GE2025: Maliki Osman Replaced by Hazlina Abdul Halim in East Coast GRC
Alt text: Maliki Osman replaced by Hazlina Abdul Halim in GE2025 East Coast GRC
Maliki Osman replaced by PAP new face Hazlina Abdul Halim on the East Coast GRC slate for Singapore’s General Election 2025 (GE2025) marks a significant shift in the People’s Action Party (PAP) lineup. Dr Maliki Osman, a veteran politician and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, announced he will not contest in East Coast GRC, leaving uncertainty about whether he will retire or be redeployed elsewhere. This blog explores the details of this transition, Hazlina’s background, and what it means for East Coast voters.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Maliki Osman’s Departure
- Who Is Hazlina Abdul Halim?
- Why Maliki Osman Is Replaced in East Coast GRC
- East Coast GRC’s Electoral History
- Implications for GE2025
- What’s Next for Maliki Osman?
- Conclusion: A New Chapter for East Coast
Introduction to Maliki Osman’s Departure
On April 11, 2025, Dr Maliki Osman confirmed he will step down from contesting in East Coast Group Representation Constituency (GRC) for GE2025. A stalwart of the PAP since 2001, Maliki has served as an MP for Sembawang GRC and later East Coast GRC, holding roles like Second Minister for Education and Foreign Affairs. His decision not to clarify whether he’s retiring or moving to another constituency has sparked speculation among voters and analysts alike.
Maliki’s exit paves the way for Hazlina Abdul Halim, a fresh face in the PAP’s ranks, to take over his Siglap ward. This change comes as Singapore gears up for a highly anticipated election, with East Coast GRC remaining a key battleground.
Who Is Hazlina Abdul Halim?
Hazlina Abdul Halim, aged 40, brings a diverse resume to the PAP’s East Coast slate. Formerly the chief executive of Make-A-Wish Singapore, she has also served as president of Persatuan Pemudi Islam Singapura (PPIS) from 2020 to 2024. Her career began in media, where she worked as a radio presenter for Mediacorp’s Ria 89.7FM and later as a news editor at Channel NewsAsia. Hazlina also held a role as a public affairs advisor at the US Embassy in Singapore before transitioning to the social impact sector.
Currently, she is the senior vice-president of strategy and communications at Teneo, an advisory firm. Hazlina’s community work includes volunteering with MacPherson MP Tin Pei Ling, giving her grassroots experience. Maliki praised her “integrity, empathy, and purpose,” qualities he believes will resonate with East Coast residents.
Why Maliki Osman Is Replaced in East Coast GRC
The decision to replace Maliki Osman in East Coast GRC stems from strategic considerations by the PAP. East Coast’s boundaries were redrawn in March 2025, absorbing Joo Chiat from Marine Parade GRC and adding over 30,000 voters, bringing the total to 150,691. This expansion, coupled with the inclusion of Minister Edwin Tong, created a surplus of senior officeholders in one GRC—an uncommon setup for PAP teams.
Maliki’s Siglap ward also lost parts of Loyang and Flora estates to the new Pasir Ris-Changi GRC, potentially influencing the decision to introduce a new candidate. Hazlina’s fresh perspective and community-focused background align with PAP’s goal to connect with East Coast’s diverse demographic, from HDB residents to private estate owners.
East Coast GRC’s Electoral History
East Coast GRC has a history of tight races, making it a focal point for GE2025. In 2020, the PAP team, led by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, secured a narrow victory with 53.41% of the vote against a strong Workers’ Party (WP) slate, including Nicole Seah. This was a drop from 60.73% in 2015, signaling growing competition.
The constituency, covering Bedok, Simei, and Siglap, now includes Chai Chee and Joo Chiat, diversifying its voter base. With Maliki Osman replaced by Hazlina Abdul Halim, the PAP aims to maintain its hold while addressing residents’ concerns about cost of living, housing, and community development.
Implications for GE2025
Hazlina’s introduction could reshape the dynamics of East Coast GRC. Her media savvy and nonprofit experience may appeal to younger voters and families, while her Malay-Muslim background ensures representation in a GRC requiring a minority candidate. However, she faces the challenge of stepping into Maliki’s shoes, given his long-standing rapport with Siglap residents.
The WP is likely to mount another strong challenge, capitalizing on their 2020 performance. Analysts predict a fierce contest, with Hazlina’s ability to connect on the ground being critical. The PAP’s broader strategy, including high-profile walkabouts with Heng and Tong, suggests confidence in their revamped team.
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What’s Next for Maliki Osman?
Maliki’s future remains unclear. At 59, he could be redeployed to another constituency, such as Pasir Ris-Changi GRC, which absorbed parts of his ward. However, speculation about retirement persists, especially after he declined to comment on his plans during a walkabout on April 12, 2025. His extensive experience as a minister and MP makes him a valuable asset, but the PAP may opt to refresh its lineup with younger candidates.
Maliki’s endorsement of Hazlina signals his commitment to a smooth transition. He urged grassroots leaders to support her, emphasizing her readiness to serve. Whether he steps back or takes on a new role, Maliki’s legacy in East Coast will influence the campaign.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for East Coast
Maliki Osman replaced by Hazlina Abdul Halim marks a pivotal moment for East Coast GRC as GE2025 approaches. Hazlina’s diverse background and community ties position her as a promising candidate, but she must navigate a competitive electoral landscape. For voters, this change reflects the PAP’s blend of renewal and continuity in addressing Singapore’s evolving needs.
As the campaign unfolds, East Coast residents will weigh Hazlina’s vision against the WP’s challenge, shaping the constituency’s future. With Maliki’s next steps uncertain, all eyes are on how this transition impacts one of Singapore’s most watched GRCs.
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