It has been well over a year since the 2006 General Elections. We must take stock of our nation's progress and examine whether the government has delivered on its election promises.
On this score, I must say that I am satisfied. Our economy has grown, unemployment has hit an all-time low, and salaries have gone up steadily. Singapore's standing on the international arena has never been better too. While bilateral relations with Malaysia and Indonesia have not always been as smooth as we would like them to be, we are working out our differences in a mature and sensible manner. Lots of progress has been made. Our standing in ASEAN also remains rock solid, as proven by our firm leadership in the recent crisis in Myanmar.
My conclusion therefore is that the People's Action Party (may the PAP progress!) has delivered well and fulfilled its promises to the electorate.
To be sure, many policies implemented have not been very popular. Many people have raised concerns over the transport fare hikes and the GST hike, not to mention the rising prices of goods and service. Ministerial and other public service salaries have also generated much healthy and lively debate. And more recently, the issue of longevity insurance has set many Singaporeans thinking and debating about retirement issues and how the government can best help us.
Our government is distinguished in its resolve to implement policies that work for the good of Singapore over the long term, even though they may be unpopular in the short term. By not pandering to temporary whims and prejudices, the government makes sure the nation is not sidetracked, and that its policies benefit Singaporeans. Sure, there is always the fear that the PAP might lose votes when it implements unpopular policies. But we can all take comfort in the fact that Singaporeans are very understanding and mature, and that when it is clearly seen that policies benefit all Singaporeans, they will support the PAP again.
The PAP has great vision and foresight, as well as the courage and tenacity to lead the nation and establish a solid foundation for us to progress in the 21st century! So let us join together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building!
Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!
Goh Bock Seng
