Cheo’s remarks on new mothers discriminatory, disempower women

As a new mother who plays multiple roles as a social entrepreneur, professional speaker, author and full-time master’s student, I read with disappointment the report “Tin Pei Ling’s new status as a mum is a weakness: Cheo” (Sept 4).

Women have fought hard to be on an equal footing, and for their contributions to the workforce and family to be recognised, with their male counterparts.

However, MacPherson candidate Cheo Chai Chen’s words indicate that equal status between men and women in Singapore, a globalised city, is still a mirage.

His words sounded discriminatory and seemed to imply that mothers, new or otherwise, cannot focus on both career and motherhood. I beg to differ.

With help from my supportive husband, family and friends, I returned to work, speaking before a 400-strong audience at a women’s conference, the moment my baby turned two months old.

I am grateful that my talk was well received, and nearly 100 copies of my books were sold, with extra funds raised for a non-profit. It was not easy, especially without domestic help, but it was fulfilling.

Such comments about working mothers are disempowering to women, undermining the important role of fathers in raising children, and disempowering to the ideals that Singapore is trying to champion: A country where children are well cared for and families are supported.

At a familial level, raising a child requires teamwork — the collaborative efforts of the father, mother and other relatives who function as carers. At a national level, it is a collaborative effort between the state and the family.

That is where Mr Cheo comes in, if elected. And regardless of the election outcome, it is imperative that his heart is in serving the residents he represents and in giving a voice to those who have none.