Reaching out to disadvantaged kids

Shamsul Kamar Mohamed Razali, 43

Occupation: Previously head of student management at Spectra Secondary School. Now unemployed and focusing on the elections.

Family: Married to a travel agency coordinator, 39.

Education: Master's in South-east Asian Studies from National University of Singapore

Hobbies: Snorkelling, swimming, watching movies

Why politics?

About 30 per cent of the residents in Kaki Bukit are elderly and many of their children have moved out.

I'm bringing back the Wellness Bus Programme (where) we bring healthcare services to the residents, and doing a Befrienders project targeted at the elderly.

As a politician, you may be able to make a difference, by making the right connections and connecting with the right agency and people.

Why you?

I am passionate and sincere about making a difference.

What issues will you focus on?

As a volunteer with the Ministry of Social and Family Development, I found that many children from dysfunctional families are residing in welfare homes, juvenile homes and orphanages. As an educator, I also taught Normal (Technical) kids.

So how can we ensure they finish their education, reach a certain level and live a life of their own?

I feel there is still some disconnect (in reaching out) despite us having a many-helping-hands approach and the programmes available.

Favourite spot in Singapore?

I go to this Indian-Muslim restaurant in Joo Chiat called Al Aziz. It is very quaint and quiet.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on August 29, 2015, with the headline Reaching out to disadvantaged kids. Subscribe