Red Dot United (RDU), a political party in Singapore, has continued its grassroots work in Jurong GRC, signalling their ongoing efforts to cultivate the constituency and prepare for the next General Election in 2025.
Recently, the RDU team conducted a walkabout, visiting residents at 155 Yung Loh Road and engaging with diners at the coffee shop in Blk 158 Yung Loh Road, both located within Jurong GRC.
RDU received 31,260 votes in Jurong GRC, where they contested for the first time in General Election 2020.
Over the past three years, RDU has grown steadily and now boasts a strong team of 150 dedicated members and volunteers involved in various aspects of ground operations, communication, and policy research.
According to a Facebook post by RDU on Wednesday (7 June), the walkabout proved to be a fruitful opportunity for the party to interact with the residents. During these engagements, residents shared their experiences and expressed their hopes for a better community.
Residents “emphasising the need for a responsible opposition party”
RDU said during the walkabout, they received significant support from several residents who emphasized the importance of having a responsible opposition party to provide checks and balances on the government.
“One resident observed the party’s actions and appreciated their dedication to representing the community’s interests.”
RDU said by sharing these valuable insights from the residents of 155 Yung Loh Road, they aim to foster a dialogue that can lead to meaningful improvements and a stronger community.
“We encourage everyone to come together and work towards addressing these issues, ensuring a brighter future for all. Let’s build a community where everyone’s voices are heard and valued,” the post wrote.
Residents expressed deep concerns about the rising cost of living, some worry about retirement
RDU said some residents expressed deep concerns about the rising cost of living, making it increasingly difficult to find affordable goods and services.
Financial uncertainty was a prevalent issue, exemplified by a resident supporting five children while actively seeking full-time employment.
The resident lost their job during the COVID-19 pandemic and has been working as a Grab delivery rider.
Meanwhile, a 45-year-old woman expressed worry about retirement, stating that she may need to work until she is no longer physically able.
She believes Singapore is not an ideal place for citizens to retire comfortably and hopes for solutions that guarantee a more pleasant retirement for future generations.
Closure of West Point Hospital left residents without nearby hospitals or polyclinics
In the post, RDU also highlighted that the closure of West Point Hospital in September 2018 had left residents without nearby hospitals or polyclinics for emergencies.
Residents also highlighted the high medical bills resulting from serious health issues, which further strain their financial stability.
RDU shared the experience of one resident, whose spouse lost their job due to complications from prostate surgery, emphasising the need for accessible healthcare services and affordable medical expenses.
According to the Ministry of Health’s announcement on 1 June 2022, the new polyclinic in Taman Jurong will be located at the site of the former West Point Hospital and is expected to be opened by 2028.
Residents also called for the upgrade of the block of flats at 155 Yung Loh Road; and some raised issues such as lack of sufficient bus services, and limited selection of food outlets in the neighbourhood.
Residents concerned about elderly neighbour’s hoarding situation
A resident also expressed concern about a neighbour in her late 70s or early 80s whose mental condition has worsened since her husband’s hospitalization for a long-term illness.
She has become a hoarder, and the accumulated rubbish blocks the entrance to her flat, making it inaccessible when she returns home after midnight from her job as a cleaner.
“The residents have reported the situation to the town council, but as of now, no action has been taken. ”
RDU said besides the potential fire hazard posed by the hoarded items, residents are more concerned about ensuring the elderly woman receives the necessary care and assistance she requires.
