Any careful and astute observer of Singapore's political scene will notice that Singaporeans still lack maturity with regards to political issues and need to be carefully guided in their thinking.
Our restless generation, especially the youth, seem to be clamouring for more freedom of speech and expression in all areas of life, including the political front. They like to cite these as part of so-called "civil liberties". But with freedom comes grave responsibility. That is what the youth of today are lacking in.
The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has created a nation of peace, prosperity, economic progress, and racial and religious harmony. This has not come easy. Anyone who is in government knows that the process of nation building is a slow, tedious process that is incredibly hard. We are where we are today because of the tireless and selfless dedication of the men and women in office, many of whom have made monumental sacrifices to take the lead and bear the immense burden of public office. To these men and women we should be sincerely grateful.
However many of the present generation are unaware of how we got to be where we are, and the kind of work and sacrifice it takes to keep our nation running. Many folk like to view events and government policies in isolation, randomly criticizing them, without reflecting upon the bigger picture. People today only seem to just want more and more -- more money, more handouts, less taxes, less obligations, more free space, more free speech -- without taking into account the needs of tomorrow. This is truly irresponsible.
The present day generation, especially our youth, must learn to appreciate the soundness of our government's policies, and recognize the fact that the government is not afraid to enact policies for the long term good of our nation, and not pander to the short term whims of the electorate. Mindless criticism of the government and its policies without considering the long term good of our nation is only going to be counterproductive. The government devotes all its resources and capabilities, and deploys the best brains we have towards researching the best policies for our nation, policies that will serve all Singaporeans through thick and thin. Singaporeans would do well to recognize this.
While cyberspace and the internet serves as a medium for Singaporeans to express their views and thoughts freely, Singaporeans should be mindful that with free speech comes responsibility -- responsibility to their nation, to their community, and to themselves ultimately. Singaporeans must learn to use their freedoms on the internet wisely, and not abuse them, like so many people are wantonly doing these days. The internet, unfortunately, has frequently become a hodge-podge of thoughtless and irresponsible anti-government propaganda. This is indeed regrettable. It is my sincere hope that Singaporeans can recognize the grave mistake they are committing. Their thoughtless and mindless anti-government propaganda is only going to sabotage the efforts of the government in the long run in building a better and freer Singapore.
The PAP (may the PAP progress!) is still today the best possible party to lead our nation further into the 21st century. Their ranks are filled with capable men and women of honour and integrity, and their leadership renewal is in progress. Instead of mindlessly bickering about being affected by inevitable circumstances such as rising prices or the need to plan and save for a longer retirement, let us instead close ranks and support the one party in Singapore that will lead our nation from strength to strength, and serve the interests of all Singaporeans to the fullest. Let us support the PAP.
Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!
Goh Bock Seng
No comments:
Post a Comment