Red Dot United (RDU) will challenge the People’s Action Party (PAP) in the Nee Soon Group Representation Constituency (GRC) in the upcoming General Election on 3 May 2025.
The opposition slate is led by RDU’s secretary-general Ravi Philemon and chairman David Foo. They will face a PAP team headed by Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam.
The PAP’s team includes four newcomers. They are Goh Hanyan, a former director at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information; Syed Harun Alhabsyi, a psychiatrist and former Nominated Member of Parliament; Jackson Lam, a director in the pest control sector; and Lee Hui Ying, a communications director.
Shanmugam, 66, remains the anchor candidate. He has served in Nee Soon GRC since 2011 and has been a cabinet minister for more than a decade.
RDU’s team includes three new candidates contesting for the first time.
They are Syed Alwi Ahmad, a theoretical physicist and teacher; Pang Heng Chuan, a director at an international firm in China; and Sharon Lin, a senior IT consultant.
Philemon, 56, is a veteran opposition figure and contested in previous elections under different party banners. Foo, 60, has been active in community and policy advocacy within RDU.
RDU highlights cost-of-living and housing concerns
Addressing supporters following the confirmation of candidacy on 23 April 2025, Philemon said the central issues affecting Singaporeans are deeply personal and economic in nature.
“The issues before us are clear,” he said. “They are about how much money you have, or don’t have, in your pockets. They are about whether we live with dignity, or from voucher to voucher.”
Philemon criticised housing policies, noting the uncertainty surrounding leasehold HDB flats and comparing it to the security enjoyed by the “billionaire class” living in freehold homes. He also spoke of the rising cost of living and the strain on ordinary families.
“We have to make sure that Singapore remains first class for its citizens. This is the only home we have,” he said, calling for a fairer society for all who live in Singapore.
He also reiterated RDU’s policy stance to revert the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 9 per cent back to 7 per cent, highlighting it as a practical step to alleviate financial pressure.
PAP focuses on track record and community ties
Shanmugam, speaking to supporters, emphasised the transformation of Nee Soon over the years. He pointed to both physical infrastructure and the strengthening of community bonds.
“You have seen how MPs have worked day in and day out,” he said. “Walking the blocks, listening to you, addressing your needs.”
He praised the contributions of the past team and expressed confidence in the new candidates. “We have every confidence they will serve your needs,” he said.
Speaking to the media, Shanmugam said that economic and job-related concerns remain high on residents’ minds. He noted the government’s plans to address these issues both nationally and locally.
When asked about the new additions to the PAP slate, he said, “Every MP was a new face once. I’m very enthusiastic about this group.”
In the 2020 General Election, the PAP won Nee Soon GRC against the Progress Singapore Party with 61.9 per cent of the vote.
This time, the contest features RDU as the only challenger, avoiding a three-cornered fight. Philemon expressed relief about this, noting that it provides a clearer contest between two parties.
He added, “The issues are there, plain for people to see — from the value of your flat, to competition for jobs.”
The battle for Nee Soon GRC is set to be closely watched, with both teams bringing a mix of experience and fresh perspectives.
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