REACH has several effective ways of getting feedback

In the report “SPP candidate criticises Amy Khor’s track record” (Sept 6), Mr Ravi Philemon cited Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong’s recent comments that government feedback arm REACH must “evaluate how we can move on to the next stage”.

He said that “REACH is stuck in a certain time warp and not as effective in getting Singaporeans’ feedback”.

I am a mother of three and an entrepreneur running two retail outlets, so I am very concerned how Singaporeans can give feedback to the Government. For the past few years, I have been using REACH as that platform.

Perhaps Mr Philemon is unaware that REACH uses various platforms for us to voice our views, from its Facebook page and live Facebook chat app to even outdoor dialogue sessions in the heartlands. In these ways, I got my questions on MediShield Life answered and voiced my views about more help to be rendered to owners of small and medium enterprises.

I noticed recently that REACH has moved towards more sophisticated tools, such as Facebook Q&A, so questions and views can be posed directly to ministers. I also received a recent email update that it will be using WhatsApp as another platform.

It seems REACH is doing its best to be relevant and keep the public engaged. I am shocked at Mr Philemon’s words based on his interpretation of Mr Goh’s single statement.

As a Singaporean, I ask for more accountability from a potential MP. I would also advise Mr Philemon to “like” the Facebook page of REACH.