WHY SUPPORT FOR PAP SURPASSES SDP IN SINGAPORE?

This is a complex question and the answer isn’t so straightforward. If you look at election results in Western nations, the outcomes usually tend to be a very close fight, like 51–49 or 52–48. Pundits and analysts point out that unlike Western nations with strong divisions—such as Labor vs. Management or Conservatives vs. Liberals—Singapore’s voter base isn’t as easily segmented or delineated.

Common Misconceptions

Common misconceptions about voting patterns include:

While these are common mantras in coffee shop conversations, they oversimplify the underlying dynamics. The real reasons are multifaceted and rooted in various social, economic, and cultural factors.

Reasons for PAP Support

1. Public Flat Upgrading and Self-Serving Government

One key factor contributing to PAP support is public flat upgrading, or “Whaaat!!” as some opposition supporters might put it. The People's Action Party (PAP) holds a near-monopoly in Singapore, and their public housing policies have a direct impact on which areas receive subsidized upgrades. This includes essential amenities such as lifts, wheelchair ramps, bike parking, bus stops, elderly care centers, cleaning, repairs, and maintenance. Many hardcore opposition supporters might vote for PAP just to secure upgrades for their areas, albeit secretly hoping the WP wins somewhere else. This demonstrates the strategic playfulness regarding public housing policy.

2. Fear of Injustice and Lack of Privacy

Another major factor is the belief that their vote isn’t secret. Despite this fear, independently gathered sample surveys show that many Singaporeans incorrectly fear their identity will be revealed if they vote for the opposition. This belief is unfounded, as it would take a massive manpower effort to identify and track individual voters. Furthermore, ballots are destroyed six months after elections. Civil servants who might hold such a false belief would be unlikely to let it influence their voting behavior.

3. If It Ain't Broke, Don’t Fix It

A third reason is the cultural norm of not wanting to be the first to fail. This stems from years of conditioning in the “Kiasu” (fear of losing) culture, which has permeated Singaporean society. Singaporeans generally prefer the status quo and fear taking risks. While the PAP has a 50-year track record of success, which primarily focuses on material success, some would argue that this has led to complacency. The belief is that if it’s working, there’s no need to switch parties.

4. Consistency and Comfort with the Familiar

Lastly, Singaporeans value consistency and tend to prefer the “same-old-same-old.” This can be observed in various aspects of society, including arts and entertainment. The Pioneer Generation, born after World War II and up to 1960, often gravitate towards familiar and predictable content. For example, the repetitive nature of certain films—such as Ah Boys to Men—reflects this cultural inclination towards the familiar. The Workers’ Party’s victory in Aljunied GRC in 2006 was a 20-year strategic plan by Mr. Low, highlighting the long-term planning and patience required in political campaigns in Singapore.

In conclusion, while the support for PAP might seem baffling to some, it is deeply rooted in complex socio-economic and cultural factors. Understanding these factors is crucial for both voters and political analysts in navigating the political landscape of Singapore.

Keywords: singapore pampresidents, workers party, political support, Kiasu culture, public housing policy