In an emphatic defense of his political moves, Manpower Minister Tan See Leng declared on Saturday that he has not abandoned the Marine Parade constituency he once led. His statements come as a direct response to comments made by Singapore Democratic Party chairman Paul Tambyah during a recent opposition rally.

Tambyah questioned the integrity of the People’s Action Party (PAP) while defending party chief Chee Soon Juan's recent decision to shift from Bukit Batok to contest in Sembawang West SMC. He insinuated that Health Minister Ong Ye Kung’s comments about Chee abandoning Bukit Batok mirrored the PAP’s own shifting strategies.

Originally slated to lead the PAP team for Marine Parade-Braddell Heights, Tan was reassigned to Chua Chu Kang GRC on the crucial Nomination Day, prompting mixed reactions.

During a media interview at Teck Whye Market, Tan firmly stated, "I don't think I've ever abandoned Marine Parade. It was a walkover... I said it three times." He explained that since Marine Parade was uncontested, his party felt it necessary for him to step up wherever he was needed.

Replacing Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong at Chua Chu Kang GRC, Tan has quickly joined forces with new team members: Mr. Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim, Mr. Jeffrey Siow, and Dr. Choo Pei Ling. He acknowledged the community's emotional ties to Gan, noting, "There's no abandonment whatsoever. We're like a family."

In an interesting turn of events, the recent electoral map reshuffle saw Bukit Batok absorbed into the Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, while Punggol GRC formed from regions previously within Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC and the old Punggol West SMC.

Addressing Chua Chu Kang residents, Tan acknowledged their concerns about Gan's departure but emphasized that such realignments are part of the broader national strategy. He expressed optimism about warming up to the community, stating, "I hope residents will give me a chance to try." Tan also assured them that he’s committed to fulfilling immediate community needs.

On a broader scale, Tan reacted to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s recent political broadcast warning of economic storms ahead. Tan assured the public that they are ready for any potential recession, emphasizing, "We are prepared, and we are prepared for the worst." He shared that his task force is actively devising measures to tackle economic uncertainties.

Calling for unity, Tan urged workers to provide the PAP government with a strong mandate, vowing, "We have well-proven strategies. We are trusted." His commitment to uplifting the community remains strong as he looks to implement beneficial initiatives—echoing the successful programs introduced in Marine Parade—to make a difference in Chua Chu Kang.