Building a diverse volunteer team to help Tampines residents live better

11/10/2024

Masagos Zulkifli is building a team of volunteers from diverse backgrounds consisting mainly of residents to help improve how the community lives.

In an interview with Petir, Mr Masagos, the Tampines GRC Member of Parliament and Minister for Social and Family Development, said: “We are forming a united and strong team in Tampines West made up mostly of residents. When needed, we will bring in people who can value add to how we live better as a community.”

He added that the response to recruiting volunteers has been positive, and his team has also recruited young volunteers.

PAP Tampines West branch volunteers help with Mr Masagos’ Meet-the-People session every Monday evening, except the fifth Monday of the month. When they do not have MPS, Mr Masagos conducts market walkabouts with his team of volunteers, and mobile MPS instead. They also participate in other outreach activities to serve residents.  

“During the market walkabout, we sometimes advise residents to make a lasting power of attorney. They then come to the MPS where volunteer lawyers help them do the LPAs for free,” he said.

Mr Masagos prioritises making Tampines West “made for families”. He wants the constituency to be inclusive and caring. As a result, his team has been recruiting volunteers to serve in different ways.

“We work with other social service agencies to get volunteers to help one another. Whether they are seniors, persons with disability or low income, they are always part of us,” he emphasised. “Those who are better off volunteer their time and contribute to the community.”

Minister Masagos and activists from PAP Tampines West Branch (Source: PAP Tampines West Branch)

Hanny Heng and Esther Lim volunteer because they want to contribute to the community

Caption: (from left) Hanny Heng and Esther Lim volunteer at the PAP Tampines West branch and grassroots.

Hanny Heng, a 35-year-old senior supply chain executive, and Esther Lim, a 36-year-old project engineer, both volunteered at the grassroots before joining the People’s Action Party as activists. Currently, they assist Mr Masagos at his MPS sessions and occasionally coordinate events.

Reflecting on her journey, Ms Heng expressed: “My primary aim was to enhance my interpersonal skills and foster confidence.”

She recounted a poignant experience where she actively supported a distressed resident seeking help for her missing younger brother working overseas. Empathising with the situation, Ms Heng closely monitored the case’s progression until the brother’s safe return. This episode fueled her passion for volunteering.

“Volunteering keeps me mentally and physically active while allowing me to learn new skills, meet new friends, and give selflessly.”

Ms Lim embarked on her volunteering journey driven by a desire to contribute to her community. In May, she joined the Party to expand her volunteering experiences.

“A memorable moment is seeing like-minded volunteers come together for a common cause for the community, especially during the National Day celebration,” she added. “Neighbours now recognise me and trust me with their feedback and concerns. This motivates me to continue volunteering.”

Sharing Ms Lim’s sentiment, Ms Heng echoed: “Meeting happy and appreciative residents who recognise me from around the neighborhood, knowing that I’ve made a meaningful impact is incredibly rewarding,” she said.

Mr Masagos said: “I’m very privileged to have very dedicated activists, party activists as well as grassroots who always put residents first and work together.”