WP hopes to raise S$1.5m to purchase headquarters

SINGAPORE: The opposition Workers’ Party (WP) is hoping to raise S$1.5 million for the purchase of its own headquarters.

The party’s secretary—general Low Thia Khiang and chairman Sylvia Lim said this at the party’s first musical concert, titled "Bricks in Blue".

The concert was put up by Members of Parliament (MPs) and volunteers to thank supporters.

Ms Lim said: "I felt that we have some talent in the party. Second, I think it’s also nice for people to see us in less serious light, and I think people generally enjoy being entertained, so the concert was put up with that in mind, that we will stretch ourselves and keep our residents entertained."

The concert featured a variety of performances, including songs in Mandarin, English and Malay by its MPs and volunteers, a magic show by NCMP Yee Jenn Jong and a poetry recital by Aljunied MP Chen Show Mao.

Ms Lim herself went through several costume changes and belted out defunct British pop group Eurythmics’ classic hit "Sweet Dreams" and Taiwanese rock band Mayday’s "Chun Zhen".

Tickets to its two shows at Jubilee Hall, which seats more than 300, were sold out.

At the show, Ms Lim said since the 2011 general election, the party has raised some S$500,000.

The money came from monthly contributions from its elected MPs, as well as private donations from friends and acquaintances.

Speaking to reporters during the musical intermission, Mr Low said the party’s elected MPs have each been contributing S$1,000 per month from their MP allowance towards the fund.

The rest of the money, Ms Lim said, will be raised through public donations.

Ms Lim said the S$1.5 million will be used for the down payment of the property, while the balance of the purchase price will be financed through a loan.

Mr Low said the party has yet to find a suitable property. He said proceeds from the concert will go towards the party’s building fund.

The party is currently renting an office along Syed Alwi Road.

Ms Lim said they are hoping to secure a two—storey shophouse unit.

She added that having its own asset means the party may also sublet a portion of the property to "make ourselves more self—sufficient".

— CNA/xq