My secondary school testimonial said, “Sociable and friendly, Pritam got along well with his school mates. He was not shy and was always ready to make new friends, experience new things and meet challenges.”

What I remember most is playing soccer with my mates. We played up to three times a day with a plastic ball. Scoring goals for the class and house teams are endearing memories of a fitter life left behind!

I probably developed an interest in politics in my first year of university or thereabouts. The Workers’ Party mirrored my own attitude and vision to the type of opposition politics I would like to see in Singapore. Rational, responsible, respectable.

Connecting with the people is very important. It’s our Party’s bread and butter, and it keeps us rooted to ground issues and realities that affect Singaporeans.

Workers’ Party MPs do not have a philosophy of opposing for the sake of opposing. We scrutinize government bills and ask questions for the benefit of Singaporeans. You can expect us to continue along these lines in future.

What have I learnt from my first parliament sittings? Be prepared for anything!

I think there’s a perceptible demand, regardless of policy, for a government that’s transparent and accountable to Singaporeans—not in words, but in deeds.

Our longstanding, elite-underwritten, government-knows-best attitude has become an albatross around our necks insofar as the political evolution of Singapore is concerned. There is a lot of room for improvement in the areas of transparency and accountability.

I sense some movement in this direction, but in my view, it’s too fitful and indifferent at the moment.

I have a feeling of great pride in representing Eunos. It’s been demanding, but personally satisfying. There is a deep history to this ward, which has seen some very close electoral contests over the decades.

I’d like to play a modest role in Singapore’s political evolution.

Singapore’s political evolution is in the hands of Singaporeans. Decisions taken at the ballot box are a reflection of the wishes of the people.

I don’t like dealing with liars.

I don’t think much ill can come from asking people to do their very best and not to sweat the small stuff. I should remind myself of my own advice every now and then, too.

Live a full life; an honest life.

For unwinding after a long day, spending time with one’s better half is top of the list. It’s also quite amazing what a relaxing walk, conversation or drink (either alcoholic or non-alcoholic!) can do for you.