The Reform Party wants to run nurseries and childcare centres in Punggol East

The Reform Party's candidate for the Punggol East by-election Kenneth Jeyaretnam says if elected, he intends to start a chain of nurseries and childcare centres in the ward.

Speaking to the media this morning at Rivervale Plaza, Mr Jeyaretnam said he has people within the party who have the expertise to run these centres.

He added that he will be bringing in private sector involvement for this project.

However, he said the challenge will be in getting the premises for the centres which will not bear the Reform Party logo.

According to the TODAY newspaper, on the national agenda, Mr Jeyaretnam wants to push for all Singaporeans to have a share in Temasek Holdings and the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation.

Mr Jeyaretnam also countered claims by the People's Action Party (PAP) that it has been fulfilling its promises to the people.

At last evening's PAP rally, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean mounted a strong defence of the government's track record since the last General Election.

Mr Jeyaretnam said many Singaporeans are worried about their medical costs. 

He said his party will be pushing for a universal healthcare insurance system to replace Medisave and Medishield.

Commenting on the recent online threats he had received, Mr Jeyaretnam said he doesn't expect to receive any sympathy votes because of the incident.

He said he expects people to vote for him on his ability to do a job as an MP.

The Reform Party's first Punggol East by-election rally will be held tomorrow, near Blk 183C Rivervale Crescent from 7 to 10pm.