Improved estates, transport facilities among PAP’s plans for Chua Chu Kang

SINGAPORE — The People’s Action Party’s (PAP) team in Chua Chua Kang Group Representation Constituency (GRC) yesterday asked voters to extend support to the party again so it can continue to fight for and see through programmes that will improve the estate and transport infrastructure.

“In the last four years, the seeds of improvement for better amenities, better facilities and better transport have borne fruit,” said Ms Low Yen Ling, who is among the four PAP candidates standing in the constituency this election. They are up against the People’s Power Party (PPP).

Facades and facilities in estates have been refurbished, with new and upgraded recreational areas such as fitness corners, basketball courts and playgrounds across the GRC. There are also more sheltered walkways leading to train stations now, she said.

Aiming to make Chua Chu Kang a better home for families, Ms Low said she would continue to create more options for childcare, promote flexible work arrangements, and work-life balance. To that end, about 180 new childcare places will be available by the end of this year, she added.

“With more kindergartens and childcare centres, bursaries and scholarships, new education and career pathways, we will support you and your family in your pursuit of your goals in life,” she said.

In his maiden rally speech, PAP newcomer Yee Chia Hsing said he aims to build a vibrant community in Chua Chu Kang, with more opportunities for neighbours to get together.

“If elected, I also hope to encourage more people to volunteer, not only at charities and at (the) grassroots (level), but also at voluntary welfare organisations,” he said.

Pointing out that his team had worked hard in the area of transportation, PAP candidate Zaqy Mohamad said the constituency had seen improvements in bus services. Plans to upgrade the Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange in three to five years were also a result of listening to feedback from residents.

Mr Zaqy also outlined plans for the constituency in the next five years, such as a programme that will connect residents to transport hubs via sheltered walkways, as well as new Community Clubs in Bukit Gombak.

“So, we have worked hard over the last four years to bring you plans for the next five. What is important for us is to see them through and execute them well. And this is what the PAP brings: (We are) able to listen, able to plan, able to think long term, and able to deliver,” said Mr Zaqy.

Taking a dig at PPP secretary-general Goh Meng Seng, Mr Zaqy said: “Our opposition today (was) committed to the residents of Tampines GRC, (and had said) that they will stand again in Tampines after GE (General Election) 2011. Where are they now? They are in Chua Chu Kang GRC.

“So, my question to them is, will they still be here in GE 2020? This is about commitment to the people. Our residents deserve better; our residents deserve a stable and committed team to serve you,” he said.