In a notable political event in Singapore, former non-profit leader Madam Hazlina Abdul Halim was seen participating in a walkabout at Marine Parade on March 22. Having previously served as the chief executive of Make-A-Wish Singapore, her appearance is generating buzz as a potential indication that she may be fielded as a candidate in the newly formed Marine Parade-Braddell Heights Group Representation Constituency (GRC).

During the walkabout, which featured all current MPs from Marine Parade GRC, Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng warmly introduced Madam Hazlina to residents and stallholders at the Block 50A Marine Terrace Market. Dressed in white and proudly wearing a People’s Action Party (PAP) badge, she engaged with individuals, shaking hands and capturing photos with many community members.

At just 40 years old, Madam Hazlina has a rich background that began as a radio presenter on Mediacorp's Ria 89.7FM. Her career expanded to include hosting live TV shows and serving as an assignments editor at Channel NewsAsia's Singapore desk. Notably, she led the Singapore Muslim Women’s Association (PPIS) from 2020 to 2024 and currently holds a director position with Mendaki, a significant educational resource for the Malay/Muslim community.

In her discussions with media, Madam Hazlina expressed confidence that her extensive involvement with community organizations over the last ten years has equipped her with a deep understanding of citizens' needs and how to address them effectively. Her insights suggest that she may bring a fresh perspective to the PAP's approach to community engagement and development.

While Minister Tan remained coy about her confirmed candidacy, he emphasized the versatility of PAP’s candidates. “The final line-up is not certain,” he remarked, alluding to the ongoing preparations for the upcoming general election.

Mr. Chan Sek Inn, who runs 132 Traditional Teochew Noodles, shared his initial impressions of Madam Hazlina, noting the refreshingly young faces in the team and expressing confidence in Tan's leadership in guiding the new candidates.

As changes to the Marine Parade GRC's electoral boundaries loom with the upcoming elections, the new five-member Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC will absorb portions of the current MacPherson and Mountbatten SMCs while ceding the entire Joo Chiat ward and Chai Chee Housing Board estates to East Coast GRC.

MacPherson MP Tin Pei Ling enthusiastically endorsed Madam Hazlina, highlighting her excellent rapport with residents and her dedicated service within the community.

Several other notable figures attended the walkabout, including Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong, Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng, and Mayor of South East District Mohd Fahmi Aliman, all of whom expressed their support for the rising stars in the PAP.

The shifts in electoral boundaries have led to speculation about potential changes to the current team, with Mr. Tong candidly mentioning the emotional difficulty of leaving his long-time constituency if required to move to East Coast GRC.

“This is a consequence of population changes and demographic impacts on the boundaries,” he acknowledged, while expressing hope for the future.

As the political landscape evolves in Singapore, all eyes are now on Madam Hazlina Abdul Halim and her potential role within the PAP in shaping the future of governance and community support in the nation. Stay tuned for more updates as the preparations for GE2025 unfold!