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Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clearTrump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear. (May 15) One deniable fact: There are no winners on either side (between China and the United States) in the trade and tariff war. Yet, Trump still persists to do it. It is not surprising that Trump has increased China's...

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...

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Editorials
Real Footage of China's 2025 Flood Crisis in Yunnan...

Real Footage of China's 2025 Flood Crisis in Yunnan...

Devastating floods and geological disasters have struck Gongshan County, Nujiang Prefecture in Yunnan...
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...
Opinions
Don’t Rock The Boat

Don’t Rock The Boat

Singaporeans are, by and large, practical people, being mainly immigrant stock. They value security,...
Trump and his ilk are at it again

Trump and his ilk are at it again

Trump and his ilk are at it again. They are not going to back down. Yes, it’s Harvard, his eyesore,...
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  
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...
Letters
Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in...

Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in...

I refer to the CNA’s Commentary: Trump blinked again on tariffs, but China isn't in the clear. (May...
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...
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

PH exporting their economic & social problems to others

PH exporting their economic & social problems to others

“Former Ambassador Roy Seneres on Friday said the OFW Family party-list will file a protest with the International Labor Organization for violations of relevant ILO conventions relative to the right of workers to decent work and to be treated as human beings not as slaves and/or chattels.” Every self-respecting government will attract FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) to create jobs for its citizens. However, Philippines is the exception. It creates the POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Administration) to mass export more than 11-million Pignoys/Pignays as cheap foreign labour to suppress the wages/salaries of the host countries. Such practice has the resultant effect of marketing them as “slaves” and/or cheap “commodities/goods”. It is a mind-boggling puzzle and counter-intuitive to try to understand why the former ambassador Roy V. Seneres (http://www.congress.gov.ph/members/search.php?id=seneres-r) is filing a protest with the International Labor Organization for violations of relevant ILO conventions relative to the right of workers to decent work and to be treated as human beings not as slaves and/or chattels. Philippines is exporting their economic and social problems to other countries and trying to bring pressure to bear on those host countries. They have a "victim" mentality and perpetually love to play the blame game to justify their inability to stimulate their inert economy and to create jobs by their politically inert government and people. These Pinoys/Pinays have to realize their Bad Habits & Attitudes: http://www.pinoy-ofw.com/news/10228-negative-values-of-filipinos.html   AWH * Comment first appeared in: Singapore: PH attaché denies maids sold in malls    Read More →

IMF debunks PAP’s welfare spending myth

IMF debunks PAP’s welfare spending myth

Welfare spending bad for the economy? The cornerstone of the PAP’s governing ideology is “self-reliance” which dictates their attitude against redistribution, evidenced by minimal welfare spending on healthcare and other social benefits. Even CPF is raided for healthcare and education spending which ought to be provided by the government.  Are redistribution and welfare really bad for the economy as the government tells citizens? IMF debunks the myth The IMF research “Redistribution, Inequality and Growth” published Feb 2014 has debunked the central argument that redistribution negatively affected competitiveness and GDP growth.  There is no need to endure the rigours of a scholarly IMF paper [link]. The writer instead provides a layman summary. The IMF determines the effect of redistributive policies on inequality by analysing, among other factors, GINIs based on net income which includes redistribution, e.g. healthcare and social benefits and on market income which does not. The much discussed GINI of which Singapore scored an unflattering 47.3 is the former. (Click to enlarge) The Europeans start with high market GINIs but redistributive policies significantly reduced inequality.  Britain is a crucial example with a lower market GINI but a higher net income GINI than Germany. This is due to Britain taxing less and consequently having lower welfare provisions (almost free healthcare but low on other benefits). Singapore is not included but there should be little difference between its GINIs. Further redistribution has no effect on growth for the upper group and only short term effects on the lower group. Conclusions of the paper, “Inequality remains a robust and powerful determinant of the pace and duration of growth. It would be a mistake to focus on growth and let inequality take care of itself, not only because inequality may be ethically undesirable but also because resulting growth may be low and unsustainable.” “There is surprising little evidence for growth-destroying effect of redistribution at a macro-economic level.  Some mixed evidence are found that very large redistribution may have direct negative effects on growth duration but for non-extreme redistribution, there is no evidence of any adverse direct effect. The average redistribution and the associated reduction in inequality, is thus associated with higher and more durable growth.” “Extreme caution about redistribution – and thus inaction – is unlikely to be appropriate in many cases. On average across countries and over time, the things that governments have typically done to redistribute do not seem to have led to bad growth outcomes, unless they were extreme. And the resulting narrowing of inequality helped support faster and more durable growth, apart from ethical political or broader social considerations.” Debt and Spending The government often used the rhetoric of fear to keep citizens in check with their warnings of the sovereign debt problems in Europe. What is left unsaid is that these problems were restricted to the southern periphery that spends far less on redistribution than the northern Europeans who are competitive despite their more generous welfare systems.  The southern periphery’s problems were really more due to uncompetitive economies joining a fixed exchange rate system, the Euro and were exposed for their follies by the lack of supranational safeguards, e.g. banking and fiscal union. Total Healthcare Spending Singapore Denmark France Germany Sweden UK Average % of GDP since 2007 4.4 11.2 11.7 11.5 9.6 9.6 Compared to the Europeans, Singapore significantly underspends on healthcare, more so considering the government share of that total is only 35%.  In view of an average budget surplus of 7% of GDP over the same period and minimal government spending on welfare, mildly redistributive policies ought not to have a negative impact on government finances. Denmark, Germany and Sweden, among others, cope with average budget deficits of 2% or more of GDP, without risking their AAA-ratings.  Is Singapore’s economy so fragile or the government incapable that its own AAA-rating is at risk when persistent surpluses give way to balanced budgets? Conclusion Some will assert that Singapore has achieved strong growth despite high inequality. In reality, the research serve further evidence the excessive GDP growth, resulting in a high GINI caused by cheap labour and suppressed wages, is unsustainable over the long run. The high market GINIs of the advanced countries (except Japan) inferred that as Singapore progresses economically, its GINIs will be higher. This should sound the alarm for its socio-economic wellbeing as it means strong economic growth by itself cannot resolve the uneven outcomes and thus inequalities of the economy.  The only solution is redistribution and welfare. Good governance is the right balance between tax, debt, welfare and growth; none should be excessively high or low.  The challenge must be to fuse sustainable economic growth to a social model that enables citizens to reap the fruits of growth on more equal terms and with shared socio-economic attainments. Perhaps, the politics of this dogmatic government are too beholden to wealth and its own anti-welfare ideology to accomplish this. Chris K *  Chris K holds a senior position in a global financial centre bigger than Singapore. He writes mostly on economic and financial matters to highlight misconceptions of economic policy in Singapore.  Read More →

李显龙的‘诚信政治’和李光耀的‘起诉破产’异曲同工 – 破坏和削弱反对党在群众中的形象!

李显龙的‘诚信政治’和李光耀的‘起诉破产’异曲同工 – 破坏和削弱反对党在群众中的形象!

  李显龙,您辛苦了! 李显龙,您辛苦了!而且不是一般的辛苦!是非常的辛苦! 最近,李显龙在报章上不断强调‘诚信政治’的课题!老百姓看了满头雾水!不知道他在说啥!就在老百姓丈二金刚摸不着头脑时,李显龙的虎将维文借工人党处理勿洛小贩中心清洗事件,自愿放弃国会议员的特权,要与工人党就‘诚信政治’决战公堂!哇靠!这可不是开玩笑的事儿! 还记得在许文远在国会发表行动党与AIM调查报告书时哪个张禾宾吗? 他也是指责工人党的AHTC的帐目可能有问题!当时,工人党主席林瑞莲小姐接受他的挑战,请他到反贪局提诉!结果张禾宾他娘给他生个男儿身就没给他生个男儿胆!此事就没下文!——哎啊!就是不知道这是不是‘诚信政治’!? 工人党秘书长刘程强先生在回答维文的挑战时表明,工人党处理勿洛小贩中心清洗事件已经结束!请大家往前看! 维文看来也没辙了!——这是维文继续上回邀请刘程强先生喝咖啡没下文后,又自己吞下白开水!——无色、无味、不甜、不酸、不苦、不辣! 工人党的这一招可把看在眼里急在心里的李显龙憋坏了!——这是李显龙在与刘程强先生第三次过招!——第一次是在后港区补选、第二次是在榜鹅东区补选!——李显龙都被逼从后台走到前台来! 李显龙终于咽不下这口气!他让总理公署的新闻秘书以总理的名义在2013年7月13日发表2页的声明!——哇靠!印度尼西亚的烟霾PSI指数上升到超过 400的危险水平,咱们的总理都还还用口头呼吁全国老百姓冷静对待!这个莫名其妙的‘诚信政治’与老百姓的生命健康无关,总理公署却煞有其事的发表严正声 明! 工人党在2013年7月14日回应了总理公署的声明。不会按照李显龙的‘指示’办事! 李显龙的新闻秘书还觉得不够过瘾,在2013年7月15号又撒娇!说工人党不回应她的‘诚信政治’!哇靠!现在李显龙的跟班也出场了!——这小妮子 也把自己摆得太高了吧!——工人党回不回应李显龙的声明,那是工人党与行动党之间之间的事!宪法上也没有约定,总理说提出什么‘书面要求’或发出‘声明忠 告’反对党就必须‘积极’回应啊! ‘诚信政治’!曾几何时行动党又想到这个新招?! 呵呵!我说啊,这不是什么新招!这是李显龙是穿上古装在上演一场中国古代的‘项庄舞剑’的剧目!新加坡年轻一代,特别是受英文教育的年轻人确实看不懂。况且项庄或刘邦都已经是作古了! 算了。 活人要演死人戏!那就演呗!咱们还得为年轻的观众介绍‘项庄舞剑’是啥东西? ‘项庄舞剑’是一句成语。全句为:‘项庄舞剑,意在沛公’(注音:xiàng zhuāng wǔ jiàn , yì zài pèi gōng)与这句成语同义有:别有用心、指桑骂槐、另有企图、醉翁之意不在酒。我想,老百姓都晓得这句成语和它的意思。 总理公署的名义发表的那两页的声明是要达到什么目的? ——呵呵!‘项庄’就是李显龙,他的‘剑’就是‘诚信政治’,他要‘干掉’的就是工人党的主席林瑞莲和必丹星!(当然最终是要把工人党日益在群众的影响力削弱!) 那到底什么是‘诚信政治’?它是行动党的优良传统吗? 是。这是行动党对付反对党的优良传统!只是行动党的前朝与后朝使用的名称不同,使用的手法不一样,但是最终目的一样! 李光耀时代使用的是:起诉反对党人破产,然后,向老百姓说:这个反对党人是破产的,他已经没有诚信可言! 李光耀在70年代(也就是李光耀在60年代彻底铲除了左翼组织和逮捕了所有左翼组织的领导人后)面对一批受高等英文教育的爱国民主人士的挑战,就是使用起诉‘破产’作为对付反对党及政治异己分子的杀手锏! 当时,李光耀使用起诉政治对手‘破产’的手段是要达到两个目的: 一、断绝所有被法院判决‘破产’的政治异己分子进入政坛的所有途径(包括不可以当选为政党的负责人和参与全国大选或选区补选)!当时的受害者包括了惹耶惹南、徐顺全、邓亮洪等等! 二、恐吓所有有意进入反对党阵营的爱国民主人士和高级知识分子参与反对党的政治活动! 李光耀的直接起诉政治对手破产的伎俩过于粗暴,招致全国人民的臭骂和全世界的批评!现在李显龙改变了!他采用了所谓的‘诚信政治’的伎俩来对付工人党! 李显龙比李光耀还要狡猾!他不要自己亲手干掉反对党的领导人!他要假手于反对党内部‘自我清洗’! 时代不同了!政治环境也已经彻底改变了!人民的觉悟也不再害怕行动党的白色恐怖恐吓!这是客观条件存在的事实! 因此,我非常肯定的说:行动党的这一招不能凑效! 我也非常肯定的说:行动党的这一招最终是给自己捅篓子! 实事求是的说,行动党党内的党员,特别是80后的党员对‘诚信政治’咋回事是不理解或一知半解的!对普通老百姓那就没有兴趣! 行动党是一个在新加坡活跃了超过半个世纪的老字号的政党,行动党本身的历史是否是属于‘诚信政治’的‘模范’!咱们土生土长的新加坡公民心里都有一把称! 李显龙今天为什么要大张旗鼓的渲染‘诚信政治’?因为: 行动党在处理工人党控制的勿洛小贩中心清洗事件上手法太过粗糙!老百姓,特别是勿洛小贩中心的小贩也不愿让行动党安插勿洛小贩中心的代理人利用!因此,在勿洛小贩中心清洗工作完毕后,小贩就不愿谈这件事了!这就是说:行动党在舆论造势上和鼓动民意上已经失去了支持基础! 尤其严重的是:行动党又犯上了他们在后港区补选时犯上的致命性错误!——他们急于求成,太快把自己安插在勿洛小贩中心的地下党员全部曝光了! 这个结果是: 1.清洗工作已经结束、小贩中心的小贩们已经开档营业。行动党在勿洛小贩中心的地下党员黄国庆被网民曝光他是披着‘小贩商联会主席’外衣,实质上是 行动党的党员和居委会成员后也销声匿迹了。——老百姓终于明白这就是一场行动党恶意挑起的具有政治阴谋事件!老百姓不愿成为这场政治阴谋的砝码! 2.在工人党按照与环境局和勿洛小贩中心的小贩商定的计划如期的完成清洗工作,勿洛小贩中心的消费也开档营业了!这个时候,李显龙和维文却说,清洗 工作的问题已经不是他们关心的主要课题!——事实是:老百姓不愿成为这场政治阴谋的砝码!他们就没有政治资本可以利用了!——所以,李显龙和维文说:他们 现在主要关心的课题是:‘诚信政治’!——当官的吃饱撑着,勿洛小贩中心的小贩可要挣钱养家啊!——老百姓终于更加明白这就是一场行动党恶意挑起的具有政 治阴谋事件! 无论如何,既然李显龙如此执着并已经以国家总理公署的名义把‘诚信政治’提到国会殿堂,那咱们就帮李显龙整理在他领导下的一些近年来行动党的‘诚信 政治’活动!既然总理公署的声明把行动党在一年前已经在国会提出过有关必丹星使用网络博客的文章一事,必丹星也在当时回应了有关的指责。好吧!咱们也帮行 动党回顾一下李光耀时代的‘诚信政治’!当然,行动党完全有权利重提任何陈年旧事!(咱们老百姓一眼看穿就是:这说明了行动党无法再拿出新的课题诋毁工人 党!) 咱们实事求是的把以下这些事实摆在老百姓面前,让老百姓自己去问一问他们所属选区的行动党议员,这是不是行动党的‘诚信政治’? 咱们要向老百姓摆出的行动党陈年旧事,是从2011年5月的全国大选过后,行动党所处理的事件。这些事件老百姓还记忆犹新,容易唤起老百姓的记忆。 1.行动党在总结2011年的全国5月大选的失利(特别是失去阿裕尼集选区),绞尽脑汁了解‘民情’! ——结论是:这不是民心思变!这是百分之40的土生土长新加坡同胞的‘排外主义思想’在作祟! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 2.行动党为了夺取工人党在后港区的补选议席,派了以许文远和张志贤为首的党内‘诚信政治’的标兵,挥军直搞工人党的堡垒!——无功而返!他们付出的代价是: 一、小猪上烤架!(最终还静悄悄的离开行动党到私人企业过他的小灶日子!) 二、内部安全局在工人党内部长期安置的情报网和耳目全被张志贤给捅破天! ——结论是:——指工人党派出的议员人格是有问题的‘事实’!后港区人民不愿接受行动党‘证据’!还要继续支持工人党,那是‘地方主义思想’在作祟! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 3.行动党为了安抚人民的不满,派了以王瑞杰为首的党内‘诚信政治’的标兵,大张旗鼓的在展开了一场‘全国对话会’活动! ‘全国对话会’变成了‘全国党内同志拉家常会议’!——王瑞杰说‘全国对话会’要‘深入’群众中,所以改为‘地方性小范围对话会’的形式!——‘全国对话 会’的主持单位也变成了由社团、主流媒体、专家学者主持,王瑞杰变成了‘受邀嘉宾’,‘地方性小范围对话会’也成了勾肩搭背、互相吹捧的‘喇叭会议’! ——结论是: 一、即便行动党安排了自己的党内外同志,以各种不同的‘社会身份’出席‘地方性小范围对话会’但是,还是没有人敢在会议上公开行动党要达到的目标——在2030年前大量引进外来移民,让新加坡的人口增加到690万的大问题! 二、‘地方性小范围对话会最终变成了‘地方老百姓忆苦求甜的对话会’!会议出席者不敢违抗民意,只好提出了半个世纪前李光耀遗留下老大难的民生问题!(两全其美——即不得罪李光耀——他已退休!有让李显龙有面子——他修改一些已经不影响行动党继续执行现有政策的法律!) ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 4.行动党为了压制SMRT中国籍司机抗议资方的残酷剥削和要求改善工作条件与生活居住环境条件的罢工抗争,派了以陈川仁和杨莉眀为首的党内‘诚信政治’的标兵,以来势汹汹的高姿态要把30多年来新加坡工人第一次为争取自身的权利和权益而进行罢工抗争的斗争扑灭! ——结论是: 一、工人提出的抗争诉求罢工!他们却提出了工人罢工必须提前14天向政府提出申请!把合理要求的诉求扭曲成是非法的罢工!是违犯了新加坡法令约定! 二、 工人提出的抗争诉求改善工作条件和生活居住环境的条件!他们却把工人已经多次向公司管理层提出改善工作条件和生活居住环境的诉求推给了‘中层管理人员’与工人之间的沟通不通畅! ——上述这些事实是:行动党以廉价劳工取代了土生土长的新加坡工人的手段造成的后果!行动党使用外来劳工改变新加坡工人队伍的结构!行动党最终是以工人违犯了罢工法令扭转了SMRT虐待和剥削工人的事实! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 5.行动党为了防止议员在工人党以及全国老百姓在追究有关行动党与AIM之间的关系时再说漏了嘴,进一步把更多隐藏在党内进20多年的秘密给撕开! 派了以许文远为首的党内‘诚信政治’的标兵,成立一个‘行动党与AIM之间往来关系的专项调查小组’。调查小组在限定的时间里完成了‘调查报告’!许文远 的这份‘调查报告’终于确认了: 一、为行动党控制的14个市镇会提供电脑管理软件服务的公司AIM就是行动党在20多年前注册成立的党营实业; 二、市镇会本来就是为政党扩张政党自己的政治势力和政治影响力的工具; ——结论是: 一、原不为人知(不是鲜为人知)近20多年的行动党与AIM之间的历史关系被自己人揭穿后,行动党近半个世纪的经政分家的廉洁政治形象坦然无存! 二、人民要知道的是:为什么行动党过去20多年来都不主动提起这件事? ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 6.行动党控制的市镇会投资在雷曼风险资金的亏损事件动用的是老百姓缴交给市镇会的管理费!这是老百姓的钱。但是,至今行动党并没有就此事件公开向老百姓说明: 一、这些被动用并已经亏损的钱是否获得全体市镇会老百姓的法定授权程序批准?如果没有。那是不是涉及挪用公款? 二、哪些策划、参与和推动雷曼风险投资的行动党议员如何处理? 三、从市镇会的资金挪用去投资雷曼风险投资所亏损的资金填补回来了吗?从哪儿填补回来?还是继续在账面上挂着?在账面挂着的这笔帐是属于应收款?还是属于烂帐处理? ——结论是:老百姓不知道!行动党在也没有公开详细说明! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 7.张禾宾指责工人党控制的市镇会的帐目有涉嫌不正当处理的问题!到底工人党控制的AHTC的帐目是否有涉嫌不正当处理?(行动党的爪子还在《联合 早报》上大肆鼓吹,如果工人党不把这件事说清楚,他们将号召杯葛缴交市镇会的管理费!)工人党主席林瑞莲小姐也请张禾宾随时可以到反贪局提告。但是,至今 张禾宾却选择不出声! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 8.行动党榜鹅东区前国会议员、新加坡共和国国会议长柏墨的桃色事件! 一、行动党的前议员柏墨玩弄女性的败坏道德行为被曝光后,行动党不但不谴责柏墨的败坏道德的行为,反过来,行动党的头头脑脑还大肆颂扬这个家伙在职期间是‘尽忠尽职’!与此同时,行动党控制的主流媒体大肆宣染涉及柏墨桃色事件的那位小姐的行为是‘轻浮’! 二、行动党为了掩盖这件丑闻,以接受柏墨‘主动辞职’的方式让他尽快离开行动党并迅速举行榜鹅东区的补选! ——结论是: 行动党的藉口是:为了2013年2月国会要辩论《2030年人口白皮书》和2013年3月国会要辩论《2013年财政预算案报告》为理由,迅速进行榜鹅东区的补选! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 9.《2030年人口白皮书》问题!这是一个得不到土生土长的新加坡公民及其后代认可的东西!行动党一开始就提出必须在2030年把新加坡的人口增加到690万,新加坡未来30年可持续发展和GDP才有实现! 土生土长的新加坡公民及其后代在2013年2月8日和2013年5月1日在芳林公园举行和平集会,抗议和反对这个目的在通过引进外来移民,进而改变 新加坡的人口结构,使土生土长的新加坡公民沦为原住民或土著公民,与此同时,这也是一个为行动党保持自己的政治势力‘可持续发展’铺平道路的《2030年 人口白皮书》。 在土生土长的新加坡公民及其后代的反对下,以李显龙为首的行动党人一而再、再而三的改变了自己在《人口白皮书》里提出的到了2030年人口将增加到690万的数字说法,企图以此缓和土生土长的新加坡公民的反对情绪! ——结论是:行动党说:土生土长的新加坡公民及其后代太过敏感那个690万的数字!其实,那是 一个为规划未来基础建设所设定的假设数字!可能到时不需要这个数字?那到了2030年新加坡到底还要增加人口到690万吗?现在行动党人都不说了! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 10.《管制网络媒体执照新法令》问题!行动党的丫谷为了要控制网络媒体和博客的的言论自由,在2013年开始实施了‘网络媒体执照新法令’。但 是,网络媒体和博客在2013年6月8日在芳林公园举行了反对‘网络媒体执照新法令’、在网上进行签名请愿活动和‘网络自由关灯行动’后,行动党的丫谷不 断的出来解释‘网络媒体执照新法令’不是要压制网络媒体和博客的言论自由!网络媒体及博客可以继续如常的进行活动!但是,在最近的国会讨论有关印度尼西亚 烟霾来袭笼罩新加坡造成空气污染事件时,他就提出要通过‘网络媒体执照新法令’追究任何人在网络媒体上散布‘谣言’! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 11.伊蚊造成病患死亡问题!在伊蚊肆虐时造成了病患不断激增和有病患因此身亡时,医院以完全符合卫生部规定的流程处理病患推却了应付的责任!环境 部把伊蚊的肆虐归处于老百姓家里是造成伊蚊肆虐的滋生根源!完全不把目前卫生部尚未研发出抵抗骨痛溢血症的有效药是目前病患增加的主要因素! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 12.处理烟霾问题!行动党在烟霾来袭严重时,行动党不论对内或对外的处理完全是无法让人们接受! 一、无法及时给老百姓提供防止烟霾造成的健康危害措施老百姓必须自保! 二、不能及时让人们知道有关空气污染指数(PSI),指老百姓以肉眼看到不是事实的指数!行动党告诉老百姓应该按照他们提供的所谓3小时和48小时PSI平均指数作为老百姓出行和工作的指导指数! 三、老百姓都知道印度尼西亚的军人政客是一群不讲信用的家伙,行动党却要人民相信他们可以通过国际压力迫使印度尼西亚军人政客认真对待新加坡在处理烟霾的诉求! ——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。。 以上所回放的事件都是在李显龙完全掌权领导行动党在过去三年来的‘诚信政治’! 咱们不想要给行动党的‘诚信政治定性!因为: 一、咱们不是‘诚信政治’的始作俑者!行动党爱咋弄就咋弄! 二、行动党在过去三年的‘诚信政治’表现,那是行动党自己的事!咱们不想管!咱们不操哪个心?李显龙认为那是搞好政治的首要条件,那就去搞呗!咱们不信他们这一套!说的比较自私一点:咱们确实希望行动党抱着‘诚信政治’一直往奔驰吧! 李显龙在自己的FACEBOOK上这么说: “阿裕尼集选区小贩中心清洗风波延烧已近一个月,但争议不在于小贩中心的清洗,而是关乎更高层面且更关键的问题,那就是从政者与我们政治制度的诚信。” 李显龙的这一段话说明了什么? 1.说明了行动党已经失去耐心了!他们已经无法改变包括工人党在内的全国反对党在群众中日益扩大的影响力!他们认为工人党是全国反对党最‘听话’ 的,而且是最大的反对党,如果能够‘压服’工人党,那就‘成功在望’!这就是为什么行动党这么执着要把要求建立自己党的形象强加在工人党身上! 2.说明了李显龙必须走回李光耀的老路:找反对党的茬!破坏反对党在老百姓当中的形象!——所谓‘反对党没有诚信政治’,因此我无法在今后执政组成政府!政客从李显龙在必丹星的问题上旧事重提证明这一点! 实事求是的说,如果行动党以为用旧事重提的手法可以诋毁反对党在群众中的形象,那咱们可以直接告诉行动党:门都没有! 如果行动党那么感兴趣过去反对党人的旧事!行!咱们就在行动党的‘诚信政治’的定义下把李光耀时代的所有旧事重提! 如果行动党接受这一挑战,咱们说,那这可没完!因为老百姓随手沾来,一把抓都可以说上一年都没法说完! 咱们不发问,只提出下面的几个主要旧问题,让行动党自己去给下‘诚信政治’的定义! 1.NTUC中委彭友国失踪时事件到底咱回事?————老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 2.已故为国家发展部长郑章远自杀事件到底说咋回事?——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 3.关闭南大和关闭或改制所有华文中小学校、剥夺陈六使老先生的公民权的事件到底谁咋回事?——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 4.不经审讯、长期拘留政治异己分子(包括谢太保博士、林福寿医生、赛查哈里先生等数百名政治异己分子。)到底是咋回事?——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 5.强制全国私人公共交通业经营者休业,行动党组成了今天的2家公交车公司和地铁公司,还要拿国家的税收津贴这几家交通业公司!到底是咋回事?——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 6.在70年代要求人民之生育两个孩子,造成今天人口替代率不足,行动党却责怪老百姓不提高生育率!到底是咋回事?——老百姓问:这就是行动党的‘诚信政治’!请李显龙定性。 我想,如果要继续重提行动党在李光耀威权统治时代的‘诚信政治’,那可能要写出一本书才有可能述说完整! 行动党认为关心工人党的‘诚信政治’是行动党‘义不容辞’的责任!那是行动党是自己感觉很好!行动党不必为反对党操那份心! 全国反对党,包括工人党要在群众中选择树立那一种形象?是否能够取得老百姓的认可?那是反对党与群众之间的问题!行动党不需要在一旁说三道四! 全国反对党,包括工人党要采取哪种政治斗争形式?是反对党自己在斗争中制定出来的!反对党能否在斗争中生存和发展起来,那是反对党自己必须面对的现实!行动党不需要在一旁说三道四!   * Author blogs in http://wangruirong.wordpress.com  Read More →

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