Prime Minister Lawrence Wong confirmed on Sunday that the People's Action Party (PAP) will be contesting with Indian community candidates in the next general election.
He accepted the important and broad contribution that the Indian community has made towards Singapore's development across sectors such as commerce, industry, and public service.
As far back as the 2020 General Election, the PAP was put on the spot after it brought in 27 new candidates with no Indians, sparking ethnic representation concerns in Parliament.
Speaking to a group of Indian youths at a community dialogue, Wong underscored the significance of the Indian community's contribution to the country. "You might be a small community, but, definitely, your contributions to Singapore and what impact you have on Singapore are not small in any way," he said.
"Actually, I would say you already embody that Singapore spirit. Your tale is a Singapore tale – small and punching above your weight," Wong said at the event, according to The Straits Times.
He also pointed out that members of the Indian community have made disproportionate contributions in a variety of fields, including government, business, and other important industries. According to figures for 2024, Indians made up 7.6 percent of Singapore's citizenry, Malays 15.1 percent, and Chinese citizens 75.6 percent, the daily reported.
The discussion, which went by the name Vaanga Ippo Pesalaam Chat (Come, Let's Chat in Tamil), or VIP Chat, lasted 90 minutes and was hosted by Tamil-language newspaper Tamil Murasu. Among the attendees was Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, Dr Janil Puthucheary, who is also responsible for the Health portfolio and is of Indian descent. Approximately 130 young people participated in the session.
During his welcome remarks, PM Wong attributed the work of Indian civil servants—such as Dr Janil—to nation-building.
Although the Prime Minister reaffirmed that the PAP will be fielding new Indian candidates in the upcoming election, he did not announce any names or details.
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