SDA’s Desmond Lim to raise local and national issues at by—election rally

SINGAPORE: The Singapore Democratic Alliance (SDA) candidate for Punggol East, Mr Desmond Lim, plans to raise local and national issues at his Punggol East by—election rally.

He told reporters he plans to hold a rally on January 20, if the site is available.

Mr Lim said he will raise local issues, such as amenities and bus services, as well as housing, especially for young couples with families.

Mr Lim started campaigning with house—to—house visits on Wednesday.

With a door—to—door approach, he hopes to add a personal touch to his election campaign.

The SDA’s secretary—general said residents’ response to his candidacy has been good.

Despite three past election defeats, Mr Lim said he will not give up.

His party has managed to gather a group of young supporters to do much of the legwork needed during campaigning.

Mr Lim said; "I’m not fly—by—night politicians, so the fact that I can actually stay connect with the residents... form my own grassroots which is supported by a group of local residents here, means that I don’t disappear after elections."

Mr Lim is reviving plans from the 2011 General Election, including the proposal to build new facilities of over S$1 million through private—sector funding.

He also hopes to have a "satay club" for residents, managed by residents.

He said he is disappointed the ward was left out in the government’s plan to build more hawker centres.

Mr Lim also criticised the ruling party for speeding up infrastructure works in the ward because of the by—election.

— CNA/ck/fa