By Deborah Choo
Former president-hopeful Mr Andrew Kuan is contesting in Joo Chiat Single Member Constituency (SMC) because he wants to “serve the community in cherishing the Source of Blessings (饮水思源). ”
Mr Kuan, 58, announced his intention to run as an independent candidate on 25th Feb.
In a written reply to The Online Citizen, Mr Kuan wrote that he grew up in Joo Chiat and and participated in many of its activities and events. He previously studied in Dunman Secondary School. He attended his first church (now called Charis Methodist) in 1970, which is also located in Joo Chiat SMC.
Mr Kuan has been, and still is heavily involved in activities within Joo Chiat. He is currently serving the community as Toastmasters International District 80 Area A1 Governor as well as President of Kampong Chai Chee Bilingual Toastmasters Club. Most of the clubs are located within Joo Chiat SMC.
He described the place as one where he had “developed many meaningful friendships and lasting relationships”.
“I care about people’s concerns and needs: cost of living, employment, housing, education, health, transport, security and our national budget, reserves and finance,” he added.
He also expressed concerns at “preserving Joo Chiat SMC’s rich historical heritages.”
Mr Kuan applied to run as a candidate in the Singapore presidential election in 2005 against incumbent S R Nathan, but his application was rejected by the Presidential Elections Committee. (http://www.singapore-elections.com/pres-elec/2005.html)