Dr Teo Ho Pin 张俰宾博士

GE Day 8 - 4th May 2011

2011-05-05T12:38:00.000+08:00

Dr Teo did his walkabout at the Bus Stop near Blk 233 Pending Road and House Visits today.
Many of our residents wish him all the best on this GE.

Click on the link below to view the photos :
Photos for the Walkabout & House Visits

GE Day 7 - 3rd May 2011

2011-05-05T12:34:00.000+08:00

Dr Teo visited the residents residing at Pending road, Bukit Panjang Ring road and Bangkit road. We had visited a total of 15 blocks. The residents were happy to see Dr Teo again.

Click on the link below to view more photos :
House Visits Photos

Fire Incident @ Petir Road

2011-05-04T13:41:00.002+08:00

While I was doing my house visiting in Bukit Panjang Ring Road, I received news of the fire case in Petir Road. I rushed down immediately with my team. When I reached the location, the fire-fighters, police and ambulance were already present. The fire was extinguished and the victims of the fire were safely rescued out of the fire scene.

I went straight to check on the victims to show my care and concern for the victims and to also check on them if they needed any assistance or help from me. The female adult victim was found to have some slight injuries on her arms and her breathing had to be supported by a mechanical ventilator (breathing machine). She was then sent to the hospital via the ambulance. Fortunately, her son who was examined carefully by the medical personnel was alright and seems to experience no shock from the incident. I reassured the child’s condition by asking if he was okay.

I wish the mother and child a speedy recovery and thank the Bukit Panjang Emergency Prepareness Team for their prompt response.

Dr Teo Ho Pin's Rally Speech on 2nd May 2011

2011-05-04T13:32:00.000+08:00

Mandarin Version :

Dr Teo Ho Pin's Rally Speech Part 1@ Jelapang Rd 2 May 2011

English Version :

Dr Teo Ho Pin's Rally Speech Part 2@ Jelapang Rd 2 May 2011

GE Day 6 - 2nd May 2011

2011-05-04T13:14:00.001+08:00

At the BP Town Centre, we met a lot of residents who are having their breakfast and marketing. We then proceeded to our house visits at Gangsa and Petir Road. In the evening, we had our first Rally together with Holland-Bukit Timah GRC.

Click on the below link to view for more photos :
Photos taken @ BP town Centre, House Visits @ Gangsa & Petir Road

GE Day 5 - 1st May 2011

2011-05-03T01:44:00.003+08:00

Happy Labour Day to all,

We visited the Wet Market, Coffee Shops and shops at Fajar Shopping Centre to mingle with our residents and followed by the House Visits @ Bangkit Road and Fajar Road.

Pls click on the link below to view for more photos :
Photos at Fajar Shopping Centre & House Visits

GE Day 4 - 30 April 2011

2011-05-01T20:28:00.002+08:00

After the launch of the 5 Year Town Improvement Plan at Bukit Panjang Town Centre, Dr Teo continued his walkabout and house visits. He was greeted with smiles and warm handshakes from the stall owners and residents.

Click on the link below to view more photos
Photos for Walkabout & House Visits

Bukit Panjang Town - 5 Year Town Improvement Plan

2011-05-01T19:47:00.001+08:00

The Bukit Panjang 5 Year Town Improvement Plan is now on display at BP Town Centre, New facilities such as a New Market cum Food Centre and the Bukit Panjang MRT Station. The Bukit Panjang MRT Station will be integrated with the Bukit Panjang Bus Interchange for better accessibility.

Click on the link below to view more photos :
Photos for Bukit Panjang 5 Year Town Improvement Plan

GE Day 3 - 29 April 2011

2011-04-30T16:47:00.001+08:00

Residents met Dr Teo and the PAP Activists while making their way to the bus stop. The ambience was pleasant. During the visit to the 13 blocks along Bangkit Road and Bukit Panjang Ring Road, residents expressed appreciation for the completion of linkway and fitness corner.

To view more photos, pls click on the link below :
GE Day 3 : 29 April 2011

GE Day 2 - 28 April 2011

2011-04-30T16:10:00.003+08:00

Dr Teo greeted residents on their way to school and work. Thereafter, he continued to the Town Centre and mingled with the residents. Their response was heartwarming and encouraging. He proceed with house visits for the rest of the day and a total of 13 blocks were visited.

To view more photos, pls click on the link below :
Photos for GE Day 2 - 28 April 2011

GE Day 1 - 27 April 2011

2011-04-28T13:49:00.005+08:00

Dr Teo was well-received by residents during his house visits and walkabout at Fajar shopping Centre on the first day of the campaign period. He visited 5 blocks along Pending Road and 3 blocks in Fajar Road.

Click on the link to view more photos :
Nomination Day
House Visits @ Pending Road
Visit to Fajar Shopping Centre
House Visits @ Fajar Road

Bukit Panjang constituency is beefing up safety measures after recent gang attacks

2010-11-15T00:18:00.016+08:00

The constituency will continue the Citizens on Patrol (COP), which is a collaboration between the police and Residents Committees and will increase the frequency if necessary.

70 volunteers had received hands-on training from the police. They were taught how to identify gang activities and potential violence.

I urged more volunteers to join the programme so that patrols can be intensified. Residents have to remain vigilant to fight crime in their neighbourhood.

What is more important is to get the community to be all alert. Do not just rely on police, do not just rely on the COP volunteers, do not just rely on the neighbours. I think everyone should be alert. The more alert the community, the safer the community.

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1093442/1/.html

Source : CNA

North West Brisk Walk Challenge

2010-10-31T18:13:00.014+08:00

North West Community Development Council (CDC) held the inaugural North West Brisk Walk Challenge 2010 31 October 2010.The guest of honour, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, walked alongside some 7,500 members of the public.

Around 7,500 people attempted to brisk walk three kilometres in less than 60 minutes and were joined by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.

North West CDC has been championing brisk walking activity in the District since 1999. Since its inception, the North West Brisk Walking Club has attracted a steady pool of residents to participate in the zonal and district level walks. The brisk walking clubs are formed at the Residents' Committees (RC) and the Neighbourhood Committee (NC). Members include residents of all ages and race from both the heartland and private estates.

The proposed fitness centres aim to encourage residents to brisk walk on a regular basis and to assess their fitness levels. Two of the fitness centres will be located in the north and two in the south of the district.

Ramadan Porridge To Break Fast

2010-09-29T23:27:00.005+08:00

During the month of Ramadan, Muslim families break their fast by eating a special porridge, which is often cooked and distributed by mosques.

In the Bukit Panjang constituency, residents are able to have a good meal of porridge just at their door step due to efforts by members of Bukit Panjang Community Club, Malay Activities Executive Committee (MAEC) and the Zone 8 Residents’ Committee.

I joined the volunteers at the void deck of Blk 402 Fajar Road, distributing 200 bowls of porridge to residents from 4 to 6 in the afternoon.

According to MAEC chairman Mdm Norazizah, 54, volunteers had started preparing and cooking the porridge at the void deck since 10 in the morning.

“In fact, we have been distributing free porridge to the residents every weekend during the month of Ramadan.”

(MAEC chairman Mdm Norazizah - standing 6th from the left)

New entrance to Fajar LRT station | 法加法嘉轻轨列车站添新入口

2010-08-29T22:57:00.003+08:00

Fajar LRT station now has a new entrance on top of the old one that faces the main road – just how Bukit Panjang residents had said they wanted.

The new entrance was launched by me on August 29.

Now, residents living on the other side of the station will be able to keep themselves sheltered as they take the covered walkway outside their estate and get into the station via the new entrance.

根据居民的反映和意见，法嘉轻轨列车站新添了一个入口，为居民带来了更多便利。

这个新入口在8月29日由我主持开幕仪式，正式启用。
有了这个新入口，住在轻轨列车站后方的居民，就能沿着有盖走廊直达列车站。

Journey Of The Youth Olympic Flame in Bukit Panjang | 武吉班让迎接青奥圣火

2010-08-11T23:03:00.003+08:00

Bukit Panjang put its name on the world map on August 11 as the Youth Olympic Games torch passed through the area.

More than 400 residents had already gathered at Bukit Panjang Ring Road early in the morning. Lined along the 200-metre stretch cordoned for the torch relay, everyone was hyped up to cheer on the two torch bearers from the constituency.

One of the torch bearers was Bukit Panjang Constituency Sports Club secretary Shirley Yeo. The 47-year-old had started jogging a week before to prepare herself for the big day. She said: “I felt very honoured and was truly overwhelmed when I passed on the torch.”

新加坡日前举行了全球首届青年奥林匹克运动会，而400名来自武吉班让的居民，包括孩童，也借此机参与传送青奥圣火的活动。

8月11日早上，武吉班让环路沿途200米的路段，已站满了兴奋的人群。他们都做好了准备，要为代表武吉班让的两名火炬手欢呼加油。

这两名火炬手都是武吉班让的基层领袖，其中一位是武吉班让武吉班让选区运动俱乐部的副主席杨月莲（47岁）。她在活动展开一周前，就开始慢跑训练。她说： “我觉得很荣幸，传递火炬后心情非常激动。”

Louis Tay passing the Youth Olympic Games torch to Mdm Shirley Yeo

Walking To A New High |国庆轻快步行创佳绩

2010-08-01T23:11:00.000+08:00

Together with the other brisk walking clubs in North West Community Development Council (CDC), Bukit Panjang’s brisk walking enthusiasts hit the 250,000-kilometre mark on August 1 as they celebrated Singapore’s 45th birthday.

800 residents got an early start to the day as they gathered at Bukit Panjang Community Club to participate in the National Day Observance Ceremony.After the ceremony, residents embarked on their brisk walking. Even less-than-perfect weather could not dampen their excitement. One resident, said: "Although it rained, we walked along sheltered walkways in the neighbourhood and it was just as fun."

Brisk walking has long been a favourite Bukit Panjang activity. Since April 10, North West CDC and Bukit Panjang residents have covered a remarkable 250,000 kilometres in four months.

武吉班让的轻快步行爱好者连同西北社区发展理事会的其他轻快步行俱乐部，在新加坡欢庆45周年之际，创下了4个月内走25万公里的佳绩。

800名居民和学生在8月1日清晨，就聚集在武吉班让民众俱乐部，准备参与国庆敬礼仪式。

其中参与活动的就有来自正华小学的学生领袖林倩绮。她说：“除了唱国歌和念信约外，现场还有生日蛋糕，我们当场就为国家唱歌生日歌。”

仪式结束后，居民开始进行轻快步行。虽然天不作美，不过却不扫居民们的兴致，大家依然坚持继续活动。

轻快步行一向是武吉班让居民所热爱的运动。自今年4月10日起，西北区及武吉班让居民已在短短4个月内，完成了25万公里的轻快步行路程，创下新的里程碑。

Walking As One Community | 全民一心齐步行

2010-07-25T23:16:00.001+08:00

Some 5000 residents from Bukit Panjang joined the rest of Singapore in an unprecedented nation-wide mass walk on the morning of July 25, held in support of the inaugural Singapore Youth Olympic Games.

The One Community Walk was held in 75 different locations islandwide. In Bukit Panjang Constituency, there were synchronised flag-offs at Bukit Panjang Community Club, Zhenghua Community Club and Zhenghua Primary School.

Residents covered distances of between two to three kilometres at their own pace and ended the walk at Senja Square.

After the walk, there were various dance performances put up by residents, as well as a lucky draw.

Preparation work for the event took more than half a year. Said organising committee chairman Louis Tay, 50: “I’m glad that the programme went smoothly and the residents enjoyed themselves.”

为了对即将举行的首届青年奥林匹克运动会表达支持，5000名武吉班让的居民联同全岛各地的国人，参与了前所未有的盛大步行活动。

这个名为“全民一心齐步行”的活动，于7月25日早上在全国75个地点举行。在武吉班让选区内，出发点分别为武吉班让民众俱乐部、正华民众俱乐部和正华小学。

居民在步行完两至三公里的路程后，聚集在武吉班让环路广场，一起观赏舞蹈表演，并参与幸运抽奖。

筹划委员会主席郑木福（50岁）和其他的委员花了6个月的时间为活动做准备。他说：“活动能顺利进行，居民也享受在其中，我感到十分欣慰。”

North West Largest Mass Qigong Display

2010-07-04T18:35:00.001+08:00

Nearly 2,700 residents in the North West District set a record for the largest mass qigong display at Woodlands Stadium on Sunday.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and other MPs were among the 2,698 people gathered at the field at Woodlands Stadium as early as 7am to perform qigong, an exercise that combines slow, graceful movements and controlled breathing techniques.

Their performance made it into the Singapore Book of Records as the largest qigong display.

Qigong is one activity the North West Community Development Council (CDC) has been promoting to encourage a healthy lifestyle. The others include swimming, brisk walking and aerobics.

North West CDC started about two years ago, partnering the Qigong Shi Ba Shi Association...now (there are) about 35 clubs with 3,100 members."

Bukit Panjang’s Organic Farm | 武吉班让的有机菜园

2010-05-01T23:22:00.000+08:00

A group of residents have got together to turn the 2,000 square metres allocated for vegetables in Bukit Panjang Park’s community garden into an organic farm.

The garden boasts a variety of vegetables, including caixin, kailan, winter melon and tapioca leaves.

Residents feel that the community garden provides a channel for retired residents to make better use of their time and remain active in their golden years.

The residents’ efforts were rewarded with the Community Garden Bloom gold award from the National Parks Board recently.

Block Party Fun! 邻里派对! - 17 April 2010

2010-04-17T19:15:00.001+08:00

The event, a gathering for residents living in the area, was held on the evening of 17 April at Blk 105 Gangsa Road.
这项旨在让居民相聚的活动, 在4月17日傍晚于岗沙路第105座组屋举行。

Bukit Panjang Lights Up to the New Year | 邻里庆新年 - 31 Jan 2010

2010-01-31T21:52:00.005+08:00

600 residents took in the festivities of Lunar New Year all the same as their Bangkit Road neighbourhood centre lit up to song and dance performances and street markets.

The light-up on 31 January was officiated by Dr Teo Ho Pin, Mayor of North West District & MP for Bukit Panjang Constituency.

It was followed by a repertoire of song and dance performances hosted by getai veteran Liu Ling Ling. The cheering audience was also awed by the stunning item put up by professional acrobats.

The event was organised by Zhenghua Merchants Association and Bukit Panjang Zone 2 RC.

Chairman of Bukit Panjang Zone 2 RC, Alice Lee, 49, was glad that the residents enjoyed themselves.

西北区市长暨武吉班让选区国会议员张俰宾博士是当晚的特别嘉宾，受邀上台主持了亮灯仪式。

紧接着，歌台资深艺人刘玲玲上场，充当余兴节目主持人，把场面搞得十分热闹。台上除了歌唱艺人们载歌载舞外，还有令人叹为观止的专业杂技表演，观众们也不吝啬地给予热烈的掌声。

这项活动是由正华商联会合武吉班让第2分区居委会策划组织的。

Bukit Panjang Celebrates Pongal

2010-01-24T22:27:00.000+08:00

Pongal was brought to life in Bukit Panjang on 24 January as more than 1,000 residents celebrated the festival with a live calf, performances and customary practices such as the rice-boiling ceremony.

The Pongal Festival 2010 cum Blood Donation Drive was jointly organised by the Bukit Panjang Citizens’ Consultative Committee and Bukit Panjang Integration & Naturalisation Champions.

Pongal is a festival traditionally celebrated in South India to give thanks for an abundant harvest.

The event was an opportunity for residents, including new immigrants and participants of different races, to learn more about the traditional Indian festival.

Experiencing Pongal at the Arasakesari Temple

2010-01-23T22:19:00.000+08:00

Over 700 residents came together to celebrate Pongal at the Arasakesari Temple on 23 January.

Pongal, which sees its origins in South India, calls together devotees to give thanks to the Hindu deities for a bountiful harvest. Organised by Bukit Panjang IAEC, the event marked the first time that all the Grassroots Organisations (GROs) in the constituency celebrated Pongal together.

For some residents, this was also the first time they were celebrating Pongal at a temple.

There was no dearth of traditional fun either. Apart from song and dance performances and a Pongal rice-cooking competition, one of the highlights of the event was the traditional folk game Uri Attam, in which the player tries to break a dangling pot of water and coins. Guest of Honour Mayor of North West District & MP for Bukit Panjang Constituency Dr Teo Ho Pin gamely joined in, breaking the pot with a stick, blindfolded.

Dancing To A Birthday Surprise! - 23 Jan 2010

2010-01-23T22:11:00.002+08:00

Five hundred Malay dance lovers gathered at Bukit Panjang Community Club for a night of music and fun, as well as a birthday surprise for constituency MP Dr Teo Ho Pin.

Fiesta Dangdut was held on 23 January at the CC’s multi-purpose hall. Organised by the Bukit Panjang Malay Activities Executive Committee and Northwest CDC, the event attracted Malay dance enthusiasts from across Singapore.

Then came the big birthday surprise. Guest of Honour Dr Teo Ho Pin, Mayor of North West District & MP for Bukit Panjang Constituency, was first invited to dance on stage, and then to his surprise, presented with a birthday cake.

Bukit Panjang Community Long Sevice Award Presentation cum Volunteers' Appreciation Dinner

2009-12-27T22:53:00.001+08:00

2009-07-29T14:05:00.003+08:00

Works have started on the Downtown Line 2 (DTL 2 ) - 3 Jul 09

2009-07-03T16:04:00.007+08:00

Works have started on the Downtown Line 2 (DTL 2 ), which will connect residents in Bukit Panjang and Bukit Timah to the city.

Transport Minister Raymond Lim launched the start of construction on Friday morning in a groundbreaking ceremony near Beauty World Plaza.

The 16.6km DTL2 will have 12 stops and is expected to be completed by 2015. It starts from Bukit Panjang, passes through the Bukit Timah corridor and runs to Rochor.

The new line is expected to cut travelling times by up to 30 per cent. Residents would have to put up with a series of road traffic diversions as the stations are constructed.

Land Transport Authority stressed that traffic capacity will not drop as diverted roads will go through a lane-for-lane replacement.

'As with other major rail construction projects, there will some disruption and inconvenience... I seek the understanding of residents, motorists and other commuters in this area,' said Mr Lim.

The $12 billion Downtown Line is being built in three phases and will be fully completed in 2016. The third phase will eventually run to the eastern part of Singapore, passing through Macpherson and ending at Expo.

2009-05-25T14:45:00.002+08:00

Next Brisk Walk @ Bukt Panjang Community Club - 5 July 2009, Sunday at 7.00am

Join Bukit Panjang Brisk Walk on every 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at Bukit Panjang Community Club and Saujana Court @ Block 413 Saujana Road respectively.

Bring your friends and neighbours along to spend a healthier Sunday together.

Brisk Walk @ Bukit Panjang - 3 May 2009

2009-05-03T14:22:00.006+08:00

More than 800 residents took part in the 1st Sunday of the month walk @ Bukit Panjang on 3 May 2009, Sunday at 7.10am.

After the 3 km walk, the residents were treated with a short video on conmen scammer and an awareness talk by the police at the Bukit Panjang CC Multi-purpose Hall.

Irama ceria, penduduk gembira | Happy tunes, happy residents

2009-04-25T13:34:00.001+08:00

Sudah menjadi satu hakikat bahawa menyanyi akan membuat otak menghasilkan hormon endorfin, yang menyebabkan seseorang itu berasa gembira.

Beliau bersama-sama lebih 200 yang lain berhimpun di Blok 204 Petir Road bagi menghidupkan kembali irama-irama malar segar.

Tetamu kehormat, Mayor Daerah Barat Laut yang juga Anggota Parlimen bagi Kawasan Undi Bukit Panjang, turut sedia ke pentas dan mendendangkan dua buah lagu yang biasa didengar “The Moon Represents My Heart” (Purnama itu mewakili hatiku) dan lagu Hokkien “Persevere to Win” (Tabah untuk menang) yang seronok dinikmati para penduduk.

Acara malam itu diakhiri dengan cabutan bertuah dan pemberian cenderahati.

It is a known fact that singing releases endorphins and keeps one happy and certainly hold this formula close to their hearts at the Block Party cum Karaoke Night on 25 April, organised by Bukit Panjang Zone 4 RC.

Over 200 residents who gathered at Blk 204 Petir Road to relive evergreen tunes of yesteryears.

Guest of Honour Dr Teo Ho Pin, Mayor of North West District and MP for Bukit Panjang Constituency also gallantly went on stage and rendered familiar numbers “The Moon Represents My Heart” and Hokkien number “Persevere to Win” much to the delight of the residents.

The night ended on a high note with a lucky draw and door gifts.

Knowing more about Qigong, Walking more briskly | 轻快步行已成为武吉班让居民最爱的活动,而气功也越来越受欢迎

2009-03-22T12:14:00.005+08:00

Brisk walking has become a favourite activity for Bukit Panjang residents while qigong, a low impact exercise, is also gaining popularity.

As such, a qigong demonstration and brisk walking event was organised for residents in the morning of 22 March at Block 116 Pending Road. More than 800 residents gathered at the hard court at 7.15 a.m, kicking off the day by practising "The 18 movements of Taiji Qigong".

After their qigong practice, the residents continued with their two-kilometre brisk walk with families and friends.

为此,超过800名居民参加了于3月22日举行的气功示范与轻快步行。他们于早上7时15分聚集在秉定路第116座组屋旁的硬地球场,开始练习“太极气功十八式”。

在练完气功后,居民继续和家人朋友进行两公里的轻快步行。

Sashaying into a night of fun

2009-03-14T12:06:00.013+08:00

Many have picked up dancing as a form of exercise in Singapore and Bukit Panjang residents have, too, shown their enthusiasm for this activity.

On 14 March, about 300 residents gathered at Bukit Panjang Community Centre for the Dance-Fit Night. The event kicked off at 6 pm and lasted for four hours in the fully air-conditioned hall.

Folk dancing and line dancing tunes were played throughout the night and many residents joined in the fun spontaneously. They danced individually or in pairs. Folk dances include cha-cha, tango, rumba, as well as rock and roll.

许多本地人都在学习跳舞，当成是一种保持健康的运动。武吉班让居民也对这项活动展现了热忱。

3月14日，300名居民聚集在武吉班让民众俱乐部的冷气大堂，参加“跳舞保健之夜”。活动在傍晚6时开始，历时4小时。

康乐舞和排舞的音乐不停播放，许多居民即兴参与，跳得不亦乐乎。他们或单或双，尽情展现舞姿。其中，康乐舞就包括恰恰、探戈、伦巴以及摇摆舞。

Celebration of the Pongal Festival

2009-01-18T11:47:00.002+08:00

Cows took the centre-stage at the Pongal Festival celebrations as they were honoured by residents of Bukit Panjang in the tradition of thanksgiving.

Pongal is an important harvest festival celebrated by Indians, and the two celebrations organised by grassroots organisations of Bukit Panjang took place at Pending Road and the Sri Kesakesari Sivan Temple respectively at 11 am and 4 pm on 18 January.

Some of the activities during the celebrations include pongal rice cooking competition, uriattam (beating the pot), dances and demonstrations of harvesting paddy, drawing more than 700 people at each event.

Celebrating Islamic New Year 2009 | Sambutan tahun baru Islam 2009

2009-01-03T12:00:00.009+08:00

Islamic New Year is celebrated on the first day of Muharram, in the first month of the Islamic calendar. More than 300 residents gathered at Bukit Panjang Community Club to share the festive joy on 3 January at 8pm.

The event was organised by Bukit Panjang Community Club, the Malay Activity Executive Committee, Zone 2 RC, Inter-Racial Confidence Circle and the Al-Iman Mosque.
During the celebration, there was a briefing on the meaning of Islamic New Year and how it is celebrated traditionally – men play the drums while ladies sing along joyfully.

Sambutan tahun baru Islam 2009

Tahun Baru Islam disambut pada satu Muharam, iaitu bulan pertama tahun baru Islam.
Lebih 300 penduduk berkumpul di Kelab Masyarakat Bukit Panjang untuk menyambutnya pada 3 Januari sekitar 8 malam.

A bowling good time

2008-05-12T13:44:00.005+08:00

It was a rare chance to play a game in air-conditioned comfort so about 100 residents woke up early one morning for a bowling tournament event held at Star Bowl of Home Team NS at Bukit Batok on April 20.

The event started at 10am with Mayor Dr Teo Ho Pin, the guest of honour, starting the game with his first throw.

Bukit Panjang Community Club (BPCC) and the Women’s Executive Committee (WEC) jointly organized this event, to promote community bonding and provide an opportunity for the residents to have fun.

RE: RFID season parking

2008-05-12T13:42:00.001+08:00

HDB has studied the parking situation and consulted the grassroots leaders. We have to give priority to our residents for overnight parking. However, we have assinged a few MSCPs for overnight parking.

RE: Block cleaning

2008-05-12T13:39:00.001+08:00

Dear Mr Wee,

Thank you for your feedback concerning poor cleaning at your block.

My apologies for the slow follow-up by our staff. Clement has contacted you this morning and he has instructed our conservancy contractor to carry out a thorough mopping of the common area. The work has started this morning and will be completed by today. We will also step up our supervision to ensure that daily cleansing works at your block are properly carried out by our conservancy contractor.

Thank you once again for your feedback.

Best Regards,

Soon Min Sin
General Manager
Sembawang Town Council

RE: Makeshift Stallholders

2008-04-01T08:21:00.000+08:00

I just had a meeting with the shop owners and tenants of shops in our Bukit Panjang Neigbhourhood Centre (Blks 256 to 260) concerning about the display of goods outside their shops. In order to provide a safe and vibrant
shopping environment for our residents, we have all agreed that the Merchants' Association will work closely with our grassroots organisations, shopowners, tenants, town council and relevant government agencies to "convert" the "makeshift" stalls into a shopping street. This will provide opportunities for the stallholders to continue their businesses and serve our residents. At the same time, the Merchants' Association can promote the
business to make the shopping street a success.

RE: BP Sports Complex

2008-02-28T11:57:00.001+08:00

Todate, work on the proposed sports complex in Bukit Panjang is progressing as planned. We have started to raise funds although construction cost has gone up drastically. We hope the community will support our fund raising efforts to complete this project as soon as possible.

RE: Lifesaving Certification

2008-02-12T18:08:00.002+08:00

Thank you for the feedback.

The National Water Safety Council is working on a standardised set of awards and accreditation of instructors
to ensure quality teaching of swimming, lifesaving, and water safety.

Regarding parking lots

2008-02-05T10:30:00.000+08:00

Dr Teo Ho Pin, MP for Bukit Panjang has made representations on your request for more reserved lots for season parking.

We are pleased to inform you that we will provide more reserved season parking lots at Blocks 272 and 274 Bangkit Road for the residents.

The conversion works will be take approximately 2 weeks to complete, weather permitting.

In view of your feedback, we have instructed our service provider to intensify enforcement action in the car park. We will continue to monitor the parking situation and take action as and when necessary.

If you need any further clarification, please feel free to call my Administrative Executive, Mr Mohamed Rizal at Tel 63958689/690. We thank you for the feedback.

A reply from:
WEE KIAT SIA
HEAD, CHOA CHU KANG BRANCH OFFICE
HOUSING ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

RE: RFID Season Parking

2007-12-11T09:12:00.000+08:00

The RFID for season parking was introduced to replace the paper season parking ticket so that season parking holders need not have to replace their season parking ticket every time it expires. Hence, the RFID was not meant to ease congestion in car parks. I understand that some motorists who patronise the coffeeshop across the road prefer to park at Car Park BJ13. Hence, I will ask HDB to provide more reserved lots for season parking nearer the entrance of the car park. This will be done in consultation with the RC 7 Chairman Mr Tan Chen Hwa.

Thank you for the feedback.

An Active and Gracious Community

2007-12-05T22:46:00.000+08:00

A great show by little ones

2007-12-05T22:40:00.000+08:00

Over 800 excited parents gathered at Zhenghua Primary School on the night of 16 November, beaming with joy.

It was their children’s “big day” - 490 children from 6 PAP Community Foundation (PCF) Education centres in Bukit Panjang were graduating and they had spent four to five months preparing for the concert.

The result? A colourful Mexican dance, the energetic robotic dance, and traditional Indian and Malay dances.

Allan Anand Selvin, 6, was the emcee for the event and was clearly in his element. “I’m confident and happy to be selected to be the emcee.”

Dressed in colourful costume, Yang Jing Yi, 6, danced gracefully to the tune of the Mexican music. She said, “I’m glad to be able to graduate and am looking forward to go to Primary One next year.”

It was also the parents' show – many had been involved in the concert by contributing scrap materials for the props and providing support to their children.

Ong Yin Yin, 35, was glad that her 5-year-old daughter had the chance to be the Chinese emcee for the night. “She is weaker in the Chinese language and this is a good opportunity for her to brush up and build her confidence.”

Besides the children and their parents, teachers from the centres also put their best foot forward in the concert. Teacher Julie Wong, 45, said, “Since July, we stayed back twice every week after lessons to train the children. They have put in their best today and I’m really pleased with their performance.”

PCF Kindergarten - "Experiential Learning Approach"

2007-11-28T00:18:00.000+08:00

A project-based approach to learning based on pupils' interest and teach them through 'Experiential Learning'.

Recent updates

2007-11-28T00:04:00.000+08:00

The last few months had been hectic months for me. Trying to juggle between official trips overseas and my work in Singapore. But, I am glad that upgrading works in bukit panjang have been progressing smoothly. In fact,the whole of bukit panjang is undergoing different types of upgrading works.

As Chairman for the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for Home affairs and law, I was also busy debating bills in parliament. The lastest being the revision of our Penal code in which section 377A on gay sex turned out to be a hotly debated topic.

Every year, I enjoy seeing our PCF students graduating from our centres. This year we have 490 students and they put up a wonderful concert for all parents to enjoy.

RE: Night parking scheme

2007-10-10T23:25:00.000+08:00

Thanks for the feedback. I will ask HDB to follow up on your suggestions.

RE: Setting up co-operatives

2007-10-10T23:24:00.000+08:00

Thanks for the idea of setting up co-operatives. In fact, the 5 Community Development Councils (CDC) are presently studying the feasibility of setting up co-operatives to help our residents in particular our senior citizens. As the business model can be quite challenging, we need to carefully consider the viability. I have set up a Community kitchen at Bukit Panjang CC 2 years ago where we help residents to upgrade their baking skills and then sell their pastries and cakes in our town centres and community. Believe me, it is tough and challenging to sustain a profitable business. We are still facing an uphill task.

RE: Sports Complex

2007-04-13T13:34:00.000+08:00

Dear Resident,

I had replied in the newspaper (Zao Boa) that we will definitely build a swimming pool in Bukit Panjang. But due to new developments, the 3 MPs inBukit Panjang Town have decided to build a 3 in 1 integrated sports complex comprising 2 swimming pools, a sea sports centre, and a new community club with all other sporting facilities. This proposal has increased the cost of the project due to its larger scale. We have submitted to Ministry of Finance to seek additional funding and thus cannot inform our residents till it is approved. We are expecting news very soon. So far, all my election promises have been fulfilled such as lift upgrading of 129 blocks in Bukit Panjang, Landscape garden, road extensions at Senja and Petir, new primary school at bukit panjang ring road, upgrading of CC (calling tender now), and installing of elderly fitness equipment and covered linkways. No worries, there will be a sports complex in Bukit Panjang. A much bigger one than promised! Unfortunately, the original proposed site at blk 140 cannot accommodate this new integrated sports complex.

It is not true that cachew grassroots knew of the proposed new location of the sports complex. The new integrated sports complex came about after Minister Vivian came to cashew after the election.

Dr Teo Ho Pin

RE: Road tax

2007-04-01T12:52:00.000+08:00

Road tax should be taxed based on car usage instead of family income as some family members do not drive. It will be unfair to impose tax on these family members. By having a graduated scale where bigger cc cars pay higher road tax, it will tax those who buy bigger cars more than those who buy smaller cars. This will be a fairer system as every country taxes the rich more in order to help the middle and lower income people.

Delivering Promises - Update on 2 Feb 2007

2007-02-02T11:28:00.000+08:00

Work on our town improvement projects in Bukit Panjang is progressing smoothly. Many residents are excited to see the hive of activities going on at bukit panjang although there are some inconviences caused due to the construction activities. I really appreciate the understanding from our residents. I am pleased to keep all my residents informed of the progress as follows:-

1) Sports Complex - We are exploring the possibility of building a bigger integrated sports complex in Bukit Panjang with swimming pools, sports facilties, sea sports centre and a new community club. Design is completed, and we are trying to get funding from the Ministry. Rest assured, if approved the proposed 3 in 1 sports complex will be exciting.

2) Lift upgrading program - Tender will be called and work should commence soon (maybe May 07). In addition, we managed to get approval to implement lift upgrading for blks 271, 426 and 423(which were not offered previously due to high cost).

3) New Primary School - Work started and will complete in october 2007.

4) Road extensions - Both Petir and Senja Way are completed and operational. Residents are indeed very happy that we have improved the traffic flow in bukit panjang.

5) Streetscape - 70% completed. By march, our bukit panjang road will be fully landscaped to provide a "garden effect" to our town.

6) Elderly Equipment - 3 sets have been installed. We will install another 4 sets this year and more later.

7) Covered linkways - We have completed 66 covered linkways todate. 20 linkways are in progress and will be completed by March 2007.

8) Bukit Panjang Community Club - Design is finalised and we will call tender in March 2007.

In addition, we have come up with a Master plan to provide Barrier Free Access to all blocks, and provide drop off points or car porches for our residents.

Happy Living in Bukit Panjang!

Happy Chinese New Year! Wishing all a prosperous year ahead!

Dr Teo Ho Pin

Delivering Promises

2006-12-07T16:14:00.000+08:00

Over the last 6 months, my grassroots leaders and I have been working hard to ensure that the 8 projects as promised during the last General Election take off smoothly. We are glad to receive overwhelming support for our Lift Upgrading Program. To expedite the lift upgrading in Bukit Panjang, I have grouped all our approved lift upgrading blocks together so as to achieve better economies of scale and savings for our residents. Over 90% of residents from the 79 blocks voted "YES" for the upgrading. With the strong support, we are now preparing for the calling of tender and will commence work next year.

We have also started work on our Bukit Panjang Garden, a landscape project to beautify Bukit Panjang Road and the new primary school at bukit panjang ring road. The road extension at Senja is due to complete in Dec 06. After a few rounds of design refinements, we are also calling tender to upgrade our neighbourhood centre at blk 259. Upgrading of the centre will commence after Chinese New Year. As for the Town Council, we have installed the first batch of elderly fitness equipment for our elderly residents. More equipment will be installed in due course. As for the Sports Complex, we are still finalising some details and will keep residents informed shortly.

Looks like Bukit Panjang will be a great place to live in the years to come!

Best wishes for the festive seasons. I wish all a Happy 2007!

Thank You

2006-10-31T09:15:00.000+08:00

Thanks for the encouragement. We should use all forms of communication to
stay in touch and discuss issues which affect our lives. I would be pleased
to express my views on issues which are of concern to all of us. Happy
blogging!

Regarding Lift Upgrading and Bus Services

2006-10-29T22:51:00.000+08:00

Lift Upgrading Program:
Yes, we will keep residents informed of the work schedule and progress. Ourconsultant , M/s Surbana will do so in due course.

Bus Services:
We are aware of the problem and have been requesting the bus companies toprovide more and bigger buses during peak hours especially between 7.45 and8.15am). The situation has improved but we are still working on it. Manypassengers outside this time period have seats for their journey now. Thanks for your feedback.

I am Back!

2006-10-18T10:58:00.000+08:00

After closing my blog for a month, I did some thinking and consultations from my friends as to how I should continue my blog. As a new blogger, it does take time to position my blog so that it can be interesting and inspiring. Many words of encouragement came making me relaunch my blog again. Rest assured this time round it will be for a long haul. Happy blogging and viewing. I welcome your views and comments.

Every successful journey requires you to take the first step!

Reply to comment on bus service 700

2006-07-30T11:35:00.000+08:00

[Note: This is a reply from SMRT regarding the comment about the crowding of bus service 700 between 0715 and 0730]

We refer to your feedback on 28 June 2006 and apologise for the late reply.

Following your feedback, we have conducted an investigation into the matter. Based on our data and records, the current capacity provisioned is still adequate to passengers' demand. Nonetheless, we will be reviewing the bus schedules and will make appropriate additions or amendments where necessary. We wish to assure you that we are constantly monitoring our bus services and will make the necessary adjustments to ensure adequate services to our valued customers at all times.

We value your feedback and thank you for taking the time to highlight the above matter to us.

Yours sincerely
May Quah (Ms) Executive,
Customer Relations Corporate Marketing and Communications

Clarifications on Third Party Issues

2006-07-28T11:03:00.000+08:00

I wish to clarify that my blog is managed by myself and a group of friends. Comments are usually replied by either myself or my friends depending on the subject matter. Looking forward to more views and comments. Happy reading!
-- Dr Teo

Regarding Lift Upgrading

2006-06-15T10:13:00.000+08:00

The tender for Lift Upgrading Programme at your precinct has been closed and in the process of tender evaluation by HDB. The contract is expected to commence in the 3th quarter ( Jul-Sep) of this year and complete 24 months later.

Should you need any further clarifications please contact Lawrence Toh (Property Manager, Holland-Bukit Panjang Town Council) at 64167953.

Reply to comment by "anonymous" from Zhenghua Pri

2006-06-01T14:00:00.000+08:00

"Thank you. I am indeed very proud of the achievements of Zhenghua PrimarySchool. The Prinicipal, teachers, staff, and pupils have worked hard toprovide a good learning environment for their students. The parents oftheir students have also played an active and important role in workingclosely with the school to help students achieve more in their learning.Zhenghua Primary is indeed a very good neighbourhood school. My best wishesto all!? Be the best, Beat the rest!"
-- Dr. Teo

How he got this far?

2006-05-16T20:46:00.000+08:00

It is not easy for Dr. Teo to get to this far, and there are several factors that contributes to who he is today. Firstly, he valued every single volunteer staff and partner that he has. He thinks that everyone who comes forward and wants to help the community can play a role. Thus, he treasures all the Grassroots leaders, who perform different roles and functions.

Another factor is, knowing how to harness the strength of the people, that includes the residents, the volunteers and the staff. Dr. Teo mentions during the interview, “When one knows how to harness the strength, one will find that he or she is able to provide the kind of leadership to motivate and encourage the people so that they will be able to serve the community.”

Leadership is thus one of the important factors too, in terms of being able to provide the leadership to run an organization, be it a voluntary or Grassroots organization, running a town, and spearheading new initiatives and programs. Dr. Teo mentioned that, as a leader, it is important to work in partnership with all his resources, and working together in partnership involves mutual respect and understanding too.

“To get support from the people, the vision of the leader and the way he or she runs the show would be important. As a leader, a person must be able to understand the needs of different groups of people, must be able to understand their strength, and know how to motivate these people to contribute to the community”, Dr. Teo said. There are different ways to motivate and understand different people, and Dr. Teo sees this as an art.

It is important that a leader can understand the strength of the people, give them mutual respect and trust them to run the show. Dr. Teo emphasized that, “Having very good understanding, respect, trust, and including you yourself to provide the leadership, one will be able to run the show well”, which he clearly demonstrates. Dr. Teo does not poke his nose into every single thing. Instead, he guides the people when things go wrong, and gives them a pat when things go right.

Experience through his years of involvement in the community, in running organizations, and in running different programs, helped him a lot in developing these skills, which was how he is able to get himself this far.

Congratulations!

2006-05-07T22:34:00.000+08:00

Upon the completion of the General Election 2006, this blog shall resume back to normal.

First of all, congratulations to Dr. Teo Ho Pin, who is now the MP for Bukit Panjang SMC.

Results as follows:
Total number of votes casted = 28,940
Number of valid votes = 28,047
Number of spoilt votes = 893
Number of votes for PAP (Teo Ho Pin) = 21,647 (77.1%)
Number of votes for SDP (Ling How Doong) = 6,400 (22.9%)

Dr. Teo is also the biggest winner in the General Election 2006, with the highest percentage of votes. You may like to visit the following website to read more about it: http://straitstimes.asia1.com.sg/ge/story/0,5597,391388,00.html

Finally, thank you very much to all supporters!

Regarding bus services

2006-03-23T10:08:00.000+08:00

Dear resident

Thank you for your feedback on bus services 960,961 and 190. We would appreciate much if you could provide us with more details (during which hours of the day) so that we can further request TIBS to improve their services. Pls contact my Transport Committee Chairman, Mr Louis Tay at 96608266.

We will continue to improve the bus services in Bukit Panjang.

Thanks
Dr Teo Ho Pin

New road extension

2006-03-20T17:41:00.000+08:00

We are planning to build 2 more outlets from Bukit Panjang to BKE and Woodlands Road. The Petir extension will be completed by end Apr 2006 and will help to divert traffic from Petir Road to BKE thus reducing traffic at bukit panjang road. Another road extension will be constructed to link Senja Road to Woodlands Road. This will divert traffic from Cashew and Zhenghua to KJE accordingly. Tender will be called soon.

These 2 road extensions will drastically improve traffic flow in Bukit Panjang.

- Dr Teo Ho Pin

Achievements...

2006-01-23T13:06:00.000+08:00

Achievements normally come from overcoming the challenges. By being able to have Grassroots organizations that are very cohesive and active, Dr. Teo finds that it is considered as an achievement, because he is able to bring all parties to work together. Another achievement that Dr. Teo has made is making a lot of improvements in the Bukit Panjang town. He had worked with the Town Council and provided covered link-ways and covered walkways for overhead bridge, upgraded the lifts, built a park connector and library, and improved the bus services and parks. The latest improvement is the building of a mosque. Dr. Teo also added that a sports center may be coming up too. In the past, there was a lack of primary schools in the Bukit Panjang Town, and Dr. Teo solved this problem by building more primary schools.

When deciding on what facilities to be improved, Dr. Teo would base it on feedbacks from the residents, the Town Council, and the Grassroots. Dr. Teo mentioned that there is a house visit program, where he and the volunteers from various Grassroots organizations would visit residents and get feedbacks and comments from them. Apart from feedbacks, Dr. Teo also has to study with the authorities the statistics based on new residents coming in to the estate. They would then decide what facilities could be built or improved to benefit the new residents who are coming in. These would require Dr. Teo to deal a lot with decision making. When making a decision, he would normally come up with a win-win solution, whereby the needs of both parties are addressed. “You have to balance the needs and see if the needs of both parties are addressed or not”, Dr. Teo said.

Our friendly MP with his trademark smile =)

2005-09-14T17:23:00.000+08:00

What are his challenges?

2005-08-05T22:47:00.000+08:00

As a MP, Dr. Teo is faced with a challenge to help people solve problems. On the other hand, as a Mayor, Dr. Teo faces challenges, such as coming up with new programs so that the Grassroots leaders can reach out to the residents and provide activities to bond the residents, running the town to provide facilities to build a better environment for the residents, providing various services in the community so that the community can benefit from these services, encouraging the community to be active, and encouraging residents to be a volunteer so as to help one another.

His greatest challenge is to build a strong community with people of different income and different age groups in a multi-racial and multi-religious society. A strong community refers to a community that is able to live harmoniously together. As such, there is also a challenge for him to bond the hearts of Singaporeans so that they will respect one another, understand one another, help one another, and care for one another. He also wishes to instill a “kampong spirit” within the people, giving them an identity, and building Singapore into a very strong society.

To overcome his challenges, Dr. Teo chose to adopt a multi-agency approach, where many hands come in together, like the Peoples’ Association, Grassroots organizations, and CDCs. They would work together with partners like schools, shops and voluntary welfare organizations. There is yet another challenge in overcoming the challenges by adopting a multi-agency approach, which is bringing all parties together to build a strong community.

Dr. Teo would also like to reach out to the young, so that they can get engaged in the community at a very young age. Thus, the younger generation would know what is going on in the community, and can return to serve the community when they have grown older. Facing such a challenge, he would work with the various youth organizations to reach out to the young through various activities and interest groups such as cycling, sports, and IT.

Functions of a Mayor and MP

2005-07-08T09:59:00.000+08:00

A Mayor looks after the software of the town that is community development. As a Mayor, Dr. Teo does things to bond the people, provide assistance to the needy, like providing social or job assistance, and providing support to service centers, which includes child care, elderly care, and dialysis centers. Similarly, as a MP, Dr. Teo serves the people too. A MP has to listen to the residents, understand their concerns and think of solutions to help them.

(Dr. Teo helping the needy)

The functions of a MP are clearly demonstrated during the Meet-The-People session (MPS), where Dr. Teo listens to the problems of the residents and helps them voice out their problems and concerns to the relevant authorities. Sometimes he would write an appeal for them, and sometimes counseling would be provided. For each problem, he would sit down and discuss the problem openly and make it transparent. In this way, there’ll be more heads to come in and come up with a solution.

Dr. Teo is a person who does not believe in hiding from a problem. As a MP, the more he hides, the more the residents will chase after him to get their problems solved. However, not all problems can be resolved, and sometimes he gets blamed and scolded by the residents for not being able to help them. When faced with such a situation, Dr. Teo would certainly remain as professional as possible, and not let his emotions come into play.

As a MP, Dr. Teo also has to know how to manage different people using different ways and different techniques, because he will get to meet all kinds of people during MPS. So far, he has come across several people who are mad, unreasonable, rough and vulgar. In spite of this, Dr. Teo doesn’t find his job stressful at all. All jobs are bound to have stress, but to him stress means doing something that one doesn’t like. With the passion he has for his job, he says that “it is more of a challenge”.

His Biography

2005-06-18T17:11:00.000+08:00

Dr. Teo's first experience as a volunteer was during his secondary school days, where he was in the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC). He was very involved in his CCA, which provided opportunities for him to be involved in community work. During his days in NPCC, he was a shooting instructor at the Police Academy. When he became a MP, he was invited back to his secondary school to officiate the school's commemoration day.

During his university days, he was also encouraged to join the Young Executive Committee (YEC), which started his journey to become a MP. Dr. Teo started out as a volunteer in the YEC before moving on to the management of the Town Council. The Town Council provides maintenance services to the residents, and Dr Teo’s job scope in the management of the town involves management of the estates, such as handling complains, upgrading the estates, and providing various facilities for the residents.

Dr. Teo has been in the Grassroots for over 25 years, dating back to 1981, where he first joined the Grassroots as a YEC member. When he was running the town, one of the MPs nominated him to be a potential candidate to be a MP. Dr. Teo then joined the Sembawang GRC, which was a 6 member GRC. After which, he was appointed by the Prime Minister to become a Mayor, in year 2001.

Some pictures of Dr. Teo

2005-06-15T09:19:00.000+08:00

Dr. Teo and his son playing Bingo at a block party

Dr. Teo and his son having Teochew porridge at a block party

Dr. Teo trying out a game of gateball

Dr. Teo interacting with some residents at a Gateball Competition

A brief introduction...

2005-06-05T19:39:00.000+08:00

Dr. Teo Ho Pin is the Mayor of North West CDC and MP for Holland-Bukit Panjang GRC. He graduated in 1985, with Honors in Building from the National University of Singapore (NUS). After graduating, he joined NUS as a teaching staff in the Department of Building. He became the Chief Executive Officer of Jurong Town Council in 1991. As the Chief Executive, he was responsible for the management of over 40 000 units of HDB flats. In 1997, he was elected as MP for Sembawang GRC, which sparked off his career life as a MP.

Over the last 10 years, Dr. Teo has been playing his part well as a MP and a Mayor, by serving and bonding the community. When he was appointed to become a Mayor, the first thing that he did was to help the retrenched and unemployed. The passion that Dr. Teo has towards his job was evident. “I’ll work with grassroots leaders and MPs to see how we can match jobs for those who need them. We'll also look into how we can help those making adjustments in their family lives as a result of the recession,” he said, when interviewed by The Straits Times on 17th November 2001.

When faced with a challenge, Dr. Teo would always work it out with his partners. By making things transparent, he would get more heads to come in together and think of a way to overcome the challenge. Dr. Teo works together with the respective Grassroots Organizations, the Peoples’ Association, and other voluntary welfare organizations, and under his good leadership and guidance, they were able to get things done. One of his ex-employee commented that Dr. Teo was “very good at garnering grassroots support” and “very prompt in deciding how to deal with the issues of the day”.

Apart from being a MP and a Mayor, Dr. Teo also has a family with 3 children. Having such a busy job with long working hours, Dr. Teo has to be able to strike a balance between his career and family. However, it isn’t easy to do so. Even with proper time management, he still has to sacrifice some family time. Despite so, Dr. Teo is able to maintain his family well, because of the strong support and understanding from his family members.