SINGAPORE: In a fiery speech on Wednesday, Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) chief Chee Soon Juan launched a direct attack on Health Minister Ong Ye Kung, who dismissed the SDP's policies as having "not a snowball's chance" of benefiting Singapore. Chee’s sharp retort? The PAP's favorite strategy: "Criticise first, copy later."

Dr. Chee highlighted the SDP's proposed unemployment insurance scheme, arguing that it was a prime example of how the PAP mimics the party's ideas after initially disparaging them. Back in 2016, Chee had proposed a retrenchment insurance scheme that promised workers up to three-quarters of their last salary for the first six months of unemployment, tapering off thereafter.

Fast forward to today, and the PAP has rolled out the SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme, which provides limited financial assistance to certain unemployed workers. Chee pointed out the similarities, showing how the PAP often adopts ideas only after dismissing them.

As the PAP fights to hold its ground in the upcoming elections, led by Ong in Sembawang Group Representation Constituency (GRC), Chee made a compelling case for the SDP's vision of a more secure and equitable Singapore. "We aim to expand social safety nets, ensure universal healthcare, and make educational reforms aimed at nurturing critical thinkers and reducing inequality," he asserted.

At the rally—one of many in the run-up to the election—party chairman Paul Tambyah articulated how SDP's policies could transform Singaporeans' lives, from childhood through adulthood. "This vision may sound utopian, but it's achievable," he claimed.

The SDP also debated the upcoming National Ownership Model (NOM) for public housing, asserting that the PAP’s criticisms are misdirected and fail to address the true housing challenges Singapore faces today. Supporters like candidate Damanhuri Abas stressed that the NOM prices would focus solely on construction costs, making housing drastically more affordable.

In a swift counter, Surayah Akbar from the SDP called for Ong to clarify the future of housing after the 99-year lease term ends, emphasizing their commitment to fair and logical housing policies.

The atmosphere at the rally was charged, as candidates urged voters to boldly support the SDP's transformative agenda when they head to the polls. With 11 candidates running across four constituencies, this election marks a critical juncture for the SDP.

Wrapping up his address, Dr. Chee declared the SDP's team to be a "mission-ready, heart-driven, battle-tested" group ready to serve the people of Sembawang and beyond. "We are not just another team; we are a powerhouse of experience and knowledge, committed to making a real difference for Singaporeans,” he concluded.