Did my monthly walkabout at Tiong Bahru market today. It’s a very useful way to keep in touch with people and the ground. Many take it as an opportunity to give feedback and suggestions. People with specific appeals also find it helpful as they can approach me for assistance.
Many at the hawker centre are regular patrons living in in the neighbourhood but many are also from elsewhere in Singapore as well as visitors from abroad. I usually ask where they are from to get a sense of the profile of the customers.
Different people have different reactions. Some are surprised. Many are warm. Some want to take photos. A number even offer to share their breakfast which is very kind.
A very small number however prefer not to be engaged. For example this morning, I approached an older couple and introduced myself as MP for the area. The wife was friendly. The husband said he preferred not to be disturbed, a decision which I respected and hence smiled and moved on.
Somewhat oddly, a short while after my walk about, an online article appeared referring to this encounter and purporting to set out a whole conversation which allegedly took place after he said he did not want to be disturbed. Since I had moved on once he said he did not want to be disturbed, there was no opportunity for further conversation.
I have learned however not to be deterred by such online things.
Being on the ground and reaching out to people is what all MPs must do.
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