The article covers Education Minister Chan Chun Sing’s call during Singapore’s GE2025 for all political parties to return to the core issues that matter to voters, rather than engaging in negative campaigning.
Key Takeaways:
- Focus on Issues, Not Attacks:
Chan urged candidates to concentrate on solving challenges and seizing new opportunities, especially in a more troubled global environment. - Response to Recent Tensions:
His comments come amid a back-and-forth between the People’s Action Party (PAP) and the Workers’ Party (WP). PM Lawrence Wong criticized WP for “negative attacks”, while WP’s Pritam Singh retorted that PAP has a history of negative politics. - Call for Positive Campaigning:
Chan emphasized that elections should generate “light, not just heat” – meaning constructive solutions rather than divisive rhetoric. - On Claiming Credit:
He criticized opposition parties for taking undue credit for government policies, citing examples from the COVID-19 period and current global trade issues. - Leadership Philosophy:
He stated that leaders should “be the first to take responsibility and the last to claim credit,” contrasting that with what he sees as the opposition’s approach. - Examples of Misrepresentation:
He said policies like the Progressive Wage Model and Job Seeker Support Scheme have been mischaracterized by the opposition to fit their narrative. - Standard for All Parties:
While he didn’t target any party specifically, Chan said all political actors—including PAP—must be held to the same high standards, warning against “double standards” and a “race to the bottom” in politics. - New Candidate Fu Cexiang:
Foo, part of Chan’s Tanjong Pagar GRC team, shared his focus on intergenerational ties and promised to speak up for younger residents while balancing individual and community interests.
This speech reflects the PAP’s effort to reframe the election conversation around policy substance and leadership credibility rather than mudslinging.