Pritam Singh seen taking public transport after govt energy-saving call; netizens praise “leading by example”

A photo of Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh taking public transport has circulated on social media.

The image, shared on Reddit on 10 April 2026, shows the Aljunied GRC MP standing in a train carriage reading a newspaper.

It is not known when the photograph was taken.

The timing of the Reddit post coincided with earlier advice by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong in his ministerial statement in Parliament on 7 April, where he urged Singaporeans to take public transport instead of driving as part of efforts to manage rising energy costs linked to the Middle East conflict.

Save and take public transport
by u/LegitimateCow7472 in SingaporeRaw

Online reactions highlight calls for leadership by example

The circulation of Singh’s photo prompted a wave of online reactions, with many praising the act as consistent with the government’s call for behavioural change.

Some commenters described the image as “leading the way with action, not words”, while others remarked that “at least he take public transport”.

However, the discussion also reflected broader scepticism about whether public officials were modelling the same behaviour expected of citizens.

Several online users questioned the visibility of ministers adopting similar measures, with some asking where Gan was “when he asked people to use and take public transport”.

Others argued that leaders should “walk their talk” and demonstrate energy-saving practices in their daily routines.

DPM Gan urges Singaporeans to use fans, cut aircon use, and take public transport to save energy

Earlier on Tuesday, DPM Gan warned that rising global energy costs would have sustained economic effects.

Gan said that while Singapore’s first-quarter GDP growth remained resilient, “these sectoral impacts will weigh on economic activities in the coming quarters”.

He cited rising fuel costs, supply chain disruptions, and weakening global demand as key pressures facing the economy.

Inflation is expected to exceed the government’s earlier forecast of 1 to 2 per cent for 2026, with higher oil and natural gas prices likely to drive up electricity tariffs in the next quarter.

“The crisis is unlikely to be over anytime soon, and we must be prepared for its effect to persist for some time,” Gan said.

He added that lower-income households would be disproportionately affected, as a larger share of their spending goes towards essential goods and services.

In response, Gan urged Singaporeans to adopt energy-saving habits, including using fans instead of air-conditioning and taking public transport rather than driving.

“Households can do our best to conserve electricity, use climate vouchers to purchase more energy-efficient appliances, and adopt simple measures such as using fans instead of air-conditioning, and taking public transport instead of driving,” he said.

Businesses were also encouraged to improve efficiency by tapping schemes such as the Energy Efficiency Grant.

National measures introduced to reduce consumption

Following the statement, a crisis committee led by Coordinating Minister for National Security K Shanmugam was convened to secure energy supplies and support affected sectors.

On 8 April, the government issued a directive requiring all ministries, departments, organs of state, and statutory boards to reduce electricity consumption.

Under the “Go 25” initiative, agencies must set air-conditioning temperatures at 25°C or higher, manage the use of lighting and lifts, and switch off non-essential equipment.

Public agencies are also accelerating upgrades to energy-efficient infrastructure and replacing older appliances with higher-efficiency models.

Households have been encouraged to adopt similar measures, with up to S$400 in Climate Vouchers available to support the purchase of energy-efficient appliances.

Criticism extends to broader policy expectations

The government’s energy-saving call has drawn criticism regarding practicality and consistency.

Some comments questioned why Parliament sessions continue to be held in air-conditioned settings, suggesting that officials should adopt the same measures being recommended to the public.

Others expressed doubts about the feasibility of relying on fans in Singapore’s climate, particularly during periods of high heat and humidity.

More satirical responses proposed holding parliamentary sessions outdoors or encouraging MP to carpool, reflecting frustration over perceived gaps between policy and practice.

On Reddit, criticism appeared sharper, with users pointing to perceived inconsistencies in leaders’ lifestyles, including car ownership and remuneration, which they argued undermine the message of shared sacrifice.