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Podcasts didn't decide GE2025Podcasts didn't decide GE2025 I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage with politics (May 9). The 2025 General Election has several features/characteristics that deserve our attention, discussion and reflection: In today era, technological revolution, innovation and advancement...

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAPGE2025: Stunning victory for PAP I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher national vote share in PM Wong's first electoral test” (May 4). GE2025 has clearly delivered the following key messages/notes from the vast majority of voters: The Workers’ Party (WP) has done a fantastic good...

This is not a game of cardsThis is not a game of cards I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors games on nominations day, the shuffling of the DPM from a seat he had openly been declared to be defending, and other ministers shuffling constituencies leaves one feeling the PAP thinks it is playing a game of cards. Constituency...

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans? I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?” - (April 14), and “The Straits Times’ report, “GE2025: Singaporeans will go to the polls on May 3, Nomination Day on April 23” (April 15), and The Online Citizen GE2025 report,...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝... Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification for the highest salaries in the world. Let’s look at its more recent track record. Large numbers of NRIC numbers were recently unmasked, leaving Singaporeans exposed to identity theft, fraud, abuse and scams....

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit TimahGE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make way for Singapore Democratic Party” (April 10), “More opposition 'star catches' are emerging. Is Singapore's political scene maturing?” (April 10) and “PSP says government response to Trump tariffs 'overblown',...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politicsGE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited... I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics” (Mar 28). It is not surprised to notice that in recent weeks, two NMPs and top ministry officials have resigned, fuelling speculation they could be fielded as potential candidates for the ruling People's Action...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote in GE2025 I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar 25). As Singapore’s General Election is due to be held within this year, the following factors will more or less influence the election situation this year: A)The general mentality of voters Voters are generally...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US supportHow the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning... I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning US support” (Mar 4), “Lessons from the Trump-Zelenskyy meltdown- for friends and foes” (Mar 1) and “Will Trump tariffs push China to change economic tack?” (Mar 3). Foremost, we need to recognise the reality...

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum WageSingapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage: National Service Should Not Come at the Expense of Opportunity Costs Singapore’s National Service (NS) has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s defense, requiring young men to dedicate two years of their lives to military, civil defense, or police service. While...

Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoningTrump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of... I refer to the CNA’s Commentaries, “Trump-Putin deal on Ukraine will be Europe’s moment of reckoning” (Feb 20) and “Ukraine can survive with the ‘least worst’ peace” (Feb 22). Now, In the eyes of European Union, they have lost trust and confidence in the United States, it is solely due to the flip flop...

From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiringFrom Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are... I refer to the CNA’s Commentary, “From Deepseek to Huawei, US tech restrictions on China are backfiring” (Jan 31). Would it be practical, useful and effective for the United States to continually pursue an aggressive containment strategy to hobble China’s tech push? Undoubtedly, the answer is obviously not. There...

Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picksDon't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: “Don't get distracted by Trump's outlandish Cabinet picks” (Nov 25), and “'No one will win a trade war’, China says after Trump tariff threat” (Nov 26). As everyone knows, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump will return to power on January 20, 2025. Trump has dismissed...

Putin escalates Ukraine warPutin escalates Ukraine war I refer to The CNA’s Commentary: “Putin escalates Ukraine war by a step, not a leap, with missile experiment” (Nov 23). Foremost, Zelenskyi’s intention to join Nato has greatly threatened the security and survival of Russia. Hence, Zelenskyy has offended Putin and Putin has no choice but to launch a war with...

Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries?Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries? I refer to The TR-Emeritus opinion article, “Will PM Wong address the astronomical ministerial salaries” (June 14) by Mr Yoong Siew Wah. It has always been a controversial topic which concerns about our top political leaders who receive their salaries that are many times higher than those foreign political leaders. Our...

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Editorials
Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

Strong hailstorm strikes China's Xi'an causing airport...

On the evening of May 8, Xi’an, the capital city of China’s Shaanxi Province, was struck by a powerful...
Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

Four parties lost their election deposits in GE2025

A total of four opposition parties, the Singapore United Party (SUP), People's Power Party (PPP), People’s...
Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Level 16 super typhoon devastates multiple cities in...

Northern China was hit by an extreme weather event on Thursday as a massive cold front swept south, colliding...
Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

Level 15 winds destroy buildings rooftops and cause...

On April 30, northern China was struck by an extreme weather event as a massive cold vortex surged southward,...
TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

TR Emeritus to 'shut-up' on 2nd May 2025

Please be informed that TR Emeritus (TRE) will shut down its comment function site-wide at 0000 hours...
Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Chaos in China as extreme storm destroys homes and...

Beijing’s 22 million residents were asked to stay indoors on Saturday, as powerful winds swept across...
China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

China, Thailand, and Myanmar in ruins after devastating...

On March 28, 2025, a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay, causing...
Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

Myanmar 7.7 earthquake collapses buildings in Thailand,...

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on March 28, 2025, causing widespread panic...
Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Beijing shocked by earthquake and mega sandstorm

Since March 24, 2025, northern China has been battling extreme weather as a massive sandstorm swept through...
Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

Mega hail causes mass destruction in Fujian and Guangdong

An unexpected and severe hailstorm struck multiple cities in Guangdong and Fujian between March 3 and...
Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

Extreme weather struck multiple regions in China

On March 2, 2025, extreme weather struck multiple regions in China, with parts of Henan province experiencing...
Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Happy Chinese New Year 2025

Wishing all our Chinese readers:     Team@TR Emeritus  
Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

Huge snow caused numerous disruptions on China's major...

As the Chinese New Year approaches, millions of people across the country are making their annual journey...
The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

The rapidly spreading HMPV virus you haven’t heard...

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is making headlines as cases surge, especially among children and vulnerable...
4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

4.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Shanxi's Linfeng city

On the evening of January 10, 2025, Linfen City in Shanxi Province was struck by an earthquake. The tremor,...
7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

7.8 magnitude earthquake devastates Tibet

A magnitude 7.1 earthquake has hit Tibet, in the region of Shigatse, which is near the border with Nepal. According...
Outbreak of mystery virus in China

Outbreak of mystery virus in China

China is r eportedly facing a new health crisis as the human metapneumovirus (HMPV) outbreak rapidly...
Unknown Virus Rampages in China; Hospitals Utterly...

Unknown Virus Rampages in China; Hospitals Utterly...

A blogger in China has shared a video, claiming that this isn’t China’s Spring Festival travel rush;...
Opinions
The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The three of threes about DPM Heng Swee Kiat

The first part of the threes is about the when, the how and the why? And it is about his retirement...
我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

我们是否该重新思考国防开支的优先顺序?

新加坡政府近日宣布将采购两艘额外的“无畏级”潜艇,引发了一个重要问题:我们的国防力量,到底需要多强? 毫无疑问,一个强大且可信的军队对于保障国家主权与威慑潜在威胁是不可或缺的。新加坡地处战略要冲,国土面积有限,因此需要一支现代化的武装部队。然而,当我们对比邻国——马来西亚拥有两艘潜艇、印尼正逐步扩展至十二艘——新加坡在水下战力上已处于领先地位。这不禁让人质疑,我们是否正引领着一场无声的区域军备竞赛? 问题在于:当威慑的需求被满足后,继续扩军是否已经超出必要? 一艘“无畏级”潜艇的估价超过十亿新元,还不包括长期的运营与维护成本。这两艘新潜艇的资金,若能转用于迫切的民生需求,例如医疗保健、老龄化支援、教育及弱势群体扶助,或许对社会的整体韧性更具意义。 政府一再强调国防开支是经过审慎规划的,但当生活成本日益上升,政府却仍需将消费税(Gst)提高至9%甚至更多,这种矛盾不禁令人困惑。如果某些战略性国防项目能够延后或循序推进,节省下来的资源是否可以用于社会发展呢? “全面防卫”不仅仅是硬件实力,更是要赢得人民的心与信任。让人民感到安心、有保障、受到重视,这种安全感无法靠潜艇来衡量,而是通过每一位国人的生活实感体现出来。 这并非是在呼吁削弱我们的国防,而是呼吁我们重新思考国家的优先事项。当我们继续推进军事现代化的同时,也不要忽视同样重要的任务——巩固社会契约、增强国民凝聚力。   Cwc-Ai  
Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

Cutting down reliance on US military equipment

There is a rampant rumor going around that claims Egypt has ordered 48 J10C with a price tag of USD$25B...
2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025大选—明确授权,变化中的政治格局

2025年大选结果无可争议,政府再次赢得了强有力的授权,稳固了其在新加坡政治格局中的主导地位。尽管选举结果并不令人意外,但胜利的过程却并非没有争议和复杂性。 值得注意的是,选区划分的变化在本次选战中发挥了重要作用。陈清木医生与徐顺全医生等资深反对派人物,因选区重划而受到显著影响——传统支持基础被分割或并入他区,无疑左右了某些关键选区的最终结果。虽然选区调整在新加坡选举历史上并不罕见,但其公平性与透明度仍持续引发讨论。 工人党虽稳守东北区的传统堡垒,但未能在本届大选中攻下新的选区。不过,该党仍获得两个非选区议员(Ncmp)席位,虽属安慰性质,却在象征意义上维持了国会内多元声音的存在。 更值得关注的是,本届大选所处的人口背景正经历剧烈变化。新加坡人口从2000年的约300万增长至2025年的超过500万。考虑到多年来出生率持续偏低,这一增长几乎可以肯定主要归因于移民流入,尤其可能在华人群体中增长显著。这一趋势对国家的社会结构和政治生态产生了深远影响。 展望2030年大选,各政党不仅要面对一如既往的选区调整与突发的全球事件,更需正视一个不断演变的社会结构。随着越来越多新移民成为国民,选民构成日益多元,政党在政策制定与信息传递上必须更具包容性与前瞻性。他们必须同时争取老一代公民与新加坡新公民的认同,回应共同关切,并跨越代际与文化差异的鸿沟。 在新加坡持续向前迈进的过程中,其政治也必须与时俱进——反映日益多元的人口现实,同时坚守国家的核心价值观:团结、韧性与务实。 Cwc-Ai
A jaw-dropping election

A jaw-dropping election

This is a jaw-dropping election. For the opposition. SDP’s Dr Chee and PSP’s Leong were deeply disappointed....
The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

The Nation has rejected multi-party Parliamentary representation

Our party suffered great losses and I personally have suffered the greatest hit. But these personal losses...
A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

A False Analogy That Insults the Intelligence of Singaporeans

Minister Ong Ye Kung’s recent assertion that a “co-driver” bears no responsibility if a car crashes...
There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing

There is a cost to losing. At least in PAP’s books. And one of the costs is a policy of priority. That...
Hougang Belongs to the People

Hougang Belongs to the People

Thank You for the Reminder, Mr Marshall Lim. It is with no small measure of amusement that one reads...
Its all about trust

Its all about trust

Dr Ng Eng Hen from PAP has pointed out the most important key point about this General Elections, it...
Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

Misunderstanding What Singaporeans Truly Expect from...

The government's repeated assertion that it is "easy for the opposition to ask the government to give...
Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC

Punggol GRC is without question one of the most hotly watched, followed and contested constituency in...
Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Should Singapore Be Concerned About David Neo’s “Action-Takers,...

Singaporeans should pause and reflect on the recent remark by PAP candidate David Neo, who said that...
Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

Why Singaporeans Must Reconsider the Dismissal of SDP’s...

The Singapore government’s blunt assertion that the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP)’s proposals...
Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

Expect the exchange of barbs in politics

In a political contest, expect the exchange of barbs. And we do not lack any of it in the rallies held...
Don't Be Swayed by the Noise—Think Critically Before...

Don't Be Swayed by the Noise—Think Critically Before...

In recent weeks, the political buzz in Singapore has reached a new high. Massive crowds at opposition...
We vote whoever is deserving of our vote

We vote whoever is deserving of our vote

I am surprised that Lee Hsien Loong chose to remind us of the 1997 shameful episode when he, his father...
The Case for a Diverse and Balanced Parliament

The Case for a Diverse and Balanced Parliament

The Singapore government has recently stated that "Good government needs good people" and cautioned against...
Letters
Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

Podcasts didn't decide GE2025

I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Podcasts didn't decide GE2025, but they changed how Singaporeans engage...
GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP

I refer to the CNA’s report, “GE2025: Stunning victory for PAP, winning 87 of 97 seats with higher...
Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs really better for Singaporeans?

I refer to The Online Citizen GE2025 news report, “Lee Hsien Yang: Is a Parliament full of PAP MPs...
GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit...

I refer to the CNA news, “GE2025: Red Dot United to contest in Holland-Bukit Timah GRC but may make...
GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are...

I refer to CNA’s news, “GE2025: Why Singapore's high-flying bureaucrats are recruited into politics”...
More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote...

I refer to The CNA’s News, “GE2025: More than 2.75 million Singaporeans eligible to vote” (Mar...
How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with...

I refer to the CNA’s commentaries, “How the end of Ukraine war could be secured, even with waning...
Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage

Singapore Army Recruits Deserve a Minimum Wage: National Service Should Not Come at the Expense of Opportunity...
Snippets
Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s Sports Industry: A Rising Powerhouse...

Singapore’s sports industry is on the cusp of greatness, leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure and...
What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

What are the most popular hobbies in Singapore in 2025?

As work-life balance remains a constant talking point in the fast-paced city-state of Singapore, residents...
10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

10 Most Popular Mobile Games in Singapore

Singaporeans can't get enough of their phones these days, spending tons of time battling opponents, building...
Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Langkawi to Koh Lipe Ferry: Complete Travel Guide

Planning a tropical escape from Malaysia to Thailand? The journey from Langkawi to Koh Lipe offers a...
This is not a game of cards

This is not a game of cards

I can appreciate parties wanting to hold their cards close to their chest, but the smoke and mirrors...
𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝...

Is the PAP of today exceptional, with unmatched competence and delivery? Afterall, that is their justification...
The sleep science revolution in elite sports

The sleep science revolution in elite sports

Professional sports have entered a new era where recovery science directly impacts performance outcomes....
Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

Sports Betting in Online Casinos as a Way to Improve...

In today's world, online sports betting has become not only a popular form of entertainment but also...
Sticky & Recent Articles

Singapore’s limits: An unthinking and unquestioning ‘Confucian’ society

Singapore’s limits: An unthinking and unquestioning ‘Confucian’ society

By Eugene Yeo, Consultant Editor [In this two part series, Eugene Yeo writes about the two chief limiting factors of Singapore's success: the growth-at-all cost economic policy and an unthinking, unquestioning, subservient citizenry] MM Lee has always emphasized to the West that Singapore is a "Confucian" society, whose embodied values enabled us to build a stable, prosperous and successful country in the span of four decades. Confucianism can be considered as a teaching, a philosophy or as a form of governance based on the teachings of the ancient Chinese sage, Confucius. What exactly is Confucianism and how does it manifest in our society? Before we begin, let us examine the background of the founder himself and its subsequent development in China's history. Confucius was born in 551 BC in or near the city of Qufu in modern day Shandong province in China during the Spring and Autumn period which is marked by great social upheavals and endless warfare in China. Technically speaking, China was still ruled thenby a King under the Zhou dynasty, founded in 1045B.C. by King Wen (Zhou Wen Wang) and his son King Wu (Zhou Wu Wang) who conquered the preceding Shang dynasty. After more than 500 years, the Zhou dynasty fell into disarray and split into over a hundred feudal states. It existed in name only. Confucious advocated a return to the Zhou rituals (Zhou Li) in order to build a stable, harmonious and prosperous state. His philosophy emphasized personal and government morality, correctness of social relationships, justice and stability. According to Confucius, society will only be peaceful and stable if the order of hierarchical relationships between the King and officials, the government the people, father and son are maintained and upheld. Therefore, respect to authority is a central tenet in Confucianism. One pays due respect to the elders and do not does not question their authorities. Confucius' passive doctrine did not win him any fans from the feudal lords during his time. The Qin dynasty, which united China in 221BC,  was founded on Legalism and Confucius scholars were persecuted and their treatises burnt. It was only during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han dynasty that Confucianism was formally adopted both as a philosophy and model of governance. The reason was political: the state was going to mount a protracted war against the barbarians in the north and needed a statecraft to keep the population contented, happy and obedient. Confucianism, with its emphasis on respect to authority, was an ideal philosophy to maintain social order and harmony. From the Han dynasty onwards, Confucianism became formally sponsored by the state and was integrated in the civil examinations introduced thereafter. As a political tool, Confucianism played an important role to ensure political stability especially in the early years of each new dynasty. However, it impeded the emergence of an intelligentsia, growth of capitalism and stifled creativity and innovations which explains why the industrial revolution did not come to China. Confucianism was blamed by reformers in the last years of the Qing dynasty, intellectuals of the May 4th movement and the Communists as an outdated, regressive and feudal thinking which held back China's development in the last 2,000 years. Does it make any sense for young, vibrant and dynamic country like Singapore to adopt Confucianism which has been repudiated by China, as a pillar of society? Though 'Confucianism' was never incorporated officially in our Constitution, it is omnipresent in all aspects of our society. The ruling party regarded itself as the rightful ruler and owner of Singapore, having obtained "Heaven's mandate" from repeated elections in which they steam-rolled over the feeble opposition. As MM Lee once quipped - "I am not ashamed to say that the PAP is the government of Singapore and vice versa". Citizens are expected to be obedient to the government. Political dissent is quashed. Public assemblies, rallies and speechs are outlawed. Ministers, MPs and senior civil servants followed orders from the top like robots. The people accept whatever policy shafted down their throats like a flock of sheep, without thinking or questioning. While a "strong" government coupled with a docile, if somewhat sheepish citizenry which is conducive to building a stable and harmonious society, is a winning formula in the early years of Singapore, it may no longer be that effective as a doctrine for nation-building in the future. A rigid, authoritative and "tops-down" approach is a bane to creativity and does not motivate or incentivize the citizenry to partake in nation-building and take charge of their own destiny perpetuating a nanny state to micromanage all aspects of their lives. An unthinking, unquestioning and unconcerned citizenry contented to leave the governance of their country solely in the hands of the ruling elite is the biggest challenge Singapore must face and overcome if it were to have any hopes of fulfilling its full potential and succeed in an increasingly competitive global economy. We are a small nation with a population of only 4 million people. A second tier city in China like Wuxi and Dongguan has a population of easily more than 5 million. Every single Singaporean counts. We need everybody to contribute ideas to chart our future destiny instead of depending on a few scholars and bureaucrats appointed by their close ties to the ruling party. The problem with Singaporeans is that we do not think, analyze or question, which is admitted even by Prime Minister Lee himself. We accept everything the government says or does without ever questioning as if it is right all the time. The state media, has done a great disservice to Singaporeans by its relentless one-sided, unimaginative and partisan state propaganda in support of the government day in and out. If Singaporeans do not even bother to question their government, how are they going to participate in nation-building as rightful citizens of their land? The ruling party is not as omnipotent and infallible as the media has made out to be. It has made terrible blunders which it never have to pay a price for because Singaporeans simply refuse to take them to task. We are now living in a sort of pseudo-dynasty like during the early years of the Republic of China where real power is concentrated in the hands of a few and Parliament is merely a rubber-stamped institution to legitimatize the "mandate" of the ruling class. The people have no power - they are not allowed to express their dissatisfaction against their leaders openly because doing so will endanger the myth which the ruling party and its mouthpiece have so tediously built up over the years - that it is a "popular" government "elected" by the people to govern them. We are now living in a modern era and not feudal times when authority must be respected at all times. If the government is right, we should obey and follow its orders. If it is wrong, it is our right to speak up against them and disagree openly to the extent of protesting using non-violent means which is guaranteed by our Constitution under Article 14 - the freedom of speech and assembly, but is curtailed by draconian laws passed by the ruling party to further consolidate and perpetuate their political hegemony at the expense of the people's natural rights. Is it little wonder that Singapore has produced the least number of entrepreneurs, inventors and scientists compared to the other Asian Tigers? We have only one internationally renowned brand - "Creative Technology" which was founded not in Singapore, but in the United States. Our economy is dominated by state-linked companies such as Capitaland, DBS and NTUC with the backing of the state. Our Sovereign Wealth Funds - Temasek and GIC, are flushed with billions of dollars of taxpayers' monies accrued from years of budget surpluses, but are they run by the best people and are we getting value for money? These questions will forever remain unanswered unless Singaporeans dare to question and demand an answer from the government. Dissenting or opposing voices in our society are far and few because the government does not tolerate them and use whatever means they have to silence them - either through defamation lawsuits, use of the police or employing spin doctors in the media to demolish their opponents completely till they lost all shreds of credibility in the eyes of the public.  The virtual absence of an opposition in Singapore, either in Parliament or civil society, is a mortal danger to our nation. The opposition is like a mirror which the ruling party uses to see its own flaws and deficiencies. Even the dictatorial Mahathir Mohamad acknowledges the role of an opposition in society. Without an opposing voice and surrounded by yes-men, the leaders will never be able to find out their faults and worse still, be taken in by their own propaganda to believe that they are perfect. As the Chinese saying goes: "Zhong1 Yan2 Ni3 Er3" - loyal and sincere words are often sound unpleasant to the ear. In Singapore where dissent is miscontrused as anathema to the security and stability of the state and against "public interest", alternative voices contrary to the establishment's point of view must be dressed in palatable hypoboles before they can be voiced out through mainstream or proper channels where they are frequently disregarded and ignored by the authorities due to the lack of impact and most importantly, a real "punch". It is not a coincidence that the most prosperous periods in China's history are during those when the court censors were dominant and the Emperor was receptive to criticism as during the reign of Tang dynasty's Emperor Taizhong, Ming's Emperor Chengzhu and Qing's Emperor Kangxi and the decadent years of each dynasty was ruled by Emperors surrounded by sycopants, villians and traitors. An unthinking, unquestioning and unmotivated citizenry serves the interest of the ruling party because it makes governance so much easier. There is little accounting to do, mistakes can be swept easily under the carpet and forgotten and there is no opposition to one's initiatives and policies. However, in the long run, the entire nation will be poorer as a whole due to a dearth of fresh ideas and talents to join the government. Thinkers, visionaries and inventors will not thrive in such an oppressive environment like ours where alternative views to the establishment are quickly censored with the originator reprimanded or even punished by the law. How can the government expect citizens to contribute to the nation when they are expected to be right all the time? The overwhelming dominance of the ruling party in all aspects of life is one reason why talented Singaporeans are leaving the nation in droves. More than 50% of young Singaporeans have expressed a desire to emigrate elsewhere while 70% of students studying overseas do not return. We are suffering a serious brain drain because of the reluctance of the ruling party to accommodate diversive voices and to relax its iron-fisted rule. The solution it comes up with to replace departing Singaporeans by important immigrants from other countries is only a short gap measure which does not solve the root of the problem. In fact, it may even exacerbate the problem as the rapid influx of foreigners are changing the nation's demographics radically to such an extent that many native Singaporeans do not feel a sense of attachment to their land of birth anymore. What does the ruling party want exactly? If it wants only unthinking sheep just to fill up the numbers, then anybody will do. If it really wants to strengthen the nation, then it has no choice but to liberalize the political landscape and return power to the people to stem the tide of migration and to attract real foreign talent to take up our citizenship. The 'Albert Einsteins', 'Benjamin Franklins' and 'Thomas Edisons' are not coming to Singapore because there is no academic or political freedom here. We are getting second-class immigrants and not the creme la crop whose preferred destinations are the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. Based on the current situation right now, we may soon have a mediocre citizenry ruled by a mediocre government which continues to employ the state apparatus to control the population in the name of maintaining social stability and security. The few talented Singaporeans we have in our midst are kept out of the government either because they are not keen to be mere subordinates to the ruling elites or their views are too radical to be co-opted. In order to survive, our political system must change to become liberal, fair and balanced like the United States instead of an unchanging monolithic one-party state like China. The United States remained the primary destination for migrants today and not China whose repressive regime is leading to a brain drain as many Chinese left for greener pastures elsewhere but China can afford to lose people because it has a large population of over one billion, but not puny Singapore where every single citizen counts. The ruling party and the state media have always compared Singaporeans unfavorably with new citizens protraying the former as an ungrateful lot while lavishing generous praise on the latter as being appreciative and easily contented. An immigrant growing up and coming from a rural village in China or India will surely find Singapore a paradise to live in. Being unfamiliar with Singapore's history, politics and society, most felt a sense of gratitude to the ruling party for granting them citizenship in the first place. However, are these new citizens, many of whom do not have an understanding of Singapore's unique culture and values, ready to assume the ownership of the country in a time of crisis or will they flock back to their land of birth? An unthinking and unquestioning "Confucian" society is Singapore's major stumbling block in our quest to become an established first world nation and economic powerhouse in Asia. The onus lies in the ruling party to relinquish its monopoly on power and allow unbridled participation of citizens from all walks of life across the political divide, be it left, right or center. The media must be liberalized to become more free, unfettered and independent to be given the space to criticize government leaders and policies instead of being the unofficial "Petir" of the ruling party. While no paper can be truly fair and balanced, having a myraid of competing views and allowing the people to judge for themselves will serve to raise their political awareness and maturity. Singapore has produced enough bureaucrats, technocrats and functionaries. What we truly miss and need is a thinker, a visionary and a leader even if he/she is a "rebel" and does not conform to the mainstream ethos of society for how can we ever progress as a nation if we remain stuck forever in our comfort zone dominated by a nanny state which is still under the control of its founder? But first, we must dare to think out of the box, question authority and go against conventions in order to unleash our potential to the fullest. We can be the Venice or Malta of Europe. The choice is ours.   Other articles by Eugene Yeo: >> Do we know the real meaning behind the words of the National Pledge? >> Debunking the “constructive opposition” illusion >> How Singapore manage to lose its opposition over the years  Read More →

Singapore awards Malaysian Special Branch Chief for capture of Mas Selamat

Singapore awards Malaysian Special Branch Chief for capture of Mas Selamat

From our Correspondent Singapore has awarded the Malaysian Special Branch Chief Datuk Seri Haji Ramli the "Meritorious Service Medal" for his role in "promoting closer ties between his team and Singapore's Internal Security Department." The investiture ceremony was attended by guests from the Malaysian High Commission in Singapore, the MSB and Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs and its departments. Ramli was credited with the MSB to investigate and capture Singapore JI leader Mas Selamat Kastari, who had escaped from custody here last year. The escape of Mas Selamat Kasteri from the Whitney Detention Centre in February 2008 was a cause of major embarrassment to Singapore leaders, in particular, Home Affairs Minister Mr Wong Kang Seng. The Singapore government heaved a great sigh of relief when Mas Selamat was captured by the Malaysian police in Skudai, Johor, this year. State media Straits Times tried to claim false credit for the Singapore Home Team when it reported that reported that “intelligence leads provided by Singapore’s ISD late last year played a key role leading to the arrest.” [source: Straits Times] This was debunked immediately by the Malaysian Home Affairs Minister Datuk Hishammudin Datuk Hishamudin Hussien who attributed his team’s success to the assistance given by the Indonesian authorities: “Our ties with Indonesia are very strong and without Indonesia’s cooperation, I do not think we were able to make the arrest after his escape from Singapore.” [source: NST] It was subsequently revealed by the Malaysians that Mas Selamat made the escape to Johor by swimming across the Straits of Johor 4 days after he fled WDC. In spite of frequent patrols along the Singapore coast, he was not spotted. Mr Wong Kan Seng was initially hopeful that Mas Selamat will be returned to Singapore: ‘The Malaysian authorities want to interview him, and in good time he will be returned to Singapore…..When Mas Selamat is returned to Singapore, he will be sent back to Whitley Road Detention Centre“, Mr Wong said. [source: Straits Times] However, he was detained by Malaysia under their own Internal Security Act at Kamunting camp, Perak for two years.   Related articles: >> Malaysians undecided on repatriation of Mas Selamat >> Was Mas Selamat caught sleeping or did he put up a struggle?  Read More →

Fewer bookings for National Day dinner this year

Fewer bookings for National Day dinner this year

From our Correspondent There were fewer bookings for National Day dinner this year according to a CNA report. Some catering companies said they usually cater up to 1,500 tables each National Day. But this year they have recorded a 5 to 10 per cent drop in business, as fewer customers placed reservations. A yearly fixture, the National Day dinners are held in open fields for residents from all constituencies in Singapore. Diners usually pay between $20 to $25 per head for a standard 8 course Chinese dinner which is usually graced by the MP. Besides the lower turnout this year, the number of national flags hung by Singaporeans are also obviously lesser. RC volunteers have to decorate the flats themselves in some cases to lessen the embarrassment to their MP. In spite of the million dollars spent in the National Day Parade and sprucing up the neighborhoods with banners, aided by a publicity blitz by the state media, few Singaporeans are genuinely in a 'celebratory' mood. The real sentiment on the ground is reflected in online postings in cyberspace which are never reported in the mainstream media.  Read More →

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