The People’s Action Party is setting up new branches in several parts of Singapore to better serve residents.
At least six new branches are being established across Singapore in Tampines, Tengah, Punggol and Pasir Ris. More branches are in the works.
In Tampines GRC, a new division, Tampines Boulevard will be formed with effect from June 1, MP Baey Yam Keng announced on his Facebook. This decision follows discussions among the Tampines MPs to determine the internal boundaries for the group representative constituency.
Mr Baey said that he will take care of the new division, drawing upon his prior experience welcoming and serving residents in Built-to-Order projects within his ward and those handed over to Dr Koh Poh Koon under Tampines Central. Meanwhile, new MP David Neo will take over Mr Baey’s original ward, Tampines North.
Mr Baey, who is entering his fifth term as an MP, added that his priority will be to help residents with teething issues as they move into the new flats.
He will also be looking to address these across the constituency as the new chairman of Tampines Town Council, he said.
Mr Neo told Petir that the new Tampines Boulevard branch will be located at Block 646B Tampines Street 62, and is expected to be ready by June.
“Residents from the Boulevard area can go to any MPS in Tampines GRC, until the new division is established,” he added.
On taking over Mr Baey’s ward, he said: “Mr Baey established many strong programmes for the community and has a heart for the residents. I hope to continue his good work and serve the residents to the best of my ability.”
Victor Lye: Regardless of the physical branch, our priority is to serve the residents
In Ang Mo Kio GRC, MP Victor Lye, who oversees Buangkok-Fernvale South, said his team is conducting MPS at both Fernvale South and Buangkok Crescent. He started his MPS at Block 999 Buangkok Crescent on Thursday (May 15) evening. The following week, he will conduct the MPS at Block 401 Fernvale Lane, alternating between these two locations.
“Hosting the MPS at Fernvale South and Buangkok Crescent makes it more convenient for residents. During our walkabouts, we informed residents about this arrangement. They are happy with the proximity to their flats.”
“While both locations are makeshift, we will make do. Regardless of the physical branch, our priority is to serve the residents.”
He said that his team will finalise the location of the physical branch soon.
Continuity and change: Valerie Lee continues Changi Village MPS
In Pasir Ris-Changi GRC, newly elected MP Valerie Lee, who oversees the Changi division, said her team has set up the new branch at Block 216, Pasir Ris Street 21, which used to be Pasir Ris East branch.
“We chose Blk 216 for its convenience to Changi residents and its existing infrastructure, allowing us to assist our residents seamlessly straight out of GE.”
Ms Lee will also conduct an additional MPS on the last Friday of each month at Changi Village for the convenience of residents living there. This continues a tradition started by former MP Maliki Osman when Changi was part of the Siglap division under East Coast GRC.
Meanwhile, the Pasir Ris East branch will relocate to Block 426 Pasir Ris Drive 6, the former premises of the Pasir Ris Central branch. The latter will move to a new location at Block 517 Pasir Ris Street 52.
Ms Lee said that the Pasir Ris-Changi team has publicised their MPS dates online via their social media and on thank-you cards distributed after the election.
“Residents have had no issues locating us. They have also been receiving help through WhatsApp and email.”
Chua Chu Kang volunteers hit the ground running
Another PAP branch is also being set up in Tengah, which is part of Chua Chu Kang GRC. New MP Choo Pei Ling held her first MPS on May 13 at Block 236B Tengah Garden Walk.
Ms Choo commended her team of volunteers for their swift and tireless efforts in setting up the system, ensuring connectivity, and most importantly, providing assistance to every resident.
“The attendance was impressive for a new and young town. Despite longer wait times, residents were understanding and patient, indicating a positive initial response.”
She noted that besides young families, her ward has a sizeable population of seniors and singles. “Residents can look to a series of community engagement activities coming up. My team and I remain resident-centric and consultative, and we are excited to co-create initiatives and projects that cater to the needs of the community.”
Naval Base branch to share premises temporarily with Canberra
In Sembawang GRC, a new division called Naval Base has been carved out of the former Canberra division to support the area’s expected growth and development, said Health Minister Ong Ye Kung in a Facebook post on May 10.
First-time MP Ng Shi Xuan told Petir that his team is currently identifying a suitable location for the new branch. In the meantime, he will be conducting his MPS at the Canberra branch, with the first MPS for Naval Base residents scheduled for May 19.
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong started his MPS at the new PAP Punggol Northshore branch at Block 402 Northshore Drive.
