SINGAPORE, July 4 — Tensions have flared between the People’s Action Party (PAP) and the Workers' Party (WP) following an episode where WP leader Pritam Singh appeared on a Malaysian-based podcast. The governing party has raised concerns regarding his choice to discuss local political matters on an international stage.
In a press release issued yesterday, the People’s Action Party stated that Singh, as the Leader of the Opposition, had "remarkably" opted for an international media platform to conduct what turned out being his longest interview after elections – alluding to his recent participation as a featured guest on... Keluar Sekejap a podcast presented by Khairy Jamaluddin and Shahril Hamdan.
"It brings up significant concerns regarding the reasons behind the Workers' Party Secretary-General choosing to discuss Singaporean political matters abroad, before an international audience," stated the PAP.
This goes beyond just choosing one platform over another. It relates to a core idea: decisions about Singapore's internal matters must be discussed and made by Singaporeans themselves, right here in Singapore.
Filmed during Singh's family trip to Malaysia and released on June 24, the video discussed issues including Workers' Party's plans for the upcoming general elections (GE2025), Singapore's multiethnic framework, and the function of the opposition in providing oversight over the ruling government.
During his visit with loved ones in Malaysia, this segment was shot and made public online come June 24th; subjects touched upon included how The Worker’s Party intends to approach GE2025 strategically speaking alongside exploring Singapores’ racially inclusive system plus their position serving somewhat like an accountability mechanism against those who govern us currently today folks!
This particular installment which captured moments from when he traveled abroad locally within beautiful country side at malaysia then officially came out june twenty fourth delved into several key areas: strategic moves planned ahead ge2025 specifically targeting electorate segments they believe can be persuaded sway towards wp camp overall vision regarding maintaining harmony across various ethnic groups present here sgp but also highlighted importance having strong watchdog presence ensure transparency remains intact throughout all levels decision making process undertaken govt bodies nationwide – you know what I mean?
Recorded amidst quality time spent amongst kinfolk overseas down south part earth globe commonly referred malaya natively known affectionately locals datelined two weeks after midmonth mark current year explored deeper thoughts concerning political chessboard maneuvering expected soonish future parliament showdowns racial integration success stories worth emulating elsewhere indeed potential pitfalls needing careful navigation lest things get messy fast!
One thing clear though regardless differing opinions floating around cyberspace each viewer take away something valuable thought provoking perhaps even life changing experience watching candid conversations unfold naturally relaxed setting far removed usual sterile studio environments typically associated tv type productions these days yeah dig it man appreciate genuine heartfelt dialogue lacking pretense artifice often found mainstream media outlets controlling narrative majority population consumes daily basis without question hmm food thoughtful consideration sure enough 🤔💡👀🔥💯
The WP responded by defending Singh's participation, pointing out that he is not part of the executive committee and emphasized that "there is no legal rule... restricting his right to express himself freely, whether within or outside the country."
“If such a policy exists, it must be transparently communicated,” the party stated in a Facebook update. Additionally, they criticized the PAP for "objecting merely to object."
The Workplace Relations Unit noted that the response from the public in Singapore regarding the interview was favorable.
It stated, "This demonstrated how a non-governmental Singaporean political figure could express honest and open views about Singapore and its administration, without condemning either."
While justifying its leader's selection of media outlets, the Workers' Party also highlighted that PAP ministers frequently grant interviews to international media covering both overseas and local issues.
“Some of these interviews have actually gained widespread attention online and were warmly embraced by audiences around the world, enhancing the image of the PAP,” the party stated.
Under such conditions, no reasonable person would criticize the PAP for having 'foreign interference' aimed at advancing the party’s interests."
The WP further pointed out that multiple PAP members were photographed alongside Khairy during his latest trip to Singapore, claiming that one of them remarked upon viewing the podcast: "Pritam performed admirably."
"These steps would leave every Singaporean with one unavoidable takeaway: the Opposition Leader's participation in the podcast did not harm Singapore's national interests," stated the party.
However, in a late-evening response later, the PAP maintained its stance, pointing out that although ministers engage with international media, their discussions usually span various subjects.
The report noted that what made Singh’s appearance distinctive was its focus "primarily on Singapore’s domestic political matters," particularly since he had apparently declined previous invites from local podcasters in Singapore.
This statement has also reignited earlier worries regarding the WP’s prior engagements with Noor Deros, a Singaporean religious teacher based in Malaysia, as well as their social media support from PAS politicians.
"Mr Pritam Singh stayed quiet until the Singaporean government pointed out these instances of clear external meddling. By then, however, his reply still failed to address several key concerns," it stated.
During the podcast interview, Singh was questioned about racial diversity and cultural pluralism in Singapore. He responded by stating that ethnicity shouldn't serve as a tool for gaining political advantage.
However, the PAP pushed harder with another question: "Is he of the opinion that foreign interference becomes justifiable whenever it advantages his own political party?" they questioned.
The inquiries we made... get to the core of safeguarding a firm line between local matters and external interference.
The PAP recognized the common historical ties between Singapore and Malaysia but emphasized that both nations have consistently respected each other’s sovereignty for many years.
“Following the turbulent racial tensions of the 1960s, both communities have respected a mutual line of caution: avoiding remarks on one another’s political matters and steering clear of utilizing each other’s media platforms to sway public sentiment.”
This long-standing agreement has benefited both countries greatly over time. Keeping it intact depends on having principled political leadership that prioritizes the nation’s interests over party advantages.