PAP introduces seventh batch of new candidates
The People's Action Party (PAP) has introduced its seventh batch of candidates for the upcoming General Election (GE).
They are Alex Yam, 29, Ong Teng Koon, 34, and Heng Swee Keat, 49.
Hoping to build on his 10 years experience as a grassroots volunteer, Mr Yam, said that understanding the daily challenges faced by Singaporeans "has heightened my sense of heavy responsibility to make my own small contribution".
"Over the past 5 years, I've been with the labour movement, working with young workers, in my involvement with young NTUC," he said in his introductory video posted on the PAP's website.
The NTUC executive is likely to join Manpower Minister Gan Kim Yong to contest the newly-formed Chua Chu Kang group representation constituency (GRC).
The second candidate introduced is Mr Ong Teng Koon, 34. He is the son of current Nee Soon Central MP Ong Ah Heng.
Mr Ong who works as a commodities trader has been seen accompanying Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, who is also the anchor MP for Sembawang GRC, in his walkabouts and grassroots events.
The third candidate is Mr Heng Swee Keat, 49, who was the former managing director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and has served in the public service for more than 20 years.
In his posting on Facebook last week, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said Mr Heng had the potential to be a Minister.
"A high flyer and sound central banker, he has the potential to be a Minister and core member of fourth generation team. Glad he is prepared to take (the) rough and tumble of politics,"SM Goh wrote.
He is likely to stand as a candidate in Tampines GRC, now anchored by National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan.
Mr Heng looks set to follow in the footsteps of former civil service high-fliers such as Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan.
Monday's unveiling brings the total number of new PAP candidates to 21.
