InclusIve sIngapore 行动报 - People's Action Party
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行动报 www.pap.org.sg March / April 2012
InclusIve
sIngapore
• A never-say-die team
• Engaging the quiet majority
• Cleaner for a day
Contents
04 Editorial
Inclusive Singapore: 23 Behind the Scenes
Always here to serve
How we will get there
Deputy Prime Minister Tharman
Shanmugaratnam spells out the steps
towards the goal of an Inclusive
Singapore.
Desmond Choo, Hougang grassroots adviser, is a die-hard fan
* Also in Chinese, Malay and Tamil
of Premier League team Everton for the simple reason that they
“never say die”.
09 Quick News
New
A round-up of new policies.
11 Hot Topic
An inclusive Budget to blood in
transform Singapore
What the key issues are in this
year’s Budget.
Hougang
Inclusive Society: Steven Lim and June Li,
What it means to us two new PAP activists
Six new MPs share their thoughts. in Hougang, enjoy their
voluntary work despite
18 Behind the Scenes
heavy work schedules.
Close-up look at the
Taiwan General Election
Young PAP members watch Taiwan’s
husting.
Publicity and Publications Committee
Chairman • Lawrence Wong Vice-Chairman • Seah Kian Peng Secretary • Lim Wee Kiak
Members • Alvin Yeo, Arther Fong, Devi Vasantha Haridas, Kalyani Ramasamy, Chiang Heng Liang, Abdul Jafar Darwis
District representative • Diana Pang Young PAP • Hamidah Aidillah PAP Policy Forum • Malminderjit Singh PAP WW • Teo Lin Lee
Editor • Lim Huan Chiang Editorial and Design • Focus Publishing Limited (Tel: 6319 2392)
Printer • timesprinters, Singapore. Photos courtesy of Singapore Press Holdings and istockphoto.com
MARCH / APRIL 2012
28 Face to Face 36 Happenings
Competing views, Queenstown Branch stretches out to
a common interest the needy
An inclusive society cannot be one
where those who shout the loudest
always get what they want, says Senior 37 My Say
Parliamentary Secretary Sim Ann.
Up the next peak!
Social entrepreneur Helen Lim tells
why the conventional retirement is not
30 Dialogue the answer for people going into their
MPs get close and personal Third Age.
Young PAP members learn about the
‘softer side’ of MPs Intan Azura
Mokhtar and Mr Zaqy Mohamad. 38 Cyberspeak
Budget 2012:
Views from the Net
32 View from the Front
Pickings from online comments.
What an inclusive
society entails
For a gracious and inclusive society
to come about, Minister of State and
39 Backbencher’s Bite
Mayor Amy Khor says three tiers of Stepping into a
‘inclusiveness’ must function well. cleaner’s shoes
What MP Zainal B Sapari found out
after he became a cleaner for three
hours is something he will never forget.
34 Forum
The ethos of political office
A reflection on what Singaporeans
expect of their political leaders after
40 Overheard
the uproar over the departure of the Best of the sound bites by
Workers’ Party MP in Hougang. parliamentarians.
MICA (P) 151/11/2011
Petir 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 necessarily those of the PAP or the government. All rights reserved.
PAP Headquarters
Block 57B, New Upper Changi Road, #01-1402, PCF Building, Singapore 463057 • Telephone: 6244 4600 • Telefax: 6243 0114 • Internet: www.pap.org.sg
EDITORIAL
Inclusive Singapore:
How we
will get there
B
uilding an Inclusive Singapore is upgrade and remain a viable and vibrant
at the heart of our mission as the part of our economy for years to come.
PAP Government. We are also stepping up social policy:
It is about many initiatives, all aimed first, to provide greater economic secu-
at giving everyone a real chance to move rity for the elderly and Singaporeans
up through their efforts, and enabling with disabilities.
all Singaporeans to share in our nation’s To help older Singaporeans at work,
progress. We took major steps towards we are raising their employers’ CPF con-
this goal in this year’s Budget, and will tributions and also giving their employers
make further moves over the next five a ‘Special Employment Credit’. But we
years. are also concerned about today’s genera-
It starts with restructuring our econo- tion of retirees, as many of them have very bility up. We must find every way to
my, so that we can lift up productivity and limited cash savings. Their CPF balances help Singaporeans who start off with a
raise incomes steadily for all Singapore- are low because wages were much lower disadvantage to catch up and do well;
ans. There is much we can do to become 20 or 30 years ago, and the Minimum every way to prevent disadvantage from
more productive and to catch up with the Sum they were required to set aside was repeating itself across generations and
most advanced economies. Today, what much smaller. However, many of our leading to a permanent underclass.
is produced by 10 workers in Singapore senior folks also have substantial savings This is a multi-year effort. We are
takes only seven workers to produce in the in the value of their homes. In this year’s starting when the kids are young, so
US or six workers in Switzerland. Budget, we introduced a Silver Housing that problems do not build up. It is
Some of the adjustments will be dif- Bonus to help them unlock these savings about many things – not just financial
ficult for businesses, especially for our so they can use them in retirement. We assistance, but also tackling difficulties
SMEs, as we slow down the growth of are also expanding hospital and long-term in learning and helping them gain confi-
foreign workers. But we cannot avoid care facilities, and making health care dence early on.
these adjustments, or postpone them. more affordable – including for middle- We are providing better quality pre-
Instead, the Government is providing income Singaporeans. schooling, specialised help for learning
special help to our SMEs so they can Second, we must keep social mo- difficulties, and affordable after-school
4 PETIR MAR / APR 12
By Tharman Shanmugaratnam
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for
Finance & Minister for Manpower
jobs, and want to progress in their careers.
When we add up all that we are
doing, from health care to housing sub-
sidies, from Workfare to the new GST
Vouchers, the Government is providing
substantially more resources to uplift
and support lower- and middle-income
Singaporeans.
The Government will make healthcare more But an Inclusive Society is not just
affordable for lower-and middle-income Singaporeans. about Government redistributing re-
sources to help the poor. Many societies
care. Plus a breadth of opportunities a week. They are trying out different ways have found that out. An inclusive society
for every child to discover what they to help poorer children gain confidence, will depend on whether we can keep
like and what they are good at – op- and giving them the exposure and varied and strengthen the things that Singa-
portunities to develop their strengths experiences that better-off kids often take poreans value most – a deep sense of
through the arts and sports; to broaden for granted. responsibility for our families; everyone
their horizons through overseas study We are expanding our pathways in aspiring to improve, and parents wanting
trips; to develop their leadership abilities. tertiary education, to match the aspi- their children to do better than them; em-
And most importantly, we are providing rations of our students and give them ployers treating workers with respect, no
more, well-trained teachers in all our the skills to do well in their careers. We matter how simple the job, and rewarding
schools, to help bring out the potential are also investing heavily to give every them fairly. And an Inclusive Society must
in every child. adult worker the opportunity to keep also depend on the more successful feeling
More is also taking place in the com- up-skilling, or even return to a tertiary responsible for others in the community.
munity. It’s quite inspiring. Singaporeans institution, mid-career, to enrich his/her We must keep up this spirit of every-
of all ages, some still students and others knowledge. This will also meet the needs one aspiring, and everyone taking respon-
well into their careers, are coming for- of middle-income Singaporeans, many sibility. That’s the only way we will make
ward to volunteer, once and often twice of whom are in managerial or executive a truly Inclusive Singapore.
PETIR MAR / APR 12 5
Singapura Yang Inklusif: Bagaimana
Tharman Shanmugaratnam secara berterusan. Banyak yang boleh di- Kita juga sedang mempertingkatkan
TPM merangkap Menteri Kewangan & lakukan untuk kita menjadi lebih produktif dasar sosial: pertama, untuk menyediakan
Menteri Tenaga Manusia sambil menyaingi pencapaian ekonomi keselamatan ekonomi yang lebih man-
dari negara-negara yang paling maju. tap bagi warga tua dan yang kurang
M
embangunkan sebuah Singapu- Ketika ini, setiap yang dihasilkan oleh upaya.
ra Yang Inklusif adalah misi 10 pekerja di Singapura, hanya 7 pekerja Kedua, kita akan terus mengukuhkan
utama kami sebagai pemerintah sahaja di Amerika Syarikat atau 6 pekerja mobiliti sosial rakyat. Kita harus mencari
PAP. Ia menyentuh pelbagai inisiatif, kes- sahaja di Switzerland yang diperlukan. huraian bagi membantu warga Singapura
emuanya bertujuan memberi semua rakyat Beberapa penyesuaian yang sukar bagi yang menghadapi hambatan diperingkat
setiap peluang yang sebenar untuk maju perniagaan perlu dihadapi, terutamanya awal agar dapat terus bersaing dan berjaya;
menerusi usaha mereka sendiri dan mem- bagi syarikat-syarikat kecil dan sederhana juga membantu mereka disetiap peringkat
bolehkan setiap warga Singapura menge- (SME), sambil kita memperlahankan ke- demi mencegah hambatan daripada beru-
capi kemajuan yang dicapai oleh negara masukan pekerja-perkerja asing. Namun lang sehingga membawa kepada pemben-
ini. Kami mengambil langkah-langkah kita tidak boleh mengelak atau menangguh tukan kelas bawahan yang berkekalan.
penting bagi mencapai matlamat yang te- daripada menghadapi penyesuaian ini. Ini merupakan suatu usaha yang
lah digariskan dalam Belanjawan tahun ini Disebabkan itu, pemerintah menyediakan mengambil masa bertahun-tahun. Kita
dan akan melaksanakan langkah-langkah bantuan khas untuk SME kita agar akan memulakan ketika anak-anak masih
selanjutnya bagi lima tahun mendatang. mereka dapat terus menjalani peningka- dalam peringkat umur yang kecil, agar
Ia bermula dengan penstrukturan tan, kekal berdaya saing dan seterusnya masalah-masalah tidak akan timbul. Ia
semula ekonomi kita, agar kita dapat men- merancakkan ekonomi bagi tahun-tahun turut merangkumi banyak lagi perkara-
ingkatkan penghasilan dan pendapatan mendatang. perkara lain – bukan hanya bantuan
6 PETIR MAR / APR 12
dapat kita mencapainya
kewangan tetapi juga untuk menangani edahan serta menimba pelbagai pengala- gukuhkan lagi perkara-perkara yang
kesukaran didalam pembelajaran serta man yang luas, tidak seperti kanak-kanak amat dihargai oleh warga Singapura
membantu mereka meraih keyakinan diri daripada keluarga yang lebih baik dimana – sikap tanggungjawab yang lebih men-
di peringkat awal lagi. ia kurang dititik beratkan. dalam keatas keluarga kita; setiap warga
Kami sedang menyediakan prasekolah Bila kita merangkumi segala yang kita menginginkan pencapaian yang lebih
yang bermutu tinggi, bantuan lebih lakukan, dari subsidi penjagaan kesihatan baik, ibu-bapa menginginkan anak-anak
khusus bagi yang mengalami kesukaran sehinggalah kepada perumahan, dari Daya mereka mencatat pencapaian yang lebih
belajar dan penjagaan selepas sekolah. Kerja kepada Baucar GST yang baru, baik berbanding dengan mereka; majikan
Ini disamping menyediakan berbagai lagi pemerintah sebenarnya menyediakan melayan para pekerja secara hormat tanpa
peluang-peluang yang boleh diterokai lebih banyak sumber bagi memperkasa mengira betapa mudahnya pekerjaan itu
oleh setiap anak-anak untuk menentu- dan menyokong warga Singapura yang dan memberikan ganjaran yang setimpal.
kan minat mereka sendiri. berpendapatan rendah serta pertenga- Sebuah masyarakat inklusif juga bermakna
Ada lebih banyak lagi yang sedang han. adanya rasa tanggungjawab yang lebih
dilaksanakan didalam masyarakat kita. Ia Tetapi sebuah masyarakat yang ink- mendalam terhadap orang-orang lain di
agak mengkagumkan. Warga Singapura lusif, bukanlah bermakna pemerintah dalam masyarakat itu sendiri.
dari segenap lapisan usia termasuk pelajar akan mengagihkan semula sumber-sumber Kita mesti terus menyalakan semangat
dan karyawan tampil sebagai sukarelawan, yang ada bagi membantu yang miskin. ini, agar setiap warga mempunyai cita-cita
sekali atau dua kali dalam seminggu. Kebanyakan masyarakat-masyarakat telah serta memikul tanggungjawab bersama.
Mereka ini mencuba berbagai cara untuk pun sedari akan hal ini. Sebuah masyar- Itulah satu-satunya cara kita dapat benar-
membantu kanak-kanak miskin meraih akat inklusif bergantung kepada sama benar membentuk sebuah Singapura Yang
keyakinan dan memberi mereka pend- ada kita dapat mengekalkan dan men- Inklusif.
PETIR MAR / APR 12 7
8 PETIR MAR / APR 12
QUICK NEWS
This year’s Budget takes a
targeted approach
to helping specific groups
Elderly: Active ageing,
funding retirement
To encourage older workers to continue
working and to prepare the elderly for retire-
ment, those above the age of 50 will have
to contribute higher rates to the Central
Provident Fund (CPF) every month. Their
employers too will have to contribute more.
The increase is steepest for those between
50 and 55 - their employers will contribute 2
percentage points more, and the workers, 0.5
percentage point more.
A bigger proportion of the increased
contributions will go to the Special Account
meant for retirement savings, while the rest
will be split evenly between the Ordinary and
Medisave Accounts.
This would boost their retirement savings.
Workers above 55 will get twice their Older workers will contribute more to the CPF
usual tax relief - $6,000 instead of $3,000. every month, to better prepare them for retirement.
Those above 60 will have theirs doubled to
$8,000. $15,000 will be in cash while the remaining funds for the needy: the Medifund – which
To encourage companies to hire older $5,000 will go into their CPF. Proceeds from pays for the medical bills of the needy who
workers, the Government has started a Special the downgrade will be committed to their cannot afford them despite other medical
Employment Credit (SEC) scheme which CPF Retirement Fund and will be used to subsidies – by $600 million; the ComCare
will subsidise a company’s wage bill for older buy a CPF Life annuity, which will provide Endowment Fund – which is used to support
employees. The Government will pay 8 per them with a monthly payout for the rest of needy families – by $200 million; self-help
cent of the wages of older workers earning their lives. groups and the CCC ComCare Fund by a
below $3,000 and a smaller proportion for total of $10 million.
those earning between $3,000 and $4,000. The low-income: Help to stay in Education is another key area in which the
These subsidies to companies will more school and in good health Government is extending help. Children in
than make up for the increase in CPF con- More help for the lower-income families these families will be given financial support
tributions. will come in the form of a GST Voucher from as early as kindergarten.
The Government will also provide sub- scheme. The household income ceiling for the
sidies for more elderly-friendly features such The cash payout of this scheme will Education Ministry’s Financial Assistance
as anti-slip bathroom tiles and grab bars, and offset at least half of the 7 per cent Goods & Scheme will be raised from $1,500 to $2,500
for the hiring of domestic workers. Services Tax lower-income families pay for per month, which will help 40,000 more stu-
Seniors who downgrade to a smaller their expenses. Lower- and middle-income dents qualify for it. Other aid programmes,
HDB flat will receive up to $20,000 in a households also get U-Save rebates on utility like top-ups to school advisory and manage-
Silver Housing Bonus. The net sales proceeds bills of between $180 and $260. Those above ment committees, are also being enhanced
from their flat will be channelled back into the age of 65 will also get a Medisave top-up so that schools can introduce schemes such
their CPF accounts, which will be matched of between $150 and $450, depending on as transport assistance for students.
dollar-for-dollar by the Government up to their age and the value of their home. The Edusave Endowment Fund, which
a maximum of $20,000. Of this amount, The Government will also top up several provides the funding for bursaries and awards
PETIR MAR / APR 12 9
to schools and students, will get a top-up of companies to hire such workers. Employers needy elderly in the home.
$200 million, bringing the fund to a total of hiring disabled workers will get a Special All Singaporeans insured under Me-
$6 billion. Employment Credit (SEC) of 16 per cent of diShield will receive a one-off Medis-
Families with a household income ceiling the workers’ wages, capped at a maximum of ave top-up of between $50 and $400.
of $3,500 can apply for the Student Care Fee $240 a month per worker. Disabled workers
Assistance Scheme which enables low-income will also get a doubling of their income tax For commuters: A smoother ride
families to enroll their children in before- or relief, which will now be between $4,000 The Government will partner with the
after-school care service centres. and $12,000. two public transport operators to bring
in 800 more buses over the next five years
The handicapped: Special education For the sick: More spending in order to ease the congestion during
and homes for disabled on health care peak hours. The Government will pay for
The Government will roll out a new pro- To curb a pressing problem of a shortage 550 buses and fund running costs for 10
gramme to help youngsters with mild speech, of hospital beds, acute hospitals will increase years. There will also be more than 100
language and learning delays. There will also their number of beds by 1,900 or about 30 per new trains operating on the various lines.
be more places in centres for those who need cent of their current numbers by year 2020,
intensive early intervention, and improve while community hospitals will double their For motorists: Greener travels
special education schools. numbers to 3,600. The current Green Vehicle Rebate scheme
The disabled will get 250 more places in All patients in community hospitals will will be replaced with a Carbon Emissions-
day-activity centres, where their families can now qualify for subsidies as well, instead of based Vehicle Scheme where cars with low
leave them to go to work or have some free just half of the patients. The middle-income carbon emission will receive rebates of up to
time to themselves. Costs of such services group will receive the largest increase in $20,000 while those with high levels of emis-
will also be subsidised, with a middle-income subsidy rates. Subsidies for nursing homes, sion will pay up to $20,000 more. The special
household getting about $5,700 a year in sub- community- and home-based care will also tax for Euro V-compliant diesel cars will be
sidies, while lower-income families get more. be raised, enabling two-thirds of households lowered from $1.25 per cc to $0.40 per cc.
Homes for the disabled will be expanded to qualify, up from just half. Motorists looking to buy a used car will
by about 20 per cent to include 180 new beds. Lower- and middle-income families will no longer need to pay a 2 per cent transfer
For the disabled who work, the Govern- get a $120 cash grant each month to help fee of the sale price, but just foot a nominal
ment has introduced measures to encourage them hire a domestic worker to look after a transfer fee of $11 instead.
10 PETIR MAR / APR 12Hot
ToPIC
An
IncluSIvE
BudGET
to transform
Singapore
PETIR MAR / APR 12 11Hot
ToPIC
“A continued rapid
infusion of foreign
workers will also
inevitably affect the
Singaporean character
of our society.”
A
gainst the background of a slow- transport system,” he said, adding that of the income ladder, especially cleaners,
ing economy, this year’s Budget there has been a 7.5 per cent increase did not see this growth in income. “We
focused on tackling long-term in foreign manpower over the last two take that seriously, and are tackling the
challenges. There was more help for the years. “A continued rapid infusion of problem.”
elderly, the disabled and the lower-income foreign workers will also inevitably af- The Government will now reduce the
groups. fect the Singaporean character of our maximum proportion of foreign workers
Throughout a two-hour speech before society.” that companies can hire. This level, known
Parliament, Deputy Prime Minister and Noting that this change will take as the Dependency Ratio Ceiling, will be
Finance Minister Tharman Shanmuga- time and that foreign workers have calibrated down in the manufacturing and
ratnam made it clear: “It is a budget for become indispensable to many of the in- services sector and will affect some 9,000
the future.” dustries here, Mr Tharman said: “Many companies in all.
smaller and newer firms would not have To help companies here move away
Reducing foreign workers been able to survive and grow without from its reliance on foreign labour, the
Mr Tharman announced a reduction access to skilled foreign workers.” Government will extend help to them so
in dependence on foreign labour as the The presence of foreign labour has that they can reorganise and upgrade their
country’s increasing dependence on this also benefitted Singaporean workers, operations. More help will go to firms
segment was “not sustainable” in the the minister said, pointing to a 17 per which attempt to improve productivity,
long run. cent growth in income per household design better jobs to attract local workers
“It will test the limits of our space and member in the last five years as evidence. and innovate in order to grow.
infrastructure, despite our efforts to build However, he acknowledged that “None of this will be easy,” Mr Thar-
more housing and expand our public some Singaporeans at the lowest rung man conceded. The only way to overcome
12 PETIR MAR / APR 12An inclusive Budget
to transform Singapore
Less dependent on foreign labour in years to come.
labour shortage, he said, was for the majority of Singapo-
to improve productivity. reans,” said Mr Tharman.
And the Government has He said that with the
set a challenging target of planned Downtown Line,
raising productivity by 2-3 Tu as We s t Ex t e n s i o n ,
per cent each year for the Thomson Line and Eastern
next decade. Regional Line coming up
“The Government can- within the next decade,
not decide which companies Singapore’s rail coverage
should succeed or be phased out. But In order to curb this overcrowding of will be comparable to cities with the
we will provide broad-based support the public transport network, the Gov- most developed rail networks such as
to help as many businesses as possible ernment will “significantly ramp up” bus New York. By then, a total of 400,000
to retain their roots in Singapore and capacity – where 60 per cent of all pas- households will live within 400m of an
grow, and help Singaporean workers senger trips are made – so as to relieve the MRT station, double the number today.
who may be displaced to find new jobs,” daily congestion.
said the minister. The Government will partner the two Tackling income inequality
public transport operators to bring in 800 Economic pressures have led to wid-
Enhancing public transport more public buses. There will also be 100 ening income gaps which are being felt
Trains and buses were becoming too more trains. all around the world and especially in
packed during peak hours in the morn- “Reliable and convenient public trans- Singapore, which is a small city.
ings and evenings. port is critical to the quality of daily life Mr Tharman said: “We cannot leave
PETIR MAR / APR 12 13Hot
ToPIC
our social compact vulnerable to market U-Save rebates for utilities. society and a stronger Singapore”.
forces. We have to do all we can to contain Mr Tharman also spoke of a need for However, in doing so, the right bal-
inequality and to sustain social mobility more social workers who can help low- ance in the country’s public finances must
in each new generation.” income families overcome the multitude be struck.
To do this, the Government is looking of complex problems and issues they face. “We must avoid the path that many
out for those in the lower-income families More will be done to attract Singaporeans developed countries took, where suc-
as well as the middle-income ones. into the social sector, said Mr Tharman. cessive governments, across the politi-
“We must find every effective way “The solution to low incomes does not cal spectrum, committed themselves to
to help those who start off lower down continually expanding social entitlements
to catch up and do well. Every way to - in social security, health care and unem-
prevent disadvantage from repeating itself “The solution to low ployment - without the ability to pay for
across generations,” said Mr Tharman. them,” said Mr Tharman. “Their massive
Education was one key “springboard incomes does not only public debts have now resulted not just in
to success in Singapore”, said Mr Thar- lie in supporting incomes a financial crisis, but a social crisis, with
man, rolling out initiatives to help chil- their citizens being forced to make painful
dren from disadvantaged homes, from as
through government adjustments in living standards for several
early as kindergarten. Those who have transfers, as many years to come.”
learning difficulties will also get more
specialised help.
societies have found...” Building this ideal of an “inclusive
society” is not just about the Government
For those who are already in the redistributing resources to help the poor,
workforce, the Government will also only lie in supporting incomes through said Mr Tharman, reminding everyone
invest heavily to upgrade their skills and government transfers, as many societies that they needed to be responsible for
education. have found,” he said. themselves and their families.
Significantly, the new schemes in this The arsenal of economic and social “An inclusive society will only blossom
budget will be more permanent, such as strategies in Budget 2012 is all aimed at if we grow this spirit of responsibility and
the GST vouchers, Medisave top-ups and reaching the defining goal of an “inclusive community,” he said.
14 PETIR MAR / APR 12An inclusiveBudget
to transform Singapore
PETIR MAR / APR 12 15Hot
ToPIC
Inclusive Society: What
the theme for Budget 2012 was to build an inclusive nation. We
asked some new MPs who took part in the debate for their views
“Building an inclusive society, where no one gets left behind,
involves tremendous effort. It requires us to swim upstream – against
powerful forces of globalisation and human nature. Many countries
are riven by wide gulfs of wealth and poverty. Others tried political
ideology and welfarism, but ended up blunting the will to work and
falling into the spiral of unsustainable debt.
Budget 2012 makes significant long-term investments to help
uplift our seniors, our disabled Singaporeans and those from disadvan-
taged backgrounds. Yet, government programmes and policies form only one piece of
the jigsaw puzzle. Because inclusivity is a state of the mind and of the heart, it cannot
come about because of infrastructure and investment alone.
Everyone must step forward to play an active part – as employers, as civil
society, and as everyday Singaporeans. Caring for the disadvantaged, respecting hard
work, and keeping an eye out for one another, must become embedded in our DNA as
a Singaporean way of life, before we can truly move towards an inclusive community. ”
– MP Desmond Lee
“A lot has been said about the problems that arise from an aging
population. I, and several others, have however voiced our objection
to the term ‘Silver Tsunami’ because of the inherent negativity of such
Budget
a description. We would do well to recognise that seniors can continue 2012
to contribute to nation-building, and we must cherish and celebrate
what they bring to our community, even as we tackle the challenges
of an aging society. Ageism and any moral panic of aging and the aged
should be strenuously rejected, so that we may truly realise our vision
of building an inclusive and progressive society.”
– MP Chia Shi-Lu
“This year’s Budget marks a milestone for its unstinting commit-
ment to build an inclusive Singapore. During the debate, I became
increasingly convinced that we need a ‘whole of government’ approach,
especially for issues that cut across a broad spectrum of sectors and
populace. While ministries fulfil their respective responsibilities and
roles, there is a greater need for an integrated, multi-agency, multi-
ministry approach to tackling today’s challenges. Our world has grown
more interconnected with multiple touch points, links and networks.
As we embrace the spirit of inclusiveness, I look forward to different departments,
multi-agencies, inter-ministries and diverse talents coming together to pursue the future
of Singapore in unity.”
– MP Low Yen Ling
16 PETIR MAR / APR 12An inclusive Budget
to transform Singapore
it means to us
“To me, Budget 2012 is a people-centred one which ensures that
no Singaporean gets left behind. In short, it’s a budget with a heart. I
am glad to see a sizeable focus on the lower-income households and
the elderly. While the reduction in the dependency on foreign workers
is welcomed, I hope that Singaporeans too will adjust their expecta-
tions and consider joining an industry where there is great demand
for such workers. At the same time, it is important for us to accord
more respect and greater recognition to jobs which we have taken for
granted such as cleaners, construction workers and caregivers. My wish is to see more
done for the handicapped especially in terms of financing their healthcare needs.”
– MP Intan Azura
“Budget Debate 2012 was a first for me, and I was humbled to
make my maiden contribution.
The theme this year was clear – to build an inclusive Singapore.
I took the opportunity to raise the issue of mental health. Mental
illnesses remains plagued by stigma, which discourages social accept-
ance and prevents sufferers from stepping forth to seek help. In a truly
inclusive society, more can be done to promote greater social accept-
ance, enhance accessibility and affordability to professional mental
health care, and strengthen the support framework for both patients and caregivers.
I was undoubtedly happy with the Ministry of Health’s initiatives to promote a more
integrated and community-based mental health care. Nevertheless, we need to continue
working in this area, especially to combat social stigma and improve care for those with
mental health issues. Budget 2012 is one step in the right direction.”
– MP Tin Pei Ling
“Are we an inclusive society? How can we become more inclusive?
Many measures during the Budget debate were hailed as representing
a move towards the ideal of an inclusive society. For us to recognise
that we aren’t quite there yet is significant in that we take a step to
discuss our inadequacies, our gaps, and move closer to the non-material
aspirations of our society. In a separate thought-stream, the announce-
ment of a mandatory day off once a week for maids brought a storm
of discussion. Maybe this too should be held up as an example of a
measure of a more inclusive society. Many people spoke up for various groups who were
vulnerable, under-represented, ‘un-included’. However, when, as a society, we speak
up for people who will never vote for us, for people whom we do not identify as being
‘part of us’, then we will be truly inclusive.”
– MP Janil Puthucheary
Illustration by istockphoto.com PETIR MAR / APR 12 17BEhIND ThE SCENES
close-up look at the
Taiwan General Election
Young PAP’s Yap Jun Lin took in campaign MtVs and an electric atmosphere,
along with a personal encounter with President Ma Ying-jeou
Members from Woodgrove YP and Chua Chu Kang YP had Yap Jun Lin from Chua Chu Kang YP with a life-
an in-depth understanding of the political scene in Taiwan. sized poster of Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou.
A
t 6.30am, all bleary eyed, we to Kuomintang’s, Democratic Progress political game plan. During our visits
gathered at Changi Airport Party’s and People’s First’s headquarters as to the different parties’ campaign head-
Terminal 1, ready for the first day well as campaigning sites. The youths were quarters, we witnessed Lego monuments
of YP International Relations Taiwan trip also given the opportunity to speak with of candidates, lunch boxes printed with
2012. the candidates of the respective parties. the themes of different political parties,
There were 30 of us, we exchanged The air was electric, with the upbeat campaign music videos made by activists,
smiles and broke the ice – introducing and heightened atmosphere of the Taiwan and the list goes on.
ourselves, sharing of our interests and political scene. From the gigantic bill- These promotions formed the core of
things that we do as members of the PAP. boards of the candidates covering the side the campaign and where aimed at not only
Then, lift off to Taiwan! of buildings, to the ear-deafening shouts the mature voters, but also the youths,
Many of us tried the fried oyster ome- of “dong shuan” (which means “elected” with bright colours, upbeat music, and
lette, mega chicken chop, smelly toufu, in Taiwanese) at the crowded rallies, we youthful themes.
beef brisket noodles, ai yu jelly drink, were truly awed by politics that was so Ms Roseline Chin, Head of YP Inter-
white honey bitter gourd juice, escargots, close to the hearts of Taiwan citizens. national Relations says: “We had many
Kurobuta sausages. There were also the One memorable incident was when we sessions of informal political discussions
spicy ma la steamboat and the original chanced upon the incumbent Republic across different generations within the
Din Tai Fung xiao long bao. of China President Ma Ying-jeou, hav- party and with our Taiwanese friends.”
The second week of January was also ing a campaign dinner at a local eatery. It She said that the discussions were fruitful.
a time to sample the political culture, was like having a celebrity come to your “We learnt that there is a need to estab-
since the YPs witnessed Taiwan’s cam- neighbourhood, with “die-hard fans” lish a stronger youth platform and voice
paigning for their General Election. The eagerly capturing every movement with for Singaporean youths and where YP can
YPs received first hand experience of the blinding flashes. learn to be stronger youth activists in the
political situation in Taiwan through visits Marketing strategy was all part of the area of the arts and the environment.”
18 PETIR MAR / APR 12Singapore 913486
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Always
here to
serve
Writer Suresh Nair catches up with Mr Desmond Choo, Adviser to the Grassroots
organisation in Hougang, to find out what has been going on now that the constituency
is without an MP. In an hour-long interview, he spoke on a wide range of subjects,
including his reason for supporting Premier League club Everton.
1. What has been your experience in Hou- making Hougang a more friendly and generation on what’s right and what can
gang post-Yaw Shin Leong? Do you see a accessible place for senior residents. Make be improved in government policies. So
visible change in the residents’ approach sure their homes and families are safe; put grooming good volunteers is one of my
towards you? in more infrastructure changes; organise core plans.
more senior activities to make sure they During house-to-house visits, I en-
I never really look at things, pre and lead a meaningful and quality life; make courage young people to serve as volun-
post-elections. My approach is that if you sure that they are taken care of when they teers to make the community better. We’re
need assistance, you will get it. It has not have chronic sicknesses. seeing more Hougang residents stepping
always been easy for us in Hougang. But Education is another priority, to make up to serve. That’s solid encouragement.
we are increasingly getting more positive sure that the lower-income has the op-
feedback from residents. At the same time, portunity to move up, especially to pro- 3. Do you see a renewed enthusiasm in
we do get people coming to say this is not vide their children with good pre-school your party colleagues and activists as they
the right way to run the place. You’ve to education, through tuition programmes, try to fill the void which the former MP
be accountable to the people. They want transport subsidies and subsidised activity- has left behind?
transparency and accountability. based programmes at the PAP Commu-
nity Foundation (PCF). We’ve always been here to serve the
2. Can you talk about the long-term Third and to me, the most important, people of Hougang. It’s not just about
structure/plans you have for the branch not programmes but people – to bring in offering a shoulder to lean on but also a
and for the constituency? a very good crew of volunteers who will genuine helping hand. We’re here to build
continue the spirit of service. You will see relationships. It’ll take time but progres-
Three major areas. We’re focused on we are constantly mentoring the younger sively, residents will see that we’re making
PETIR MAR / APR 12 23BEhIND ThE SCENES
a difference and improving their lives.
That’s why after we lost in Hougang, on
the second day, we continued to reach
out to the people and we’ve not stopped.
With or without Yaw Shin Leong, we will
continue to do the best we can for the
residents here.
4. Has there been an increase in the
number of people seeking help from you
in your weekly Meet-the-People session?
If so, have you brought in extra people to
assist you?
Seasonality aside, there is an average
increase but it is not large. We’re not a typi-
cal Meet-the-People session like other PAP
constituencies. We call it Monday coffee
sessions – residents come for mingling,
sharing of views on policies, and bonding
with grassroots leaders. We usually get
30-40 people, depending on the “season”
but we stay behind, most times way past
midnight most Mondays to attend to the
residents.
5. What are the common problems that
are brought up at these sessions? And has
there been any difference after the recent
Budget where the Government set out Mr Desmond Choo chats with residents during the Monday coffee-sessions.
measures to help the elderly and the low-
income families? I am fully committed to this cause, and I 8. How long will it take to win over Hou-
am backed up by a strong and experienced gang hearts? What’s the right formula to
Mostly people-based issues especially PAP team with a proven track record. I win over the younger, newer voters?
for the older workers who need financial know many residents still remember Mr
assistance. There’s now a renewed energy Low Thia Khiang because he had worked We must be committed and stay the
to seek employment because the Govern- hard in Hougang for many years. And I course. Service is the right way, with pas-
ment is encouraging seniors to get back respect Mr Low for the work he had done. sion and sincerity, to care for the poor and
to work. Overall, the feedback on the But Mr Low is now an MP in Aljunied, the aged. Over time, word will spread that
Budget has been good. We’ve had positive and it will not be possible for him to cover we’re genuine in making a difference for
vibes, with strong support for the focus on two constituencies all the time. I believe the people of Hougang. Then people can
building an inclusive society, especially to Hougang residents know that it is impor- see by our actions that we are here to serve,
uplift lower-income families, help seniors tant to choose the right person, who can and that we’re up to the mark.
live long and well, and support Singapore- represent them, resolve their problems,
ans with disabilities. It marks a step up in and make a real difference on the ground. 9. Who is Desmond Choo the public
support of these three groups of Singa- I ask for a fair chance to prove myself. never knew?
poreans.
7. PM Lee Hsien Loong said he will find I am 34, and my wife’s Pamela, with
6. The PAP has tried hard to win over the right time to call for a by-election. the Ministry of Manpower, who whole-
Hougang the past two decades. How do When will it be? heartedly supports my new journey into
you plan to convince the residents? politics. We married just two months after
(Laughs) I don’t know. But I’m sure the General Election 2011. She is a huge
I’m here to serve the people of Hou- of one thing – that we’ve to be ready and pillar in my life. I am quite sure that I
gang, and contribute in the best way I can. prepared for a contest at any time. would not have lasted the journey without
24 PETIR MAR / APR 12her support, faith and care. was contesting in Hougang. I had no idea difference to the Hougang community.
I learnt a lot about life by supporting how to fight, no expectations. But after Majority of them live in Hougang and
Everton Football Club (laughs). They’re being here for close to a year, and even they get called names at the wet market
a rare breed of fighters in the English after the results of the last GE, I know I or coffee shops. But they do not give up,
Premier League. Not much financial re- will not leave Hougang. they never say die, and they’re still here to
sources but plenty of fighting spirit with The party activists have backed me, serve. They’ve fire in their bellies!
one of England’s best managers in David supported me. Some of my volunteers
Moyes. They lose more than win but they have lost five times but they still per- 12. Will it be a major surprise if you’re
always fight the hardest in every match. severed. Some may feel the chances are not fielded in Hougang in this upcoming
You can pick up a lot of lessons from slim but they still want to fight. There by-election?
Everton as they’re a never-say-die team. is a strong fighting spirit and a special
spirit of service amongst our people in I am fully prepared to be fielded. The
10. Eric Low (previous PAP candidate) Hougang. party has not decided. But it knows the
fought for a long time in Hougang and work my team and I have done in Hou-
never tasted success. How long will you 11. How much fire do you have in your gang, consistently over the past year. In
do so? belly as a budding politician? the last GE, our activists and volunteers
all worked very hard. We were disap-
(Laughs) He lost more hair progres- Look at my volunteers, they inspire pointed at the results. But I am a firm
sively as he’s been here for 12 years. Eric me – some of them have lost five times believer in always doing better. And I
fought hard and he was a fierce fighter. but they’ve not lost the passion to serve or have full confidence in my people. We’ve
I will be here as long as the party feels I the desire to help the residents. These are stared at defeat, and now we’ve come back
can do a competent job. Frankly, I was volunteers who believe in the cause we’re from failure, ready to give of our best, and
a little surprised when I was first told I fighting for, and they’re making a genuine to fight another contest.
PETIR MAR / APR 12 25BEhIND ThE SCENES
new blood
in Hougang
By Suresh Nair
S “There are many who are poor and
teven Lim and June Li are amongst
the new PAP faces who have stepped
forward to serve the residents in ageing, and need many forms of financial
Hougang.
Both are single and they use their spare assistance. They are looking to a new
time away from hectic work schedules to Member of Parliament who cares for them.”
offer a helping hand as volunteers, as they
did when I met them on a sunny Sunday – Mr Steven Lim
morning in April, serving porridge at the
Poh Teck Siang Tng Temple. Choo’s coffee-sessions. when I serve the people and meet new
“There are many who are poor and “There are many people crying out friends every day,” she said.
ageing, and need many forms of financial for assistance, from financial help, study According to Ms Li, the Hougang
assistance. They are looking to a new loans for their kids to getting their per- residents “want a sincere MP who cares
Member of Parliament who cares for manent resident status and getting flats,” for them and who is willing to bring their
them,” said Mr Lim, 31, an insurance fi- he explained. problems to the attention of the relevant
nancial consultant, who joined Desmond He came aboard as an activist in government agencies”.
Choo and the PAP Hougang team of the Teochew-majority constituency of “Mr Choo fits the bill perfectly as he
activists three months ago. 23,000, because he was “very concerned has built up a very strong rapport with the
Ms Li, 24, an administrative assistant, about the ageing population who need residents by listening to their problems,”
too showed her caring side as she helped special attention”. she said. “His sincerity is very clear and
the old folks to the food. “I understand Ms Li, who also lives in Hougang Av- now we are beginning to see more cases
their problems, especially the older con- enue 5, is single and speaks English, Man- every Monday at the coffee sessions.
stituents, as I have served grassroots or- darin and Hokkien. She finds satisfaction Many residents interviewed were look-
ganisations, like Residents’ Committees, in her voluntary work and does not mind ing forward to the by-election, to elect a
since 2008,” she said. sacrificing her evening leisure time. new MP to represent their interests and
Mr Lim, who lives in Hougang Av- Although her day is long as she leaves address their needs. Private bus manager,
enue 5 and is fluent in English, Mandarin for work at 5.30am and returns only after Mr Thomas Tay, 52, noted that “the pace
and Teochew, had previously helped out 7.00pm, she still manages to find time for of overall constituency redevelopment
at orphanages and old folks’ homes. He is voluntary work. has been clearly slower in Hougang the
acutely aware of the needs of the people “I don’t find it tiring when I help out past two decades”. Agreeing with these
in the constituency after attending Mr in constituency work. I get a special thrill sentiments, Ms Hamidah Yusoff, 45, an
26 PETIR MAR / APR 12The smiles say it all for spirited volunteers Mr Steven Lim and Ms June Li.
have interacted with many senior citizens
“I don’t find it tiring when I help out in and they genuinely feel that the Govern-
constituency work. I get a special thrill ment is showing interest in their welfare
and going the extra mile to make life a
when I serve the people and meet new little more comfortable for them.”
friends every day.” Long-serving PAP activists in Hou-
gang welcome the entry of new blood,
– Ms June Li which has helped to strengthen the
team. PAP Hougang assistant secretary
airport supervisor, said: “We’re in the change in the attitude of several residents. Lionel Jerome de Souza said: “They have
news every day and it’s not good for Hou- “The Hougang folks want a caring and the passion and perseverance to make a
gang. Anyone coming to this constituency responsible leader and there is a new- difference and we must encourage more
knows it needs a major facelift and this found confidence in Mr Choo,” he said. youngsters to come forward. We com-
can only be done with an MP who cares Another highlight was the recent mend them for making a huge sacrifice.
for the residents.” Budget announcements. Mr Lim noted They are clearly focused on the long term
After serving in Hougang for the past that the majority of the residents appear and will help to get more young Singapo-
few months, Mr Steven Lim sensed a “pleased with the Budget”. He said: “I reans to support our cause”.
PETIR MAR / APR 12 27FACE TO FACE
competing views, a com
Senior Parliamentary Secretary and first-term MP Sim Ann tells
of her experience of turning voices of discontent into a chorus of
engagement, taking into account the quiet majority
By Nazri Hadi Saparin
C
ommunity engagement and
building an inclusive society
have been buzzwords since the
last General Elections. But nothing beats
real life experience to underline their
importance, and how challenging it can
become. Just ask Member of Parliament
(MP) for Holland-Bukit Timah GRC,
Sim Ann.
In a matter of weeks, she was faced
with two incidents that tested her ability
to cater to competing interests. Sim Ann
is also the Senior Parliamentary Secretary
for Law and for Education.
One was the resistance from some Toh
Yi residents who petitioned against the
HDB’s plans to build studio apartments
in their estate. The other issue centred
around residents who are farming ille-
gally on a 1,800 sq metre strip of land,
under the custody of the Singapore Land
Authority (SLA).
After a period of consultation, HDB
decided to stick to the original site for the
studio flats while the illegal farmers were Ms Sim Ann believes that getting the MPs to walk the ground is
given a three-month extension from the still an important platform to collect views from the community.
SLA, as the grassroots consider whether
to rent part of the state land for interim and the process of consultation as well as group, who do not see the need or are
community use. engagement must be combined with the not quite ready to voice their opinions so
These were difficult issues that re- need to avoid policy paralysis. In the end, openly, she says. Just because a group of
quired discussion, debate and eventually, she is guided by one clear principle – the people do not speak out does not mean
a clear decision. In the case of the studio need to serve the larger public interest. that they do not count.
apartments, some residents remained “An inclusive society cannot be one “I think this is a very important pa-
unhappy and made their voices heard where those who shout the loudest al- rameter to keep in mind when we are talk-
through online platforms such as Face- ways get what they want, at the expense ing about inclusive society. Otherwise it
book. of others. To me, that is not an inclusive is very easy to get distracted by very loud
Despite these continued voices of dis- society. That is a dysfunctional society,” views, coming from what might turn out
content, Ms Sim is quietly satisfied that says the first-term MP. to be a small group of people.”
the outcome was reasonable. She knows When dealing with social issues, an That is why, despite how strong the
that not every demand can be fully met MP cannot discount the broad middle influence of social media is, Ms Sim is a
28 PETIR MAR / APR 12mon interest
says amongst the residents whom she three events, now you are competing in
reached out to, those against the studio 10. I think that sums it up,” she said.
apartment were in the minority, even in Having been a grassroots volunteer
the blocks closest to the proposed site – herself, Ms Sim says she feels that the
something that was not reflected by the demands on community leaders have
social media and news reports. increased.
As for the illegal “farm plots”, the state Her block visits now take longer,
land had been enjoyed by a small group compared to when she used to tag along
of people, about 20 households. In fact, as part of the entourage of volunteers.
the illegal farming issue also surfaced due Before, residents were not too concerned
to complaints from residents who were if they get to meet the MP or not, but the
troubled by smoke caused by the burning situation is different today.
of leaves as well as mosquitoes breeding “When they see the banner, they are
at the plots. a lot more conscious about the fact that
“Walking the ground puts you in there is a block visit, they expect to meet
touch with a wealth of very interesting the MP, and to raise issues. We have to
feedback from residents. In the case of work out new ways of keeping residents
Toh Yi, some told us quite frankly they updated, for instance when we encounter
don’t like to have a new block right next a few households with a lot to say, and are
to their home, obstructing their view. I not able to visit the remaining units in the
understand that. That is human nature. block in time ” she explained
“There were also many residents who However, such high demands and
told us that they didn’t really mind be- expectations spur her on.
cause they felt they would not be affected. “It is just the way it is now, and the
And there were also those who told us sooner we get used to it and understand
clearly they welcomed it. how to operate, the better. I see this as a
“If you just judge from the petition, challenge. And I take it positively and so
you will see there is a number of very up- does my team.”
set people. If you just judge from certain Beyond her constituency, Ms Sim
news headlines, you will conclude that also works in the Ministry of Education,
strong believer in old-fashioned face to the whole estate is up in arms. But that where she has been assigned to work on
face meetings. is really not true.” special education. To her, the Govern-
That is why MPs walk the ground, do Apart from face-to-face outreach, Ms ment’s focus on special education is one
house visits and listen in to what people Sim says she and her team of grassroots of the clearest ways in which the state is
are saying at the coffee shops. activists maintain a strong social media signalling its commitment to building an
“When you do that, you will find that presence, and placed great emphasis on inclusive society.
the picture that emerges finally forms the making sure they connect with residents “My hope is, our students with special
balance of views from the community. online. needs, whether mild, moderate or severe,
They can sound rather different from These days, in the new norm, as she with the skills and knowledge imbued in
Facebook or other websites. It can also puts it, engagement is multi-faceted. them during their school years, they can
sound different from what you get from “If I can give an analogy, it is like the go on and lead meaningful adult lives
the mainstream media,” she says. event we are in used to be a triathlon, now and participate as fully as they can in
In Toh Yi’s case for instance, Ms Sim it is a decathlon. We used to compete in society.”
PETIR MAR / APR 12 29You can also read
