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As Singapore approaches its 14th General Election slated on May 3rd, 2025, political parties (PM Wong’s first general election) are gearing up and have unveiled their manifestos to address the nation’s pressing challenges.
From cost of living concerns to housing affordability, job security, and governance reforms, each party offers distinct visions for the country’s future.
In this article, we’ll compare the key focus areas, notable promises, and proposed policies of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), the Workers’ Party (WP) and the Progress Singapore Party (PSP),.
By understanding their priorities and proposals, voters can make informed decisions that align with their values and needs.
Key Focus Areas: What Each Party Prioritises
| Party | Key Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| PAP | Economy, Jobs, Infrastructure, Education, Healthcare, Housing, Environment, Arts, Inclusion |
| PSP | Cost of Living, Housing, Jobs, Social Safety Net, Education, Governance |
| Workers’ Party | Cost of Living, Economic Opportunities, Inclusion, Democracy, Security |
Insight:
- The PAP emphasises a holistic approach, addressing economic growth, infrastructure development, and social inclusion.
- The PSP zeroes in on affordability and equity, advocating for reduced taxes, affordable housing, and expanded social safety nets.
- The Workers’ Party focuses on systemic reforms, including democratic enhancements, economic opportunities for all, and safeguarding national security.
Notable Promises: What Parties Are Committing To
1. People’s Action Party (PAP)
- Economy & Jobs: “We will grow a dynamic economy that generates jobs and opportunities for all.”
- Housing: “Unity is Singapore’s greatest strength… We will continue to build homes for all.”
- Social Support: Expand parental leave, enhance ComCare, and introduce Silver Support for seniors.
2. Progress Singapore Party (PSP)
- GST/Taxes: “Reduce GST to 7%.”
- Housing: “Allow Singaporeans to buy new flats without land cost unless they sell them on the resale market.”
- Healthcare: “The Government should pay MediShield Life premiums for all Singaporeans.”
3. Workers’ Party (WP)
- Cost of Living: “Establish a Standing Parliamentary Committee on the Cost of Living.”
- Housing: “Offer 70-year BTO leases at lower prices.”
- CPF & Retirement: “Introduce a Special Dividend from GIC investments for CPF members.”
Takeaway:
Each party’s promises reflect their core priorities — PAP on holistic growth, PSP on affordability, and WP on systemic reform and inclusivity.
Proposed Policies: How Parties Plan to Deliver
GST / Taxes
| Party | Proposed Policies |
|---|---|
| PAP | Focuses on inflation buffers like CDC vouchers and utility rebates; no direct mention of GST changes. |
| PSP | Reduce GST back to 7%, exempt essentials, impose wealth tax and estate duty. |
| WP | Oppose GST hike to 9%, suggest booking land sale revenue, raise Net Investment Returns Contribution (NIRC) to 60%. |
Housing
| Party | Proposed Policies |
|---|---|
| PAP | Build 100,000 new HDB flats, introduce Plus/Prime/Standard classification, and rejuvenate towns via VERS. |
| PSP | Affordable Homes Scheme (AHS), no upfront land cost, treat housing as a home, not an investment asset. |
| WP | Offer 70-year BTO leases at lower prices, clarify HDB land valuation, tackle lease decay issues. |
Jobs & PMETs
| Party | Proposed Policies |
|---|---|
| PAP | Support PMETs through job redesign, AI adoption, and SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support. |
| PSP | No specific PMET plan but focuses on hawker stall costs, healthcare access, and housing equity. |
| WP | Tie Employment Passes (EP) to skills transfer, implement minimum wage, track underemployment, legislate flexible work arrangements (FWA). |
Healthcare
| Party | Proposed Policies |
|---|---|
| PAP | Add 13,600 new hospital beds, expand long-term care subsidies, and promote preventive care initiatives. |
| PSP | Government to pay MediShield Life and CareShield premiums, centralize drug procurement. |
| WP | Lift MediSave caps for seniors, improve complex cancer treatment access, expand mental health services. |
Political Reform / Governance
| Party | Proposed Policies |
|---|---|
| PAP | Strengthen multi-racial society, increase civic engagement, refresh the social compact. |
| PSP | Push for VERS transparency, fair land cost accounting, oppose inflationary policy directions. |
| WP | Abolish GRC/NCMP/NMP schemes, lower voting age to 18, implement Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), establish an Office of the Ombudsman. |
Comparative Insights: Aligning Promises with Voter Needs
1. Affordability (Cost of Living)
- PSP takes the lead with bold measures like reducing GST to 7% and capping essential goods’ taxes.
- WP proposes tiered utility pricing and exemptions for basic essentials, while PAP focuses on indirect support like CDC vouchers.
2. Housing Accessibility
- PSP’s Affordable Homes Scheme offers innovative solutions by removing upfront land costs.
- WP’s 70-year BTO leases aim to lower costs for buyers, while PAP’s Plus/Prime/Standard model seeks to streamline flat pricing.
3. Democratic Reforms
- WP champions significant governance changes, including abolishing GRCs and implementing FOIA.
- PSP advocates for greater transparency in policies like VERS, while PAP emphasises strengthening civic engagement within existing frameworks.
4. Healthcare Equity
- PSP stands out by proposing government-funded MediShield Life and CareShield premiums.
- WP focuses on lifting MediSave caps and improving mental health services, while PAP expands infrastructure and preventive care programs.
Choosing Your Vision for Singapore
Singapore’s political landscape in 2025 presents voters with clear choices. The PAP offers stability and continuity, focusing on comprehensive growth and infrastructure development.
The PSP prioritises affordability and equity, advocating for reduced taxes and accessible housing.
Meanwhile, the Workers’ Party pushes for systemic reforms, emphasizing democratic accountability and inclusive economic opportunities.
As you evaluate these manifestos, consider which vision resonates most with your aspirations for Singapore’s future. Whether it’s economic resilience, affordability, or governance reforms, your vote shapes the nation’s trajectory.
References
- Party manifestos and policy documents from PAP, PSP, and Workers’ Party.
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