'We look forward to his contributions': Josephine Teo introduces ex-MOF director Shawn Loh as a volunteer at Jalan Besar event

Josephine Teo, Member of Parliament and anchor minister for Jalan Besar GRC, introduced a former Ministry of Finance (MOF) director at a town council event on Apr. 6.

Shawn Loh, 38, was seen seated with the rest of the team at the launch of the Jalan Besar Town Council's (JBTC) five-year plan.

He was also holding a fan with the PAP logo on it.

He later addressed the media along with Teo, who is Minister for Digital Development and Information.

"I'm very happy to be here as a volunteer," he said.

"I think the energy, you can really feel it today...it's a great place to be, and I look forward to contributing where I can."

Loh has done well in both private and public sectors: Teo

Teo added that Loh has "done well" in his experiences in both the private and public sectors.

She gave the example of Jobs Connect, a programme that Loh was asked to look at, to see how it can be strengthened to help seniors acquire relevant skills in the face of protectionist measures impacting the global economy.

"And so I think he will bring a lot of his experience and energy to our team here, and we look forward to his contributions," she said.

Loh, who oversaw the Budgets 2024 and 2025 during his tenure at MOF, resigned recently.

This sparked speculation that he would run in the upcoming General Election.

Five-year plan

The JBTC's five-year plan will run from 2026 to 2030.

It succeeds the town council's earlier master plan, which saw its conclusion this year.

According to booklets that were handed out to residents, the plan will have over 100 town improvement projects.

These include improved fitness corners and playgrounds, more sheltered walkways, and upgraded parks.

Among the larger projects are the planned bus interchange at Kallang MRT station, and upgrading works at Kim Seng Community Centre.

What happens if the PAP does not retain Jalan Besar GRC?

Asked what would happen to the master plan should the town council change hands in the upcoming election, Teo acknowledged that a change in the constituency’s incumbent party is possible and that the team would “respect the residents’ choices”.

But “the question of whether they are familiar enough with the town, the question of whether they know what our residents want, will certainly be something to keep in mind”, she said.

Teo added that she hopes that the residents will allow the team the opportunity 
“to bring these plans into fruition on their behalf”.

Two opposition parties, the National Solidarity Party (NSP) and Lim Tean's People's Alliance for Reform (PAR), previously expressed interest in standing in Jalan Besar GRC.

Top image by Mothership