Andre Low: The DIY Politician Ready for Action!

SINGAPORE - At just 33 years old, Andre Low is gearing up to bring his 'hands-on' mentality to Parliament after being unveiled as a candidate for the Workers' Party (WP). With a background steeped in practical skills, growing up alongside his design teacher father, Mr. Low learned the art of hands-on problem-solving early on, bonding over fixing light bulbs and extending power cords.

His do-it-yourself philosophy even showed in his home renovation projects after moving into a resale flat in Punggol, where he tackled ceiling fan installations and plumbing himself. This commitment to getting things done extends to his work within the WP, where he single-handedly revamped the party’s website.

A Fresh Voice in the Opposition!

Mr. Low aims to inject a hands-on approach into his parliamentary work. Speaking at a Housing Board event in Rivervale, where he once served as an aide, he expressed hope for a more open society in Singapore, noting that discussions about critical issues have been stifled in recent years.

"Ironically, the 80s and 90s, often seen as restrictive times, felt like there was more room for debate. Today, society feels curtailed," he stated, highlighting a pressing need for change.

An Unexpected Political Journey!

His journey into politics was serendipitous. Initially, he simply wanted to lend a hand after volunteering with WP in 2020. As he assisted with grassroots outreach and became a secretarial assistant to incumbent MP Louis Chua, he found unexpected leadership opportunities, like managing operations during remote community sessions amidst the pandemic. "It wasn't what I signed up for, but it became a pleasant surprise," he reflected.

Bridging Generations!

With a baby on the way and his first election campaign ahead, Mr. Low is motivated by legacy. He recognizes the contributions of past opposition figures who paved the way for today’s political landscape. As a millennial, he aims to champion issues that resonate with younger Singaporeans, especially housing — a concern dear to his heart.

"There's a gap in representation for people my age in politics. It's vital to voice the concerns of young millennials and emerging Gen Zs," he asserted.

Connecting with Young Voters!

As young Singaporeans prepare to cast their votes for the first time, Mr. Low is committed to bridging the generational divide. He empathizes with the passion of Gen Z activists who fight for climate awareness and urges us to listen to their concerns.

"They might be seen as overreacting, but behind that passion lies a critical dialogue we must engage with," he remarked.

Advocating for a New Educational Approach!

Another pivotal cause for Mr. Low is promoting open-ended education in schools, fostering a mindset of exploration rather than rote learning. Drawing from his diverse career transitions—from law to tech, then consulting and back to tech—he believes that educational institutions should encourage risk-taking.

The Anticipation Builds...

While WP remains coy about its electoral strategy and candidate placements, Mr. Low has been active in Tampines, engaging with residents keen on having the opposition party represent them. The grassroots support is palpable, as constituents express eagerness for the WP's presence.

If the WP decides to contend in Tampines, Mr. Low predicts a thrilling political race ahead. "The ground is favorable, and I’m looking forward to what’s next!" he exclaimed with palpable enthusiasm.

As Singapore gears up for the upcoming elections, Andre Low might just be the fresh voice the political arena needs!