Newly-appointed National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan revealed in a recent blog post that young couples, divorcees with children and low-income families will be the immediate focus of the ministry.
In the first entry in his blog, entitled Housing Matters, Mr. Khaw wrote, “I am not a masochist. Housing is hot politically and there are genuine problems on the ground.”
“At my MPS, 70 percent of appeal cases are on housing. I don’t think I am the only MP who harasses MND/HDB regularly.”
Mr. Khaw also emphasised that the key to addressing the housing needs of the country is to prioritise and set realistic goals for different timeframes, short, medium, and long term.
Referring to the blog, he wrote, “It is meant to be interactive as I will particularly value your comments, reactions and views.”
Mr. Khaw felt he can be more useful in the National Development Ministry.
The minister added that he has received a lot of feedback, with hundreds of e-mail messages, letters and messages on Facebook, with some advising him “not to try to please all, as that will surely fail.”
For example, many want him to bring property prices down, while others are also warning him not to do so.
“I am, therefore, realistic about what is doable.”
Mr. Khaw said he will consult with experts, industry players, customers and Singaporeans, utilising all available platforms of communication, either on-line or off-line.
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