'When we say we'll do something, we make sure we deliver it': PM

It is easy to take for granted how things get built in Singapore, where the authorities ensure that projects get done and are delivered, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at the opening of the fourth stage of the Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) on June 21.

- Esther Loi, Whitney William

"We say we want to do something, and eventually it gets done," said PM Wong at Marine Parade station, one of seven new stops along TEL Stage 4 (TEL4). The others are Tanjong Rhu, Katong Park, Tanjong Katong, Marine Terrace, Siglap and Bayshore.

He noted that in many other countries around the world, including advanced ones, there may be difficulties in completing projects due to funding issues, resistance from residents or people who are inconvenienced.

"Sometimes, political parties change and the new party comes into power, and they shelve the plans from the previous party," he added.

"So, in many of these places, people talk about wanting to do things, but after a long time, things still cannot get done. Here in Singapore, when we say we will do something, we make sure we deliver it." Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and former Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan also attended the opening ceremony on June 21.

PM Wong said the TEL is just a part of the Government's investment in the public transport system and that "we are certainly not done expanding our rail network".

He noted that more than 50 new MRT stations will open over the next decade, including those along the new Jurong Region Line and Cross Island Line, which will improve connectivity within Singapore's west, east and north-east.

The seven new stations along TEL4 were opened to the public on June 21 for a preview that drew around 380,000 people, two days before passenger service starts on June 23.

PM Wong recounted his days growing up in Marine Terrace in the 1980s, when he had wished for an MRT station closer to his home.