On April 26, 2025, the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) unveiled a series of major policy proposals during its rally at Bukit Gombak Stadium, aimed at tackling housing affordability, healthcare costs, and the high cost of living. The rally, which saw lively participation from supporters, also carried emotional moments as candidates reflected on the sacrifices of political life.
Party secretary-general Leong Mun Wai proposed that Singaporeans purchasing Build-To-Order (BTO) flats should pay only for the construction cost, excluding the land cost. Under this plan, the price of a flat could drop to as low as $150,000, compared to current prices approaching $500,000. Homeowners would only be required to pay for land value if they profited from reselling their flats, making homes far more accessible for first-time buyers.
In another major healthcare-related proposal, West Coast-Jurong West candidate Sumarleki Amjah called for MediShield Life premiums to be fully funded by the government. MediShield Life, Singapore’s national insurance scheme that covers large medical bills, could cost the government an estimated additional $2 billion to $3 billion annually, which Mr Sumarleki described as a worthwhile investment. He also advocated for more flexible use of MediSave funds, suggesting they be allowed for dental treatments like root canals and dentures.
Bukit Gombak SMC candidate Harish Pillay proposed caregiver support in the form of a $1,250 monthly payment to those caring for young children under seven. Meanwhile, Chua Chu Kang GRC candidate S. Nallakaruppan reiterated the party’s call to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) back to 7 percent.
Chua Chu Kang GRC candidate Wendy Low also pressed for a major education policy revamp. She suggested making the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) optional, giving students the flexibility to develop creativity and adaptability in a future shaped by artificial intelligence and disruption.
The night was not just about policy proposals. Party chairman Tan Cheng Bock arrived midway through the rally to a rousing cheer from the audience, who celebrated his 85th birthday. His arrival lifted the stadium's mood significantly.
Emotions ran high when Chua Chu Kang GRC candidate Lawrence Pek shared about his personal sacrifices in joining the opposition. Speaking in Hokkien, he expressed gratitude to his children for their unwavering support despite the challenges of taking the "road less travelled." Mr Pek, who was secretary-general of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation from 2020 to 2023, underscored the hardships faced by opposition politicians, referencing the experiences of Mr Leong and fellow NCMP Hazel Poa.
Dr Tan Cheng Bock, who formerly served as a People's Action Party (PAP) Member of Parliament, spoke passionately about the need for more checks and balances in Parliament. He cited issues of competency, transparency, and accountability as reasons for his departure from the ruling party. Ms Hazel Poa also criticised recent incidents such as the SimplyGo system troubles, the Income-Allianz insurance merger, and the handling of bribery allegations involving former Keppel executives, suggesting that these events have eroded public trust.
Ms Poa also commented on Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong’s move to contest in Punggol GRC instead of Chua Chu Kang GRC, framing it as another sign of waning confidence within the PAP. She concluded by emphasising that a stronger opposition presence would ensure the government scrutinises policies thoroughly before implementation.
Overall, the PSP rally presented a vision of Singapore where homes, healthcare, and support systems are made more affordable and accessible, while calling on voters to demand greater accountability and transparency through a stronger opposition.
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