SINGAPORE — Presidential candidate Tan Kin Lian on Wednesday (Aug 30) defended the endorsement he has received from opposition politicians Dr Tan Cheng Bock and Mr Tan Jee Say, saying that they have both done so in their personal capacity and as such it is not “party politics”.
APOLOGISES FOR ‘UPSETTING OR INAPPROPRIATE’ REMARKS
In his opening remarks, Mr Tan Kin Lian also apologised for remarks and actions he had made previously that were “upsetting or inappropriate”.
“As an outgoing person, I like to share my daily activities and observations on everyday life. I never meant any disrespect to the people I encountered,” he said. “I will be more mindful (of) what I say in the future.”
When asked why he was apologising on the last day of the campaign, he said he was advised to but did not elaborate further on who he was advised by.
He also apologised for cancelling an online rally — which was planned for Wednesday night — due to a “conflict of priority”.
Mr Tan said he had to focus on getting approvals for counting agents, putting up posters and organising volunteers, among other things, given his team’s limited resources.
His volunteers are now focused on giving out as many flyers as possible and sharing his campaign message across Singapore before the day ends.
Mr Tan told the media that he will be spending time with his family on cooling-off day, with plans to have a steamboat dinner.
Meanwhile on polling day, he will be stationed at his home, or “command centre”, to monitor the results.
After speaking to the media, Mr Tan then took selfies and gave out signed cards with his picture to his volunteers.
While describing his flyers and posters to the media, he quipped: “I believe that the people who receive these (flyers and posters) will keep them and if I get elected, it will be more valuable.”