As Singapore moves closer to the upcoming general election on May 3, the Singapore People’s Party (SPP) has intensified its campaign efforts by officially launching its manifesto. The party introduced its policy document during a walkabout at Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Market & Hawker Centre, emphasizing key proposals aimed at addressing economic challenges, improving public services, and ensuring a more equitable society. With plans to contest in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Potong Pasir SMC, the SPP’s 16-page manifesto lays out a comprehensive vision for Singapore’s future.
A Vision for Economic Stability and Social Equity
The SPP’s manifesto is structured around nine core themes, each targeting pressing national concerns such as economic resilience, social justice, and a more sustainable public transport system. The party’s primary focus remains on tackling the rising cost of living and ensuring that economic policies prioritize the well-being of Singaporeans. By advocating for a fairer distribution of resources and stronger social protections, the SPP aims to create a more balanced economic framework that benefits both businesses and ordinary citizens.
Allocating Budget Surpluses to Benefit Lower-Income Groups
One of the key highlights of the SPP’s manifesto is its proposal to distribute a portion of government Budget surpluses through Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers. The party argues that rather than accumulating excessive reserves, the government should use surplus funds to provide direct financial relief to lower-income households. This initiative, according to the SPP, would help Singaporeans cope with inflation and rising daily expenses, ensuring that economic prosperity is shared more equitably.
Suspending GST Increases Until a Deficit Justifies It
To further alleviate financial burdens on citizens, the SPP has proposed delaying any planned increases in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) unless the national Budget deficit exceeds 3 percent of government revenue for three consecutive years. During the manifesto launch, SPP secretary-general Steve Chia stressed that while maintaining a balanced Budget is crucial, the government should not impose unnecessary tax hikes while continuing to accumulate undisclosed reserves. He urged greater transparency regarding the size of national savings to justify future fiscal policies.
A Push for Progressive Taxation and Trade Agreement Reforms
As part of its economic strategy, the SPP advocates for higher taxation on the wealthiest individuals to address income disparity. The party has proposed raising income tax rates for the top 2 percent of earners and reinstating estate duty on ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Additionally, the manifesto calls for a thorough review of the India-Singapore Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) to assess its impact on local employment. The SPP argues that trade agreements should not disproportionately disadvantage Singaporean professionals, managers, executives, and technicians (PMETs) by increasing job competition.
Reducing Foreign Worker Dependence to Strengthen Local Employment
To safeguard local job opportunities, the SPP is pushing for stricter regulations on foreign employment. The party proposes a gradual reduction in Special and Employment Pass quotas, particularly in industries where automation can replace manual labor. Chia noted that concerns about foreign labor displacing local workers remain prevalent among Singaporeans, making it essential to recalibrate employment policies to prioritize job security for citizens.
Strengthening Public Transport Through Improved Maintenance
The reliability of Singapore’s public transport system is another major concern addressed in the SPP’s manifesto. The party emphasizes the need for stronger investment in MRT maintenance to prevent incidents like the collapse of a platform screen door at Braddell MRT station. Chia stressed that ensuring a safe and efficient public transport network requires consistent upkeep, which should be a key priority in infrastructure planning.
SPP’s Track Record and Strategy for the 2025 Elections
Reflecting on past contributions, Chia highlighted how his advocacy for elderly welfare in 2004 influenced the government’s introduction of the Pioneer Generation Package in 2014. He clarified that the SPP’s latest proposals are intended to drive meaningful discussions in Parliament and will be implemented progressively as Singapore’s economy develops. The party, which previously released a 24-page manifesto in 2020, has reaffirmed its commitment to contesting Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Potong Pasir SMC in the upcoming election.
SPP candidates for this election include secretary-general Steve Chia, chairman Melvyn Chiu, Williamson Lee, operations executive Muhammad Norhakim, and operations manager Lim Rui Xian. While Chia has confirmed his candidacy in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, the final distribution of candidates across constituencies remains under discussion.
A Renewed Political Vision for Singapore
With its 2025 manifesto, the Singapore People’s Party aims to position itself as a strong advocate for social justice, economic fairness, and responsible governance. Through policies designed to ease financial pressures on citizens, promote progressive taxation, and enhance public infrastructure, the party hopes to gain voter support in the upcoming election. Whether these proposals will resonate with the electorate remains to be seen, but the SPP’s push for transparency and equitable resource distribution marks a significant step in shaping Singapore’s political landscape.