A free shuttle bus service in Marine Parade GRC sparked a heated debate in Parliament last year. However, Seah Kian Peng, MP for Marine Parade GRC, emphasised that the service was introduced after listening to feedback from residents.
“You cannot stop people from having different views or criticisms. Some may be valid, others often have political undertones,” he told Petir. “For those who need the service, it is useful. For those who don’t, they may have other needs [that we need to address]. We will review the shuttle bus service from time to time.”
“No one has a perfect solution to every issue, but we should not be afraid to try. Not everything will succeed, but if you don’t try, you’ll never know,” he continued, “The key lies in listening to people. Keep your eyes open and your ears to the ground. Understand that if things change, you also need to change.”
The free shuttle bus service operates from 10am to 4pm on weekdays, connecting residents to essential amenities like MRT stations, polyclinics and hawker centres. This is especially helpful for elderly residents, by connecting them with social hubs in the neighborhood.
The initiative is part of Braddell Heights’ We Care programme.
Residents can repair faulty appliances for free at Repair Kopitiam
Repair Kopitiam@Braddell Heights is another programme that Mr Seah’s team initiated three years ago to cater to residents’ needs. Every last Sunday of the month, over 60 volunteers transform into handymen and handywomen, assisting residents by repairing their appliances.
To date, this initiative has saved residents money and provided them with convenience by repairing over 300 items. “Some residents have even learnt the repair skills and returned to help others,” Mr Seah said.
He also told Petir about a free haircut service initiated by a hair salon owner in the constituency a decade ago. The owner and his team provide complimentary haircuts for residents, primarily seniors with mobility constraints.
Having served in the constituency for 19 years, Mr Seah noted that most residents seeking assistance are happy to be helped, and reasonable in their requests.
He advised his team, “Don’t let a single bad experience or unreasonable encounter affect you adversely. It may hinder your ability to do things which benefit the larger group,” he said.
“Instead, set it aside and focus on why you’re doing what you’re doing. Accept that some interactions will be challenging but focus your efforts on helping the big majority who are reasonable. “
Addressing residents’ concerns as Speaker of Parliament
Source of image: Seah Kian Peng / Facebook
Mr Seah was elected as Speaker of Parliament in August 2023 and stepped down from his role as group chief executive officer of NTUC Enterprise and the boards of its social enterprises in September 2023.
While acknowledging he misses the challenges of corporate life, Mr Seah affirmed his commitment to his role as Speaker. “When I apply myself to a job, I give it my 100%.”
“I miss my life as a backbencher. I have my point of view on certain bills,” he said. “Now, as Speaker, my role is different. While I can no longer participate as a backbencher, I assure my constituents that I will find alternative ways to address their concerns and raise their issues.”
For now, Mr Seah is focused on serving the residents and the party to the best of his abilities. “Having served Braddell Heights since 2006, my residents know who I am, how I deal with issues and what I have done. It’s for them to assess me on my track record, promises, and ability to continue to serve them well.”
ICYMI, read:
