Background and motivations rooted in local experience Chia holds a master's degree in international business and strategic management from the University of Versailles. Prior to founding MVP and opening his own restaurant, he spent eight years working in accounting, consultancy, and risk management. He believes this background equips him with a pragmatic yet innovative view of policy and governance. Having lived in East Coast GRC for the past 20 years, Chia described a longstanding desire to enter politics, sparked in part by the surprise placement of then-Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat in East Coast GRC during the 2020 election. 'At the time, Heng was introduced at the last minute and didn't clearly explain his plans to residents,' Chia told the press. 'That made me think more seriously about standing for election and representing my community.' Critique of government policies and fellow opposition parties During the interview, Chia criticised recent government policies, particularly the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment's March 2025 announcement of S$10 million in subsidies to upgrade public toilet hygiene standards. 'These funds could be better allocated,' Chia asserted. 'We need more effective, sustainable policies that directly improve lives.' He also took aim at Heng's much-touted 'East Coast Plan,' arguing that it has produced minimal progress over the last five years. Heng, in recent remarks, defended the initiative, claiming it had brought benefits in infrastructure and community programming, citing resident feedback. In a notable move, Chia extended his criticisms to fellow opposition parties. In a Facebook post dated 20 April, MVP described the leadership of the Workers' Party (WP) as lacking. 'They say they work for Singaporeans,' the post read, 'but show little respect to aspiring politicians, choosing to ignore and disregard.' The post continued: 'If MVP contests in East Coast GRC, MVP will win. If MVP doesn't contest, PAP will win. We all can see how this kind of leadership is not what we want.' Vision for inclusive, future-focused governance Chia emphasised that MVP is not merely an opposition party, but a forward-looking political platform aimed at creating long-term value for Singaporeans. 'We want to introduce inclusive and sustainable policies, designed for the next generation,' he said. He cited rising living costs, employment stability, and economic resilience as the key challenges facing Singapore today. To address these, MVP will release its policy manifesto on 23 April, coinciding with Nomination Day. 'We want real solutions, not empty slogans,' Chia said. 'We want decisive, well-planned action that benefits ordinary Singaporeans.' Interactions with other candidates and grassroots efforts On 19 April, Chia made an appearance at Bedok South Block 58 Food Centre, where he encountered Deputy Prime Minister Heng and People's Action Party (PAP) candidate Goh Pei Ming. The meeting was cordial, with Goh reportedly wishing Chia luck. MVP is expected to continue its outreach efforts in the East Coast area, with door-to-door visits and informal town hall discussions planned over the coming week. Chia has been actively engaging residents and using social media platforms to spread awareness of MVP's mission and attract like-minded individuals. A personal commitment to political renewal Married with no children, Chia said his family has accepted his decision to enter politics. 'They've known about my plans for some time,' he said. 'They're supportive, or at least not opposed.' He also explained why he chose to form a party rather than run as an independent. 'Independent candidates are often viewed as self-serving. I wanted to build something with collective strength,' he said. Despite facing online mockery, Chia said he remains undeterred. 'Some think I'm joking, but I'm not,' he said. 'I am serious about representing people and contributing to national progress.' Outlook as Nomination Day nears With just one day remaining before the close of applications for MVP candidates and two days until Nomination Day, all eyes are on whether Chia can complete his team in time. While the party remains unregistered at the time of writing, Chia maintains confidence in the process and is pushing ahead with preparations, including the finalisation of policy proposals. 'We are different,' he said. 'That difference is what will bring value to Parliament.' Chia expresses gratitude to supporters On 21 April, Chia thanked supporters in a Facebook post on The Most Valuable Party's (MVP) page, expressing appreciation for the messages and encouragement he received over the weekend. 'Your words mean a lot to me,' he wrote. He acknowledged that some may question his credibility as a young political leader but affirmed that he has 'never lacked courage or commitment' in his mission to improve lives. Urging the public to keep an open mind, he said, 'Please give me a chance to show what I can offer. You might just see things differently once you do.' Chia also clarified that MVP's aim is not to split the vote but to expand voter choice. 'Democracy thrives when people have real choices,' he said. Describing his efforts as rooted in genuine concern for the country, Chia added, 'Everything I'm doing comes from a place of sincere care for Singapore.' He invited the public to follow his next step, stating that he would be livestreaming his journey to the Nomination Centre at 10am the next day, or for as long as he was able to continue.
Online Citizen
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Online Citizen
Maliki Osman and Cheryl Chan retire, signalling major reshuffle in PAP East Coast team for GE2025
SINGAPORE: Maliki Osman announced his retirement from politics on 21 April, bringing an end to his 24-year career as a Member of Parliament and political officeholder. His decision was shared in a Facebook post, where he also revealed he would not be contesting East Coast GRC in the upcoming General Election. He affirmed that his immediate focus would be to ensure a smooth transition for the People's Action Party (PAP) team and to rally support for the East Coast GRC slate. New candidate to represent East Coast GRC Hazlina Abdul Halim, a new face from the PAP, will replace Maliki in East Coast GRC. Her candidacy is part of a broader renewal effort within the party. Her inclusion follows the earlier announcement of Cheryl Chan's retirement. Chan, who also served in East Coast GRC, had similarly declared her exit from politics. New face and former brigadier-general Goh Pei Ming has also been seen accompanying PAP MPs, suggesting a possible candidacy. The reshuffling of candidates comes as PAP unveiled its updated line-up for the newly formed Marine Parade–Braddell Heights GRC on 20 April. Edwin Tong, who stood in Marine Parade GRC during the 2020 election, is now expected to shift to East Coast GRC after the Joo Chiat ward was absorbed into it. Absence of Heng Swee Keat from the refreshed PAP slate raises questions Speculation has arisen about Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat's next electoral move. His absence from the potential East Coast GRC slate unveiled on 15 April has led to uncertainty over which constituency he might contest. Notably, a review of the list of prospective candidates who have submitted their election deposits to the Elections Department (ELD) for GE2025 shows that Heng is among them. During GE2020, Heng Swee Keat made a surprise switch from Tampines GRC to East Coast GRC, with the announcement coming only on Nomination Day, 30 June 2020. During that campaign, he introduced the now well-known 'East Coast Plan'—a vision aimed at uplifting the constituency—though specific policy details were limited at the time. Maliki expressed appreciation to residents Reflecting on his political journey, Maliki wrote, 'Serving residents in Sembawang GRC, East Coast GRC, and as mayor of Southeast CDC has been a deeply enriching and humbling journey.' He began his parliamentary career in Sembawang GRC, having been elected in 2001 and again in 2006. He then represented East Coast GRC from 2011 onwards. Following the 2011 General Election, he was appointed Mayor for the South East District. In 2013, he became Minister of State for Defence and National Development. During this time, he oversaw community infrastructure and private estate upgrading programmes. After being re-elected in 2015, he was promoted to Senior Minister of State for Defence and concurrently held the Foreign Affairs portfolio. He also continued as Mayor of the South East District during this period. In 2020, following another electoral win, Maliki was appointed Minister in the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister for both Education and Foreign Affairs. In his farewell message, Maliki expressed appreciation to residents, grassroots leaders, volunteers, and community partners. 'Thank you, dear residents, for welcoming me into your homes and lives… I will always treasure our shared memories,' he said. He also acknowledged the role of donors and stakeholders who supported numerous social initiatives. 'Thank you for your unwavering support towards initiatives that have benefitted many,' he noted. Maliki extended his gratitude to Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, who entrusted him with responsibilities since 2004. He also thanked current Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and fellow Cabinet members for their collaboration through various national challenges. 'It has been especially meaningful to work with my fellow Malay/Muslim MPs and community leaders to uplift lives,' he said. PAP Yet to Confirm Candidates for 3 SMCs, 3 GRCs as of 3pm, 21 April As of 3pm on 21 April, the People's Action Party (PAP) has yet to confirm its candidates for three Single Member Constituencies (SMCs)—Queenstown, Radin Mas, and Sembawang West—as well as three Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs): the 4-member Punggol GRC, and the 5-member East Coast and Tanjong Pagar GRCs. With Chan and Maliki's departure, East Coast GRC is poised for a tight electoral contest. The Workers' Party is expected to return for a rematch, although both parties have yet to confirm their full line-ups. Kenneth Foo, a deputy director at the Singapore Cancer Society who contested in East Coast in 2020, was seen canvassing in Bedok South with lawyer Ang Boon Yaw. Another past candidate, Abdul Shariff Aboo Kassim, has also been active in the area. The general election is expected to bring significant change, with around 20 PAP MPs retiring. Among the notable exits is Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen. Other MPs who have announced their retirement include Senior Minister of State Amy Khor, and backbenchers Chong Kee Hiong and Gan Thiam Poh. First-term MPs Ng Ling Ling and Don Wee have also stated they will not be contesting.
