Facilities upgrading a key plank for PAP in Hougang
PAP supporters at the rally at an open field near Defu Ave 1 yesterday. Photo: Wee Teck Hian
SINGAPORE — Speaking at his inaugural General Election rally yesterday, the People’s Action Party (PAP) candidate for opposition stronghold Hougang Single Member Constituency made an impassioned plea to voters, urging them to give him the opportunity to work with them to improve their livelihoods.
Mr Lee Hong Chuang, 45, stressed that the PAP’s goal has always been to care for the livelihood of the people. “We know that education is the foundation of livelihood, employment is the capital of livelihood, income is the support of livelihood, and social safeguards are the social safety net of livelihood,” he said during the rally held at an open field near Defu Avenue 1.
His rally was held in conjunction with the other PAP candidates contesting in Aljunied Group Representative Constituency. Hougang SMC has been held by the opposition Workers’ Party (WP) since 1991.
Speaking predominantly in Mandarin, Mr Lee outlined three key development plans he had for Hougang residents: Facilities upgrading, community bonding activities and measures to strengthen the “Hougang spirit”.
The first plan highlighted by Mr Lee will dovetail with the demographics of the mature estate by accelerating the pace of upgrading and enhancing the facilities to improve the ease of mobility for the elderly.
“Hougang needs more hardware and software to cater to the needs of the elderly,” Mr Lee said. “I hope to build a more convenient environment (for them).” He hopes to organise more recreational activities for residents to let them enjoy “a good life, good health, and good overall well-being.”
The second plan Mr Lee detailed was to increase the number of community bonding activities to foster greater cohesiveness among residents.
Last but not least, he spoke about strengthening the “Hougang Spirit”, which to him comprises the personal touch, being caring and having a resilient kampung spirit.
He noted that there are low income families, single parent families and the elderly in Hougang who may require assistance. “Our neighbours help them (the less privileged), but there is a limit to what they can do individually,” Mr Lee said. “I encourage all residents to play a part in helping these low-income families. Let’s all work together to strengthen the Hougang spirit.”
He said he would make full use of the resources available from the Government, Voluntary Welfare Organisations and other sources to support these families. Mr Lee, who is a father of two, has been volunteering for more than 26 years. Since last September, the senior IT manager has chaired the Hougang Community Club Management Committee.
His rival is incumbent Mr Png Eng Huat of the WP, who has held the seat since he garnered 62.1 per cent of the vote in a 2012 by-election.
“Many five-years have gone, many elections have passed. For yourself, for your family, for your children, for your future generations — I hope you will not delay (voting for the PAP) any longer,” Mr Lee said.
