SDA's Desmond Lim not disheartened by negative online rally comments

The Singapore Democratic Alliance's candidate for the Punggol East by-election, Mr Desmond Lim, says he's not disheartened by the negative comments from netizens on his online rally. 

Mr Lim said what's more important is the content and the message he wants to send to voters. 

He told reporters after a walkabout on Tuesday morning that he'll work to improve his presentation. 

He said this in response to questions about the criticism, in particular with his command of English. 

"Everyone is not perfect. The most important thing is that we are learning, and I'm learning and there are leaders at the beginning when they come into politics, their English is also not as good as mine, but nevertheless most importantly is never give up and be sincere and have the heart to serve the people." 

Mr Lim said he's encouraged by the online rally describing it as a "great achievement". 

The video clips, which were first uploaded on Monday evening, had more than 80,000 views on YouTube by Tuesday afternoon. 

Several other clips addressing various issues were uploaded today.

Mr Lim spoke about the health care system, suggesting the removal of the cap on Medisave for those aged 65 and above. 

Turning to the transport system, Mr Lim said that if elected he will attempt to resolve the immediate needs of residents by increasing the feeder bus services, while pushing for more LRTs running through the ward.

On improving work-life balance, the SDA chief said he will personally champion for more affordable childcare. 

"My proposal - to immediately rope in private operators and identify areas where there is a concentration of families with children then we work with parties with childcare expertise and provide mushrooms of childcare centres. This may constitute big and small outfits but the ease and reliance of picking and dropping children will give the much needed relief to young families in Punggol East." 

When asked about his campaign so far, with three days of campaigning left, Mr Lim said he still has to work hard and will try his best to reach out to every individual.