SINGAPORE: SDP Showcases Strong Candidate Lineup

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming General Election, the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) showcased its five candidates for the Sembawang Group Representation Constituency (GRC) on Sunday, April 6. This well-prepared team aims to challenge the incumbent People's Action Party (PAP) and is confident of making a mark in the community.

The Candidates

The candidates introduced by party chairman Paul Tambyah include vice-chairman Bryan Lim Boon Heng, treasurer Surayah Akbar, deputy head of policy James Gomez, and party members Damanhuri Abas and Alfred Tan. During a vibrant walkabout at Kampung Admiralty, Prof. Tambyah emphasized that this team comprises experienced individuals who have been actively engaging with residents over the years, rather than sudden entries into the political scene.

Bryan Lim's Connection to Sembawang

Bryan Lim, a political stalwart, expressed familiarity with the Sembawang constituency, asserting that he and Damanhuri have been connecting with residents since their past efforts in the Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC. “This is like a homecoming,” the 49-year-old assistant director at a public hospital remarked, recalling positive interactions with local residents.

SDP's Strategic Ambitions

The SDP looks to leverage its historical connection to the area, having contested Sembawang GRC in both the 2006 and 2011 elections, albeit with limited success against the PAP. Lim expressed a strategic ambition to create a 'mega town council' by winning both Sembawang GRC and the newly formed Sembawang West Single Member Constituency (SMC), a plan that aligns with secretary-general Chee Soon Juan's 'northern strategy' for the approaching election.

Surayah Akbar's Activism

Surayah Akbar, 42, brings a fresh perspective to the team, having been an SDP member for over 18 years. Her activism is underscored by her engagement with the community, as shown by a Ramadan initiative in Marsiling-Yew Tee, where she led efforts to distribute food in the local market. “This isn’t just about speaking for my circle but for all Singaporeans,” she declared, promising to address pressing issues such as the cost of living, housing, and healthcare in her campaign.

Experience of Candidates

James Gomez, noted for his two-decade political experience, is poised to rekindle the SDP’s past memories in the region, while Alfred Tan, a self-described 'serial entrepreneur,' brings valuable insights from his business background. Tan, who joined the SDP in 2019, has stated his enthusiasm for engaging with the community to drive change.

Damanhuri Abas's Role

Damanhuri Abas, another seasoned contender with experience as an educational consultant, has recently returned to the political arena after a brief hiatus from active party politics. He highlighted the collaborative spirit of their team, describing Akbar as the 'heart' of the assembly while he himself contributes a decade of political wisdom.

Competition in Sembawang GRC

The contest for Sembawang GRC, which will see approximately 133,919 voters, is projected to be competitive, potentially unfolding as a three-cornered fight, especially given that the National Solidarity Party (NSP) has also expressed its intent to contest in this area. In a statement highlighted by the NSP, secretary-general Spencer Ng remarked on the importance of strategic electoral planning and showcased their commitment to the constituency.

SDP's Commitment to Democracy

In this lively electoral landscape, Prof. Tambyah has welcomed the competition, asserting that the essence of democracy is to provide choices for the electorate. As the clock ticks down to GE2025, all eyes will be on Sembawang GRC to see if the SDP can clinch a significant victory amidst the political contest.