Dear Residents,

2009 has been such a challenging year that many residents have indicated that they simply wish to forget 2009. I share these sentiments. However, the good news is: the worst is over. Let’s look ahead to see how we can best position ourselves, as a nation and as an individual, for the recovery.

In times of crisis, remaining united is even more critical. We have always pledged to be ‘‘one people, one nation, one Singapore”. That cohesiveness is what makes Singapore unique and extends beyond our immediate families to, in our case, the bigger Serangoon community.

Since late 2008, we have experienced an unprecedented scale of an economic downturn and the associated anxiety over our well-being, our jobs and our ability to sustain financially. Some of us, having lost our jobs or taken a pay cut, encountered problems with servicing our mortgages.

But this trial is not all about pain. It is at difficult times like these that I also see the best of familial ties – how members chip in to help out with the household expenses or to reduce expenditure or to work longer hours for more pay. Emotional and moral support is most crucial at this time and families will emerge the stronger for it.

Economists have opined that some major economies, like the US, are still saddled with restructuring challenges. Others, like China and India, will however chug along and record robust, healthy growth. This new world order means that we in Singapore will have to take stock of our economic position and examine how we should revise our strategy.

Throughout our history, we have been very much a part of the global marketplace, with its ever changing landscape, and have inculcated a resilient and adaptable spirit in ourselves. I am confident that this same spirit will be our point of differentiation and competitiveness.

As we enter a new year, may I wish each and everyone in the Serangoon division of the Aljunied GRC a truly healthy, happy and peaceful 2010.

With best wishes,
Mrs Lim Hwee Hua

Click here to download Serangoon Newsletter Jan 2010 (PDF, 13meg)