SINGAPORE: The People’s Action Party's (PAP) Sengkang West branch chair, Dr. Lam Pin Min, acknowledged the uphill battle of reclaiming a Group Representation Constituency (GRC) from the opposition, calling it “always a challenge.” His comments come as the PAP gears up for the 2025 General Election, emphasizing that their ongoing efforts in engaging the community are crucial.

"We began our outreach the moment COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. In fact, Elmie, Theodora, and I have been actively engaging with the ground for the past three to four years," shared Dr. Lam during a recent media event.

The PAP team was seen distributing adorable bears to young families and residents of the Rivervale Shores Housing Development Board (HDB) estate and Buangkok Hawker Centre. This initiative is intended to convey a message of love and comfort to the community, as part of their outreach strategy.

Sengkang, which is one of Singapore's newer towns, boasts a youthful demographic, with over half of its residents aged under 40, and only 19.2% aged 60 and above. The GRC was established ahead of the 2020 elections, merging areas from the former Sengkang West Single Member Constituency (SMC), Punggol East SMC, and parts of the Pasir Ris–Punggol GRC.

In the 2020 election, the opposition, led by the Workers’ Party (WP), secured a narrow victory with 52.12% of the votes, fielding a diverse team that included He Ting Ru and Jamus Lim. The PAP’s lineup back then featured prominent figures like labour chief Ng Chee Meng and Lam Pin Min himself, who is the last remaining member from that slate.

Following the 2020 elections, the PAP instated new representatives in the Sengkang divisions. Associate Professor Elmie Nekmat, Ms. Theodora Lai Xi Yi, and Mr. Ling Weihong took over the Sengkang Central, North, and East divisions respectively, with significant reshuffling taking place by late 2023.

In light of the upcoming elections, Dr. Lam remarked on the youthful composition of their new team and the strong gender representation it brings. “They exude a lot of passion and fresh ideas that can benefit our residents,” he stated.

Mrs. Bernadette Giam, newly appointed branch chairperson of the Sengkang East division, reported a warm reception from residents during their walkabouts, expressing optimism about the community’s response. Ms. Lai emphasized the importance of these interactions for truly understanding the varying needs of residents, which could guide future programs.

The discussions also touched on concerns surrounding the digital safety of families in Sengkang, particularly with the rise of online risks affecting all age groups. Associate Professor Elmie highlighted his intent to advocate for digital wellness as a priority moving forward.

As for the final candidate lineup for the GRC, Dr. Lam stressed that it remains to be determined by the Party Headquarters. "Ultimately, it's not solely our decision; the final slate will be managed by the party leadership," he concluded, hinting at the rigorous vetting process ahead of the crucial 2025 elections.

Stay tuned for updates as this vivid contest unfolds, defining the future political landscape of Sengkang!