Ng Kim Ngweng, a rag-and-bone man, made a call to the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports’ (MCYS) REACH hotline on January 12, a day after Yio Chu Kang Member of Parliament (MP) Seng Han Thong was set on fire by a resident. He allegedly told the customer service officer on duty at that time that he wanted to “hammer” his MP, Denise Phua, Jalan Besar GRCMP.

The accused said that he “wouldn’t dare” to hurt Phua but only wanted to complain about his situation. He claimed that Phua did not help him and wanted to let her know why “some people wished to hit their MP”, but said that he would not emulate Seng.

Phua rebuked that she had made ten financial aid applications on his behalf. She testified that Ng received an average of S$250 of financial aid monthly from the Central Community Development Council (CDC), when cross-examined by Ng’s counsel. She added that she tried her best to assist him but he was still angry in their meetings.

Ng broke down at the defence stand when he was asked about his family. Ng has two children and his son was staying at a boarding school because of their financial problems. He claimed that the financial assistance was insufficient. But it was through Phua that Ng’s family also received financial help from the Kampong Glam welfare fund and bursary fund. He also received in the form of food vouchers from time to time.

In one trial, Ng was seen grumbling to himself and in another, Ng remained calm as the two minute recorded conversation was replayed.

Ng is charged for criminal intimidation against Phua. He could not raise the S$50,000 bail and had been in remand since.

If convicted, Ng could be jailed for up to two years and fined.

The hearing continues.

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