SINGAPORE – Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung has expressed his expectation for an exhilarating three-cornered contest in the upcoming General Election 2025 (GE2025) for Sembawang Group Representation Constituency (GRC). This multi-party race, he believes, will empower residents with a wider array of choices as they exercise their democratic rights at the ballot box.

Speaking on April 6 during a community event in Sembawang, Mr. Ong emphasized the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) commitment to campaigning on its core values, proven track record, and vision for the future of the constituency. “We will showcase our action and our plans for Sembawang, which are indeed very exciting,” he asserted.

Earlier that day, the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) unveiled its team for Sembawang GRC during a media event at Kampung Admiralty, raising the stakes for the election. The National Solidarity Party (NSP) also made its presence known with a walkabout in Woodlands, solidifying their intention to challenge the incumbent.

“It was a busy day in Sembawang with PAP and two opposition parties engaging with the community,” Mr. Ong noted. He remains optimistic about fair competition, pointing out that both the SDP and NSP are bringing forth distinct ideas and visions for Singapore. “While we expect a tight race, our approach will remain consistent as a dedicated team focused on delivering for the residents,” he added.

Notably, the SDP plans to contest not only in Sembawang GRC but also in Sembawang West Single Member Constituency (SMC) as part of a strategy to strengthen their presence in the northern part of Singapore. SDP chief Chee Soon Juan is slated to run in the new Sembawang West, shifting from his previous post in Bukit Batok.

Ong acknowledged Dr. Chee's recognition as a national figure but expressed confidence that Sembawang residents will weigh their voting decisions based on who has genuinely invested time and effort in serving the community. “They will remember who has been working for them versus those strategically positioned in the area,” he highlighted.

During the community event, which culminated in a family day carnival, Mr. Ong recapped the PAP team's "report card" over the past five years. Notable achievements included improved transport links, such as the launch of the Thomson-East Coast Line and the development of the 25km Northern Explorer Loop, which connects the towns of Sembawang, Woodlands, and Yishun.

Looking ahead, Mr. Ong hinted at ambitious plans for Sembawang, particularly regarding a future seafront development that could emerge when the Sembawang Shipyard relocates to Tuas. “This will open up new opportunities for transforming Sembawang into a vibrant waterfront area,” he mentioned.

At the carnival, Mr. Ong was accompanied by key members of the Sembawang team, including Mr. Vikram Nair, Ms. Poh Li San, and Ms. Mariam Jaafar. Additionally, two newly introduced candidates – Mr. Gabriel Lam and Mr. Ng Shi Xuan – were present. Both have held significant roles in grassroots organizations, enhancing the party's local connections.

Mr. Lam, who leads Shalom International Movers, has been associated with Yellow Ribbon Singapore and aims to advocate for second chances for families in need and support local businesses. Mr. Ng, also with a decade-long grassroots volunteer history, expressed his desire to assist young families and single parents, particularly in the increasingly youthful demographic of Sembawang.

As GE2025 approaches, Mr. Ong reassured constituents that the PAP's slate for Sembawang GRC and Sembawang West SMC would be solidified soon, indicating that ongoing community engagement would reveal the party's lineup. “Residents will see who is actively participating and serving in the community,” he concluded, setting the stage for what promises to be a compelling electoral contest.