This is PAP's new candidate, Dr Janil Puthucheary, seen in a PAP introduction video, doing his doctorly thing. Dr Puthucheary is the son of PAP founding member and former ISA detainee Dominic Puthucheary, and has been a Singapore Citizen since 2008.
In a recent press interview, the younger Puthucheary said:
"…As for criticism that he did not serve national service, as he became a Singapore citizen at the age of 35, the paediatrician said he has been in public service: 'I've spent the last 10 years saving kids' lives.'"
I am not sure that was a satisfactory response to many Singaporean males. I have no doubt he is a fine doctor and he served the public in this way. But getting all defensive like that just made him look like an arrogant fellow to blokes who have served their NS time (2-2.5 years of active service and 10 years of reservist).
I liked how Catherine Lim (I think it's THE Catherine Lim but I cannot tell because her profile photo is that of a panda. Update: it's the OTHER Catheine Lim) responded to this in a Facebook comment:
"#Module 102 to candidates after lock up all your private photos on internet: Don't respond defensively. Yes I know I did not serve NS, I have a harder road ahead and this is how I want to serve Singapore …Yes I did break a promise to my wife, but we have talked about it she is behind me 100%. My father has supported my decision, there is no betrayal. What came out online was negative reaction and opinion, don't dis the opinions, respond with a positive. Loss an opportunity there Puthucherry."
