'I've never stopped caring': Ng Chee Meng on returning to politics in GE2025

Why is Ng Chee Meng choosing to run again as a candidate after losing in GE2020?

Speaking to the media today (Apr. 19), this was Ng's reply:

"Some have asked me in my interactions, 'Why return to politics after the last election?' My answer is a simple one: Because I've never stopped caring."

The People's Action Party (PAP) announced today its decision to field Ng in the newly-carved Jalan Kayu SMC.

"Residents of Jalan Kayu SMC want someone who listens and is prepared to take real action to help them": Ng

Ng said that he has been walking the neighbourhoods of Jalan Kayu and talking to its residents, adding that the conversations have given him a much better sense of what matters to them, as well as their concerns and aspirations for the future.

"One thing out of these few weeks is clear to me: residents in Jalan Kayu SMC want someone who listens and is prepared to take real action to help them."

In his speech, Ng recalled his previous work in NTUC during the Covid-19 pandemic, where he led the labour movement to secure better wages for old-age workers, push for skills upgrading, and set up company training committees, to name a few.

"These efforts were not just about policy, but really about people, real lives, real challenges," he noted, adding;

"I humbly ask for your trust to walk this journey with you. Your hopes, your ideas, even your struggles: they all matter deeply to me. Let's build a Jalan Kayu SMC that is kinder, stronger and more inclusive."

When asked why Ng decided to contest in an SMC instead of a GRC in this General Election, the NTUC secretary-general said that he wanted it to be on his "own merit".

However, he added that he is focusing on doing his very best for the residents of Jalan Kayu SMC.

Ng noted that through his prior experience in NTUC, he hopes he can provide value to the residents, such as their concerns regarding job security and job availability, as well as feedback for better facilities and more sheltered walkways.

Recalling NTUC's role during the Covid-19 pandemic, SM Lee said the labour movement's support through Ng's leadership made a big difference to Singaporean workers' lives and helped Singapore to bounce back stronger after the pandemic.

"Chee Meng will serve Jalan Kayu residents with equal commitment and dedication," said SM Lee.

Three-cornered fight?

Opposition parties Red Dot United and People's Power Party (PPP) have announced plans to contest Jalan Kayu SMC.

RDU is likely to field ex-PSP member Kala Manickam, who is a specialist educator and business owner.

Kala, 57, was introduced by RDU secretary-general Ravi Philemon as their "groundwork leader" for Jalan Kayu during a Mar. 21 walkabout.

She holds a Master's in Lifelong Learning and was among the pioneer batch of commissioned women officers in the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF).

PPP has yet to announce its candidate for Jalan Kayu SMC.

Ng said that he welcomes all the different contestants, adding that he will approach such competition with respect.

Top image via Mothership