The NOW asked all Burnaby candidates to submit a profile to help readers learn more about them.
The following is a profile of unaffiliated candidate in Burnaby South-Metrotown Meiling Chia.
Name
Meiling Chia
Current occupation
Retired
Short biography
Meiling Chia is a dedicated leader with deep roots in Burnaby. With 30 years of community service and over 20 years at the Canada Revenue Agency, she has a strong commitment to governance. As a two-time school trustee, she championed child-focused education and transparency while enhancing educational standards and mental health support.
Why are you running for provincial office?
I'm running in this election because I believe our community deserves better. The rising cost of living and a struggling economy have made it increasingly difficult for families to thrive. We need to prioritize access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and robust public safety. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and feel secure in their daily lives. Let's work to build a community that supports and uplifts all of its members."
What are the top three issues facing Burnaby today, and what are your plans to address them?
- Education: My focus is on safeguarding special needs education from funding cuts and ensuring all children receive necessary resources and support. This includes increasing funding for StrongStart programs to help New Canadians and support early childhood socialization for students with exceptionalities. My commitment is to expand access to post-secondary education through increased scholarships and grants, reduced tuition fees, and investments in vocational training programs. These initiatives aim to promote equity and opportunity in education for all students.
- Public Safety: My focus is on enhancing public safety by re-criminalizing the possession and public use of hard drugs. This approach aims to deter drug-related issues in communities. Additionally, I am committed to ensuring repeat offenders are met with stricter measures to improve accountability and reduce crime rates. By addressing these key areas, my approach seeks to foster safer environments and promote community well-being, prioritizing the safety and security of all residents.
- Housing and Affordability: My initiative focuses on increasing affordable housing options for young people, seniors, and families by implementing rental subsidies and supporting co-living spaces. It also aims to expand affordable housing initiatives to enhance availability, ensuring more families have access to secure and stable homes. By prioritizing these measures, the goal is to alleviate housing challenges and promote community well-being, ultimately providing better living conditions for those in need. This effort seeks to create a more inclusive housing environment for diverse populations.
What is your housing situation? Are you a homeowner, renter or something else (describe)? Do you own your rental property/properties?
Meiling owns her own condo here in Burnaby and does not have any rental properties. Meiling lives in a multigenerational household with her senior Mother and daughter -- which is why she is especially passionate about our elders and young people.
Contact information
- Website: www.votemeilingbc.ca
- Campaign office phone number: 604-328-2223
- Social media handles and hashtags:
- MeilingChiabc - Twitter/X
- Meilingchia_bc - Instagram
