Stakes high in next GE; PAP will refresh to win the mandate needed to govern: Lawrence Wong
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Consistent leadership is what makes Singapore a successful nation, says Sec-Gen Lee Hsien Loong
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7 activists, 7 decades of service Pg 7 - 8
STAKES HIGH IN NEXT GE; PAP WILL REFRESH TO WIN THE MANDATE NEEDED TO GOVERN: LAWRENCE WONG
A call to action for all PAP activists! The PAP must come out in front “to explain our policies, to mobilise citizens for the causes that we believe in”, says Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) Wong.
We must work hard for every vote… earn the trust of Singaporeans to
win the mandate to govern and serve our people.
The stakes in the upcoming General Election are high, Lawrence Wong, Deputy Secretary-General of the People’s Action Party (PAP) cautioned, as Singapore risks losing a stable and good government.
“Please don’t think it is guaranteed that the PAP will win and form a stable government,” he said on 24 November to some 3,000 PAP cadres, activists and guests at the PAP’s landmark 70th anniversary celebrations and twoday biennial Awards and Conference.
“We have to work hard for every vote. We all have to chip in, do our part to earn the confidence and trust of Singaporeans, to win the mandate to govern, and ultimately, to serve our fellow Singaporeans,” added DSG Wong.
A “modest swing” in popular votes against the PAP, said DSG Wong, who is also Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, could lead to significantly different electoral outcomes, potentially resulting in the loss of another three or four Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs).
“We will end up with a much weaker government, with far less ability to solve the problems facing our people and our country
at a time when the world is becoming more uncertain and troubled,” said DSG Wong.
This is why the PAP must refresh and update its approach; it can no longer “operate from the back” in a more contested political landscape, he explained.
“We must come out in front — to explain our policies, to mobilise citizens for the causes that we believe in, to engage Singaporeans on the issues they care about, and show them why they can trust and depend on the PAP to provide the leadership for Singapore.”
The Party has taken steps to refresh itself, engaging with climate action and mental health, which are two emerging issues important for the wellbeing of Singaporeans.
Forming the best team for Singapore
Turning to leadership renewal, DSG Wong said his priority is to form the best team for Singapore.
“The PAP won the mandate in the last 15 elections because each time we delivered on what we promised, and Singaporeans were convinced that we had the best team,” he said.
DSG Wong highlighted that over half of the current Cabinet’s 19 ministers are aged 60 or above.
This is why it is “so urgent” to find a fresh crop of younger
candidates who can eventually form the next leadership team for Singapore, he added.
He has made progress in recruiting potential office-holders, but hopes to persuade a few more to join the team.
DSG Wong also called upon party activists to support these candidates and persuade fellow Singaporeans to vote for them in the next GE.
“We cannot afford to leave this to chance,” he said. “Our future and our nation’s future depend critically on our ability to find good people to serve in politics.”
“Even as we seek your support, the PAP will always be your biggest supporter.”
DSG Wong also pledged to give his all for Singaporeans.
“I give you my word: whatever lies ahead, I will do everything I can under my watch to win the support and trust of Singaporeans,” he said.
At the same time, DSG Wong also made the PAP’s stance clear.
“We will fight to win the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens and earn their support and trust through our actions. For we are the People’s Action Party. We will always be a people’s party; a party of action; a party that builds a better Singapore, with Singaporeans, for all Singaporeans.”
“To all Singaporeans, I say: Even as we seek your support, the PAP will always be your biggest supporter,” continued DSG Wong. “We will always be here for you. Your dreams will inspire our actions.”
“Together, let us forge a new path forward and build a better Singapore for all.”
黄循财：来届大选风险高， 行动党会自我更新，争取
人民强力的委托执政
人民行动党副秘书长黄循财强调，来届大选风险极高，即 便只有小部分选票流向反对党，我国可能失去稳定和良好 的政府。
也是总理和财政部长的黄循财星期天（11月24日）在党大 会上提醒党员：“请不要以为行动党胜券在握，可组成强稳 的政府。我们必须努力争取每张选票，争取国人的信任，赢 得他们强有力的委托执政，从而为他们服务。”
这是黄循财去年5月出任总理后的首场行动党干部大会， 去年也是行动党创党70周年。
他说，即便只有小部分选票流向反对党，都可能产生截然 不同的选举结果，很可能导致行动党失去另外三或四个集 选区；大大削弱政府解决人民和国家问题的能力。
他指出，这凸显了行动党自我更新的重要性。“我们必须主 动站出来，向大家说明我们的政策，动员民众支持行动党 的理念，让国人 参与所关心的课 题，并向他们说
组建最优秀的领导团队。他呼吁党员支持未来代表行动党 出战来届大选的候选人，并且游说国人支持他们。
PERTARUHAN SENGIT
PAP AKAN MEMPERBAHARUI
PARTI BAGI MERAIH MANDAT UNTUK MEMERINTAH: LAWRENCE WONG
Pilihan raya umum (GE) akan datang melibatkan pertaruhan yang tinggi, ujar Timbalan Setiausaha-Agung Parti Tindakan Rakyat (PAP) Lawrence Wong. Singapura berisiko kehilangan pemerintah yang baik dan stabil.
“Usah beranggapan PAP terjamin akan menang dan membentuk sebuah pemerintah yang stabil,” kata Encik Wong yang juga Perdana Menteri dan Menteri Kewangan, di persidangan PAP yang dihadiri 3,000 anggota parti.
“Kita harus bekerja keras untuk memperolehi setiap undi. Kita perlu berusaha untuk memenangi kepercayaan dan keyakinan rakyat Singapura agar dapat terus memerintah dan berkhidmat kepada rakyat Singapura.” “Perubahan sederhana” dalam undi popular menentang PAP boleh menghasilkan keputusan berbeza yang amat ketara, antaranya kehilangan tiga atau empat Kawasanundi Perwakilan Kumpulan (GRC).
“Kita akan mempunyai pemerintah yang lemah, dan kurang upaya untuk menghuraikan masalah yang dihadapi oleh rakyat dan negara ini, sedang keadaan dunia semakin meruncing,” kata beliau.PAP perlu memperbaharui pendekatannya. Ia tidak boleh lagi beroperasi di belakang tabir dalam landskap politik yang penuh saingan.
“Kita perlu tampil ke hadapan – untuk menjelaskan dasar kita, untuk menggerakkan rakyat kepada perjuangan yang kita yakini, untuk menampilkan isu yang menjadi keprihatinan rakyat dan menunjukkan kepada mereka kenapa mereka boleh mempercayai dan bergantung pada PAP untuk menggalas kepimpinan Singapura.”
Encik Wong berkata keutamaannya adalah untuk membentuk pasukan yang terbaik untuk Singapura.
Sejauh ini, beliau telah berjaya menarik caloncalon yang mempunyai potensi untuk memegang jawatan politik. Beliau berharap dapat memujuk beberapa lagi untuk menyertai parti.
Beliau mengalu-alukan para aktivis untuk menyokong caloncalon baru dan juga mengajak rakyat Singapura mengundi mereka di GE akan datang, “kerana kita tidak boleh menyerahkan proses ini pada keadaan”.
CONSISTENT LEADERSHIP IS WHAT MAKES SINGAPORE A SUCCESSFUL NATION, SAYS SEC-GEN LEE HSIEN LOONG
In Secretary-General Lee Hsien Loong’s last speech as PAP chief, he highlights how a smooth leadership transition has benefitted Singapore.
We
have a duty to ensure that Singapore continue to have good leadership, not just during our term in office, but also beyond.
At 70 years old, the PAP has reached a milestone.
But what is it that makes the PAP successful?
A deep and abiding duty of care for Singaporeans, a dedication to service and adapting to change have played a part. However, strong and stable leadership transition is one often overlooked factor behind PAP’s longevity and electoral success.
Speaking at the biennial PAP conference (24 Nov), SecretaryGeneral Lee Hsien Loong, who is also Senior Minister, highlighted the importance of good succession planning.
“Leadership transition – its planning, preparation, and execution – is one of the most important responsibilities for a party and political leader…We have a duty to ensure that Singapore continue to have good leadership, not just during our term in office, but also beyond,” said Sec-Gen Lee.
Having led the PAP for 20 years, Sec-Gen Lee shared that he would propose to the CEC to elect DSG Lawrence Wong as new Secretary-General.
“This will complete the leadership transition from me to my successor,” added Sec-Gen Lee.
But as Sec-Gen Lee noted, “We cannot take such orderly
transitions for granted. That is because disruptive leadership changes bring discontinuity and upheaval, which leads to a situation where both the party and the country suffer.”
Instead, the seamless handover has allowed Singapore to maintain consistent leadership and direction for the country. It has enabled the government to draw up long-term plans to address issues that do not have quick fixes.
All these stand in sharp contrast to many other countries, which found themselves (and their governments) weakened by infighting and disruption.
“For Singapore, we are very fortunate to have avoided all these bad scenarios and stayed cohesive,” said Sec-Gen Lee.
“That is why we must do our best to keep our system stable, and elect good leaders always, who will selflessly prepare their successors and hand the responsibility on when the time comes,” he added.
For now, that time has come as Sec-Gen Lee prepares to hand over the final reins of leadership to DSG Wong.
It marks the end of an era in leadership, but also signals the continuation of the PAP’s promise of honesty, incorruptibility, and a steadfast commitment to uplift the lives of fellow Singaporeans.
A CALL TO ACTION FROM CHAIRMAN HENG SWEE KEAT
Our Party marked its 70th anniversary with a Dinner and Awards Ceremony bringing together over 3,000 activists on 23 Nov.
It was a time for close camaraderie — as well as a clarion call to all activists by Chairman Heng Swee Keat.
“Comrades, we must cherish the trust that Singaporeans have placed in us with great responsibility and humility,” said Party Chairman Heng Swee Keat. “Let our core values of justice, equality, racial harmony, integrity and incorruptibility guide us.”
“Even at times — and especially at times — when this is not easy,” he added.
Singapore, after all, is now part of an uncertain world. There is rising geopolitical contestation and increasing climate change. There are the global stressors of cost of living, jobs and immigration. All these are pressing problems for every country.
But the PAP will stand firm. Our Party will remain responsive to the evolving aspirations of Singaporeans, driving progress and inclusivity — and every activist has a major role to play.
“You are the foundation of our Party’s mission to serve our people — to build a fair and just society. You are our eyes and ears on the ground to understand the concerns and aspirations of our people,” said Chairman Heng. “You are our voice to explain the challenges we face.”
This on-the-ground action will help our party secure a strong mandate, so that we can take Singaporeans forward together.
Here’s to another 70 years — and more! — of building a strong nation, and helping our fellow Singaporeans realise their dreams!
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7 ACTIVISTS, 7 DECADES OF SERVICE
Petir interviewed seven dedicated Party activists for personal stories about serving in their wards. These seven represent the many unsung heroes of our Party, serving their fellow Singaporeans tirelessly.
‘A resident trusted me with her funeral after her passing.’
Fu Chuan San, BBM(L), 83
PAP Geylang Serai branch activist, 2024 PAP Dedicated Service Award
“I appreciate the PAP government for its honesty and concern for Singaporeans. I joined the PAP at the suggestion of Chin Harn Tong, the then-MP for Aljunied SMC, to help recruit more women activists. Initially, there were only one or two active women out of around 20 activists in my branch. After I joined, the numbers grew.
Of the residents whom I have assisted, I remember an elderly woman who asked me to arrange her funeral after her passing. I guess she trusted me enough to request me to help.
Volunteering has nothing to do with age; it keeps the mind active and engaged. I take every opportunity to educate people about the government’s policies and how they benefit them.
I am honoured to receive the Dedicated Service Award this year. However, serving residents well is undoubtedly a team effort, and this award goes to the team too.”
‘Like thunder echoing from the heavens to the earth!’
Lim Thiam Poh, 71
PAP Ayer Rajah-Gek Poh branch activist, 2024 PAP Gold Medal
“Once, the branch needed a Hokkien-speaker for a soundbite for our election rally lorry. A comrade of mine said ‘Ah Lim, you speak Hokkien, you go and try lah.’
So, I did a Hokkien recording at the studio. ‘Dear residents and friends. Neighbours! Ms Foo Mee Har is our election candidate this year! Hope to gather overwhelming support — cast your vote for her! Victory! Victory! Victory!’
The branch was happy with my effort, and they played it all around the ward.
Polling night, when the final votes get counted, is always unforgettable. Wah! When the officials announce that we’ve won our GRC — we’re all whistling, clapping, waving our flag and cheering.
The noise; it’s like thunder echoing from the heavens to the earth. Wah! It’s so soul-stirring!”
‘Empathy and patience are powerful, even when people shout at you.’
“At a Meet-the-People (MPS) session, an agitated resident stood up and shouted at me. He was frustrated over his unemployment. I listened patiently, allowing him to voice his concerns uninterrupted.
Once the resident had calmed down, we linked him to social services, which connected him to SkillsFuture programmes for skills upgrading. With these new skills acquired, he regained his footing and independence.
That moment now serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and patience in helping individuals overcome challenges.
Access to social capital and networks is crucial, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. I aim to bridge this gap by advocating for policies that create level playing field and amplify the impact of social mobility initiatives across Singapore.
The essence of social mobility is uplifting the entire community. When we empower an individual, it creates a ripple effect that inspires others, building a foundation of support and possibilities for all.”
Clarence Ching Kah Hin, 30 Young PAP Regional Chair for Tanjong Pagar GRC and PAP Moulmein-Cairnhill branch activist, 2024 PAP Bronze Medal and Youth Award
‘Residents are there for us, so we must be there for them.’
Sa’adiah Binte Abdul, BBM, 56
PAP Women’s Wing ExCo Member and WW Chair of PAP Kaki Bukit branch, 2024 PAP Silver Medal
“I’ve been serving at the PAP Kaki Bukit branch for 17 years. I joined the Party after the then-MP, Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, encouraged me that it would deepen my understanding of policies and provide training to learn more about them. His guidance inspired me to take this path.
What motivates me is the satisfaction of assisting others. I vividly recall helping a woman struggling to care for her family — three sons and a daughter with autism. Her husband had lost his job, and they also had to support their elderly parents. I secured financial aid for her and helped her husband find employment. With time, the family’s situation improved. The woman appreciated my assistance, but I told her, ‘I can only journey with you. You and your family made the changes.’
Even in opposition constituencies, there are always those who believe in and trust the PAP. They are there for us, so we must be there for them.
We proudly go out in white-on-white attire. We want residents to know we’re here for them, not just during general elections but always.”
‘We are giving a lot more help to lower-income individuals.’
Karthik Sankaran, 42
PAP Jurong Central branch activist, 2024 PAP Bronze Medal
“What has changed since I started? I think one is that we are giving a lot more help to lower-income individuals.
There used to be a lot of debate around this whole idea of self-reliance and meritocracy. But today, there is a recognition that the problems facing people who have been disadvantaged for various reasons are quite deep and complex.
‘Lee Kuan Yew always reminded us that residents’ welfare is most important.’
Freddy Ang Ngoh Ho,
65 Vice-Chair of PAP Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru branch
“When the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew was around, he would always remind us to be responsible, take care of our residents and their welfare, and be prudent with spending.
The most rewarding aspect of volunteering is the close relationships I’ve built with residents through assisting them. Connecting with and building trust with residents are crucial, as these connections enable us to continue serving them.
As the years go by, we have noticed a growing number of Singaporeans expressing higher expectations. We strive to meet these evolving needs, even in challenging circumstances, without turning away any residents. They recognise our efforts to assist them to the best of our abilities.”
‘Sometimes, the best kind of help that we can offer to others is in the moment.’
Heidi Mah, 29
PAP Kreta Ayer-Kim Seng branch activist, 2024 PAP Bronze Medal
“During one MPS session, this elderly man came in. He smelled strongly of urine.
He also believed that his neighbour was stealing money from him at night, and so he wanted the money back.
Our Party officeholders in Government have been supportive, whether it’s strengthening the whole social service office (SSO) network, whether it’s community involvement in helping people with different needs, right? I used to be the Chairman of Loving Heart Jurong, which is a social service agency working with lonely elderly and vulnerable youth. There’s been a lot more engagement around these groups these years.”
It was obvious that he was not in the best state of mind. It was challenging to assist him, beyond asking Social Service Offices to check on his welfare and make sure that his basic necessities are met. At that point in time, I felt demoralised.
Then Comrade Alvin Tan came in. He helped the old man get a fresh pair of pants, walking alongside him out of the branch to find one.
There are sometimes no right answers to certain situations immediately.
Sometimes, the best kind of help that we can offer to others in the moment is to empathise and be willing to walk alongside them.”
Central Executive Committee
