The People’s Action Party (PAP) recently held its 34th Party Conference on 4 December 2016.
One topic which Party Secretary- General and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong touched on was about having close ties with society.
He said, “The PAP must be close to all segments of society. Men and women of different races and religions. Our brothers and sisters in the labour movement”.
The symbiotic ties between the PAP and the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) is something often talked about by Singapore’s leaders, both in the Government and the Labour Movement.
An NTUC delegation comprising union leaders and representatives from Young NTUC is invited to observe the proceedings when PAP holds its conference each year.
Greater Inclusiveness
For 2016, the NTUC delegation also included representatives from the U Associates, U SME and U FSE.
“I am heartened to see an inclusive culture. The broadening of NTUC's coverage to include PMEs and how this segment of the workforce engages and responds positively to political leadership will be important for the future growth of the country,” said Mr Alex Chua, President of the Singapore Sales Professional Association (SSPA).
SSPA is a member of NTUC U Associate.
NTUC Central Committee member and SIA Engineering Company Engineers and Executives Union (SEEU) General Secretary Ong Hwee Liang felt political stability has an impact on the daily lives of workers.
“These close ties allow workers’ concerns to be raised more effectively and even when times are trying like during a downturn, we have seen the effective implementation of measures to enable Singapore to recover in a relatively short time,” said Mr Ong.
Young NTUC member Hasrul Passarebu found similarities in what the PAP and NTUC are aiming for.
“They aim to make Singapore a better place for everyone. I was awed by Mr Lee Hsien Loong’s reminder to the leaders –continue to serve the people faithfully and never misplace the trust given by them,” said Mr Hasrul.
Source: NTUC This Week
