On 16 April 2024, Red Dot United (RDU) introduced its five-man team for the newly-formed Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC at a press conference held at Jurong East. This lively gathering showcased not just familiar faces but also new talent eager to make an impact in Singapore’s political landscape.
Meet the Candidates
- Osman Sulaiman — A seasoned candidate, Osman has a rich history in politics, having contested in multiple elections since 2011. He’s currently a director at a waste management company.
- Liyana Dhamirah — At 30, Liyana is not just a candidate; she’s a champion for gender equality, having been recognised in the SG 100 Women in Tech list in 2020. Her extensive experience in Jurong GRC adds depth to the team.
- Ben Puah — A contemporary artist, Ben, 48, brings a fresh perspective to the team, representing the creative voices of Singapore.
- Harish Mohanadas — This 39-year-old principal software engineer adds a tech-savvy angle to RDU’s platform, appealing to younger voters with his expertise in digital innovation.
- Marcus Neo — At 33, Marcus is the director of a boutique marketing agency, representing the entrepreneurial spirit of Singapore.
At the same conference, RDU also unveiled Madam Emily Woo, a potential candidate for Jurong Central SMC. She’s not just any candidate—she boasts over 30 years of teaching experience and a love for music education.
Emily Woo: A Passion for Education
Madam Woo, 59, studied music education in France. After returning to Singapore, she’s been active in both the local and French education systems. She emphasises that education should be a leveller and champions policies aimed at creating fair employment opportunities for seniors.
Facing Off Against PAP
RDU’s Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC team will be taking on a formidable People’s Action Party (PAP) lineup, led by Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu. The dynamics of this contest promise to be engaging given the shift in the electoral boundaries.
Electoral Changes and Implications
Jurong Central SMC, with 29,620 voters, represents one of six new constituencies established after a recent review of electoral boundaries. This reconfiguration aims to address population growth and ensure a consistent MP-to-voter ratio.
As the elections approach on 3 May 2024, Singaporeans are keen to see how these new players will contribute to the political discourse and whether RDU can stir the waters in an arena traditionally dominated by the PAP.