Singapore's ruling party, opposition release manifesto for election

Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and the major opposition Workers' Party (WP) released the manifesto for the general election on Saturday.

Titled "With you, for you, for Singapore", the ruling party released its manifesto which elaborates on its' achievements and its vision in the country's four official languages.

"The Singapore of Tomorrow will be a nation of opportunities, a jewel among global cities and above all, a City of Hope, Heart and Home for all citizens," said PAP in its manifesto, noting that this can only be achieved by a capable government working with citizens.

PAP's secretary-general Lee Hsien Loong asked voters for a " strong mandate" to bring the city state forward at the ruling party's launching event.

The ruling party responded to people's concerns such as healthcare costs, housing affordability, the middle income squeeze, competition for jobs especially for PMETs (professionals, managers, executives and technicians) and older workers.

PAP also called on Singaporeans to be the "new pioneers", united, resourceful courageous and creative in its manifesto.

While Workers' Party also released its manifesto on Saturday with the party's campaign slogan "Empower your future".

The manifesto of Workers' Party (WP) is divided into six chapters, which is described as "the result of four years of research" by its central executive council member Gerald Giam.

Workers' Party called for a national minimum wage, improved participation of women in the workforce, and a through-train option for students to skip the Primary School Leaving Examination as well as other measures.

Source: XINHUA