“That’s how PAP plays its game”: Opposition parties speak out on GE2025’s boundary changes
On March 11, the Electoral Boundaries Review Committee (ERBC) announced major changes to Singapore’s electoral divisions ahead of the upcoming General Election.
These revisions will affect 22 out of the current 31 constituencies, leaving only five Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs) and four Single Member Constituencies (SMCs) unchanged from the previous election.
And it looks like the opposition parties have not taken kindly to these adjustments, especially as two key opposition-contested areas, West Coast GRC and Bukit Batok SMC, are expected to be significantly impacted.
While some have voiced their disappointment, others have outright accused the changes of being a form of gerrymandering. Here’s what the opposition parties have said so far:
1. Workers’ Party (WP)
Following the announcement of the new electoral boundaries, WP released a statement acknowledging the release of the ERBC report, adding that it contained “some brief justifications for the redrawing of boundaries, such as the population growth of certain electoral districts.”
However, the party noted that “significant changes” had been made to areas where WP had been “working consistently for the last few years.”
Aljunied GRC Members of Parliament (MPs) Sylvia Lim and Gerald Giam have also voiced disappointment over the transfer of three polling districts from Aljunied GRC to Tampines GRC, The Straits Times reported.
Lim, who also chairs WP, highlighted that Aljunied MPs—especially Giam—have actively engaged with residents in these areas for years. She added that the town council has been “working hard” to tackle issues in the GreenGem estate, including rat infestations and waste management concerns.
Currently, the three districts that are being reassigned belong to the Bedok Reservoir-Punggol division, which falls under Giam’s jurisdiction.
Giam added that residents from the affected areas have also reached out to express their disappointment over being moved to another constituency.
2. Progress Singapore Party (PSP)
PSP has also responded to the ERBC report, with the party’s Secretary-General, Hazel Poa, expressing that PSP is “heartened” by the EBRC’s increased transparency in explaining its decisions—an improvement from its previous report in 2020.
However, she noted that “much” of the committee’s decision-making remains “unexplained.”
“The EBRC could have accounted for the population shifts without making drastic changes to existing major electoral boundaries,” Poa said.
She specifically pointed out the changes to Hong Kah North SMC, which was absorbed into Chua Chu Kang GRC due to the population growth in the new Tengah estate.
The population changes to Hong Kah North SMC because of the new Tengah estate could have been dealt with by merging it with Yuhua SMC and Bukit Batok SMC to form a new GRC.
Instead, this was used to justify changing the electoral boundaries of Jurong GRC, West Coast GRC, Chua Chu Kang GRC, Tanjong Pagar GRC, and Radin Mas SMC.
Hazel Poa
In the 2020 General Election, PSP narrowly lost West Coast GRC to the People’s Action Party (PAP), securing 48.31% of the votes against PAP’s 51.69%, marking the closest contest of that election.
3. Singapore Democratic Party (SDP)
The new electoral boundaries will result in the dissolution of two constituencies where the SDP was active: Yuhua SMC and Bukit Batok SMC. These areas will be absorbed into the newly created Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC, which also includes parts of Hong Kah North SMC and Jurong GRC.
SDP Secretary-General Chee Soon Juan made a video in response yesterday (March 13), in which he criticised the changes and accused the PAP of “gerrymandering the boundaries” to maintain power.
That’s how the People’s Action Party (PAP) plays its game. It’s been doing this for decades.
Chee Soon Juan, Secretary-General of the Singapore Democratic Party
Chee had contested Bukit Batok SMC in GE2020, but lost to PAP’s Murali Pillai with 12,787 votes to 15,500.
Reflecting on past elections, he noted that after the SDP lost by just 858 votes in the 1991 Bukit Batok election, the boundaries were redrawn, placing it in the larger Bukit Timah GRC. He also highlighted his progress in 2020, stating that he “made headway” by securing 45% of the vote.
Editor’s Note: Minister-in-charge of the Public Service, Chan Chun Sing, has previously stated in Parliament last year that the process of determining electoral boundaries is “fair and transparent,” and is “meant to serve the interests of Singaporeans and not the interests of political parties.” He also clarified that the EBRC does not consult with any political party when making its decisions.
Chee shared that he had worked hard for the residents of Bukit Batok, pushing for improvements to their walkways, building up the community, and helping out whenever he could. Following the changes to the electoral boundaries, he said that he would be “rethinking” his strategy.
4. People’s Power Party (PPP)
In a Facebook post on March 11, PPP Secretary-General Goh Meng Seng acknowledged that the electoral boundary changes did not significantly impact the constituencies his party planned to contest.
However, he went on to describe the boundary changes as a “massive gerrymandering in plain sight,” accusing the ERBC of manipulating the electoral map to safeguard the PAP’s interests.
Although the constituencies we intended to contest have not undergone major changes, we are disappointed with the EBRC’s report, which appears to be skewed to protect the People’s Action Party’s electoral interests.
Goh Meng Seng
“This is really unhealthy for democratic development, disruptive and wasteful of resources in reorganising Town Councils, and disrespectful to Singaporeans at large,” he added.
5. National Solidarity Party (NSP)
In a press statement issued on March 11, the NSP strongly criticised the ERBC report, calling it an act of “continued gerrymandering” that disadvantages opposition parties.
The party also condemned the GRC system, arguing that it undermines the principles of nation-building.
6. People’s Alliance for Reform (PAR)
The PAR alliance is made up of the People’s Voice (PV), Reform Party (RP), and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
On March 11, Lim Tean, the chief of PV and Secretary-General of the PAR, asserted in a Facebook post that “no good reasons were given” for the redrawal of electoral boundaries.
PAR is outraged at the wanton redrawing of the electoral boundaries with no good reasons given.
In particular, we protest that parts of Potong Pasir SMC and Mountbatten SMC, where PV has been active for the last four and seven years, respectively, have now been absorbed into the new Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC without any justification.
Lim Tean
7. Red Dot United (RDU)
In a statement on their website, RDU expressed “deep disappointment” with the EBRC report, which it said drastically altered the political landscape in the west of Singapore, particularly Jurong GRC, where the party had built strong relationships with residents over the years.
“For the past two General Elections, Jurong GRC has remained unchanged; and over the years, we have built strong relationships with the people there, earning their trust and support,” said the party.
For the upcoming polls, Jurong GRC will be split into four constituencies.
The party also pointed out that while the ERBC is composed of civil servants, it is chaired by the Secretary to the Prime Minister, which raises “inevitable doubts” about whether political considerations have influenced these changes.
They have called on the PAP government to “explain why so many constituencies in opposition-contested areas in the west have been redrawn, while the ruling party’s strongholds remain largely untouched.”
8. Singapore Democratic Alliance (SDA)
Since the publishing of the EBRC report, the SDA released a statement highlighting its concerns about the division of Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, which was the only constituency the party contested in the 2020 General Election.
The party is “closely monitoring the developments regarding the EBRC report” and “actively evaluating the situation to understand all potential implications.”
9. Singapore People’s Party (SPP)
In response to the Straits Times’ queries, SPP said that it would require “some time” to review the ERBC report and its recommendations before providing a detailed response.
- Read other articles we’ve written on GE2025 here.
- Read other articles we’ve written on Singapore’s current affairs here.
Also Read: Major changes to the electoral boundaries for GE2025, we broke it down for you
Featured Image Credit: Workers’ Party/ Progress Singapore Party/ Singapore Democratic Party/ People’s Power Party
This global real estate firm is expanding to KL to help local agents achieve their ambitions
[This is a sponsored article with ERA Realtor.]
Regardless of your industry, I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that everyone could do with a fair bit of support.
Not having the right tools, training, or network is a surefire way to stop your career dead in its tracks, regardless if you’re a veteran or newbie.
That’s exactly why, for the past 54 years, ERA Realtor’s mission has been to empower real estate professionals, helping them thrive amidst the industry’s ever-changing landscape.
And now, with operations in over 33 countries worldwide, the real estate company is opening doors to more opportunities for aspiring agents in Kuala Lumpur.
This will be the company’s second branch in our country, joining its sister location in Johor Bahru.
A golden opportunity
ERA’s story in Asia began a little over a decade after its creation with the establishment of its footprint in Singapore in 1982.
The regional headquarters of the brand holds over 30% of the country’s market share, according to KL branch head Jason Teo.
It is also responsible for the launches of The Orie, Parktown Residence, and Lentor Central Residence, with a “successful 90% sales take-up rate,” he added.
In 2018, the company went public on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) under APAC Realty Ltd.
The move strengthened their financial standing enough to expand into new markets, which was what allowed their KL branch to come into being.
“Being a publicly listed company means transparency, accountability, and long-term growth—qualities that attract quality agents, developers, and clients,” he said.
ERA’s move into Kuala Lumpur, and by extension Klang Valley, was driven by the fact that KL’s real estate market is experiencing a second wind post-pandemic.
Foreign investors are returning in part due to the fact that there are no restrictions on foreign ownership of freehold properties.
Jason added, “Malaysia remains one of the most affordable real estate markets in Southeast Asia, offering great value to both local and international investors.”
And according to him, these investors have gained a renewed interest in our luxury segment.
The real deal
ERA’s KL branch in particular will focus on the following properties:
- CloutHaus Residences
- SO Sofitel Residences
- Orion Residences
- Lofthill Residence
- Star Residences
- Agile Bukit Bintang
They are also expanding into mid-range market townships with prices ranging from RM400,000 to RM600,000, the target being to market upwards of 30 projects by the end of the year.
“This strategic mix allows ERA agents to maximise sales potential while catering to different buyer profiles, from local homebuyers to high-net-worth foreign investors,” Jason explained.
In order for their agents to sell successfully, ERA is pulling out all the stops to ensure they’re well equipped.
“At ERA, we believe agents are the backbone of our success, so we invest heavily in their growth,” said the KL branch head.
Agents signed with the brand will be able to benefit from the following:
- A structured training programme covering property investment, mortgage advisory, digital marketing, and negotiation strategies
- Access to a state-of-the-art real estate platform and AI-driven marketing tools to help close deals faster
- One-on-one mentorship and coaching where new agents are paired with experienced ones
- Cross-border business opportunities through ERA’s international network, enabling collaborations with ERA agents in Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam, to name a few
Earnings as an ERA agent can come in one of several ways.
First, of course, is concluding sales between agent and customer. It is the standard process of finding a buyer, making the sale, and receiving your dues.
Team leads will also get an overriding commission for every sale concluded by their teammates, and PICs receive a portion of profits for handling projects.
It is a 100% commission-based career that’s ad-hoc with potential earnings starting from RM30,000 per unit sold up to RM100,000 or higher.
“It’s a very rewarding career for those with an entrepreneurial spirit,” Jason added.
While the iron is hot
After scheduling an interview, accepted applicants will be put under the company’s mentorship programme from day one to help kickstart their real estate journey.
“Whether you’re a newcomer looking to break into the industry or an experienced agent seeking better commissions and growth, ERA provides an all rounded support system and opportunities in Malaysia,” said Jason.
The vision for ERA KL is to become the go-to agency for both foreign and local investors alike.
To that end, the company is looking to expand their agent force to about 1,000 professionals in three years, partnering with developers to bring promising projects and off-market deals to those under their wing.
“With our extensive experience in cross-border transactions, ERA KL is strategically positioned to facilitate investments from global buyers into Malaysia,” he added.
Considering that the company is past its golden jubilee, it would appear that their words aren’t just for show.
If what ERA KL has to offer sounds appealing to you, you can register your interest through their Google Form or WhatsApp at +60 11-6977 7286.
Also Read: Not just a fad: How this entrepreneur plans to seriously grow Malaysia’s pickleball scene
Featured Image Credit: ERA Realtor
Friends since high school, these 8 M’sians created a pickleball hub so they can hang out more
How many co-founders does it take to start a pickleball centre, you ask?
For Pickle Nation, the answer is eight.
But these founders are no mere strangers. Friends since high school, the octet now has over 20 years of friendship between them.
“We’re mostly badminton people, but we hit a snag when one of us got a knee injury.”
“We were looking for a sport we could all enjoy together [when] our tennis-loving co-founder turned pickleball enthusiast was like, ‘You guys HAVE to try pickleball!’ And wow, it has been amazing!”
“It’s super inclusive, the knee injury wasn’t a problem, and honestly, we’re just having so much fun,” said Rae, one of the co-founders, to Vulcan Post.
Filling the demand
As for how the idea for Pickle Nation itself came about?
“We wanted to play, but we couldn’t find courts,” said another co-founder in one of the brand’s social media videos.
“I jokingly told them, you know what, let’s build courts of our own. I was thinking something simple like we’ll go find some car park or rooftop,” he added.
After discussing, however, the founders decided that “if you want to do it right, you do it all out.”
From visiting local courts and talking to active players, to finding the perfect space and partnering with the right contractors, it took the team six months of researching and late nights before Pickle Nation became a reality.
“We didn’t want to compromise on quality, so we focused on the things that really matter to players—great courts, comfortable amenities, and spaces to unwind,” said Rae.
Soon enough, with a RM2 million capital investment pooled together from the eight founders’ personal savings, a spot in Glenmarie, Shah Alam was transformed to accommodate 12 pickleball courts, a new retreat for pickleball lovers in the area.
In a review video by The Pickleball Gang, the page states that the court conditions are great, with courts seemingly built to tournament standards.
“[Court surfaces] are gritty and the nets are of high quality and are set to the right height,” they added.
Despite this, the page mentions that they found problems with spacing at courts near the entrance due to incoming and outgoing customers, which might be a problem for those playing at a higher level.
Currently open from 8AM to 1AM, bookings can be made at RM50 and RM70 per hour at off-peak and peak hours respectively. Paddle rentals are RM5 each per session.
For brief comparison, courts at nearby DINK3 can be booked for as low as RM39.
That said, customers at Pickle Nation are provided well-furbished amenities including a restaurant, lounge, and even… ice baths?
Distributing the weight
“We wanted Pickle Nation to be more than just a place to play; we wanted it to be your ultimate pickleball hub! It’s all about having everything you need in one spot—amazing courts, a place to chill with friends, gear up, grab a bite, and recover in comfort,” said Rae.
To that end, Pickle Nation also collaborated with another local startup, WarriorPlunge, to provide tired customers or even non-pickle ball players with the option of taking an ice bath either post-game or post-workout for RM48 per half-hour session.
“All eight of us are actively running the business. Besides this, all of us also have a full-time job,” said Seng Kiat, another founder who’s responsible for the sales and marketing aspect of the business.
“Our F&B, [Robbo Restaurant], is run by one of our co-founders who brings his passion for good food to the table. It’s a separate business, but they’re definitely part of our extended Pickle Nation family,” Rae chimed in.
Meanwhile, their equipment and merchandise store is run by in-house coaches, Vincent and Sandy.
“They’re not just selling gears; they’re our partners in growing the community and helping players optimise their performance with the right equipment. So, you’re getting top-notch food and expert advice, all from people who are truly part of the Pickle Nation family.”
For the picklers
All this was done with the goal of introducing more people to the sport. From providing a beginner-friendly introduction to pickleball via certified coaches, to providing a polished and comprehensive feel of the space, Pickle Nation has kept the local community in mind since the start.
“Every new court, every new player, strengthens the sport. We’re building a ‘Pickle Nation’ here, and we truly believe that the community will keep growing. Sure, every business has its ups and downs, but pickleball’s inclusivity and social aspect make it truly special,” Rae added.
In the long term, Pickle Nation aims to be the central hub of pickleball in Malaysia, welcoming players of every level.
Image Credit: Pickle Nation
“Through a range of tournaments, from small to government-sanctioned, combined with top-tier training and development programs, we aim to be the one-stop destination for the entire pickleball community,” said Rae.
“Our focus remains on creating a welcoming, comfortable, inclusive, and top-notch experience, and we’re continuously working to improve.”
Also Read: Not just a fad: How this entrepreneur plans to seriously grow Malaysia’s pickleball scene
Featured Image Credit: Pickle Nation
