Eh, election talk always heats up faster than a hawker centre wok, right? Everyone got opinion, especially online. But when it comes down to the actual vote for PAP, what makes Singaporeans tick ‘yes’, even with all the grumbling we hear about COL or needing more opposition voices?
PAP’s Long Track Record
Let’s be real, Singapore didn’t become… well, *Singapore* by accident. For decades, the PAP has steered the ship. Many point to the stability, safety, and generally reliable systems like healthcare and housing as proof they know what they’re doing. Compared to the ‘absolute shitshow’ some see elsewhere, Singapore often looks like it’s got its act together. This long-term planning created much of what we enjoy daily, even if we sometimes take it for granted.
- Decades of stable governance
“from the decades of the PAP being in power, compared to the governments of many many many other countries, they have absolutely done a phenomenal job in advancing Singapore as a nation. And the facts just speak for themselves.”
- Functioning infrastructure and low crime
“so much of what works in our daily lives (e.g. low crime, decent healthcare, solid education) exists because of years of steady policy and long-term planning. but because these things just work, people stop noticing them.”
- Strong fiscal management, like using $40 billion reserves during COVID
“Covid drew $40 billion from the reserves while other countries are borrowing to fund budgets”
- Maintaining a unique ‘Goldilocks zone’ politically
Rising Concerns & Frustrations
Okay, steady lah, but not everything is perfect. The rising cost of living and the 9% GST hike hit many wallets hard. Some feel the PAP doesn’t always listen or gets complacent, pointing to things like the NTUC Income situation as examples where more checks and balances felt needed. There’s a growing desire for stronger opposition voices in Parliament, not necessarily to overhaul everything, but to ensure the government stays sharp and accountable to the people on the ground.
- Increased Cost of Living (COL) and GST
“Currently, the policies the PAP have implemented in the last 5 years haven’t really affected me much (apart from increased GST and higher COL)”
- Need for accountability and opposition checks
“we also need to ensure that there is a sizeable amount of opposition in our government to stand up and act as the front row passenger and “slap” the PAP when it’s sleeping while driving.”
- Perception that PAP ignores some ground issues
“If you want change, PAP ain’t gonna do shit.”
- Focus on flaws overlooks broader success
Making Your Voting Choice
So, how to decide? Many suggest looking beyond just past achievements or party loyalty. Evaluate PAP’s performance over the *last 5 years* – did their policies help you, or Singaporeans overall? Consider the quality of candidates in your specific GRC, PAP versus the opposition presented. It’s also about balancing stability with the need for diverse voices and scrutiny. Some voters focus on specific policies benefiting marginalised groups, like ComLink+, while others prioritise strong foreign policy and economic management, arguing these are crucial for Singapore’s survival.
- Evaluate recent performance (last 5 years)
“Vote for the PAP if you think what has been done for the last 5 years has benefited you overall and whether or not you can still benefit from it in the next 5 years.”
- Assess candidate quality locally
“I dont vote for the party but rather the quality of candidates. In my area its PAP vs PAR. Saw a few PAR speeches and knew its a clown show already… So no choice PAP”
- Recognise importance of foreign policy
“PAP despite their flaws, have done a good job maintaining being neutral as much as possible… It’s honestly the only way to survive going forward.”
- Consider specific initiatives (e.g., ComLink+)
“I am voting for them because I see what they have done that have benefitted the marginalised… I think what I am most impressed by is comlink+ progress package”
