New MPs hit the ground running at Meet-the-People Sessions islandwide

The MPs offer a glimpse into issues raised by residents at first such sessions since polls

- Anjali Raguraman

After nine days of marathon campaigning for the 2025 General Election, seasoned MPs and newly elected ones alike hit the ground running at Meet-the-People Sessions (MPSes) around Singapore on May 5.

The Straits Times spoke to 10 MPs from both the PAP and WP, who offered a glimpse into the issues residents raised to them, and what they were doing to help.

In Chua Chu Kang GRC's Brickland ward, Mr Jeffrey Siow kicked off his first MPS 30 minutes ahead of the 8pm start time, having expected more residents to show up after an extended break.

MPSes had been suspended since the Writ of Election was issued on April 15.

By 10pm, Mr Siow estimated he had spoken to around 30 residents, who raised issues ranging from senior care to immigration.

Among those seeking his help was a non-Singaporean divorcee with three Singaporean children who sought help to extend her employment pass, so she could keep working in Singapore.

"The husband, who is supposed to help her, is not supporting her, so what can she do since her (work) pass is expiring?" said Mr Siow. "(We have to) handle these sorts of issues, often those that do not completely fit the mould."

Other residents sought help with senior care, including one who needed assistance for an elderly relative whose usual caregivers were unavailable.

Such issues will become more prevalent with Singapore's ageing population, and he expects to bring them up in Parliament in his new role as MP, Mr Siow said.