#641 ft. Harpreet Singh - The Time for Change Is Now, His Long Journey Into Politics & Reforming the Singapore Dream
Apr 9, 2025
auto_awesome
Harpreet Singh, a Senior Counsel and Workers' Party candidate, shares his unexpected journey into opposition politics, reflecting on why a legal expert would pursue such a path. He discusses the need for significant educational reforms, highlighting issues with the current system that stifle creativity. Personal anecdotes reveal his resilience through professional challenges, including a memorable clash with Lee Kuan Yew. Harpreet also advocates for changes in housing and political representation, aiming to empower future generations in Singapore.
Harpreet Singh emphasizes the significance of connecting with citizens emotionally and mentally to resonate with their needs in politics.
He identifies critical reforms needed in housing and education, advocating for policies that support young people and elderly citizens alike.
Harpreet argues that a stronger opposition is essential for political accountability in Singapore, promoting a more democratic process and diverse representation.
Deep dives
Preparing for Political Engagement
As Harpreet Singh gears up for the upcoming elections, he highlights the importance of being in the right emotional and mental space to connect with Singaporeans. He emphasizes the significance of crafting messages that resonate broadly with the population. Harpreet recounts his initial experiences with the Workers' Party, including participating in community walkabouts where he encountered a mix of surprise and support from former colleagues. The overwhelmingly positive response to his involvement has motivated him to further engage with citizens on pressing political issues.
Personal Background and Political Interests
Harpreet shares insights into his upbringing in Singapore, illustrating how his youthful experiences in different living conditions shaped his perspective on social justice and politics. He reflects on his journey from growing up in a kampong to becoming a senior counsel, noting the influential people and events that ignited his passion for political engagement. A significant moment during his law school years, when he witnessed the unjust treatment of political dissidents, solidified his desire to advocate for a more equitable society. His early involvement in political discussions has cultivated a lifelong commitment to public service.
Legal Career and Political Aspirations
Harpreet's professional background in law has equipped him with the skills necessary to navigate complex political landscapes. He recounts his initial interest in joining the ruling party, the People's Action Party, during a time he perceived it as a venue for meaningful change. However, his eventual rejection from the candidate selection process prompted him to reconsider his approach to political engagement. This turn of events led him to the Workers' Party, where he feels empowered to speak candidly about societal issues, unbounded by party loyalty.
Key Issues for Change in Singapore
Harpreet identifies several critical areas requiring reform, highlighting the need for affordable housing and enhanced financial security for Singaporeans. He argues for reevaluating public housing policies to better support younger individuals, as well as proposing measures to improve the livelihoods of senior citizens. Additionally, he stresses the importance of revamping the education system to foster creativity and innovation rather than rote learning. Harpreet believes that addressing these issues will significantly improve the lives of ordinary Singaporeans and encourages a discourse on more democratic processes.
The Need for a Balanced Political Landscape
Harpreet champions the idea that a stronger opposition is crucial for a healthy political environment in Singapore, as competition encourages the ruling party to be more accountable. He references past comments made by prominent figures that highlight the benefits of diverse political representation. By fostering an environment where alternative viewpoints are valued, he believes that policymaking will improve and better serve the interests of all citizens. Ultimately, he calls for action, urging Singaporeans to embrace the moment for meaningful political change in the upcoming election.
Arguably the biggest catch of the upcoming election, Senior Counsel Harpreet Singh joins Yah Lah BUT for a candid, wide-ranging conversation. He reveals why an accomplished legal professional would join opposition politics under the Workers’ Party. He tells us about the instances in his life when he spoke truth to power, and what policies that he believes need to change to prepare young Singaporeans for the future. He also reflects on his infamous 1996 public exchange with Lee Kuan Yew and how a professional crisis was instrumental in shaping the Harpreet Singh of today. He also lays out his ideas on education reform, housing, and political representation that he will be talking more about in the upcoming few months.
(00:00) Intro (01:48) Political Journey & Volunteering (09:55) Early Political Engagement (17:33) Joining Workers' Party & Goals (20:16) Policy and Ideals: Areas for Improvement (25:39) Global Comparisons & Future Vision (34:53) Reflections on Past Optimism (37:08) Housing and Education Reform (38:23) Challenges of the Current Education System (41:24) The Need for Curriculum Reform (54:56) Dealing with Professional Challenges (01:04:21) Workers' Party Ideology (01:20:38) One Shiok Thing
