Look Back And Reflect

Things I decided to do

2011-08-26T01:01:00.002+08:00

1. Sleep more
At least 8 hours a day.
Very hard to keep awake during lectures
Not gaining weight as much as I wanted
Workouts are getting tiring
Longer, quality sleep will give me the alertness and energy to complete my workouts and enhance my concentration and focus to get better grades

2. Study more
Study till 10pm
That is when I will sleep
Regardless of whether I complete my tutorials, I will sleep at 10.
But before that, I will try my best to revise my work and complete all my undone tutorials.
Better understanding of concepts, better usage of my time.

3. Gym break during promo week
CNS burnout approaching soon... now should be approximately week 8 of Stronglifts 5x5...
Promo would be a good time to rest...
After that week I will continue with Stronglifts 5x5 again for 12 more weeks...

Frustrations about project work

2011-08-21T15:14:00.002+08:00

Honestly, I am feeling frustrated and furious about project work. Having to spend lots of hours doing till late at night sucks. I often sleep at 3am and wake up at 6am, falling asleep in classes often. I cannot concentrate and absorb because of the lack of sleep. The rigidity of project work has made it an unbearable subject, hated by many students and sometimes even teachers. The government (more specifically the Ministry of Education), in an attempt to "encourage creativity" in Junior College students, started this project work programme. However, I see this as a failure as it forces the students to complete the project using the skills that they are not taught in addition to the high workload.

The skills of project work should be taught from young. When students are young, they should be encouraged to unleash their creativity and allow their ideas to flow. Currently, the education system is very rigid and rote learning based. There is little room for creativity. Everyone conforms to the same mold, causing us to become almost homogenous. This idea is outdated and should not be used to such an extent anymore. What the world needs is innovation, not regurgitation. Sure, rote learning used to be successful last time, but not in this rapidly changing globalized world today.

Right now, I feel that the education system needs some serious restructuring. Take a look at Finland's education system, which is said to be one of the best.

Finnish early childhood education emphasizes respect for each child’s individuality and the chance for each child to develop as a unique person. Finnish early educators also guide children in the development of social and interactive skills, encouraging them to pay attention to other people’s needs and interests, to care about others, and to have a positive attitude toward other people, other cultures, and different environments. The purpose of gradually providing opportunities for increased independence is to enable all children to take care of themselves as “becoming adults,” to be capable of making responsible decisions, to participate productively in society as an active citizen, and to take care of other people who will need his [or her] help.

The focus in pre-school education is to learn how to learn, and not learn.

Also,

The Nordic strategy for achieving equality and excellence in education has been based on constructing a publicly funded comprehensive school system without selecting, tracking, or streaming students during their common basic education.

There is no elitist discrimination here. There is no "my child is much smarter and in a higher stream than yours" or "your child is stupid, he/she is in such a lousy stream" in education of Finland. Learning is meant to be fun, not pressurizing. In Singapore, students are pressured to obtain good grades in order to not lose out to the "better stream". This pressure to challenge the so-called "better" students forces learning to become boring and uninteresting.

Learning is a lifelong process, it should be a fun experience, not something stressful like what is happening in Singapore now. Plonking in project work as an A Level subject is going to make matters worse, as you are forcing someone who has been rote learning for the past 16 years of their lives to suddenly become "creative". It is a bad thing, really.

If I were part of the MOE who decides on the path of education, I would have suggested a path like this.

Non-mandatory pre-school education for ages 1 to 6. The pre-school education stage should encourage students to learn to learn, engage their curious minds and allow them to unleash their creativity.

Primary education for students from 7 to 12. At this stage, there should not be any streaming. Incentives should be given to better students who help weaker students in their work. This encourages the the better students to help more students and at the same time allows the weaker students to catch up on their work. Creativity should be encouraged here, students should be encouraged to come up with new ideas. Extracurricular activities should be encouraged here to allow students to be exposed to more activities outside of the curriculum.

Secondary education for students aged 13 to 16. There should not be any streaming still here. As before, incentives should be given to better students who help weaker students in their work. During secondary education, students will get exposed to newer subjects, widening their learning. Creativity should still be encouraged here. Students would also learn how to analyze and evaluate their ideas. As usual, extracurricular activities would be encouraged.

Tertiary education for students 17 and above. Junior Colleges will provide a more academic approach, while polytechnics will offer a more vocational approach. In both JCs and Polys, there should be room for creativity and to allow students to use the skills that they learnt previously to come up with interesting ideas and projects.

By following this path of education, we can breed future leaders who are helpful, who care for others and are creative yet logical thinkers.

Ok end of rant, time to do homework. :/

2011 aims

2011-08-21T01:36:00.002+08:00

Aims to achieve by the end of 2011

120kg squats
150kg deadlifts
80kg bench press
50kg overhead press
80kg barbell rows
able to do 3x5 weighted pullups (means 15 pull ups)
75kg @ 1.71m
Bodyfat of 8%

C for GP
D for Economics
C for Physics
D for Chemistry
C for Maths
And hopefully (though seems impossible) A for Project Work

Successfully enter JC2
Find a holiday job
More outings with T-ara thread people

And yeah, thats all I think...

Now I need... a plan for studies...

My favourite pair of IEMs: Soundmagic PL-30

2011-06-17T16:48:00.002+08:00

Bought it back in October 2010, before O levels started. Haven't tried this pair out before buying it, since it was only sold online. Was definitely priced well at the time, $37 for a pair. Accessories were good too, 3 pairs of silicone tips, 3 pairs of foam tips, 1 pair of bi-flanges, shirt clip, 1 pair of ear hooks and a carrying case. How much more do you want for a bargain price like this?

Had a listen that night, at first was disappointed, it does not have the bass quantity that my PortaPros put out. Tested all the tips, and settled with the bi-flanges. Comfort was just amazing with this. It was light, and hardly has a tendency to fall off.

After long periods of listening, it became apparent that this is the IEM I really like. Really well balanced, bass is there but is not boomy like my EB50s, mids are nice and clear, and highs are not sharp and piercing. Soundstage is the most amazing part, airy and spacious. Really amazing stuff you can get for just $37. I think this is the best $37 dollars I have spent on an IEM.

Effects of tips on PL-30
Single flange: Wide and airy, bass not as prominent as when using other tips, clarity is good but isolation not as good
Double flange: Still quite wide and airy, bass slightly more prominent, clarity is good and excellent isolation, easy to get a seal
Foam: Less wide and airy, bass impact increases, making it sound muddy, clarity not as good, but isolation is very good

Now looking for a more expensive IEM, I don't know whether the Etymotic MC5 I am eying will be a good and viable replacement for this amazing IEM. In pursuit of the best value IEMs, this IEMs definitely gets my recommendation.

Starting Strength - Modified

2011-06-12T17:32:00.002+08:00

People do not neglect on strength exercises, especially those in team events okay?
To help you all, here is a good routine from the book Starting Strength and Stronglifts. I modified it to make gains faster, but might make plateaus come faster as well.

Dun avoid gyms because you all feel it never works.
Give it a try, these exercises are full body compound exercises and are useful since they are similar to what you are doing in team events.

All are barbell exercises, do it in the power rack and press bench.
Don't do it in the smith machine.

Workout A
Squats 3x5
Chest Press 3x5
Barbell Rows 3x5

Workout B
Squats 3x5
Overhead Press 3x5
Deadlift 1x5

Start with empty barbell for squats, chest press and overhead press.
For deadlifts, start with 10kg on each side, and for barbell rows, start with 5kg on each side.

For squats and deadlifts, you can add 5kg per side per workout.
For chest press and dumbbell rows, add 2.5kg per side per workout.
For overhead press, add 1.25kg per side per workout.

For squats and deadlifts, if you fail to achieve 5 full sets of 5 reps, drop the increase in weight to 2.5kg per side. If that fails as well, drop increase in weight to 1.25kg per side. When you fail that exercise 3 times, deload to 90% of the weight for that exercise only. Progress from there, adding weight each workout.

For bench press and barbell rows, if you fail to achieve 5 full sets of 5 reps, drop the increase in weight to 1.25kg per side. When you fail that exercise 3 times, deload to 90% of the weight for that exercise only. Progress from there, adding weight each workout.

For overhead press, when you fail that exercise 3 times, deload to 90% of the weight for overhead press only. Progress from there, adding weight each workout.

In 12 workouts, you will see an increase in strength for all 5 exercises, which are beneficial to the team events since you are not carrying as much weight.

Hope it helps. :)

EDMW Sagas: Nitrile and elise

2011-06-05T13:44:00.003+08:00

Yesterday was a saga-filled day... lots of threads were created to stir up the incident(s)

Among the incidents... two of them I want to highlight... Nitrile incident and elise incident, both of which stirred up many threads yesterday

First, the Nitrile incident

Basically the summary of the incident
http://www.temasekreview.com/2011/06/04/sph-owned-hardwarezone-moderator-lodged-police-report-against-forummer-for-threatening-pap-mp-sitoh-yih-pin/

The moniker ‘pay&pay’ allegedly posted 4 comments on Hardwarezone forum expressing hope that Mr Sitoh be ‘xxxxx’.

Only less than a month ago, a Hardwarezone forumer ‘BigBirdman’ was arrested by the police for threatening to ‘xxxx’ the ballot box.

As expected, ‘Nitrile’ was lampooned by other forumers for adding to the growing list of frivolous police reports lodged by PAP supporters.

Hwarzoner wrote:

“If every small little thing also go and report police regarding posts in HWZ, soon this forum might be closed down for the common good.”

Lithi added:

“I don’t know which is worse, the person screaming for blood, or the person who act saintly and happily try to send ppl to jail. Both don’t exercise restraint after all.”

Others doubt if the police will take action since the poster did not call on others to ‘xxxxx’ the MP as he only expressed hope that it will happen.

Singaporeans should be extra careful when posting on SPH-owned forums such as Hardwarezone and Asiaone.

I feel this case is dealt with too seriously... firstly though Nitrile is a moderator, he is exercising too much power by reporting to the police. The other party might have been acting in spite, if he could have just permanently banned him, this incident would eventually subside. By blowing this incident up to this scale is uncalled for. Seriously, blowing up this incident when it can be solved by less extreme methods?

On the other hand, I cannot blame Nitrile entirely for this. The user should pay attention to what he says on the internet. I have been warned by many to look carefully at what I say to prevent offending people in the internet. I know the user does not like MP Sitoh (I do not like too, I respect Mr Chiam a lot), but he should not resort to extreme words.

After the incident, a lot of stirring threads rose. There are threads who CSI-ed out Nitrile's facebook profile, and some threads mocking him of his fatness. I laughed along at first, but then seeing too many of such threads, really quite tired of it. I don't think it should be stirred to such extremes. Today when I woke up, I was glad it subsided somewhat.

2nd incident, the elise incident.

http://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/showthread.php?t=3264769

Basically... the first post...

Those pictures you seen here ain't me,
only one of the sexposed one is me, the rest are not..

I tried to end my life but why am I still breathing..
On the exact same day, my ex went into a r/s with another girl

I might be pregnant

My life is a comedy.
I am a joke to everyone.
Have fun stirring my **** to spice up your weekends

Why save someone that doesn't want to be saved
Why force someone to see the world again when being alive is a torture to them

Quite sad lah, actually I dun understand why she has to use fake pictures in social networking sites...
Inferiority complex?
Schizotypal personality disorder?
I don't know... I don't want to go so extreme either...

But I am perplexed over why she did that...
I remember fellow EDMWer deadbeat says she looks okay in real life... why did she use pictures of other people as her then?

Looking back... I am extremely stunned by the words she said... especially the last 2 sentences...

Why save someone that doesn't want to be saved
Why force someone to see the world again when being alive is a torture to them

Sounds like a suicide note... I may not be entirely certain, but ya...
Ending life like this is really selfish... and also really stupid...
Think about others, your loved ones around you...
Do you think they want you to die?
God gave you life, gave you a purpose in life, why end the gift that God gives you?
I feel people who think about suicide should rethink about their outlook in life...
They are not the worst off after all... in fact there are millions of people living a much worse life...
Life is precious, why waste it?

Aljunied GRC: Strategic location for opposition stronghold

2011-05-12T19:07:00.000+08:00

7 May 2011 is a historic day for the Workers Party. They have created a psychological impact on the ruling party by winning Aljunied GRC. This is a breakthrough for all the opposition parties, especially the Workers Party as it is the first time an opposition party has won a GRC, and it resulted in the loss of 2 ministers, namely Foreign Affairs minister George Yeo, and PMO Minister Lim Hwee Hwa.

I believe that Aljunied GRC might be a stronghold for opposition parties to progress in the future. The "dream team" of Workers Party, with the likes of secretary-general Low Thia Khiang, Chairman Sylvia Lim, Chen Show Mao, Pritam Singh and Muhamad Faisal, has won over the mandate of the people in Aljunied. If Workers Party can show that they can manage Aljunied GRC well, winning back Aljunied GRC would be extremely tough for the ruling party.

Aljunied GRC surrounds Hougang SMC. Hougang SMC, being one of the electoral divisions won by the Workers Party, has been under the care of secretary-general Low Thia Khiang for the past 20 years, and now under the care of the new Workers Party MP yaw Shin Leong. With that, Hougang SMC and Aljunied GRC can work together and pool resources together. This will make management of both constituencies easier.

Looking at the electoral map, Tampines GRC, Punggol East SMC, Marine Parade GRC, Bishan-Toa payoh GRC and East Coast GRC are in close proximity to Aljunied GRC. Joo Chiat SMC is in close proximity to East Coast GRC, where the candidates there received the third most percentage of the votes. Joo Chiat SMC itself is where the Workers Party received 49% of the vote. The above GRCs and SMCs garner more than 40% in opposition votes. If the Workers Party can prove that they can manage Aljunied GRC well, there will be a positive "spillover" effect. It will provide a strong boost to the opposition contesting there. Since those are the "weaker" GRCs held on by the PAP, the next election could see more GRCs and SMCs being won by the opposition, especially those surrounding Aljunied GRC.

Fighter for Singapore: Mr Chiam See Tong

2011-05-09T20:34:00.003+08:00

If one asks me, who is the Singapore politician I respect most? It's not Lee Kuan Yew, not Goh Chok Tong, not Lee Hsien Loong, but Chiam See Tong.

Perhaps you might ask,"Mr Lee Kuan Yew is the founder of Singapore, why do you respect Mr Chiam more?" I will say,"He is a true fighter for Singapore."

Mr Chiam first contested for Potong Pasir in 1979 by-elections as an independent. However he lost to Howe Yoon Chong with 33.15% of the votes.

He formed the SDP in 1980 , and contested in Potong Pasir for the second time, this time, he still lost, however, his vote share increased to 40.95%.

Success finally came in 1984 when he won the seat of Potong Pasir against Mah Bow Tan with 60.28% of the votes.

Since then, he held on to Potong Pasir for the next 26 years until Sitoh Yih Pin of the PAP won the Potong Pasir seat with 50.36%of the votes against his wife Lina Chiam.

What makes him so popular during this 26 years? Despite the PAP offering upgrades to Potong Pasir, many still vote for Mr Chiam. How, despite the promises, that Mr Chiam wins the Potong Pasir seat for 26 years?

The answer is very simple: He is a good, and well loved MP.

An MP is not a full time job, yet Mr Chiam quit his law practice in order to be a full time MP. It shows his dedication towards serving his constituency, putting people as his first priority.

Another thing worth to note is where he conducts his meet the people sessions. The PAP government did not give him a proper room to conduct his Meet-The-People sessions. Unlike PAP MPs, who conduct Meet-The-People sessions in organized, air-conditioned rooms, he conducted Meet-The-People sessions in a makeshift cubicle, and has done so for the past 26 years.

He beared with heat and discomfort of the small and cramped area for the past 26 years. Really deserves my respect. I can see his passion to work with the citizens of Potong Pasir from here.

Has anyone received this kind of letter from your MP? People in Potong Pasir do. Anyone who moves in to Potong Pasir will have this letter, personally signed by Mr Chiam. It's really so touching to see how Mr Chiam treats new residents of Potong Pasir as family.

Furthermore, there are accounts of the humility of Mr Chiam. Once, one Potong Pasir resident complained to the town council about a damaged light in one of the flats. At night, the resident woke up, to find in horror that Mr Chiam was replacing the damaged light personally. Who would have thought your MP would do such things? He could have called for other people to do it, but no, he actually did it, himself.

In 2006, Sitoh Yih Pin contested in Potong Pasir with a promise of an $80 million dollar upgrading package and backing from SM Goh. Mr Chiam was predicted to be unable to hold his seat due to these attractive perks, however Mr Chiam managed to hold the seat with 55.82% of the vote.

The support for him after the parade was immense. Shouts of "Chiam See Tong, Chiam See Tong" can be heard. He really has great support from the residents of Potong Pasir.

In 2008, he suffered a mild stroke, which had caused him to become more frail than before. Despite so, he proceed to contest in the next election. This time, in 2011, he would contest with other members at Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, with his wife Lina Chiam left to contest Potong Pasir. He stepped out of his comfort zone and contest in a new area to spread democracy throughout Singapore. He could have retired, but he did not. Despite his health, he still held on and held rallies throughout the 9 days before cooldown day.

In this rally, he said that the people had given him more applause than he deserve. Seriously, I believe he deserves even more applause than that. Serving 26 years as the longest serving opposition MP, even in frail health, he really deserves respect.

Unfortunately, things were not meant to be. In the 2011 General Elections, Mr Chiam lost in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC with a 43.06% vote. Things were even sadder at Potong Pasir, as Mrs Chiam lost narrowly with 49.64% of the votes. It was a major setback for this wonderful politician and his political party. However, he took the results positively, as he felt that the results in Bishan-Toa Payoh was very good.

The next day, residents gathered to sign a petition calling for a by-election. This is the first time I have seen people who love their MP so much. Clearly, Mr Chiam was like family to them.

Really, thousands of people gathering to support the MP who had taken care of them for the last 26 years was a touching sight.

In the news, he said he would want to contest in the next elections given the chance. Really, at this age he should be resting. However, he still wants to stand up and fight for Singapore. Respect to this true servant of Singapore, and inspiration to me, and to all Singaporeans out there.

I hope that in the future, I can serve the community with a pure heart and dedicated soul, giving my all for the best of the community, just like the great Mr Chiam.

Your legacy will last, Mr Chiam.

General Election 2011 results and post analysis

2011-05-08T03:00:00.005+08:00

Results for elections are out!

In order of announcement:

PAP's Lim Bow Chuan won with 11965 (58.65%) to Jeanette Chong's 8436 votes (41.35%)

Teo Ho Pin wins Bukit Panjang SMC with 20349 (66.26%) votes to Alec Tok's 10362 (33.74%)

Sam Tan wins Radin Mas SMC with 18591 (67.11%) to Yip Yew Weng's 9110 (32.89%)

Heng Chee How wins Whampoa SMC with 13015 (66.11%) to Ken Sun's 6672 (33.89%)

PAP Moulmein-Kallang team won with 44828 (58.56%) to WP's 31721 (41.44%)

PAP Charles Chong won Joo Chiat with 9630 (51.01%) to Yee Jen Jong's 9248 (48.99%)

PAP Amy Khor wins Hong Kah North with 18149 (70.61%) to Sin Kek Tong's 7553 (29.39%)

PAP Marine Parade team wins with 78182 (56.65%) to NSP's 59833 (43.35%)

WP Yaw Shin Leong wins Hougang with 14833 (64.81%) to Desmond Choo's 8053 (35.19%)

PAP Pasir Ris-Punggol Team wins with 100382 (64.79%) to SDA's 54546 (35.21%)

PAP Tampines team wins with 72664 (57.22%) to NSP's 54337 (42.78%)

PAP West Coast team wins with 72465 (66.57%) to RP's 36395 (33.43%)

PAP Grace Fu wins Yuhua with 14081 (66.87%) to Teo Soh Lung's 6977 (33.13%)

PAP Lam Pin Min wins Sengkang West with 14667 (58.08%) to Koh Choong Yong's 10585 (41.92%)

PAP Ang Mo Kio team wins with 112544 (69.33%) to RP's 49779 (30.67%)

PAP Michael Palmer wins Punggol East with (54.53%) to Lee Li Lian's 12765 (41.02%) to Desmond Lim's 1386 (4.45%)

PAP Bishan-Toa Payoh team wins with 62282 (56.94%) to SPP's 47092 (43.06%)

PAP East Coast team wins with 59895 (54.83%) to WP’s 49342 (45.17%)

PAP Cedric Foo wins Pioneer with 14581 (60.73%) to Steve Chia’s 9430 (39.27%)

PAP Sembawang team wins with 84184 (63.89%) to SDP’s 47578 (36.11%)

PAP Nee Soon team wins with 80659 (58.39%) to WP’s 57482 (41.61%)

PAP Holland-Bukit Timah team wins with 48682 (60.10%) to SDP’s 32322 (39.90%)

PAP Chua Chu Kang team wins with 89605 (61.20%) to NSP’s 56817 (38.80%)

WP Aljunied team wins with 72165 (54.71%) to PAP's 59732 (45.29%)

PAP Jurong team wins with 76489 (66.96%) to NSP's 37734 (33.04%)

PAP Sitoh Yih Pin wins Potong Pasir with 7973 (50.36%) to Lina Chiam's 7859 (49.64%)

Seats by each party:
PAP - 81
WP -6
SPP -0
NSP - 0
SDP - 0
RP - 0
SDA - 0

PAP wins 1210617 votes (60.14%), down from 2006 66.60%

Electoral map

Credits: wikipedia

Now on to post analysis

Mountbatten SMC
It was the seat of incumbent PAP MP Lim Biow Chuan. In 2011 it was seperated from Marine Parade GRC to become an SMC. NSP's Jeanette Chong did put up a good fight against him, however, I guess the sentiments of the people still lie with Lim Biow Chuan (he might not have screwed up much anyway), thus the results.

Bukit Panjang SMC
Quite an old estate actually. Alec Tok is good opposition opponent, thus he got better results than what Lin How Doong got in 2006.

Radin Mas SMC
Newly carved out as an SMC, contested by new candidates from both NSP and PAP. Apparently PAP has a more powerful branding and hence the result.

Whampoa SMC
Contested by veteran candidates Heng Chee How and Ken Sun, PAP won in the end. Whampoa is mainly filled with more senior citizens. Senior citizens tend to side with PAP more and hence the result.

Moulmein-Kallang GRC
Very tough fight against WP. I believe WP's presence not strong enough, and that might be the cause of PAP's win.

Joo Chiat SMC
Actually this could go either way. WP or PAP could have won. However PAP's branding have outedged WP's slightly.

Hong Kah North SMC
PAP's Amy Khor put up a stunning performance there... the highest percentage votes out of all PAP wards. This shows the people trust Amy Khor a lot.

Marine Parade GRC
Really close fight between NSP and PAP. Seriously, after 3 walkovers, this is the result. An amazing progress for NSP in my opinion. What might cause PAP to have such a narrow gap might be due to the presence of Tin Pei Ling in the team. For NSP, Nicole Seah does shine out, but overshadows the other members of the team.
(Damn, the GRC I live in has Tin Pei Ling... sad)

Hougang SMC
I think I know why WP can hold on to this seat despite MP Low Thia Khiang leaving. Firstly, WP has established a strong base in Hougang, which is critical to its success. Secondly, ex-candidate Eric Low called Hougang a "slum". This would backfire to the PAP and thus contribute to PAP's loss and also contributes to a larger winning margin for Hougang.

Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC
The opposition team there is quite lackluster actually (except Harmider Pal Singh, I think he speaks well). This might cause the people to trust the opposition less and thus contribute to the victory of PAP.

Tampines GRC
The opposition team there did a great job. Really close fight. PAP's votes might have been brought down largely due to Mah Bow Tan's comment that housing is "affordable".

West Coast GRC
Reform Party is a relatively new party, with Kenneth Jeyaratnam (son of first opposition MP Joseph Benjamin Jeyaratnam) leading the team. This team is quite lackluster as well (except for K Jeyaratnam), which might have contributed to the loss of RP.

Yuhua SMC
Grace Fu held on to Yuhua SMC quite strongly. This might be partly due to Teo Soh Lung's previous record for being detained under the ISA. This might have an impact on Teo Soh Lung's reputation, thus the loss.

Sengkang West SMC
I believe the contest is tight, but the presence of WP is not as prominent as PAP, thus the percentage of votes.

Ang Mo Kio GRC
The Reform Party team there is quite lackluster to be honest. It is much more of a suicide team then the Workers Party team in 2006. I feel it is more of a distraction to keep the PAP team busy and also to create a choice for AMK GRC residents.

Punggol East SMC
Without Desmond Lim, the results could go either way, to WP or PAP. But with the presence of Desmond Lim, the votes are diluted, paving a path of victory for Michael Palmer.

Bishan Toa-Payoh GRC
After 3 walkovers, finally contested by SPP. Chiam See Tong's reputation in Potong Pasir have given him quite a number of votes, unfortunately, since Bishan is a more wealthy estate which usually sides PAP, SPP lost as a result. We have lost a great opposition MP who have served in Potong Pasir for the last 26 years.

East Coast GRC
Always a tightly contested area between WP and PAP. The WP did improve, but not enough to sway the voters in favour of WP. Not bad though, a 45% vote is high already.

Pioneer SMC
Cedric Foo is a veteran MP. Steve Chia is a veteran NCMP. Both seem to have equal chances. However, I think the people have not forgotten about the nude photo incident, which might have damaged Steve Chia's reputation permanently.

Sembawang GRC
SDP has contested before. The improvement is there, James Gomez is not bad. However, perhaps the branding of PAP makes people there feel more confident in PAP and thus vote for them.

Nee Soon GRC
Newly carved out from Sembawang GRC, with WP contesting, a tough fight. However, WP has not much of a presence there, and also due to the greater proportion of elderly there, votes tend to swing towards the PAP.

Holland-Bukit Timah GRC
Initally, I expected tight contest here, due to the presence of Vincent Wijeysingha and Tan Jee Say. However, Vivian Balakrishnan's accusation of Vincent being "gay" and criticism of Tan Jee Say's economic reforms might have cause the vote to be in PAP's favour. In addition, Holland-Bukit Timah is an area for the more wealthy, who tends to side with PAP.

Chua Chu Kang GRC
Could have been a tight contest between NSP and PAP. I think branding plays a part here. Also, even though there are 3 strong candidates in the NSP team, I think it would not be enough to take down CCK GRC for NSP.

Aljunied GRC
Most hotly contested GRC in 2006 and 2011, finally WP got a breakthrough on the second try. Low Thia Khiang's decision to contest here might have attracted some votes towards WP. Additionally, with star Chen Show Mao and eloquent speaker Pritam Singh, more votes are attracted to WP. However, George Yeo's contribution as the Minister of Foreign Affairs goes a long way. It could have gone either way, however this time the WP won, making this the first time an opposition party has won a GRC. George Yeo will be missed. As many said, we have lost George Yeo, but we have gained a Tin Pei Ling. Well, shall we nominate George Yeo for president?

Jurong GRC
Not a very strong team has been put in place there. Also, PAP has good branding in that area. This would contribute to the success of PAP.

Potong Pasir SMC
Once an opposition ward for 26 years, now ends up in the PAP's hands. It was such a close fight, less than 150 vote difference. First reason could be due to Lina Chiam's lackluster performance during rallies, which might cause her to lose some support. Secondly, the people there might be touched by Sitoh Yih Pin's efforts to try and try again, thus the votes to PAP, and thirdly, this area is mainly an old area, and there will definitely be some people who will demand upgrading, and thus voting for PAP. Sad to see that one of the opposition strongholds have been taken down.

That concludes the post analysis of the elections.

Another thing to notice would be the constituencies won by WP. Hougang SMC is situated inside of Aljunied GRC. Winning both would be quite beneficial to WP actually, as it would be easier for WP to manage 2 constituencies in close proximity. In addition, MP Low Thia Khiang would be able to serve both Hougang SMC and Aljunied GRC residents, a great situation for him.

Analysis 2: Who will win the elections (Nomination Day final line up)

2011-04-27T22:52:00.004+08:00

Today is Nomination Day, where the candidates of various GRCs are set in stone, where surprises await from both the incumbent and the opposition. I have seen quite a few surprises today, and some surprises have made this election even more exciting.

This elections, 82 out of 87 seats are contested, with Tanjong Pagar GRC experiencing a walkover due to SDA being disqualified. It is quite sad for the SDA actually, for if they were not disqualified, all seats will be contested, and that would be more exciting.

Right now, since there are changes to the lineup, I would like to re-evaluate the various GRCs and SMCs.

Aljunied GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
Currently helmed by Foreign Minister George Yeo and PMO Minister Lim Hwee Hua, this area is one of the hottest battleground in the 2006 Elections. Results were quite close, and Sylvia Lim of Workers Party having a NCMP seat. For this area, the WP has sent a dream team to contest in this GRC. As Prof Eugene Tan of SMU have analyzed, the WP has sent their most powerful candidates to Aljunied GRC. The WP line up, with Hougang SMC MP Low Thia Khiang, NCMP Sylvia Lim and WP trump card Chen Show Mao contesting for this GRC. It would be a really heated fight, and there is an even higher chance for taking Aljunied GRC for the WP.
Prediction: WP to win

Ang Mo Kio GRC
Possible Competition: RP and SPP vs PAP
The stronghold of PAP, this is where Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stands. In the last election, the WP team, dubbed the "suicide team", managed to captured 33.86% of the votes, which is quite a lot for the opposition party. This year, no opposition candidates are announced yet, but Reform Party is contesting, with 2 members loaned from SPP. It will be an exciting contest to see the popularity of the current Prime Minister.
Prediction: PAP to win with RP/SPP having higher vote percentage

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
Helmed by Deputy PM Wong Kan Seng and Education Minister Ng Eng Hen, it has not been contested ever since the formation of the GRC. The opposition is led by Potong Pasir MP Chiam See Tong, who is the longest serving opposition in Singapore. The team sent out by SPP has candidates with good qualifications and ability. With the reputation of Mr Chiam being very good, even in Bishan-Toa Payoh, competition will be tough.
Prediction: Fierce battle, good chance of SPP to win

Chua Chu Kang GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Helmed by Minister of Manpower Gam Kim Yong, this area is a relatively new GRC formed from Hong Kah GRC and Chua Chu Kang SMC. This time NSP has released a strong team for this election. This includes NSP president Sebestian Teo, Tony Tan and Hazel Poa which are potential candidates previously from RP. NSP, being looked upon as one of the top 3 parties this election, might have a heated battle in this election.
Prediction: Heated battle, PAP to win

East Coast GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
PMO Minister Lim Swee Say's stronghold. This time the Workers Party is looking to send a good team to challenge the incumbent. Workers Party, being one of the most highly recommended opposition parties to look out for, will certainly have a good showing in this GRC. With a previous vote percentage of 36.14%, Workers Party will definitely look forward to getting a higher vote percentage or even win the GRC. But PAP will not slouch either, this would look like one of the hottest areas for this election.
Prediction: PAP to win, WP with higher vote percentage

Holland-Bukit Timah GRC
Potential competition: SDP vs PAP
Home ground of MCYS Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, it has experienced a walkover in 2006. Being a 4 member GRC, it makes it easier for opposition to contest since less people needs to be fielded. SDP has placed their stars Vincent Wijaysingha and Tan Jee Say, once a private secretary for SM Goh, in contest against the incumbent. Vivian Balakrishnan has criticized Vincent Wijaysingha for being gay because of an "unknown" video, but that has yet to proven to be true. Meanwhile the management of YOG by Vivian Balakrishnan might pull down the popularity vote held by the PAP.
Prediction: Equal chances for PAP and SDP to win

Jurong GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Held by Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the last election has seen PAP having a walkover in 2006. NSP vice-president Christopher Neo will be leading a team to contest in this GRC. There might be some competition but might not be as heated as other areas, though I believe the NSP will put up a good fight.
Prediction: PAP to win, NSP with 25% vote percentage

Marine Parade GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
The area where I live in, helmed by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. Having been uncontested for past 3 elections, it has finally been contested by NSP. This battleground will be very interesting, as the youngest PAP and NSP candidates will be contesting there. Nicole Seah, 24, will represent the NSP, while Tin Pei Ling, 27, will represent the PAP. Tin Pei Ling's reputation online is not as good as Nicole Seah's, so the reputation of Tin Pei Ling might put the competition slightly in favour of NSP. The NSP Marine Parade Team's portfolio is boosted by the leader Cheo Chai Chen, who was a ex-SDP member and an ex-MP of the Nee Soon Central SMC from 1991 to 1997. He will definitely provide valuable experience needed for the team. On the other hand, doubts surfaced about Abdul Slim Harun, who had contested as a WP candidate for Ang Mo Kio GRC in 2006. Due to his qualifications, some people have doubts about his competency as an MP. However, this is going to be a close fight, one of the GRCs to watch out for.
Prediction: Close fight between PAP and NSP

Moulmein-Kallang GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
The home ground of Lui Tuck Yew, Minister of Information, Communication and the Arts, it is a newly formed 4 member GRC. WP, one of the most promising opposition parties, has fielded strong candidates to this GRC. With a strong team sent by both sides, the competition might be heated, and this should be one of the GRCs one should look out for.
Prediction: Close fight between PAP and WP

Nee Soon GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
Held by Minister of Law and Minister of Home Affairs K Shanmugan, it is a new GRC carved out from Sembawang GRC. Workers Party, one of the most promising opposition parties, have sent out a strong team to contest in this election. Dr John Yam, council member for WP, will be leading his team against the incumbent. It will be interesting and a heated battle is to be expected between WP and PAP
Prediction: Close fight between PAP and WP

Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC
Competition: SDA vs PAP
Helmed by Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hian, the last elections saw SDA gaining a 31.3% vote in the GRC. New PAP candidate Janil Puthucheary has been criticized on the net for not serving NS as a new citizen, when WP candidate Chen Show Mao has done so. This might hurt the popularity vote of PAP slightly as people would most likely believe in someone who has gone through what they had gone through in NS rather than someone who does not.
Prediction: PAP to win, with SDA having higher vote percentage

Sembawang GRC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Home ground of Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, the previous contest has seen PAP winning a large percentage of the vote. This time SDP will put up a stronger fight against the incumbent party. It will be led by James Gomez, who had attempted to contest in Aljunied GRC in 2001 and 2006 elections but failed during nomination day. Now that he finally got to contest a GRC on his third try, he will surely try his best to lead SDP to success.
Prediction: Tough fight between PAP and SDP

Tampines GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Helmed by Minister of National Development Mah Bow Tan, the last elections saw SDA winning 31.49% of the total votes. The ever-determined NSP, led by Security-General Goh Meng Seng, is looking forward to capturing this GRC for the opposition. With Singaporeans being unhappy with Minister Mah's housing policies, this election will most probably see the vote percentage of the PAP to drop. This GRC will look to be one of the hottest battlegrounds this election. However, if NSP were to achieve success, NSP would have to look at other aspects of life in Singapore instead of just housing.
Prediction: Tough fight between PAP and NSP

Tanjong Pagar GRC
Competition: Walkover
It is really unfortunate for SDA, really, to hand up their nomination 30 seconds late. This means that PAP has no competition in Tanjong Pagar GRC and the PAP team will remain governing this area for the next 5 years. The MPs (since they have a walkover, all 5 candidates can be considered MPs) include Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, Lily Neo, Chia Shi-Lu, Indranee Thurai Rajah and Chan Chun Sing

West Coast GRC
Competition: RP vs PAP
Held by Minister of Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang, this GRC will be contested by the new and energetic Reform Party. Led by leader Kenneth Jeyaretnam, the son of first opposition MP Joseph Benjamin Jeyaretnam, RP will be focusing a lot of its resources to take home this GRC for the opposition. The reception of PAP candidate Foo Me Har has not been so positive on the internet. RP might just use this advantage and attain a high vote percentage and hopefully grab hold of this GRC. Also, with Kenneth Jeyaretnam having great qualifications, he would certainly boost the portfolio of the RP team.
Prediction: Tight contest, good chance for RP to win

Now onto the SMCs, there have been much changes as well.

Bukit Panjang SMC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Teo Ho Pin is the current MP in this constituency. In the previous election, ex-MP Ling How Doong lost to Teo Ho Pin with a vote percentage of 22.82%. Ex-RP vice-chairman Alec Tok, who has recently joined SDP, will stand as the opposition candidate for this SMC. Given Alec's good performance in General Election forums, this might be the SMC to look out for.
Prediction: Tight contest between SDP and PAP

Hong Kah North SMC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
PAP's Amy Khor will contest in this new SMC, along with SPP's Sin Kek Tong. This one will be hard to decide, but most probably PAP will secure this SMC.
Prediction: PAP to win

Hougang SMC
Competition: WP vs PAP
This is one of the only opposition wards, held by WP secretary-general Low Thia Khiang. In a turn of events, Low Thia Khiang will not stand in Hougang this election. Instead, Yaw Shin Leong, the WP candidate in Ang Mo Kio GRC, which is dubbed the "suicide team", will contest in his place. Now the question is, with the change in candidacy, will WP retain this ward, or will PAP capture it and eventually absorb it into a GRC?
Prediction: Tough fight between WP and PAP

Joo Chiat SMC
Competition: WP vs PAP
We will see a three-corner fight here during this election. Charles Chong will be looking to retain this PAP ward. Andrew Kuan, who previously expressed interest to contest in this SMC, has pulled out. Now with WP's Yee Jen Jong contesting against PAP, it will be an interesting fight, since WP achieved a 34.99% vote in the previous election.
Prediction: Tough fight between WP and PAP

Mountbatten SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Marine Parade MP Lim Biow Chuan will be competing against NSP candidate Jeanette Chong. Jeanette, with good qualifications, will have a good fight with MP Lim in this ward. This SMC will be one of the places to look out for this election.
Prediction: Tight fight between PAP and NSP

Pioneer SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
PAP's Cedric Foo will contest against NSP treasurer Steve Chia. Steve Chia, having been an NCMP from 2001 to 2006, should have some valuable experience in the government. This would be a tough fight, and NSP certainly looks like they have a chance to win.
Prediction: Good chance for NSP to win

Potong Pasir SMC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
This ward is held by incumbent opposition SPP MP Chiam See Tong. This time, MP Chiam will contest in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, and his wife Lina Chiam will take his place to contest in this SMC. PAP candidate Sitoh Yih Pin will look forward to contest this SMC for the third time. There is uncertainty whether Lina Chiam will be able to hold on to this SMC. If this SMC is captured by PAP, I believe it will inevitably be absorbed into a bigger GRC as it has the smallest electorate in the whole of Singapore.
Prediction: Tight contest between SPP and PAP

Punggol East SMC
Competition: SDA vs WP vs PAP
This SMC would see a three-cornered fight between these 3 parties. Pasir Ris-Punggol MP Michael Palmer would be most glad to capture this SMC for the PAP. SDA sends their strong candidate Desmond Lim while WP will send another strong candidate Lee Li Lian. With such strong competition and a 3 corner fight, chances for PAP to win will be higher, since the opposition there might dilute the votes.
Prediction: PAP to win

Radin Mas SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Previously eyed by many parties, including RP and SDA, now it boils down to NSP and PAP. NSP, being one of the strongest opposition parties this election, will look forward to competition against PAP.
Prediction: Heated contest between NSP and PAP

Sengkang West SMC
Competition: WP vs PAP
Down to 2 candidates, Lam Pin Min from PAP and Koh Choong Yong from WP, it will be interesting fight between the incumbent and the strongest opposition party.
Prediction: Hot conest between WP and PAP

Whampoa SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
NSP's Ken Sun will look to contest against PAP's Heng Chee How. NSP's Ken Sun, having contested in the by-elections for Marine Parade GRC in 1992, he would have worked the ground well. It would be interesting as to which candidate will eventually capture this SMC.
Prediction: Tight contest between NSP and PAP

Yuhua SMC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Battle of the women, PAP candidate Grace Fu, Minister of State for National Development will be facing Teo Soh Lung of the SDP. Remember Teo Soh Lung? She was one of the people detained by the government through the ISA during Operation Spectrum in 1987. Now running for SDP, it would be an exciting contest in Yuhua SMC.
Prediction: Heated battle between SDP and PAP

Overall, the possible predictions that I have will be:
-2 GRCs, 4SMCs (best case scenario)
-all seats lost (worst case scenario)

Analysis: Who will win in the general elections

2011-04-25T00:29:00.003+08:00

The truth is undeniable that PAP will still win the majority of the seats in parliament.
Having been in power for all of Singapore's history since independence, it will be hard to take down the incumbent party despite the dissent that can be found throughout some Singaporeans.

Opposition parties usually have a hard time fighting for a seat in government. Right now there are only 2 opposition MPs, Low Thia Khiang of Workers Party holding a seat in Hougang SMC, and Chiam See Tong of Singapore Peoples' Party (previously part of Singapore Democratic Alliance) holding a seat in Potong Pasir SMC. Sylvia Lim of Workers Party holds a NCMP seat as the losing party with the most number of votes.

However this election will be different. There have been changes to the constitution to allow internet campaigning. The online community has always been active in the discussion of Singapore politics. From websites such as Temasek Review and The Online Citizen to forums such as HardwareZone, there have been many political voices from many walks of life.

Also, this year, most of the constituency are contested, with as many as 5 political parties contesting in 1 area. This year, the main contesting parties are: People's Action Party, Workers Party, Singapore Democratic Alliance, Reform Party, Singapore People's Party, National Solidarity Party and Singapore Democratic Party.

Lets get into the specifics of each GRC and SMC to see who I feel have possibility to win the election.

Aljunied GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
Currently helmed by Foreign Minister George Yeo and PMO Minister Lim Hwee Hua, this area is one of the hottest battleground in the 2006 Elections. Results were quite close, and Sylvia Lim of Workers Party having a NCMP seat. This time Workers Party would field a strong team that would probably capture the GRC they were so close to getting. Contest might be hot, with the strongest opposition party going head to head with the incumbent.
Prediction: Fired battle, good chance of WP to win

Ang Mo Kio GRC
Possible Competition: RP and SPP vs PAP
The stronghold of PAP, this is where Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stands. In the last election, the WP team, dubbed the "suicide team", managed to captured 33.86% of the votes, which is quite a lot for the opposition party. This year, no opposition candidates are announced yet, but Reform Party is most likely contesting, with 2 members loaned from SPP. This might be the first time two parties are working together to contest against the incumbent party. Though competition might be heated here, I believe the conclusion is easy to see for many.
Prediction: Heated battle but PAP win

Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
Helmed by Deputy PM Wong Kan Seng and Education Minister Ng Eng Hen, it has not been contested ever since the formation of the GRC. The opposition is led by Potong Pasir MP Chiam See Tong, who is the longest serving opposition in Singapore. The team sent out by SPP has candidates with good qualifications and ability. With the reputation of Mr Chiam being very good, even in Bishan-Toa Payoh, competition will be tough.
Prediction: Fierce battle, good chance of SPP to win

Chua Chu Kang GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Helmed by Minister of Manpower Gam Kim Yong, this area is a relatively new GRC formed from Hong Kah GRC and Chua Chu Kang SMC. This time NSP has released a strong team for this election. This includes NSP president Sebestian Teo, Tony Tan and Hazel Poa which are potential candidates previously from RP. NSP, being looked upon as one of the top 3 parties this election, might have a heated battle in this election.
Prediction: Heated battle, PAP to win

East Coast GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
PMO Minister Lim Swee Say's stronghold. This time the Workers Party is looking to send a good team to challenge the incumbent. Workers Party, being one of the most highly recommended opposition parties to look out for, will certainly have a good showing in this GRC. With a previous vote percentage of 36.14%, Workers Party will definitely look forward to getting a higher vote percentage or even win the GRC. But PAP will not slouch either, this would look like one of the hottest areas for this election.
Prediction: PAP to win, WP with higher vote percentage

Holland-Bukit Timah GRC
Potential competition: SDP vs PAP
Home ground of MCYS Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, it has experienced a walkover in 2006. Being a 4 member GRC, it makes it easier for opposition to contest since less people needs to be fielded. SDP will put up a good team against the PAP. However I would not expect competition to be as hot as in other GRCs.
Prediction: PAP to win, SDP higher vote percentage

Jurong GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Held by Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the last election has seen PAP having a walkover in 2006. NSP vice-president Christopher Neo will be leading a team to contest in this GRC. There might be some competition but might not be as heated as other areas, though I believe the NSP will put up a good fight.
Prediction: PAP to win, NSP with 25% vote percentage

Marine Parade GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
The area where I live in, helmed by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. Having been uncontested for past 3 elections, it has finally been contested by NSP. This battleground will be very interesting, as the youngest PAP and NSP candidates will be contesting there. Nicole Seah, 24, will represent the NSP, while Tin Pei Ling, 27, will represent the PAP. Tin Pei Ling's reputation online is not as good as Nicole Seah's, so the reputation of Tin Pei Ling might put the competition slightly in favour of NSP. The NSP Marine Parade Team's portfolio is boosted by the leader Cheo Chai Chen, who was a ex-SDP member and an ex-MP of the Nee Soon Central SMC from 1991 to 1997. He will definitely provide valuable experience needed for the team. On the other hand, doubts surfaced about Abdul Slim Harun, who had contested as a WP candidate for Ang Mo Kio GRC in 2006. Due to his qualifications, some people have doubts about his competency as an MP. However, this is going to be a close fight, one of the GRCs to watch out for.
Prediction: Close fight between PAP and NSP

Moulmein-Kallang GRC
Competition: WP vs PAP
The home ground of Lui Tuck Yew, Minister of Information, Communication and the Arts, it is a newly formed 4 member GRC. WP will be fielding a star team this election, with their "trump card" Chen Show Mao. Chen Show Mao has been praised by online netizens for serving NS voluntarily despite not needed for new citizens to do so. Chen Show Mao has been frequently contrasted with Janil Puthucheary, PAP candidate for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, who did not serve NS voluntarily as a new Singapore citizen. Having good qualifications, Chen Show Mao is a good candidate to look out for. This will probably be the hottest contest this General Election, with WP and PAP having a good fight.
Prediction: WP to win

Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC
Competition: SDA vs PAP
Helmed by Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hian, the last elections saw SDA gaining a 31.3% vote in the GRC. New PAP candidate Janil Puthucheary has been criticized on the net for not serving NS as a new citizen, when WP candidate Chen Show Mao has done so. This might hurt the popularity vote of PAP slightly as people would believe in someone who has gone through what they had gone through in NS.
Prediction: PAP to win, with SDA having higher vote percentage

Sembawang GRC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Home ground of Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, the previous contest has seen PAP winning a large percentage of the vote. This time SDP will put up a stronger fight against the incumbent party. However, I do not believe this will be a very hot battleground for this election compared to the other GRCs.
Prediction: PAP to win, SDP have higher vote percentage

Tampines GRC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Helmed by Minister of National Development Mah Bow Tan, the last elections saw SDA winning 31.49% of the total votes. The ever-determined NSP, led by Security-General Goh Meng Seng, is looking forward to capturing this GRC for the opposition. With Singaporeans being unhappy with Minister Mah's housing policies, this election will most probably see the vote percentage of the PAP to drop. This GRC will look to be one of the hottest battlegrounds this election. However, if NSP were to achieve success, NSP would have to look at other aspects of life in Singapore instead of just housing.
Prediction: Tough fight between PAP and NSP

Tanjong Pagar GRC
Competition: Walkover
Unfortunately, it was announced today that SDA will not contest in this area due to lack of funds, which means that the incumbent PAP, led by founder of Singapore and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew will most probably have a walkover this election. This is unless a miracle happens and SDA raises enough money to field a team of their own to fight in Tanjong Pagar.

West Coast GRC
Competition: RP vs PAP
Held by Minister of Trade and Industry Lim Hng Kiang, this GRC will be contested by the new and energetic Reform Party. Led by leader Kenneth Jeyaretnam, the son of first opposition MP Joseph Benjamin Jeyaretnam, RP will be focusing a lot of its resources to take home this GRC for the opposition. The reception of PAP candidate Foo Me Har has not been so positive on the internet. RP might just use this advantage and attain a high vote percentage and hopefully grab hold of this GRC. Also, with Kenneth Jeyaretnam having great qualifications, he would certainly boost the portfolio of the RP team.
Prediction: Tight contest, good chance for RP to win

Now on to SMCs, which have an even tighter contest, some having up to 5 candidates contesting.

Bukit Panjang SMC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Teo Ho Pin is the current MP in this constituency. In the previous election, ex-MP Ling How Doong lost to Teo Ho Pin with a vote percentage of 22.82%. This year I believe the percentage of votes for the opposition will increase, but not by much.
Prediction: PAP to win

Hong Kah North SMC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
PAP's Amy Khor will contest in this new SMC, along with SPP's Sin Kek Ton. This one will be hard to decide, but most probably PAP will secure this SMC.
Prediction: PAP to win

Hougang SMC
Competition: WP vs PAP
This is one of the only opposition wards, held by WP secretary-general Low Thia Khiang. Desmond Choo from PAP will try to wrestle Hougang SMC from the opposition, but given the support for Low Thia Khiang, most likely this SMC will remain in opposition hands.
Prediction: WP to win

Joo Chiat SMC
Competition: WP vs Independent vs PAP
We will see a three-corner fight here during this election. Charles Chong will be looking to retain this PAP ward. However independent hopeful Andrew Kuan, who previously applied for candidacy in the 2005 Presidental elections, will be looking forward to capture a seat in this SMC. With WP contesting as well, the opposition votes will be diluted, and artificially inflating the PAP vote percentage in the process.
Prediction: PAP to win

Mountbatten SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
Marine Parade MP Lim Biow Chuan will be competing against NSP candidate Jeanette Chong. Jeanette, with good qualifications, will have a good fight with MP Lim in this ward. However, if SDA and the Socialist Front also decided to contest this area, this might dilute the votes of NSP and pass the ward to PAP.
Prediction: Tight fight between PAP and NSP, if 4-cornered fight PAP to win

Pioneer SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
PAP's Cedric Foo will contest against NSP treasurer Steve Chia. It does not really look optimistic for NSP as reception towards Steve has not been very good there. However I believe NSP will put up a good fight and achieve a significant number of votes to reduce the percentage popularity votes held by PAP.
Prediction: PAP to win

Potong Pasir SMC
Competition: SPP vs PAP
This ward is held by incumbent opposition SPP MP Chiam See Tong. This time, MP Chiam will contest in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, and his wife Lina Chiam will take his place to contest in this SMC. PAP candidate Sitoh Yih Pin will look forward to contest this SMC for the third time. There is uncertainty whether Lina Chiam will be able to hold on to this SMC. If this SMC is captured by PAP, I believe it will inevitably be absorbed into a bigger GRC as it has the smallest electorate in the whole of Singapore.
Prediction: Tight contest between SPP and PAP

Punggol East SMC
Competition: SDA vs WP vs PAP
This SMC would most likely see a three-cornered fight between these 3 parties. Pasir Ris-Punggol MP Michael Palmer would be most glad to capture this SMC for the PAP. With two opposition parties diluting the vote, the chance of PAP to win would be higher.
Prediction: PAP to win

Radin Mas SMC
Competition: NSP vs SDA vs PAP
This SMC would most likely see a three-cornered fight between 3 parties. PAP candidate Sam Tan would be able to capture this SMC if the opposition votes are diluted.
Prediction: PAP to win

Sengkang West SMC
Competition: WP vs PLDP vs SDA vs PAP
A four-cornered fight might be seen in this SMC. PAP MP Lam Pin Min might be able to capture this SMC for PAP. The contest between the 3 opposition parties might dilute the votes so bad that one of the parties might not get their electoral deposit back.
Prediction: PAP to win

Whampoa SMC
Competition: NSP vs PAP
NSP's Ken Sun will look to contest against PAP's Heng Chee How. Given that Whampoa SMC is mostly filled with the elderly who hsa sentiments towards the PAP, PAP has a higher chance to win. However, there might be surprises in store in this SMC.
Prediction: Tight contest between NSP and PAP

Yuhua SMC
Competition: SDP vs PAP
Battle of the women, PAP candidate Grace Fu, Minister of State for National Development will be facing Jaslyn Go of the SDP. Currently Grace Fu holds the MP seat for the Yuhua section of the Jurong GRC, which is crafted out as Yuhua SMC this year.
Prediction: PAP to win

Overall, the possible predictions that I have will be:
-2 GRCs, 4SMCs (best case scenario)
-1SMC (worst case scenario)

Training Log 15 April 2011

2011-04-16T01:21:00.001+08:00

Training log:

Bicep curls 4 sets, 50 curls
Cable Seated Row 4 sets, 30 reps

Training Log 14 April 2011

2011-04-14T00:37:00.000+08:00

Training log:

Bicep Curls 4 sets, 50 curls
Dumbbell Shoulder Press 4 sets, 50 reps
Cable Seated Row 6 sets, 30 reps

Revival

2011-04-14T00:09:00.003+08:00

Just a revival to draft out my training plan for NAPFA, OAC and Temasek Titans

Currently, performance for my NAPFA is like this...

Sit ups in 1 minute: 35
Standing broad jump: 205cm
Sit and reach: 38cm
Pull ups: 1 (now drop to 0, sad)
4x10m shuttle run: 11.3s
2.4km: 14.23 min

Very poor performance last year, could have done better.

Right now for NAPFA, I am aiming for this (by week 10 of school):
Sit ups in one minute: above 45
Standing broad jump: above 246cm
Pull ups: Ideally 8, try to reach 6
Shuttle run: 10.5 seconds
2.4km run: 10 minutes

For OAC, I am aiming for this (by 30 June 2011):
Sit ups in 3 minutes: 75 (can be more)
Push ups: 40 (can be more)
Pull ups: 12
Squat thrusts in 3 minutes: 45
5km run: 25 minutes

Training plan as follows

Improvement of sit ups:
Sit Ups 4 sets of 50, OAC standard
Planks 4 sets of 2 minutes
Times per week: everyday except training days

Standing broad jump:
Squats, 4 sets of 50, OAC standard
Times per week: everyday except training days

Sit and reach:
Stretching exercises (focus on hamstrings and lower back)
Times per week: everyday except training days

Pull ups:
Negatives pull ups till reaching 2 pull ups
Grip training (hold for 30 seconds minimum)
Bicep curl endurance training, 3kg dumbbells 50 reps, 4 sets (what to do, no choice but to use it)
After reaching 2 pull ups, do 10 sets of 1 pull up
Reaching 4 pull ups, 10 sets of 2 pull up
Reaching 6 pull ups, 10 sets of 3 pull up
Reaching 8 pull ups, 10 sets of 4 pull up
Reaching 10 pull ups, 10 sets of 5 pull up
Reaching 12 pull ups, 12 sets of 5 pull up
Times per week: everyday except training days

Shuttle run/2.4km run/5km run:
Interval training
Since there is no running track nearby, use straight running path
400 metres in 1 min 30 seconds, 6 times, 1 minute rest in between
After achieving 400 metres in 1 min 30 seconds for 6 sets, increase sets to 8
After achieving 400 metres in 1 min 30 seconds for 8 sets, reduce time to 1 min 25 seconds for 6 sets
After achieving 400 metres in 1 min 25 seconds for 6 sets, increase sets to 8
Cycle repeats with decreasing timings and increasing sets
For shuttle run, train braking at distances till familiar
Times per week: Any free day, if raining substitute with squats

Push ups:
Inclined training
50 push ups per set for 4 sets on computer table
When confident, move on to 50 push ups per set for 4 sets on computer chair
After that move on to 50 push ups per set for 4 sets on stacks of books
Further decrease inclination to 50 push ups per set for 4 sets on ledge
Finally decrease inclination to 50 push ups per set on floor
After that, determine maximum number of push ups till failure
Divide by 2 to get the maximum number of push ups per set, do for 10 sets
Increase by 5 when confident, do for 10 sets
Times per week: everyday except training days

Squat thrusts:
Squat thrusts training
Determine maximum number of squat thrusts till failure
Divide by do to determine number of squat thrusts per set, do for 10 sets
Increase by 5 when confident, do for 10 sets
Training days: everyday except training days

Oh yeah finally completed my training plan, now to execute it.