SDP unveils plans to rejuvenate Sembwang GRC

The Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) has unveiled new plans to revitalise the Sembawang group representation constituency (GRC) by stimulating a local economy and business environment, among some of its proposals.

Speaking at the Woodlands stadium on Wednesday evening, Dr James Gomez, who is part of the team contesting in the GRC, introduced the 'Re-Generation Plan: Creating Jobs, Building Community' which consists of five key proposals to rejuvenate the constituency.

Among its recommendations, the party aims to "advocate" for a regional centre in Woodlands, a plan first unveiled in 2001 by the People's Action Party (PAP) as part of its masterplan but did not materialise.

Gomez questioned the ruling party on the commercial and retail developments which it promised residents 10 years ago, adding that the sole shopping centre in the area -- Causeway Point -- which is getting more crowded, requires major renovations and an "urgent upgrade".

"I want to remind you that 10 years ago, many of you moved to this part of Singapore because in 2001, the PAP government released the masterplan. They promised a regional centre in Woodlands, where is it?"

"Ten years has passed, two general elections are over but the people in Sembawang GRC still do not have a regional centre that is supposed to be a commercial and business hub, creating and giving you jobs in the constituency," he added.

Gomez also criticised Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan -- the anchor MP in the area -- and his team for evading the issues mentioned and instead, introduced a new plan worth S$500 million.

"Khaw Boon Wan and company have proposed a constituency renewal plan of S$500 million but said nothing about what they would do for the regional centre for Sembawang GRC. Not a word."

Meanwhile, the SDP is planning to create service-based jobs at the constituency level through catering and maintenance services, which could provide support to the current installations already present in the area, such as correction facilities and military camps.

It also plans to generate revenue by showcasing the constituency as a mini tourism hub through key attractions such as the Sungei Buloh nature reserve and Wak Hassan Kampung. It added that local jobs could be created in this aspect by organising tours, events and activities.

Although focused on developing the area, the party also emphasised the need for conservation. For instance, it highlighted the issue of pollution near the surroundings of Sembawang beach since industries were located near the end of Kranji Road. The party wants the issue to be addressed to further prevent widespread contamination.

"Overall, the 'Re-Generation Plan' will look into monitoring the situation and ensure proper conservation steps are observed and implemented."

SDP's 'Re-Generation Plan' comes after the introduction of the 'People's Plan' last week, which proposed extending the services of polyclinics at void-decks and providing feeder bus services at lower cost.

The party also said that it will look into the existing places of worship, especially those located in industrial estates and on leased land, and listen to the local community to see if there are sufficient places of worship for their faith.

While both plans cater to Sembawang residents, Gomez explained the difference between the two, stressing that the 'People's Plan' will focus on improving and building on the current infrastructure and amenities in the area.

On the other hand, the 'Re-Generation Plan' is more economic-centric and aims to create business opportunities which in return will generate revenue and jobs for the residents.

When asked how the party plans to finance the projects, he told Yahoo! Singapore that the funds will primarily derive from the town council sinking funds as well as partnerships with business owners and non-governmental organisations.

However, Gomez dismissed claims that the party is seeking to "buy votes" from residents by unveiling both its master plans for the constituency, saying that its sole aim is to "create opportunities".

He said, "There's nothing to buy, because we don't have a culture of buying votes so that's not even an issue.

"I mean this is nothing unusual, many constituencies worldwide do create jobs locally, and one of the MP's jobs is to look after the people, create jobs, and create opportunities. This is creating opportunities," said Gomez.

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This article is published by Yahoo! Southeast Asia Pte. Ltd., 60 Anson Road #13-01 Mapletree Anson, Singapore, 079914.