By Li Xueying

NUMBERS aside, the best in the class looks to be Jalan Besar MP Denise Phua, whose name pops up most often among the interviewees.

The mother of two, who quit her job as a business consultant to co-found a school for autistic children, has made her mark in Parliament with her passionate - sometimes critical - speeches on issues from the disabled to high ministerial pay.

As veteran MP Chan Soo Sen puts it: "I'm quite impressed by Denise Phua. Among those who speak on social issues, she comes across as the most sincere."

She has also won the accolades of her peers, with Mr Teo Ser Luck (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC) saying: "She is determined, compassionate and advocates strongly for the disabled community.

"She is also not afraid to challenge the status quo."

Ms Phua falls into the category of the grassroots-type MPs, notable for connecting well with the people and whom the party can count on to rally the ground.

To put it simply, they have "heart".

In recent years, they have been best exemplified by the likes of Mr Ong Ah Heng, Mr Ang Mong Seng, Madam Halimah Yacob and Dr Lily Neo.

In Parliament, they often champion social issues dear to their residents' hearts.

Other newcomers who have stood out as grassroots MPs include Ms Ellen Lee, Mr Sam Tan (Tanjong Pagar GRC), Mr Lim Biow Chuan and Dr Lim Wee Kiak.

Mr Lim, 40, the only post-65er in the group, draws praise from general practitioner Au Kah Kay as one who appears to be "in touch with the common folk, having grown up in a humble family".

"I sense he can empathise and connect with heartlanders," says Dr Au, 48.

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This article was first published in The Straits Times.

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