The People’s Association (PA) is currently struggling with how to adapt its programmes to meet the needs of an increasing number of Singaporeans living in private estates.
Lim Boon Heng, Deputy Chairman of PA, announced a new coordinating unit for neighbourhood committees (NCs), the grassroots bodies established in 1998 to organise events for Singaporeans living in private estates.
Unit coordinator Ms. Jeanie Tan said it will push strategies for NCs, as well as help them on various matters, including how to reach out to more dwellers.
On the role of NCs and Residents’ Committees (RCs), their Housing Development Board (HDB) counterparts, Mr. Lim said, “With more residents living in private estates, NCs play an increasingly important role. But NCs cannot use the same strategies as RCs, as the needs are somewhat different.”
The PA will also introduce a scheme wherein managers are employed to help NCs and RCs coordinate their activities.