In Search of Goh Bock Seng

My reply to Sammyboy forummer "mustpaycash" on his malicious TOC allegations

2008-05-05T21:16:00.000+08:00

I am very disappointed when I read your post criticizing TOC in such an ungentlemanly and underhand manner. It shows that you are seriously lacking in good judgment, and are politically naive.

So what if TOC has pro-establishment personalities in its editorial board, or if some of them are members of political parties such as the PAP? So what if TOC has secured the help of people affiliated with the government? It just goes to show that the PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has a lot of good talent in its fold. If the PAP did not have good brains in its ranks, would TOC have approached PAP members to sit on its editorial team?

Your blatant condemnation of TOC based on the composition of its editorial board is short-sighted and naive. In fact, by scouting for talent in the PAP fold, TOC has shown that it recognizes that the PAP has a plethora of good men and women who can make a positive contribution. This shows TOC's foresight and wisdom. You have absolutely no right to condemn TOC on this score.

Mr Choo Zheng Xi, for example, is an outstanding young man who has served the community diligently and passionately, and has made significant contributions at the PAP grassroots level. He is the perfect man to be chief editor of TOC. Are you telling me you can find someone even better than he? If so, please state your choice, or else accept that your allegations that he is unsuitable for the job is nothing but outrightly malicious and cruel, as well as blatantly partisan.

As an independent commentator on current affairs, TOC has every right to decide what news to report, and what to neglect. With limited resources, they do not have the time or energy to report on everything. If they chose to neglect the political parties you mentioned, perhaps you should reflect on why that is so. Are the parties you mentioned credible parties that are willing to engage the government in a legal and non-confrontational manner, work strictly within the rules and framework set by the ruling party, and collaborate with the government humbly on the issues of the day? If not, then why should TOC waste time on them?

Unlike you, I see a bright future for TOC. The mainstream publications like the Straits Times achieved their outstanding rankings and large readership by being objective, precise, fair, and all-rounded. That is precisely the kind of credibility that TOC can, and should, aim for.

Cyberspace is already replete with blogs and forums that criticize the PAP. In this regard, TOC to me is like a breath of fresh air.

Thus, I hope you would re-consider the myopic stand that you have and retract your malicious allegations on TOC.

Goh Bock Seng

From:	mustpaycash	4-May 21:35
To:	ALL	1 of 33

176164.1

All along I have believed TOC is a non-partisan platform that aims to provide commentary in a neutral setting. However recent event have made me change my mind.

First is the revelation that many TOC members are affiliated to PAP grassroots and WP. The chief editor of TOC, Choo Zheng Xi, even used to draw an honorarium of $500 per month last time doing work for a PAP MP. Ephraim Loy, provisional co-editor of TOC, is a member of the Young PAP. He is an active grassroots leader in the Bedok Reservoir-Punggol Constituency. Andrew Loh, co-editor of TOC, used to be a WP member, but quit under mysterious circumstances after being slammed for using TOC as a mouthpiece for the WP.

Yeo Toon Joo, a co-editor of TOC, was an ex Straits Times assistant editor. Gerald Giam is active in a community development council as well as a government media advisory committee.

Finally TOC recent got ex NTUC chief Tan kin lian on board! As you all know Tan kin lian is very pro establishment. Why did they get him on board? I think all of you can guess why ...

Even with such outrageous revelation, I continue to visit TOC web site daily as I was impress with the quality of the articles. Recently however, my impression has dropped drastically. I found that TOC concentrate mainly on PAP and WP propaganda, and is used as a mouthpiece for the WP-PAP-establishment. They report on PAP and WP news extensively, but pay lip service to news from other parties.

The last straw for me was the Labour day. All major political parties made their mark by issuing press release and activity. However TOC paid more attention to PAP and WP. In fact, it was NSP and SDP that organize activity on Labour day.

NSP gave out goodie bag to resident to help resident relive the burden. Did TOC report on this? No they did not.

SDP organize a hawker stall to sell their book and give flyer to resident. Did TOC report? No they did not. They only put up a small link at their sidebar to SDP web site.

How come if TOC claim to be neutral, non-partisan, it only pay attention to PAP and WP event, neglect all the other parties? You mean NSP and SDP are not worthy party to report on? NSP and WP are the only party organize Labour day activity for all resident. How come their news is blank out? Why?

I am disgusted with TOC bias and lop side reporting. They only want to highlight and analyse the mainstream media news and WP event. As you all know by now, WP is nothing but a DAMN WAYANG PARTY that is not interest in opposing PAP! Why does TOC only focus on WP and leave out other party? Their intent is obvious.

Let us stop the mindless bickering in cyberspace forums

2008-04-11T16:24:00.000+08:00

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

Unfair to compare Low Thia Kiang with Malaysian opposition leader Lim Kit Siang

2008-02-26T02:13:00.004+08:00

I am responding to the following blog posting: Malaysia opposition leader Lim Kit Siang puts Low Thia Kiang to SHAME !!! which was written by http://wayangparty.blogspot.com/

The Wayang Party Club wrote: <<<

According to The New Paper article below, 67 year old Malaysian opposition leader Mr Lim Kit Siang runs 3 blogs which are updated meticulously daily. Mr Lim Kit Siang also has a facebook account which he uses to connect with young voters. He is a vocal critic of the government in Parliament, making over 500 speeches in a year and in between serving his residents of Ipor Timur with a population of 710,000, he still has the time and energy to galvanize the civil society of Malaysia by leading the recent Bersih campaign to call for free and fair elections.

We applaud Mr Lim Kit Siang for his tireless efforts to promote and further opposition cause in Malaysia. On the contrary, Mr Low Thia Kiang who is the leader of the Singapore’s opposition and MP of a small SMC of 22,000 people is seldom seen in public other than making a few speeches in Parliament a year and praising the PAP government in the media. The WP website was not updated for the past 3 months since their anniversary dinner in November last year ! And not surprisingly, we don’t expect Mr Low to have his own personal blog or facebook since we never seem to receive a reply when we emailed him! >>>

My response:

It is extremely unfair of you to compare Lim Kit Siang, a Malaysian opposition leader, to Low Thia Kiang. This is because they have greatly differing roles to play in their respective societies.

Mr Lim Kit Siang is an opposition stalwart who has challenged the ruling BN coalition party of Malaysia on many issues, and has a lot of credibility to his name. Low Thia Kiang on the other hand is meant to play supportive role, providing a bridge between voters who want an alternative voice in Singapore and the ruling party. You are comparing apples to oranges.

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has a solid track record of outstanding governance, has created wealth and prosperity for our nation since our independence, and put Singapore on a firm footing as we venture into the 21st century. It is not afraid to enact unpopular policies which are for the long term good of our nation, and has avoided the pitfalls of pandering to the electorate in the short term.

Given the excellent track record and performance of the PAP, and its high level of integrity and incorruptibility, there is not much scope for Opposition parties in Singapore to credibly challenge them. However, the PAP reluctantly acknowledges that there is still a role for Opposition in Singapore. Opposition parties can play the role of middle man, connecting voters who want an alternative voice or who are not yet convinced that of the soundness of PAP policies, with the ruling party. That is where parties such as the WP come in.

By putting up a moderate and non-confrontational voice in Parliament, Low Thia Kiang and Sylvia Lim have added to the already lively and robust debate that goes on in those hallowed chambers. When PAP MPs rebut them decisively on issues they have raised, they are quick to acknowledge the validity of the PAP's stand. When Low Thia Kiang returns to his constituency, he can then bring the PAP's argument and point of view back to his people, and lay out the good points of PAP policies. That is the valuable role the WP plays in Singapore's political scene.

The PAP hopes that eventually, it will win back the two Opposition seats and secure 100% of the seats in Parliament. This is because it believes that its policies are robust and sound, and will stand the test of time. In the meanwhile, the PAP acknowledges the role the WP is trying to play and will continually try to win back the hearts and minds of the voters.

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

The original Wayang Party Club article is as follows:

http://wayangparty.wordpress.com/2008/02/22/malaysia-opposition-leader-lim-kit-siang-puts-low-thia-kiang-to-shame/

Malaysia opposition leader Lim Kit Siang puts Low Thia Kiang to SHAME !!!

Posted on February 22, 2008 by wayangparty

According to The New Paper article below, 67 year old Malaysian opposition leader Mr Lim Kit Siang runs 3 blogs which are updated meticulously daily. Mr Lim Kit Siang also has a facebook account which he uses to connect with young voters. He is a vocal critic of the government in Parliament, making over 500 speeches in a year and in between serving his residents of Ipor Timur with a population of 710,000, he still has the time and energy to galvanize the civil society of Malaysia by leading the recent Bersih campaign to call for free and fair elections.

We applaud Mr Lim Kit Siang for his tireless efforts to promote and further opposition cause in Malaysia. On the contrary, Mr Low Thia Kiang who is the leader of the Singapore’s opposition and MP of a small SMC of 22,000 people is seldom seen in public other than making a few speeches in Parliament a year and praising the PAP government in the media. The WP website was not updated for the past 3 months since their anniversary dinner in November last year ! And not surprisingly, we don’t expect Mr Low to have his own personal blog or facebook since we never seem to receive a reply when we emailed him!

What has Mr Low Thia Kiang been doing lately ? Can he be busier than Mr Lim Kit Siang who has a much bigger constituency to manage and has to commute often between Ipoh and KL where his party HQ is based ? Is he still waiting for Parliament to convene so that he can “comment” on the latest government policies affecting Singaporeans ? What is WP doing to connect with the voters other than the usual wayang walk-abouts and weekly Open House on Monday whose crowds are dwindling ?

Without even a wayang to show for, we are afraid that WP will soon have to change its name from “Wayang Party” to “Worthless Party”. An opposition party that sits around and doing nothing, only popping up when the GE arrives is not worth the support of Singaporeans. It is in fact the biggest obstacle to the progress of real democracy in Singapore since it is merely a pawn used by the regime to legitimizes itself as a democracy to the international community.

The New Paper

Opposition party’s YouTube video is a hit with netizens

22 Feb 2008

JUST like in the ongoing race for presidential nominations in the US, Malaysian political parties are taking their campaigning to online video host site YouTube.

The English version of DAP’s video has been viewed more than 15,000 times at press time. The Malay version has been viewed almost 10,000 times.

And it seems the Democratic Action Party (DAP) has made the first inroads with a snazzy promotional video that has been delighting netizens since it was uploaded two weeks ago, reported Guang Ming Daily.

The video shows a relay race, with Malaysians of different races and ages passing the baton as they run or ride taxis along the country’s alleyways and thoroughfares.

The baton finally ends up in the hands of DAP leaders standing on the steps of Parliament.

The one-minute video comes in Malay and English versions.

Its cheeky message, ‘Just change it’, shown at the end, spoofs Nike’s ‘Just do it’ catchphrase. In Malay, the closing message says, ‘Jam ubah (Time to change)’.

DAP said that the relay race is meant to convey the idea that the party carries the hopes and voice of the masses.

Entitled The Voice Of Democracy, Conscience Of Parliament-DAP, the English version of the video has been viewed more than 15,000 times at press time. The Malay version has been viewed almost 10,000 times.

Not to be outdone, Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), a part of the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition, yesterday launched the country’s first Indian Internet-based political television channel.

Called Putera iTV, the online video-streaming channel will feature the contributions and achievements of MIC and BN, reported New Straits Times.

In a video recording posted on the site, MIC president SSamy Vellu said the channel was a progressive way to reach the younger generation. Content on the site would include coverage of the 28 MIC candidates during the campaign period.

But it is the opposition parties which most appreciate the value of the Internet, reported AFP.

While mainstream media - many partly owned by BN parties - are awash with flattering stories about the government and its achievements, the opposition rates barely a mention.

‘Blogging is one way to get word out and an opportunity to circumvent media control,’ said DAP leader Lim Kit Siang, 67, who runs three blogs which are meticulously updated every day.

I support the Online Citizen

2008-02-14T14:57:00.000+08:00

Recently, there have been many allegations made against the editors of the popular web portal, the Online Citizen (TOC): http://theonlinecitizen.com/

The TOC editors have been accused of being either funded by the PAP, or at the very least, closely associated with the PAP. In addition, TOC is alleged to have threatened legal action on at least one blogger. Just a couple of days back, TOC wrote a lengthy blog post fervently denying these allegations. Many readers also weighed in on the subject and expressed their support for TOC.

I too would like to express my support for the Online Citizen. TOC provides a wide diversity of views and opinions on what is happening in Singapore, some pro-establishment, and some anti-establishment. This curious blend of neutral reporting and the ability to look at each issue from many sides without ever taking an unwavering stand is seldom found in cyberspace.

Although the PAP is confident that its policies are sound, will benefit Singaporeans over the long run, and will definitely stand the test of time, the PAP also recognizes that people must be free to air their views, provided that they do so responsibly and moderately. TOC is one good example of responsible and moderate reporting that the PAP would certainly approve of.

Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (praise and blessings be upon him!) and the Old Guard singlehandedly brought Singapore from 3rd World to 1st, and built a nation of peace and prosperity, security, racial and religious harmony, and social progress. It is entirely due to their incredible dedication, hard work, and monumental sacrifices that Singaporeans today have a nation that they can be very proud to call their home. We and our families owe a lifelong debt of honest gratitude to these courageous men and women who put their lives on the line to build a modern and prosperous Singapore.

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has created a social environment that fosters intelligent questioning and debate of social and political issues, and encourages Singaporeans to play an active role in shaping the future of our society. It is out of this vibrant and thriving culture created by the PAP that TOC was born. TOC's articles are balanced and well-written, and always based on the facts, although there have been many occasion when those facts presented were incomplete and did not portray an accurate picture of reality.

Although many TOC articles are critical of PAP policies, their arguments are presented in way that is thoughtful and measured, even if those arguments are often flawed.

Indeed, the PAP does not expect that everyone will agree with all its policies. Not everyone has access to all the facts and information, and certainly TOC does not. As time goes by however, the PAP hopes that eventually most Singaporeans will come to see the wisdom and strength of its policies.

In the meanwhile, TOC still plays an excellent role by offering an alternative platform and alternative set of views that encourages mature debate and logical thinking. That is what the PAP would like to see as well, as these qualities of logical thinking and mature debate will eventually lead people to see the goodness of its policies, and lead them back to the PAP.

All in all, TOC plays a vital role in shaping the kind of society the PAP would like. Let us thus put aside our petty differences and squabbles, and focus on the greater tasks ahead. Let us join in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building. Together with the PAP, we can reach for the Pot Of Gold!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

My Singapore, My Home!

2008-01-07T17:30:00.000+08:00

I am very proud to be a Singaporean, living with my 2 sons in a first world country that prides itself on its efficiency, cleanliness, good governance, and ability to ride the glorious tide of globalization.

My eldest son has just graduated from university and younger son is currently serving National Service, a pivotal moment in a young man's life. Both of them served their nation with both pride and joy and as a father, I couldn't possibly be happier! Both my sons understand the importance of defending our nation and I am proud of their dedication to our nation.

As Singaporeans, we enjoy many privileges that citizens of other nations often do not enjoy. We have an outstanding health care system in place. Our environment is kept clean and hygienic. The crime rate is low and Singaporeans can walk the streets safely even at night or in the wee hours of the morning without worrying about getting mugged by gangsters. Last but definitely not least, we have an efficient and competent government that implements good policies for the nation, even though they are at times unpopular.

Our government is not afraid to do what is right for the nation in the long term, even if they face opposition or resentment in the short run. That is what keeps our society and economy progressing, and everyone benefits from this. We have indeed avoided the pitfalls that have beset other countries, namely, pandering to the short term whims of the electorate while sacrificing long term good. Singaporeans understand this, and that is why we continue to support the PAP and its policies which benefit our nation in the long run.

Singapore not just provides one of the friendliest environments of businesses and private enterprise to thrive and grow, it is also one of the best places to set up home. That is why foreigners are increasingly attracted to Singapore and more and more of our friends from abroad are making Singapore their new home. The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has opened our doors to capable and talented foreigners, who bring vast expertise and experience to our nation. In so doing our economy has become more vibrant, and Singaporeans have learnt to thrive and grow in this new globalized marketplace.

My Singapore! My Home! I am very proud to be a Singaporean, as are my two sons.

Goh Bock Seng

2nd revision of Ministerial Salaries

2007-11-27T18:19:00.001+08:00

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) announced in April this year that public service and ministerial salaries would be raised so as to attract and retain talented leaders and ensure the continuation of outstanding governance.

Throughout these years, the PAP has brought economic prosperity and social progress to our Great Motherland that many nations envy but few can match. It is time that they are adequately compensated for their monumental achievements and not made to bear unnecessary financial sacrifices while we Singaporeans savour the fruits of their success.

The first round of pay increments was implemented in April and the second round is expected to be implemented by the end of this year. The PAP government is not afraid to pay their ministers their due so that the PAP can continue to deliver the best possible results to Singaporeans. This is an article I wrote earlier this year, in strong support of the public service pay hikes:

http://gohbockseng.blogspot.com/2007/06/i-support-public-service-pay-hikes.html

I fully support the public service pay increases, which benefit all our ministers as well as almost all our civil servants from the most senior to junior officers.

The PAP (may the PAP progress!) has an outstanding track record of good governance, and is transparent, above-board and incorruptible. Under their esteemed leadership, job creation has been steady and the economy has been growing by leaps and bounds despite the volatile economic climate of the past ten years.

It is only natural that in a prosperous, peaceful and secure environment like Singapore, talented citizens tend to seek out the great abundance of opportunities in the private sector. Such a politically stable and harmonious social climate rarely brings forth the kind of revolutionary zeal that characterized our Old Guard's struggle against communism, racism, and the oppressive state of colonialism that engulfed our nation before its independence from British rule in 1963.

It is therefore foolhardy, naive and unrealistic to think that pure idealism alone is sufficient to attract a steady supply of good men and women into politics.

To begrudge our ministers their multi-million dollar salaries would be to penalize them for the good that they have done, because it is they who brought the kind of peace and prosperity to Singapore that makes it more natural for good men and women NOT to join politics.

To pay our ministers less than they are worth would be robbing the PAP of a pragmatic foundation on which to campaign for talented citizens to join them. Indeed, that be would be to miss the forest for the trees.

The public service pay hikes are an imperfect solution implemented by imperfect political leaders for an imperfect world. Yet it is fair, pragmatic, and is the best we can do for Singapore at this time. Hence I call upon all Singaporeans to give their fullest support to the PAP.

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Compulsory annuity benefits ALL

2007-09-02T23:14:00.001+08:00

The compulsory annuity scheme is a wise and noble scheme that benefits all Singaporeans. Under this scheme, some portion of the CPF minimum sum is placed in a collective pool that provides monthly payouts to those aged 85 and above. If you die before the age of 85, your money will be used to help those in need.

The compulsory annuity scheme ensures that all Singaporeans will be able to sustain themselves even with increased longevity. It is an intelligent scheme that enables Singaporeans to be self-sufficient. That is far, far better than simply receiving handouts from the government. By getting everyone to support one another in old age, Singaporeans become self-reliant, and avoid the dreadful pitfalls of welfarism.

By getting Singaporeans to rely on each other as much as possible, the PAP government (may the PAP progress!) frees up capital for investment in the future of Singapore, like building better infrastructure, and in research and development. The PAP government thus achieves its grand objective of getting Singaporeans to stay together and move ahead!

All of us should give our support to the compulsory annuity scheme, and opt to defer receiving our CPF for as long as possible, so that everyone will collectively benefit!

PM Lee (may MM Lee and SM Goh be pleased with him!) has shown his mettle and courage in implementing policies that are unpopular, but which operate for the greater good of Singapore. For this, we should rally together to support him and the compulsory annuity scheme. Let us join in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building, and reach for the Pot Of Gold!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Singapore has done very well

2007-07-10T14:55:00.000+08:00

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

MM Lee is very, very wise!!

2007-06-13T11:24:00.001+08:00

Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (peace and blessings be upon him!) has shown is mettle and his wisdom yet again. MM Lee clearly knows that Singapore is unique and must be governed in a pragmatic way, without pandering to the disruptive Western notions of unconditional free speech and association (which would undoubtedly harm Singapore).

MM Lee has the courage to be authoritarian and firm when he needs to be, for the good of Singapore. All forummers should read the Straits Times article attached below and drink from the fountain of his wisdom!

Goh Bock Seng

March 7, 2007
Govt gives citizens every reason to elect it: MM

SINGAPORE'S brand of democracy works because the Government gives the country's citizens every reason to vote for it at elections, Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew said yesterday.

The country has maintained the principle of British democracy, that the electorate can vote a government out peacefully.

'But we have engineered it so carefully that they must be very stupid to vote this government out,' he added.

The Government solved the housing problem by building public housing using Central Provident Fund (CPF) money. These flats are then sold to Singaporeans at cost price.

For the Singapore citizen, his flat is 'something substantial' that he owns and has to pay instalments for.

'So he must have a job. If you change the government, you have no jobs, the house is taken back,' Mr Lee said.

And as the flats become old after 20 to 30 years, the Government upgrades the buildings, subsidising 80 per cent of the cost.

'Suddenly, overnight, your property goes up in value. Now, you find another government that will do that. If you think you can, you try,' he said.

The Americans try to prescribe democracy by saying governments should allow free association, demonstrations and a free press, he said.

'Here you want to hold a demonstration, you must have a permit first.'

As for his critics who say he is authoritarian, Mr Lee had this reply: 'I say, 'never mind'.

'Do they vote for me? Do I stuff the ballot boxes? No. Is it a secret vote? Yes. Do I win?

'Do I win 99 per cent? No. I win by 61 or 65 or 67 per cent.'

The highest percentage of votes he ever won was 88 per cent, he recounted.

'That was the year the British decided to get out and sell everything. So I immediately held an election. I knew the people will be dead scared.'

I support the public service pay hikes

2007-06-13T11:23:00.000+08:00

I fully support the public service pay increases, which benefit all our ministers as well as almost all our civil servants from the most senior to junior officers.

It is therefore foolhardy, naive and unrealistic to think that pure idealism alone is sufficient to attract a steady supply of good men and women into politics.

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Singaporeans must learn from foreigners

2007-06-13T11:22:00.000+08:00

All Singaporeans would do very well to learn from foreigners and emulate their ways! Foreigners bring a wealth of talent and expertise to Singapore. They take up jobs that Singapore are unwilling or unable to do. They fill up gaps in our workforce created by Singaporeans who on their own accord drop out.

Without foreigners, Singaporeans would be mere specks of dust in the wind!

We should give our fullest support to the PAP government (may the PAP progress!). Their Foreign Talent policy is by far one of their best policies. It has become all too obvious that without a constant influx of Foreign Talents, Singapore's population would decline inexorably and Singapore's economy would stagnate. Foreigners don't just impart knowledge to us. They also teach us culture, social graces and manners, which Singaporeans are visibly lacking in. Foreigners make Singapore not just a vibrant economy but also a vibrant home for all of us.

To the Singaporean men here: I say that we must serve National Service with pride, distinction and commitment, and be prepared to lay down our lives not just for our families, but also for all the foreigners living and working here. This is our Great Call of Duty, and National Service for us is not a burden, but a privilege.

Let us give our fullest support to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (may MM Lee and SM Goh be pleased with him!), and let us all rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building! Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

The smart and discerning support PAP

2007-03-15T12:57:00.000+08:00

I have observed that intelligent and discerning Singaporeans are generally supporters of the PAP, and rightfully so. The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) is an extremely competent government that has the courage and foresight to enact policies for the long term good of the nation, rather than pander to the often irrational whims of the electorate. The PAP has an outstanding track record and is clean and uncorruptible. It is no wonder that discerning and street-wise Singaporeans are generally PAP supporters.

Most opposition supporters and anti-PAP folk I have encountered in this forum and elsewhere are shallow-minded people who consistently miss the forest for the trees. They cannot see beyond their own noses and are unable to view things from a larger perspective. Most often, they submit to groupthink and have a herd mentality, slavishly adopting whatever views others profess to have. They only think of themselves and their own immediate needs rather than consider the broader national interest and the needs of others. They are emotional, irrational, narrow-minded, and would rather waste time spewing rubbish than engaging wholesome and intelligent debate about national issues.

These people would do well to educate themselves and straighten out their thoughts first before engaging in such mindlessness. For a start, I would recommend reading the Memoirs of Lee Kuan Yew, so that you can learn how Singapore grew from 3rd World to 1st, and have a better appreciation of what it takes to govern our Great Motherland. Then you would know why intelligent and discerning people support the PAP!

Goh Bock Seng

Singaporeans should look up to FTs

2007-02-19T21:08:00.000+08:00

It is high time Singaporeans looked up to foreigners and treated them with respect and courtesy.

Singapore owes its thriving economy to foreigners who bring a wealth of talent and expertise. Foreign talents take up jobs that Singaporeans are unwilling to perform, and contribute greatly to our economic progress. Without a constant influx of foreigners, Singapore would be unable to compete on the world stage and we would fall far behind.

It is high time all Singaporeans recognized the immense virtue of the PAP's Foreign Talent policy, and welcomed all foreigners with open arms. The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has Singaporeans' best interest at heart and knows very well that only by opening our doors to foreigners will we be able to prosper and grow as a nation.

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

I'm so proud of the PAP

2007-02-02T11:46:00.001+08:00

I am extremely proud that we have a strong and competent government like the PAP (may the PAP progress!) in charge. With the PAP at the helm, I always know Singapore is in safe hands and we will prosper over the long run.

The policy I am most proud of is the foreign talent policy. Recognizing the harsh realities of globalization and fully cognizant of the fact that left alone, our own national fertility rate is insufficient to sustain a healthy population size, the PAP government (wise and learned they are!) has opened up to foreigners in a grand way in the hopes they will find jobs here and eventually settle down. Foreigners bring a wealth of talent and open up new markets in Singapore, and make this a truly vibrant and endearing place to live, work and play!

Our competent and incorruptible PAP government (O Great Men & Women of Asia!) is never afraid to enact unpopular policies for the long term good and stability of Singapore, unlike the other so-called democratic governments who have fallen prey to welfarism and sacrifice the long-term good of the nation in favour of popular policies that bring benefits only in the short term. The reason why we are such a wealthy, prosperous and competitive nation is because the PAP (give praise and thanks to them!) always does what is right and good for Singapore, and never yields to its senseless and irrational critics.

I am proud to be Singaporean, and I am heartened that my sons will, like me, serve NS with pride and joy, with stout hearts full of purpose and courage. I have brought my children up to love our Great Motherland and revere our enlightened and uncorruptible leaders. They know where they belong, and would gladly lay down their lives for Singapore.

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura! Give praise and blessings to MM Lee, PM Lee, and the PAP government, and let us all rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building!

I'm so Proud of National Service!

2007-02-02T11:45:00.003+08:00

I am so proud to be a Singaporean, and I'm so proud of National Service!

Yesterday, my eldest son who is currently finishing his Full time National Service came to me and told me that his time serving our nation had been very well spent, and that he felt he had made a worthy contribution. That was one of my proudest moments as a father! To see my own son grow up and serve our Great Motherland with distinction, with a stout heart full of purpose and courage!

My youngest son will also be serving his full time National Service when he finishes his 'A' Levels. We are family of patriots. I know that each of us will gladly lay down our lives for our Great Motherland! Throughout these years I have been instilling in my young boys the noble cause of defending our country and the sacred duty of each and every Singaporean to be fiercely loyal to his nation.

I reminiscence about my own time in full time NS when I was a young lad, and I must say I have absolutely no regrets. I look at my own family whom I am protecting by taking up arms. I look at our nation's resources that I am protecting by serving wholeheartedly in the military. And I also look at all the foreigners who are able to enjoy life and take up jobs in our Great Motherland with peace of mind, because of Singaporeans like me who have risen to do our part for National Service. And I must say that my heart is filled with pride! Protecting our nation, protecting everyone who lives and works here whether it is Singaporeans or foreigners, is truly our most noble and sacred duty.

I am so glad Foreign Talents can settle down safely here, knowing that their precious lives are protected by loyal Singaporeans like myself and my sons! I am so proud of National Service, and of the enlightened PAP government (may the PAP progress!) which always acts in the best interests of our nation and always adopts a long term perspective to all issues.

Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Foreigners should enjoy same subsidies

2007-02-02T11:45:00.001+08:00

Foreigners should enjoy the same subsidies as Singaporeans. Why should a person living and working in Singapore be made to pay more than a citizen of our Great Motherland? Why should PRs and work permit holders be treated differently from a Singaporean?

My stand is that all foreigners working in Singapore should enjoy the same privileges and benefits that Singaporeans enjoy. They should enjoy the same educational bursaries, pay the same taxes, and be given the same if not a higher level of consideration in terms of job applications.

If we are truly serious about opening the doors of our Great Motherland to the treasured expertise of foreigners, then I say treat them well, give them all the privileges accorded to any Singaporean, let them feel as welcome as possible!

Foreigners make our nation great. They bring in expertise and qualities of character often lacking in Singaporeans. They are a valuable resource in almost any corporation, business or organization. And when they finally do settle down permanently in Singapore, they make good parents and spouses.

I say give all foreigners the same benefits that all Singaporeans enjoy! May foreigners from all walks of life come to Singapore and make our Great Motherland their home! And may all Singaporeans look up to foreigners and learn from them with their own knees bent and their heads lowered!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Singaporeans MUST learn from foreigners!

2007-02-02T11:44:00.001+08:00

Without foreigners, Singaporeans would be mere specks of dust in the wind!

Forumers should ask less, listen more

2007-02-02T11:43:00.001+08:00

It would be very helpful if forum participants asked less and listened more, especially with regard to current issues like GST and Temasek's losses.

No government is perfect. So what if Temasek lost a lot of money in Thailand? The legendary hedge fund manager George Soros also lost billions during his yester years when some of his trades went wrong. But his overall performance still make him a super star in his industry. The same can be said for Temasek, and GIC for that matter.

As for the GST issue, the government has explained very clearly that the offset packages for the poor would more than compensate for the GST increase. The net result is that the poor are better off, and the rich have to pay slightly more to help the poor. Isn't this what we all want? What are people here complaining about so much for?

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) is forthright, transparent and perfectly candid. If forum participants would just sit down and listen rather than shoot their mouths off at everything that moves, they would easily be able to see that too.

Goh Bock Seng

Govt didn't decide on GST hike till after polls

2007-01-18T18:38:00.001+08:00

Jan 18, 2007
Govt didn't decide on GST hike till after polls
SM Goh says the increase is to help fund Workfare Bonus

By Li Xueying

ABU DHABI - CHATTER in Singapore may be that the People's Action Party (PAP) Government deliberately waited until after the General Election to announce unpopular policies.

But the idea of raising the goods and services tax (GST) was thought of only after the General Election ended last May, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong said yesterday when explaining the politics of the GST increase.

'I will tell you quite candidly and honestly, during election time, the idea of (increasing) GST had not come in yet.

'Because we just thought, we have got to do the Workfare Bonus, we will look at the sums later on,' he told Singapore reporters here in an interview to wrap up his nine-day trip to Morocco and Abu Dhabi.

News of the GST increase - from 5 per cent to 7 per cent - was announced in November, six months after the General Election.

The reason for the increase is to help pay for the Government's plan to spend more on the lower-income group.

Details of the GST increase and offset package will be announced on Budget Day on Feb 15.

As for the PAP's tendency to wait until after winning elections before announcing unpopular policies, SM Goh said: 'That is not quite wrong. That is politics.'

He cited how a party in Australia, during an election some years ago, campaigned for a rise in the GST. 'And that party lost,' he said with a laugh.

The PAP, on the other hand, had campaigned during the General Election on what it would do for Singapore, he said.

Helping the needy was one of its key platforms and to do so, the Workfare Bonus for lower-income workers later became a permanent feature of the social safety net.

This bonus was introduced last year in the Progress Package given for the first time to Singaporeans, who started receiving the money on the weekend before the May 6 polls.

About 300,000 Singaporeans had qualified for the bonus then, and the total payout was more than $137 million.

'If the opposition had asked us, how do you intend to raise the funds to support your Workfare Bonus, then of course the PAP will have to answer,' said SM Goh.

He added: 'If we have enough, we won't raise the GST; if we don't have enough, we raise the GST.'

SM Goh then went on to explain how the PAP does battle at election time.

During the campaign, 'you concentrate on what you want to do - the positive parts'.

'After the election, you got to translate your pledge into reality. Therefore, you have to give Workfare bonuses, and you therefore come up with proposals to raise funds.'

The GST increase will also pay for 'anything we want to spend more on, education, for example'.

'That is very important. Invest more in the people, invest more in the elderly - all these require funds,' he said.

The need for 'painful' policies to finance these programmes is something that 'every Singaporean' knows, he said.

'And in five years, the pain must produce good results, and everybody will say that the pain was worth it. And if the pain is not worth it, we will lose more support at the election.

'But every time, the pain was worth it. That is the beauty of working with Singaporeans. A lot of complaints, but at the end of the day, they understand.'

SM Goh declined to give details of the offset package to compensate those affected by the planned GST increase.

But when asked about the political impact of the hike, he said: 'The biggest impact we hope will be the positive side - how we will use the GST.

'What you do with the funds that you have managed to raise through the increase, whether 1 or 2 per cent, that is more important.

'The benefits must outweigh the increase in prices.'

xueying@sph.com.sg

Lim Boon Heng: 'I walked the tripartite path laid out by nation's pioneers'

2007-01-06T14:25:00.001+08:00

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Jan 6, 2007
'I walked the tripartite path laid out by nation's pioneers'
Mr Lim Boon Heng left the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) last week, after 26 years with the movement, 13 of them at its helm. His successor is Mr Lim Swee Say. In a heartfelt speech at an appreciation dinner hosted for him by the NTUC, he spelt out how he saw his role as labour chief and a key player in Singapore's unique tripartite system

'THANK you for the kind words that you have all spoken, in public and in private to me. My role has been exaggerated somewhat. I have simply followed a path that was laid by wise leaders who came before me.

Let me start with a quotation:

'The typical labour boss was an orator; an accomplished mobiliser of workers for militant action. He was not interested in economic development, political stability, retraining of workers, solving unemployment and so on, because he believed that all these would work to the advantage of the employing class, and until the back of the employing class was broken, there could be no solution to workers' problems.'

Ladies and gentlemen:

As secretary-general of the NTUC, I have been asked many times, by foreigners and locals alike, whether there is a conflict of interest with my role as a member of the Cabinet. The unspoken question was: Does your position as a Cabinet minister prevent you from taking militant action on behalf of workers against employers? These questions will not go away. Swee Say, you will face these questions many times in your tenure as Secretary-General. There will always be those who hanker for the typical labour boss that the late Mr S. Rajaratnam described in the quotation I have lifted.

Yet, if I am asked to mention only one thing for which I am proud of in my stewardship of the NTUC, it is the unique practice of tripartism that distinguishes Singapore's industrial relations from almost all other countries. It is our strength, our 'secret weapon' in global competition.

The credit for this unique practice of tripartism goes to our founding leaders, in the trade unions, and in government. As labour minister, Mr Rajaratnam addressed the May Day Rally in 1970. He spoke of the 'almost revolutionary change in the attitude of a majority of trade unionists in Singapore towards economic development' after the pivotal seminar on modernisation of the trade unions. He called them the 'new unionists'. And this is how he described them:

'The new trade unionist, unlike his predecessor, starts with the basic assumption that without economic development, there can be no real improvement in the living standards of workers. There must first be a steady increase in total national wealth before workers can have an increased share of it...He also feels that he must actively participate in bringing about rapid economic development. He sees labour and labour unions...as vital and necessary elements in economic development.

'Labour, the new trade unionist is aware, is as important to economic development as capital and overall planning and direction by government and economic and industrial experts. An essential and prerequisite for rapid and meaningful economic development is close cooperation between labour, entrepreneurs and government...Each is useless without the others.

'Without entrepreneurial capital and know-how, government and labour cannot, in the light of realities in Singapore, by themselves bring about economic growth. Without an efficient, honest and imaginative government, labour and capital cannot initiate rapid economic expansion. And labour by itself cannot do very much to maintain a stable economy, let alone promote economic growth.'

So on May Day 1970, Mr Rajaratnam described the beginnings of our practice of tripartism. Was this an idealistic dream? Many new jobs were created; the nightmare of mass unemployment faded. We can say that the rest is history. Singapore grew rapidly in the 1970s and 1980s. In his May Day message that same year,Mr Rajaratnam paid tribute to the courage of the unionists:

'Between being popular and being right, they elected to be right. When in August 1968, the Government sought the cooperation of these trade-union leaders in the implementation of the Employment Act and the Industrial Relations Ordinance, they had a difficult choice to make.

'They could have opposed the new laws and thus won easy popularity as champions of the workers. They, however, chose the difficult way. They came out in support of the new labour laws simply because they were convinced that these were necessary to avert a serious economic breakdown and eventually massive unemployment...

'Had these trade unionists lacked courage, there would today be thousands of workers demanding not more pay, but jobs which are not there to give.'

That founding generation of trade unionists was led by the late C.V. Devan Nair. He spelt out the approach that the NTUC took in an essay Trade Unions In Singapore, published in 1976 in the book Socialism That Works.

Economic growth, Mr Rajaratnam said, was to provide workers with better wages. He wrote:

'It is not, and never has been, the intention of this Government to promote economic development merely to bring comfort and joy to a minority of employers.'

The intention of the Government was clearly stated by then prime minister Lee Kuan Yew:

'It is the consciousness of our being co-owners of the new society we are creating that provides the drive for fulfilment. In multiracial countries like ours, trade unions have a special role in building up this spirit of camaraderie among the workers. Developing the economy, increasing productivity, increasing returns, these make sense only when fair play and fair shares make it worth everyone's while to put in his share of effort for group survival and group prosperity.'

Mr Rajaratnam pointed the way forward for trade unionists:

'Responsible trade unionists must undertake two tasks - to increase the size of the economic cake and also to ensure that the slices are correspondingly larger.'

Our founding leaders had established the practice of tripartism. The NTUC went beyond collective bargaining, and set up a number of cooperatives to help workers stretch their hard-earned wages. In the process, they gained a deeper understanding of what it takes to run a successful business, further strengthening their belief that cooperation, not confrontation, was the way to improving the lives of workers.

The late Mr Ong Teng Cheong established NTUC Club, helping to remove the sense of social exclusion workers may have had when they see their bosses enjoy exclusive clubs. If the wealthy had exclusive clubs, workers too had their own, with facilities no lower in standards.

My stewardship was, therefore, one of implementing the philosophy that our founding leaders had established. As I said earlier, I simply followed the path that my predecessors had laid out. My job was to devise strategies to deal with the new problems that a changing world brings. I lived that dream.

I understood that the best welfare that one can provide a worker is a job. Without a job, high sounding pronouncements of human rights and specifically, workers' rights, are hollow, leaving him and his family hungry.

I understood that it is every worker's desire to give his family a better life. So this year his wages, in real terms, should be better than last year's, and next year's should be better than this year's. The unionist's job is to help make it happen, working with employers and the government.

I understood that real increases in wages can be sustained only if there is productivity increase. Therefore, it is also the unionist's responsibility to help companies improve productivity. Enlarge the cake, not merely fight for a bigger slice of a small cake.

I understood that it is not possible to have wages increase year by year in the short term, as there are business cycles. Unexpected calamities also play havoc with business in the short term. Therefore, to protect jobs, the wage system should be flexible.

To maintain a harmonious society, these are fundamentals that we must always strive to follow. The principles are easy to enunciate. But the three social partners - government, employers and unions - must share these fundamentals.

To achieve a harmonious society, based on cooperation among unionists, employers and government, there must be trust. Trust is established when relationships are nurtured carefully, with each party keeping true to its end of the bargain. Through successive crises, we have built on this trust. Each time, tripartite cooperation has become stronger. I have been fortunate to work with like-minded people among the employers, among government leaders and officials, and among trade unions. They have been objective, fair and sincere. Yes, sometimes discussions have been difficult, but we have shared the common goal of providing workers with the best we can.

Swee Say, I hope you will be as fortunate as I have been. For many are the problems before us, and others looming on the horizon.

For one, there is growing diversity in the workforce - short-stay foreign workers, lowly paid contract workers, temporary student workers, both local and foreign, older workers, post-retirement re-employed workers. With this diversity, how can we maintain fairness and dignity at work, in this land of opportunity for all?

Globalisation and new knowledge have caused, and will continue to stretch the income gap. Will there be a permanent underclass? How can we help those who are now the 'working poor' with Workfare to provide the low-income with an acceptable standard of living, while maintaining the will to work?

How can we manage rising expectations, reverse the nascent entitlement mentality among both the low-income and the middle-class? How can we renew their sense of being co-owners of our society, where each contributes as much, if not more than he takes from it?

These challenges will put our practice of tripartism to the test. But they also provide opportunities. Just as we have battled recessions, Sars, financial crisis, the turbulence of wars fought elsewhere, and global terrorism, and come out with our bonds stronger than ever - so also I believe, Swee Say, that you will lead the NTUC through the challenges, working closely with employers and Government, with our society emerging even stronger after each battle. And all who make up Singapore, wherever each one of us comes from, we will all say: 'We are Singapore!'

I thank you all, unionists, employers, and colleagues in government, for helping me do my work in the NTUC for almost 26 years. To all unionists, the tribute tonight is really for you. You have stood by me, and I with you. I am your brother. I have done my best. I leave with a deep sense of peace. Go forth, and build a better world. Live that dream!'

INDIA: A staggering increase in gang rape of young girls

2007-01-04T14:54:00.000+08:00

This is the reason why we MUST all vote for the PAP (may the PAP progress!).

Singapore is a country where there is law and order, where the people can live, work and play in peace and comfort, knowing that they are safe and secure. Crime rates in Singapore are low and the justice system is uncorrupt and efficient. That is why Singapore is one of the best places to live in the world.

But look at places like India, where girls are being gang raped more and more frequently. Then you will know why Singapore is such a great place, and why we must continue to return the PAP (praise and blessings be upon them!) with a resounding mandate at each and every election!

Goh Bock Seng

http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=sammyboymod&msg=128478.1

A staggering increase in gang rape of young girls in India especially in collaboration with police – is Government sleeping?
Balaji Reddy
May 5, 2005

Gang rape of young girls in India has skyrocketed since last year. The recent rape of young girls in Mumbai and now in Lucknow is causing massive ripple effects. Young girls are outright afraid to go out alone especially in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

In an incident that is creating ripples in the city, a minor girl working as a domestic help was allegedly tortured and gangraped by three men who forced her into their car while she was on her way back from work.

Though the incident took place on Monday, it came to light only on Wednesday evening when her family approached police asking for action and protection against death threats.

According to a police complaint, the 15-year-old was dragged into the car while returning home around 8 pm on Monday. She was gagged and driven to a secluded spot where she was molested and tortured with cigarette butts. She was then forced at gunpoint to accompany the three boys to a vacant house where she was raped.

"My screams were drowned in the loud music that was deliberately played by the boys," she has told the police. Though the police have confirmed cigarette burns on her body, she has complained that personnel at the Aashiyana police station, where she went to after being dumped by the men on Tuesday, did not have her medically examined.

"Only after I gave them an undertaking that I would not talk about the incident to anyone did they agree to set me free," she has alleged.

Commenting on the police role, district police chief Navneet Sikera: "All I can assure you is that our men are on the job and we will track down the culprits at all costs." And while the wheels of justice get moving, the victim's father, a small-time waste-seller, has been doing the rounds of various newspaper offices to mobilise public opinion. He has apparently told the police that he was being intimidated and offered allurements to withdraw the case.

Opposition parties, including the Congress, have condemned the Mulayam Singh Yadav Government for the increasing incidents of crime in the state.

"When such is the state of affairs in the state capital, you can imagine the lawlessness that prevails in other parts of the state," said a Congress leader, citing crime bureau reports showing that as many as 309 minor girls were raped in the state during 2002.

The incident is one more blot in a state where three to four women are raped a day and where official statistics recorded 1,425 rapes in 2003.

Workfare to be fixed part of social safety net

2006-12-04T23:12:00.003+08:00

STI Home > Prime News > Story > Print

Dec 4, 2006
Workfare to be fixed part of social safety net
Help scheme for low-income will be reviewed, adjusted but here to stay: PM

By Li Xueying

THE Workfare bonus for low-income workers will become a permanent feature of Singapore's social safety net, starting with a three-year run.

It will be reviewed and adjusted after that, but the scheme is here to stay, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said yesterday.

'Workfare is going to be the fourth pillar of our social safety net,' he said, pledging a significant commitment to extend permanent help for the low-income group.

It will join the Central Provident Fund, the 3Ms of healthcare (Medicare, MediShield and Medifund), and the home ownership scheme, in undergirding the web of aid programmes here.

'So it's a critical part of our system, and it will ensure that we will systematically support and protect low-income Singaporeans,' said PM Lee at a People's Action Party event.

Party cadres hailed it as a fundamental shift in government thinking, one that acknowledges that there will be those who need continuing help even as the economy as a whole does well.

PM Lee, secretary-general of the ruling PAP, was speaking to 1,000 cadres at the 29th Ordinary Party Conference which elected the party's central executive committee.

In his speech, delivered in Malay, Mandarin and English, he also touched on external relations and the PAP's values.

The Workfare announcement comes a month after PM Lee's pledge at the opening of Parliament, to 'tilt the balance' of help towards lower-income Singaporeans affected by globalisation.

'It's a big move,' he said yesterday. 'We thought about it for a long time...but we've decided it's the right thing to do.'

He defined Workfare thus: 'For every dollar you earn through your own efforts the Government will give you something to match.'

Part of it will be in cash but most of it will be ploughed into the CPF, for housing, health care and retirement.

It would be for three years initially as the Government still needed to figure out the best way to do it, he said.

Second Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam will give the details in the Budget on Feb 15.

This year's Workfare Bonus was a one-off measure that some 330,000 low-wage, older workers received. The payout came to $150 million.

Workfare is a major reason, said PM Lee, for the impending hike in the goods and services tax (GST) from 5 to 7 per cent.

It would have been much easier for the Government to 'keep things as they are, no GST increase, everybody will be happy'.

But this was neither a responsible nor honest approach, he said.

'Better be upfront with Singaporeans, speak long-term, move now, prepare for the future and put in place a system, build up our resources, our ammunition so that when something unexpected happens, we will be able to respond quickly.'

The GST hike will add $1.5 billion to Singapore's coffers annually, said PM Lee, who is also Finance Minister.

He listed certain demands on the money - paying for Workfare, an ageing population that would also mean an increase in spending on health care and infrastructure, and investing in the future, from education to transport.

But some of the extra revenue should also be saved for 'unknown unknowns', he added. 'You may have Sars, you may have some other crisis. Better keep some of our powder dry.'

He acknowledged that the hike was unpopular, but said he was convinced it was the right thing to do, in order to help the low-income. 'We have to take the tough decisions,' he said.

At the same time, an offset package is being put together to cushion the impact. There will be something for the middle-income group and the elderly, he promised. But ultimately, more will be for the low-income, whose wages will not rise as fast.

Speaking in Mandarin, PM Lee said the poor will receive 'far more' than what they pay in higher prices. He also addressed the question posed by some on why basic items could not be exempted from the GST hike. Better-off families spend more than the poor and old, he said, and hence such a move will benefit the better-off more.

Summing up, PM Lee said he was 'confident that our policies will bear fruit'.

'It will take some years but we are heading in the right direction and this will strengthen our position. By the next election in 2011, the PAP will be ready to present its report card to Singaporeans.

'Then judge us on our performance: whether the economy has grown, whether people have better jobs, better lives, whether we live in a harmonious society.'

xueying@sph.com.sg

Party activists hold key to 'swing' voters

2006-12-04T23:12:00.001+08:00

STI Home > Singapore > Story > Print

Dec 4, 2006
Party activists hold key to 'swing' voters

MINISTER of State for Education Lui Tuck Yew was elected barely seven months ago, but is already thinking about the next election.

Speaking to more than 1,000 party cadres, he said one challenge before the PAP is to win over 'swing' voters ahead of the next general election.

'We must work to consolidate the backing of the PAP's core supporters and win over the 'swing' voters to our side,' Rear-Admiral (NS) Lui said. 'We can be sure the opposition is trying to do the same as they put together better qualified and more credible candidates.'

Analysts say the PAP's base of core supporters has traditionally ranged from 40 per cent of all voters in an opposition ward, to 60 per cent in a PAP ward. Swing voters are those who may be swayed by a range of factors, unlike loyal supporters of either PAP or the opposition.

What strategy did the MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC put forward to win these voters?

The former navy chief proposed preparing party activists to play a greater role in future elections as more wards are likely to be contested.

These activists are integral to the party, he said, paying tribute to those in his branch by declaring 'I am nothing without them'.

'Headquarters will find fewer uncontested candidates and their supporters to run the HQ, to man the operations room, to craft messages for the fliers and to organise rallies. We will have to rely on specialist teams of activists to take on these and other functions. We need to start to identify these people, train them early and test them out.'

RADM Lui recognised the desire of party activists, especially those younger, to have a greater say in policies as 'healthy and constructive'.

Where he felt they were needed most, however, was in being informed to explain policies on the ground - and even in cyberspace.

He said they should help put information out there to win people over, and could even supply their views 'to moderate the vitriol and balance the skewed comments' on the Internet.

Guard against politics of envy: MP

2006-12-04T23:10:00.000+08:00

STI Home > Singapore > Story > Print

Dec 4, 2006
Guard against politics of envy: MP

By Zakir Hussain

BISHAN-Toa Payoh GRC MP Josephine Teo is troubled by what she sees as a growing trend here: the labelling of certain Singaporeans as part of an elite.

The elite include two groups: the rich and Singaporeans who have won government scholarships and work as policymakers in the civil service. But what she finds disturbing is the way the elite are portrayed.

They are depicted as people who do not understand the problems of ordinary folk, and are only keen to advance their own interests. Totally ignored is the fact that they may have come from humble backgrounds or worked hard to get where they are.

Such portrayals are 'highly divisive', Mrs Teo told PAP cadres yesterday. They foster the wrong perception 'that a certain class of citizens are more valued than others', she said, adding: 'This is clearly untrue, or we would not take pains to build an inclusive society.'

She saw this labelling as one expression of what she termed the 'politics of envy' - in which those who fare better or are seen to get more from the Government become objects of envy.

The PAP, she stressed, had to guard against this politics of envy, as it threatened social cohesion.

It could manifest itself in other ways, she said, such as neighbours feeling left out because they had to pay for lift upgrading, unlike those who had lifts serving their floors.

Such envy could also be felt when people compare the level of state spending on items like health care here with that in other countries, and conclude that the Government is not doing enough to help needy Singaporeans.

Comparisons like these could be used to get support to lobby the Government to do what is popular, but not necessarily in Singapore's long-term best interests, she said.

The challenge, therefore, is for the party to reach out to all groups and assure them the PAP will do its best for them. Otherwise, there will be dissatisfaction with the party, she said.

The party has also strengthened the social safety net, and must work to improve social mobility for the poor, she added.

Its activists must keep their ears close to the ground, help people understand the decisions behind unpopular policies and continue being 'a party that takes action' by helping residents.

Marine Parade GRC MP Fatimah Lateef also told cadres that compassion and empathy are two key words that will help the party weather challenges.

She said: 'For us to be good cadres, we must have a genuine concern for the people. But for us to be great, we must all inculcate that deep sense of empathy.'

Fresh approach crucial to avoid class barriers as the country enters a new phase

2006-12-04T23:09:00.000+08:00

STI Home > Singapore > Story > Print

Dec 4, 2006
Meritocracy, Singapore style
Fresh approach crucial to avoid class barriers as the country enters a new phase

By Lynn Lee

THE need for Singapore to avoid class barriers between the haves and have-nots, which typically emerge when societies mature, was stressed by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Playing a key role in this effort is one of the PAP's core ideals: meritocracy.

But it has to be pursued with a fresh approach as Singapore enters a new phase, said Mr Lee.

What is crucial now is to ensure that every talented Singaporean, no matter how poor, is able to move up through many avenues.

But how far each goes depends on his ability and drive.

So, 'we're talking about equal opportunities, not equal outcomes,' he said, when he identified the four ideals that will continue to guide the PAP in its efforts to take Singapore forward.

The others are racial and religious harmony, enterprise and inclusiveness.

He laid out these all-important signposts yesterday when he mapped out the party's role in a changing world to about 1,000 PAP cadres at a conference.

Mr Lee, who is its secretary-general, noted that Singapore was at a turning point, with globalisation requiring its people to adapt continually to changes.

But the years of pursuing meritocracy have seen many people from poor backgrounds move up. Their children have done well too, said the Prime Minister.

With time, it will be harder to find the same numbers of children from humble backgrounds moving up, he added.

So, 'it makes it all the more important that we must... keep the avenues open and give a child from a poor family every opportunity to get a good education.'

For this reason, there are 'first-class' schools in all neighbourhoods, each with its special strengths and spirit. Also, the needy can get financial help to send their children to kindergarten, he said.

But these opportunities will not promise that everyone ends at the same finish line. So, he warned, 'we must not end up selfish'.

Urging the successful to give those behind a helping hand, he reminded them that the system and many 'helping hands', many of which may have gone unnoticed, helped them succeed.

'Don't trample on others to get to the top because if you do that, you will fail,' he said.

Meritocracy is also key in maintaining racial and religious harmony here. Singapore would be torn apart if, for instance, either the majority or the minority is favoured over the other, he said.

Issues of race and religion are sensitive as well in South-east Asia, where terrorism is a real threat.

This threat makes racial harmony even more important because in the event of a terror attack, ties among the races will come under strain.

To keep the economy humming, the PAP has had to focus on enterprise. In other words, get people to work for themselves.

In doing so, Mr Lee wants Singaporeans to stop expecting the Government to make things happen all the time.

'If you see something not right, put it right. You see something you want to do, do it. Move. And if you succeed, good for you.'

The last ideal, inclusiveness, centres on helping everyone feel they are moving forward together, and benefiting from Singapore's success.

The PAP is a party which represents the whole of society, stressed Mr Lee. It was a voice for all races, religions and classes, including the size-able middle class who are the 'centreground' for Singapore politics, he said.

'And we want to bring everyone together to achieve the best for Singapore, because I think that's the way we can do well for ourselves,' he said.

lynnlee@sph.com.sg

Workfare to be a permanent feature of Singapore's social safety net: PM Lee

2006-12-03T22:16:00.000+08:00

Majulah PAP!

Workfare encourages Singaporeans to take up jobs whenever they can and be productive. The government has rightfully taken the stand that those who try to help themselves should be helped the most. This is a reasonable viewpoint and prevents us from sliding down the slippery slope of welfarism in which unproductive and lazy members of society simply leech off those who are hardworking and seek to depend on their own effort for a living.

Just ask yourself: would you rather that the taxes you pay and schemes for the needy be given to those who are sincere in standing on their own two feet, or to any Tom Dick or Harry who only has the intelligence to fill out an application form correctly? Look at the situation in European countries like Sweden or Denmark, and you will have no problems agreeing with me.

Minimum Wage does not protect employees from abuse as there will always be ways to get around it. It will, as I have explained in another thread, make Singapore less competitive and cause the poor to suffer even more in the long run. It is far better to have workfare, which is a system of rewarding the productive and hardworking.

Workfare to be a permanent feature of Singapore's social safety net: PM Lee
By Farah Abdul Rahim, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 03 December 2006 1741 hrs

SINGAPORE: Workfare will be a permanent feature of Singapore's social safety net in the future, says Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

He said this will tilt the balance in favour of low-income Singaporeans.

Singapore has recently been dealing with an increasing income gap and how to level up those who cannot cope with globalisation.

The three-year Workfare scheme, which will be announced on Budget Day in February, will be reviewed before it continues beyond the initial three years.

Continuation of the Workfare Bonus aims to encourage the lower income worker to stay employed.

For every dollar earned, there will be a matching reward from the government part cash and the rest in the CPF account.

Mr Lee said Workfare will be the fourth pillar of Singapore's social safety net, besides the existing three pillars of the Central Provident Fund, the 3M of MediSave, MediFund and MediShield, as well as housing.

This will help to ensure there are more systematic support and protection for low-income Singaporeans.

Workfare is one major reason why the Government decided to increase the Goods and Services Tax (or GST), as it will bring in some S$1.5 billion more in revenue annually.

"It's easier not to increase GST and keep things as they are. It may be ok for now, but Singapore will be in serious trouble after 5 years or so. So I thought it's better to be upfront with Singaporeans, think long-term now to prepare for the future, put in place a system and build ammunition so that when something unexpected happens, we can respond quickly," the Prime Minister said.

Besides paying for Workfare, the revenue raised from the GST hike will also go to higher healthcare spending, preparing Singapore for an ageing population and investing in the future, such as in education and housing.

But Mr Lee assured that help will be at hand for those who cannot cope with the increase.

"We'll have a comprehensive off-set package more than adequate to care for Singaporeans and help them adjust. It'll be weighted towards the lower end. Some of the middle-income and sandwiched classes are (only) confident government will care for low-income so they complain and ask for help. So don't worry, we have not forgotten you. As for older Singaporeans, we will continue to help especially those who are less well off."

Mr Lee also explained that the decision to raise the GST may be unpopular, but it is the right thing to do.

"In government, we have to bite the bullet even if it's not a popular decision. It's a tough business. We have to take tough decisions and ask if we're doing the right thing for all and if it's the right thing, we go ahead and do it. At the same time, we have to explain to all and help them accept it.

"I am confident the policy will bear fruit and this will strengthen our position and be ready with our report card for the next GE. And then people can judge us based on our results and whether people have better lives then. We are upfront and give the bitter medicine first; worry first and enjoy later."

Mr Lee was speaking to some 1000 members at the People's Action Party Conference. - CNA/so

PAP intensifies efforts to reach out to the young

2006-11-28T00:28:00.000+08:00

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) is always looking for ways to connect with Singapore's youth and engage them productively.

Nov 27, 2006
PAP intensifies efforts to reach out to the young

A PLAN to help young Singaporeans promote their causes, and get more youth groups working together are the latest bid by young PAP MPs to get their generation to bond better with the country.

Already, each of the 12 MPs in the P65 team - the name the PAP MPs born after 1965 go by - is in charge of a number of areas of interest.

Now, they want youngsters with a cause to go to them with their ideas, or use them as 'resource persons' when launching a project.

On their part, the MPs will see how they can get youth groups with the same aims to team up for their plans.

These new approaches of the P65 were reported in the latest issue of the People's Action Party organ, Petir.

Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC MP Teo Ser Luck said the team wanted to exploit to full advantage their diverse interests when connecting with Singapore's young.

'This is how we can best relate to them. Now they know who they can go to,' said Mr Teo, who is parliamentary secretary at the Community Development, Youth and Sports Ministry.

For example, enthusiasts of early-childhood education can turn to Pasir Ris-Punggol MP Michael Palmer.

Sembawang GRC MP Lim Wee Kiak's focus is on family life while Marine Parade GRC MP Faishal Ibrahim is concerned about the needy and the ageing population.

They had talked about these subjects in their maiden Parliament speeches this month. Sports, volunteerism, women issues, the Arts and ethnic culture are other areas of interest.

Youths who want to know more about which MP can best represent them may write to blog www.p65.sg.

Enlightened Sammyboy Forummer WOLONG123: Chee Soon Juan is OUT TO CHEAT Singaporeans' money!!!

2006-11-28T00:17:00.000+08:00

A very enlightened Sammyboy Forummer with the nick of wolong123 has pointed out correctly that the political gangster Chee Soon Juan is OUT TO CHEAT Singaporeans' money. This is his original post at the Sammyboy Coffeeshop Forum: http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/mb/message.asp?webtag=sammyboymod&msg=125244.1

******************

in one of my postings i pointed out the fact tht $$$$ contributed to SDP defence fund would go directly into Chee S C personal acct not the party acct. Ms Chee has every intention to cheat sporeans of their hard earned $$$$, hence i urged all sporeans not contribute a single cent to this fund. its a sham front cover to cheat ur $$$

******************

This is my reply to wolong123's post:

That is very correct. Chee Soon Juan is a nincompoop and a leaden-footed ninny who is a cheat, a liar and a disgrace to Singapore politics. His ribald stunts and his arrogant, haughty approach to politics impresses no one. Any thinking Singapore would, and should, write him off immediately. Any Singaporean who contributes a single cent to his bank account is indirectly guilty of abetting the shoddy gutter politics that Chee Soon Juan shamelessly indulges in.

I urge all Singaporeans to open their eyes, see the moral corruption of this crass political gangster, and withdraw all support from him immediately. Such an idiosyncratic and irrational political wannabe has no place in our Great Motherland. I curse him and his sister from the bottom of my heart, and the heart of my bottom!

Goh Bock Seng

I'm so proud of the PAP

2006-11-27T16:51:00.000+08:00

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura! Give praise and blessings to MM Lee, PM Lee, and the PAP government, and let us all rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building!

Till tax do us part

2006-11-19T14:19:00.000+08:00

Nov 19, 2006

Till tax do us part

Fed up with being taxed heavily for welfare services he didn't benefit from, Finn moves to S'pore

By Ken Kwek

TWO months ago, futures trader Mika Sampovaara trekked for a week through the Cambodian jungle, along the famed Mekong River trail.

It was an adventure he had long dreamed of, but never had the chance to pursue until he left his homeland for Singapore two years ago.

However, being in the region was not the only factor that allowed him to indulge in his passion for travel. He also had the time and, more importantly, the money.

Before arriving here, Mr Sampovaara was part of Finland's welfare system, which taxed more than half of his income.

It caused him to flee its shores, he said in a letter to The Straits Times Forum page on Thursday.

He warned of the system's pitfalls in his letter which came amid the recent parliamentary debate here on how Singapore should avoid going down the risky road of welfarism.

When he was in Finland in the 1990s, Mr Sampovaara was a high-flying economist, stock analyst and broker.

Though he enjoyed his work, the hours were gruelling and his earnings put him in Finland's highest tax bracket of 60 per cent.

'For every $100 I earned, more than $60 was going to the state. It was frustrating because most of it went into welfare subsidies which I wasn't benefiting from,' he said.

Yet before he started working, Mr Sampovaara had in fact profited from the Finnish system.

As a master's student in Helsinki in the early 1990s, he enjoyed two years of free education and was given a housing grant as well.

Does his criticism of welfarism not strike him as hypocritical, given that he had enjoyed the fruits of the welfare state and has now left his country?

Mr Sampovaara's reply: 'Well, I contributed taxes for over five years in Finland. I've more than paid my dues to society.'

In 2000, he moved to Switzerland with his Russian wife Tanya, and worked for an Icelandic investment bank.

Four years later, drawn by the warm weather and lower tax rates, they moved to Singapore. Arriving in April 2004, they settled into a condominium apartment in Bukit Timah.

Mr Sampovaara set up his own company, trading in Japanese futures on the Singapore Exchange Derivatives Trading (SGX-DT). He pays a concessionary tax rate of 10 per cent under a special scheme for companies dealing in approved commodities.

The new arrangement allows the couple, both permanent residents, to lead a lifestyle that Mr Sampovaara says is 'much more relaxed'.

As his own boss, he puts in just three hours a day for the business, about one-fifth of the hours he clocked in as the director of an investment bank.

His earnings here are less than half of his gross income in Finland and Switzerland, yet after paying taxes, his net income is not much less than before.

'In the end, what the lower taxes have afforded me is time, which is the ultimate luxury,' he said.

Given his experiences, his serious reservations about the welfare system of Finland and other European states come as no surprise. Welfarism has also driven many of his friends to flee to greener pastures, he said.

Though the welfare system does benefit a segment of society, such as the elderly and middle-class families with children to support, Mr Sampovaara feels it has severely diminished the work ethic of the Finnish people.

It was probably a factor that crossed Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's mind last Monday when he told Parliament that the system in Scandinavian countries was not suitable for Singapore.

The Government would find other ways of 'tilting the balance' in favour of the lower-income group, PM Lee said.

One approach being considered is to give a series of offset packages to help the poor manage an impending rise in the goods and services tax (GST).

PM Lee had announced last Monday that the GST will go up from 5 to 7 per cent, and said the money was needed to pay for more Government spending to help the lower-income.

Mr Sampovaara believes the Government is on the right track in its bid to narrow the income gap.

'Giving cash to the poor is more targeted. The money goes to those who need it, without punishing the rest of society,' he said.

He insists his objection to welfare subsidies in such areas as education and health care is not because he lacks compassion for the needy.

Rather, the fault lies in the nature of the welfare system, which provides subsidies for the masses 'indiscriminately', thus becoming susceptible to abuse by those who do not need the aid.

'The welfare system impinges on those who are willing to go out and make a living while providing for others with little incentive to work.'

The Singapore system works, he said, because 'at the end of the day, people are still accountable for themselves'.

kenkwek@sph.com.sg

Singapore held up as a model for the region

2006-11-18T04:47:00.000+08:00

Majulah PAP!! Majulah Singapura!!

Singapore is held up by President George W. Bush as the finest model for the Asian region! This goes to show that our esteemed leaders have been doing the right thing all along and have brought immense wealth and prosperity to our Great Motherland! Let us all unite in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building!!

Nov 17, 2006
Singapore held up as a model for the region

By Chua Mui Hoong

US PRESIDENT George W. Bush yesterday said he saw Singapore as a model for the region, as a country which overcame poverty through opening up to free trade.

On his second visit to Singapore in three years, President Bush said: 'We've got a lot in common, particularly our desire to continue to promote free and fair trade, because your country has shown that open markets are capable of lifting up an entire people.'

Speaking after an hour-long meeting with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Istana in the afternoon, he added: 'And I congratulate you on your leadership; congratulate the people of Singapore for really being a model for the neighbourhood.'

Summing up the discussion, PM Lee said they covered a range of issues, including security and terrorism.

'On many of these areas, we not only exchanged notes, but found a significant degree of matching in our views,' said PM Lee, adding that this was because the two countries' interests were aligned.

'Singapore is very happy that America has a stake in the region, and is growing the stake in the region. And we would like to help this to happen and to ensure that this continues for a long time to come.'

Singapore as an exemplar of Asia was a theme that President Bush returned to in the evening, during a 30-minute-long address at the National University of Singapore's University Cultural Centre to an audience that included diplomats, academics, students and religious leaders.

He began by tracing the 'deep and enduring' ties between America and Singapore that started in the 1830s, when the first American counsel came to promote American trade in this region.

The counsel's wife was the daughter of one of America's most famous patriots, Paul Revere.

She donated a bell cast by the Revere Foundry to the old St Andrew's Church. It is now in the National Museum and is 'a symbol of the long affection' between the people of the two nations, said President Bush.

'The story of Singapore is a story of people who overcame challenges and transformed a small port city into one of the most prosperous nations on Earth,' he said, noting that pessimists had doubted Singapore's ability to survive as a tiny nation with no natural resources.

'By your effort and enterprise, you have proven the pessimists wrong. And today Singapore has one of the most vibrant economies in the entire world,' said the President, who added that he felt very comfortable in Singapore and in meetings with its leaders.

Singapore's transformation is 'a story of Asia', he noted.

Like Singapore, the region was 'mired in poverty' after World War II, went through war and occupation, and survived colonialism and destabilising movements.

Like Singapore, many Asian countries overcame the difficulties. 'And the Asia we see today is the fastest growing and most dynamic region in the world.'

America had a stake in Asia's success and would continue with its open trade policies that would help Asia grow, he stressed.

muihoong@sph.com.sg

Health Minister Khaw pledges full GST offsets for subsidised patients

2006-11-14T18:13:00.000+08:00

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) is always on the lookout to help the needy and the less fortunate in society. The latest proposed increase in GST from 5% to 7% will help fund schemes to benefit the lower income groups in Singapore. In addition, Health Minister Khaw pledges full GST offsets for subsidised patients.

Nov 14, 2006
Health Minister Khaw pledges full GST offsets for subsidised patients

HEALTH Minister Khaw Boon Wan says the Government will try to fully offset any GST increase on medical costs incurred by subsidised patients, following the announcement to raise the Goods and Services Tax to seven per cent, from the current 5 per cent.

He made the pledge in Parliament on Tuesday, when the House resumed debate on the President's Address.

Mr Khaw said Singapore spends about 4 per cent of GDP on healthcare services. He said to meet the future needs of the population, it is not possible to keep healthcare expenditure in this region indefinitely.

'It is bound to increase. This increase will have to come from all stakeholders: Government, employers, insurers, patients and their families. This is part of the reason why GST has to go up,' he said.

'But I will recommend to the MOF (Ministry of Finance) to fully offset any GST increase on medical costs incurred by subsidised patients, as we did in the previous GST offset package,' he said.

In his speech, Mr Khaw said the Government will continue to enhance the existing healthcare framework and marshal enough resources to meet the rising demands of a fast ageing population for healthcare services.

He said as Singapore's population continues to age, the Government will try to slow it down by raising births and stepping up immigration.

'The better prepared we are for this inevitable demographic change, the better we can ensure that elderly Singaporeans face old age with confidence, calm and peace of mind,' he said.
He highlighted six areas that will see further enhancements.

First, Medisave will cover three more chronic illnesses (stroke, high blood pressure and high cholesterol) from next January.

'But my interest in this scheme goes beyond funding. I hope the scheme will raise the level of care for these common chronic illnesses so that the patients can avoid several complications in the future,' said Mr Khaw.

'My ambition is to make Singapore the best in the world for diabetic patients, where there is early detection of disease and effective long-term care of the disease in the community,' he added.

Second, MOH is planning a 'sequel' to last year's MediShield Reform. 'If there is public support, I hope to further increase the MediShield payout for patients with large hospital bills,' said Mr Khaw.

Third, at each budget cycle, the government will apply to the Ministry of Finance (MOF) for top-ups to Medifund and Eldercare Fund.

'So far, I am grateful for MOF's understanding and have been successful. I will continue to try but I know that this assumes health budget surpluses,' he said.

Fourth, Mr Khaw pledged to press on with greater information sharing so that patients make informed choices and hospitals can learn best practices from one another.

Fifth, the Government plans to publish public service standards at hospitals and how well they are being met to help hospitals focus on the key concerns of patients.

Sixth, the Government has implemented in polyclinics the policy of differential subsidies among citizens, permanent residents and foreigners.

'This way, we keep heavy health subsidy as a citizen's privilege while requiring foreigners to pay for their own cost. PRs continue to be subsidised although slightly less than citizens. We will look into extending this policy to hospitals,' said Mr Khaw.

GST will go up to 7 per cent

2006-11-14T17:44:00.000+08:00

The GST is raised to 7% to help the PAP government better fund schemes to help the needy. PM Lee (may MM Lee be pleased with him!) has already stated that social packages for low income groups will fully offset the increase in GST. So the net result is that the more well-off in society (like scholar888 for instance, whom all of you like to vilify, for some strange reason I cannot fathom) are taxed at a higher level and the extra revenue given to the poor.

I am in full support of this policy, which is yet another enlightened step taken by the PAP (may the PAP progress!) to help the less fortunate in society. I simply cannot comprehend why all of you are hurling abuse at this policy which will be a social leveller tilted in favour of the poor and lower income groups.

Nov 14, 2006

GST will go up to 7 per cent

PM pledges more help in several areas, and more regular Workfare bonuses

By SENIOR POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT, Lydia Lim

THE Goods and Services Tax (GST) will go up from 5 to 7 per cent to pay for more government spending to help the lower income.
Mapping out his government's plan for the next five years and beyond, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong yesterday pledged to 'tilt the balance' of public spending in favour of lower-income Singaporeans, who are not benefiting as much as other groups from economic growth.
New social measures include more help in education, housing and health care and more regular Workfare bonuses - a shift from a once-off measure - for the lower-income workers.
To foot the bigger bills, Mr Lee announced two new measures to raise government revenue.
The first is the GST hike, the details and implementation date of which will be revealed in the Budget, on Feb 15 next year.
The second is a plan to spend more of the returns from investing the nation's reserves. Right now, the Government can only spend half of such returns, or 'net investment income', defined to include dividends and interest. The definition will be broadened to include realised capital gains. The move is significant, requiring an amendment to the Constitution and 'working out' details with the Elected President.
In his first speech to the new Parliament and rounding up the debate on the President's Address, Mr Lee sketched out how globalisation had changed the environment for workers and widened the gap between incomes at the top and bottom.
'It's essential for us to tilt the balance in favour of lower income Singaporeans because globalisation is going to strain our social compact. That's why we are doing all this,' he said.
'But I would like to caution members that we should proceed with care...it is a real slippery slope. And many, many social welfare schemes which have ended up in serious trouble have started off with good intentions.''
Mr Lee made a firm pledge that the Government would put in place a comprehensive package to fully offset the impact of the GST hike. It would be weighted in favour of the middle- and lower-income and the elderly needy.
'It's not just a GST increase, it's a package which will fully offset the impact of the GST for these groups and begin to strengthen the social safety nets and tilt the balance in favour of the lower income Singaporeans,' he said.
As for the timing, Mr Lee said: 'I think it's better to do this now when the economy is doing well. Then we can manage the adjustments, we have the flexibility to adjust our programmes depending on how things turn out.'
Later, to opposition MP Low Thia Khiang's remark that the GST offset package would only be for a few years, Mr Lee replied: 'He has not seen my offset package. It is not just an offset package to deal with the GST.
'It is the whole set of measures which we are taking in order to tilt the playing field in favour of the lower income groups, which is what you have to add and tally in the balance.'
He message to them: 'Don't worry. You will be all right.'
The GST was first introduced in 1994, at 3 per cent, and raised to 5 per cent in 2004. Yesterday, Mr Lee said that even at 7 per cent, it is still lower than that in nearly all countries with GST or value-added tax.
Singaporeans enjoyed a 'high quality but cheap government', Mr Lee said. Public spending stands at 14 to 15 per cent of the country's total output, or GDP - among the lowest in the world.
He also made clear that Singapore would not go down the route of Scandinavian countries, with generous welfare funded through high taxes that sap the incentive to work. Singapore would instead stick to its current social model based on wealth creation, self reliance, and individual savings and spending within one's means.
Moving ahead, the Government will work to strengthen the social safety nets to benefit all income groups. How? By building on key pillars of the system - Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings, health care and housing.
The CPF will be enhanced, to help workers earn better long-term returns. There will also be improvements to the 3M schemes through which Singapore pay for health care: Medicare, MediShield and Medifund. Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan will speak on this issue in Parliament today.
And the Government will find ways to help Singaporeans unlock the value of their homes.
Lower-income families will receive extra help. Mr Lee promised 'more Workfare schemes in future', through which low-wage workers get income top-ups.
Such families will also get more support for their children's education and additional housing grants of up to $20,000, with the sum going up over time.
Despite the challenges ahead, Mr Lee urged Singaporeans to also remember to celebrate all that was right about their country. 'Our prospects have never been brighter, our overall environment is positive, our economy is vibrant, our people are well-educated and equipped to excel in a globalised world,' he said.

Think you're safe? Then a terror attack will hurt more

2006-11-14T17:40:00.001+08:00

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) is ever on the alert for terror threats and is unwavering in its commitment to keeping our borders safe and protecting our Great Motherland from terrorist attacks.

It is because of the high level of vigilance and our steadfast guard against terrorist elements that I can sleep in peace every night, knowing that every step humanly possible has been taken to make Singapore safe and secure.

Nov 14, 2006
Think you're safe? Then a terror attack will hurt more
Jaya warns against vigilance fatigue and complacency in fight against terror
By DEFENCE CORRESPONDENT, David Boey

THE irony about the fight against terror is this: The longer Singapore keeps terrorists at bay, the more likely its people will feel immune to the threat.

Deputy Prime Minister Professor S. Jayakumar yesterday said security planners were more concerned about the twin bogeymen of vigilance fatigue and complacency than any named terrorist group.

Awareness of the peril must therefore not flag, he said: 'Lives can be healed, property repaired and our economy rebuilt, but our gravest concern is that a successful terrorist attack could tear apart - in an instant - our racial and religious harmony and our multi-cultural society that we have worked so hard to build up over the decades.'

In an address to 400 security planners and analysts at the annual National Security Seminar, he warned that it could only be a matter of time before terrorists struck, and that if Singapore had been secure for so long, 'the psychological impact of an attack will be that much more damaging'.

Prof Jayakumar, who is also Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Law, pledged to keep the people on their toes and on guard against disasters.

Security planners will continue to involve people in realistic emergency exercises. They will also have dialogues with community and business leaders to drive home the message that Singapore remains high on terrorists' hit lists.

Thus far, security planners have used Singapore's compact, 700 sq km landmass to their advantage, Dr Bernard Loo, an assistant professor in war studies at the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies, told The Straits Times.

He noted that planners here 'can do things that other people can only dream of precisely because we're small and tightly controlled', compared to larger countries, where porous borders presented policing problems.

Singapore's response to terrorism in the five years since the Sept 11 attacks in the United States is chronicled in a 96-page book to be sold at $10 in bookstores from this weekend.

Published by the National Security Coordination Secretariat, a government agency spearheading counter-terrorism strategies, it is titled 1,826 Days: A Diary of Resolve. The title refers to the number of days since the 9/11 attacks.

It gives an overview of the measures that have been put in place to strengthen Singapore's maritime, aviation and overland borders, as well as its efforts to prepare the people to deal with terror attacks and to train crack teams to manage these.

Going forward, a 'hearts and minds campaign' will be key in the fight against terror, said Prof Jayakumar.

He cited the results of the annual National Security Awareness poll, which said nine in 10 people were confident the Government would be capable of 'a swift recovery' following a terrorist attack, up from 83 per cent in last year's survey.

In the poll, which surveyed 525 people between August and September, 82 per cent of respondents said security measures were 'sufficient to prevent the threat of terrorist attacks', up from 76 per cent in 2005.

Numbers aside, Mr Ridzuan Wu, chairman of the Centre for Contemporary Islamic Studies, said Singaporeans ought to take more ownership in preparing for the worst.

Mr Wu, who, with leaders from other religions organised an inter-religious dialogue in March, said: 'Security planning shouldn't just be top down. A bottom-up approach is also vital - we don't have to wait for the Government to do everything for us.'

Tearful dad hopes there's no cover-up (in Malaysia)

2006-11-13T15:19:00.000+08:00

This is a follow up story in the Straits Times on the brutal murder of the Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu. In Malaysia, all the father can do is hope that there is no cover-up. Can you imagine that? In another country like Malaysia, people still live in fear that the police will cover up cases of crimes where the accused comes from a powerful or wealthy family.

Can there be anymore doubt in our minds that Singapore is the best place to work and live in? In Singapore, no one has to worry about security or protection under the law. No one has to worry that there will be corruption or a cover-up in the event that the accused is politically powerful. We can be assured in Singapore that our elite and professional police force (may the PAP government be pleased with them!!) will carry out their duties efficiently and without fear or favour to anyone, not even the most wealthy or politically powerful. Only in Singapore can we live with this peace of mind!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Nov 12, 2006
Tearful dad hopes there's no cover-up

He has given police blood samples from his wife as well as other evidence from Mongolia
By MALAYSIA CORRESPONDENT, Leslie Lau

KUALA LUMPUR - THE father of murdered Mongolian model Altantuya Shaariibuu made his first appearance before the media yesterday, telling reporters he hoped there would be no cover-up in the investigation into her death.

Fighting back tears, Mr Shaariibuu Setev said he is still praying that the remains found by police last week were not those of his daughter.

'The whole world knows about the incident. I hope there is no cover-up. But I am satisfied with investigations so far.

'All I want is a transparent, straightforward investigation. Until the DNA results are out I do not want to say more,' he said in Mongolian, while his niece, who wanted to be identified only as Amy, acted as his interpreter.

Her eyes concealed by wraparound Christian Dior sunglasses, Ms Shaariibuu's cousin stroked her mobile phone throughout the press conference, seemingly focused on its Sitting Buddha screensaver.

She did not appear to be mouthing any prayers, but the mantra she kept repeating in response to the volley of questions from reporters was: 'We hope and pray she is still alive. We will not say too much until the DNA results are out.'

More than 50 reporters and cameramen had crammed into the office of Mongolia's honorary consul to Malaysia, Datuk Syed Abdul Rahman Alhabshi, bombarding them with questions about the relationship between Ms Shaariibuu and her lover.

Mr Setev and Miss Amy, clearly not enjoying the attention, did not answer.

Mr Setev has given investigators blood samples from his wife, along with other evidence from Mongolia.

Police are trying to match DNA samples to identify the remains found in a ditch near a dam outside the city last week, which police suspect belong to Ms Shaariibuu. It is believed she was shot and her body blown up with explosives.

At one stage during the press conference, Mr Setev was asked to identify a series of pictures, purportedly of his daughter, that were published in The Star newspaper yesterday.
The pictures show a scantily clad woman bearing a striking resemblance to Ms Shaariibuu, in a series of provocative poses.

With a pained look on his face, Mr Setev glanced at the pictures and turned away, saying to his niece he did not know if it was her.

He refused to say whether he had ever met his daughter's alleged lover, but confirmed that he last saw her on Oct 7, when she left home for Malaysia.

Miss Amy came to Malaysia on Oct 22 to look for her cousin after her family lost contact with her. She was last seen on Oct 19.

leslie.lau@excite.com

In Search of Goh Bock Seng

2006-11-11T03:36:00.000+08:00

This is a post I made in Sam’s Alfresco Coffee shop Forum at the URL:

http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=123406.1

Today, I am very heartened by the brutally honest, no-holes-barred post by Scholar888. Unlike the cowardly swines like SingForever who participate in groupthink and have a mega-herding mentality, Scholar888 is refreshingly direct and is never afraid to call a spade a spade.

So now I would also like to share with you what I represent.

I, Goh Bock Seng, diehard PAP supporter, worshipper of the Great Cause of Nation Building, represent those ideas in this forum that are held by some forummers, but are hardly expressed due to personal fear or doubt.

I represent those views that are seldom giving a fair airing in this forum because of the pervasive groupthink that is taking place.

I stand for the Truth, which is: Singapore is the best country in Asia to work, to play and to live in, because the PAP (may the PAP progress!) has created a thriving metropolis from scratch, and brought wealth and prosperity to our Great Motherland through enlightened policies that focus on the long-term.

I champion the Foreign Talent policy, because that is the only way Singapore can survive in the 21st Century. Foreigners create a multitude of jobs and open up fresh new markets in the long run, and make Singapore a far more vibrant place. We should welcome foreign talent with wide open arms and humbly ask them to make Singapore their home.

And my most important message is: Let us rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building! Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Private enterprise to have bigger role in coming years

2006-11-07T15:42:00.000+08:00

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!!) is committed to creating economic and social propserity for Singapore. Their foreign talent policy is also one of the most enlightened policies they have every implemented! With such a competent and wise government, who can possibly feel left out? Let us all rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building!

Goh Bock Seng

Nov 7, 2006
Private enterprise to have bigger role in coming years
Maximum growth targeted to make most of good times

By Erica Tay

MAKING the most of favourable road conditions to power ahead at full speed: This is the kind of economic path Singaporeans can look forward to in the coming years.

Trade and Industry Minister Lim Hng Kiang outlined his key plans for the coming term in his ministry's addendum to the President's Address.

He said the Government will promote economic development, 'maximising growth while external conditions are conducive'.

To do so, Singapore must be nimble and adaptable to change, he said.

Mr Lim also pointed to a bigger role for private enterprise in the coming years.

'The Government will continue to make the business environment more enterprise-friendly, moving out of areas where the private sector can play a better role.'

Talent, enterprise and ideas take centre stage in his vision for Singapore to be a 'leading global city'.

'We will foster economic growth, press on with restructuring, and create jobs by seizing opportunities in a time of rapid change and increasing competition,' said Mr Lim.

His aim is for Singapore to build on its strengths and undertake more sophisticated tasks within electronics, chemicals, biomedical sciences, engineering and supply chain management.

In addition, Singapore's reputation for trust can be the basis on which to grow service industries such as education, health care and business services, he noted.

Efforts to grow the research and development sector will be buoyed by Singapore's five-year Science and Technology Plan 2010.

Mr Lim also outlined how Singapore will build economic links with regions from South-east Asia to the Middle East.

'Singapore is at the heart of a resurgent Asia and well-connected to the world. We will step up our engagement with our partners, and deepen economic linkages by building closer ties at the provincial and state levels,' he said.

Mr Lim highlighted plans to nurture a thriving enterprise sector - through the work of agencies such as Spring Singapore and the Competition Commission of Singapore.

Finally, he spoke on the importance of the people element in driving the economy.

His ministry, together with the Education and Manpower ministries, will help Singaporeans develop their talent, upgrade their skills and have fulfilling careers, he said.

Said Mr Lim:'We will also welcome international talent to live and work in Singapore.'

ericatay@sph.com.sg

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Singapore Govt to grow earnings to pay for emerging social needs

2006-11-07T15:41:00.000+08:00

Our enlightened PAP government (may the PAP progress!!) always looks very far ahead and plans well for the challenging future! Their attention to detail and their strategic policies are simply the best of the breed!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Nov 7, 2006
Govt to grow earnings to pay for emerging social needs
Contractual age for deals will be lowered to 18 to boost entrepreneurship

By Erica Tay

ONE of the Finance Ministry's tasks in the coming years is to find ways to increase the revenues it collects, at a time when income tax rates have to be kept competitively low while social expenditure is expected to rise.

Thus, during his new term as Finance Minister, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong pledged that the priority will be to help Singaporeans 'stay together and move ahead'.

In his addendum to the President's Address, Mr Lee said that the Finance Ministry aims to balance the Budget over the business cycle and at the same time promote opportunities for economic growth and create good jobs for Singaporeans.

To boost entrepreneurship, the ministry will lower the contractual age for business transactions, proprietorships, partnerships and directorships from 21 years to 18 years.

'Changing demographics and growing social needs are pushing up social expenditure,' said Mr Lee.

'At the same time, the Government has had to reduce income tax rates amid increasing global competition to attract investments and encourage enterprise and talent,' he added.

'The Government will therefore continue to explore how best it can preserve and grow revenues, without undermining economic growth, so as to fund the necessary expenditures.'

The Singapore Totalisator Board, for one, will increase its donations towards social and community causes, Mr Lee said.

Another focus would be to grow and protect Singapore's reserves 'through judicious and prudent investments for optimal financial returns'.

These investment earnings will go towards paying for emerging needs including in health, education, and research and development, Mr Lee said.

He said the Government will also foster a business-friendly environment via the tax framework, regulatory regime and infrastructure such as the trade and logistics portal, TradeXchange.

Finally, Mr Lee outlined plans to further develop e-Government and streamline public sector processes.

Meanwhile, Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong delivered his addendum to the President's Address as Minister-in-charge of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

The MAS, which now falls under the Prime Minister's Office, will 'enhance its forecasting, surveillance and research capabilities', said Mr Goh.

In its role as a financial industry regulator, as local players go regional and become more complex, the MAS will intensify efforts in consolidated and integrated supervision, he added.

ericatay@sph.com.sg

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5th least corrupt country

2006-11-07T15:35:00.000+08:00

5th least corrupt country

Singapore is the fifth least corrupt country in the world, according to Transparency International's 2006 Corruption Perceptions Index.

It measures perceived levels of public sector corruption in 163 countries.

On a scale of 0 to 10, Singapore's score was 9.4, compared to 9.6 for Finland and Iceland, the two countries perceived to be the least corrupt.

http://www.todayonline.com/articles/153083.asp

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Govt takes decisions that benefit majority

2006-11-04T17:40:00.000+08:00

Nov 4, 2006 Govt takes decisions that benefit majority It is a rational process, MM tells students, citing the controversial decision over Integrated Resorts
By Peh Shing Huei
MINISTER Mentor Lee Kuan Yew shared with students Singapore's philosophy of governance which he said was about solving problems to benefit people.
The Singapore way is not to pretend to have the perfect solution, but to try and find one that brings about the maximum benefits for the most number of people.
As he said in his opening remarks at an hour-long dialogue with students from the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy: 'If you want to do well, it's up to you. You get your act together, you get your country going, you create order and stability, make learning an advantage in life, make hard work rewarding and not thieving and then you will prosper, the whole country will prosper. That to me is good governance.'
While the dialogue spanned a myriad topics, from the battle against corruption, to the historical baggage of East Asian nations, one subject kept students on the edge of their seats as they asked him, in different ways, about the art of governance.
Giving his take on the subject, Mr Lee said that for the Singapore Government, it was a rational problem-solving process.
'It's not shrouded by superstition, or religious or other biases,' he said in response to a Chinese student who wanted to know the lessons that developing Asian countries could learn from Singapore.
'We are, most of all, rational people who think clearly, and, we hope, effectively come to the right conclusions.'
The key is to weigh the balance and make a decision, he said, citing the decision over integrated resorts (IRs) to show how the Singapore Government dealt with 'very difficult questions'.
Despite being personally against gambling and knowing that it would probably do 'some harm' to Singapore, he said he had to accept that it was a changed world now compared to when he was a university student in the 1940s.
Then, only French principality Monaco had a casino. Now, they are in many major cities and coming to Asia. And Asians are going to places like Las Vegas, Melbourne and Macau to gamble.
Thus, Singapore decided to have one. But not before it set conditions so that families could bar relatives from entering.
'So weighing that balance, we decided yes, we may have casualties, but as against those casualties, the gain in getting these big shows, getting these big conventions to come to Singapore, which goes with the casino which is part of the Integrated Resort, is enormous.'
Indeed, land prices at Marina Bay, the site of one of the two IRs, have risen even before the resort is built, he said.
And Mr Sheldon Adelson, the owner of Las Vegas Sands. which will build the Marina Bay IR, told him that he was quite confident of bringing thousands of people for conferences to the resort.
Said MM Lee of the casino decision: 'Is it cost-free? I don't think it will be completely cost-free. Is it cost-containable? Yes.'
The balance in governance extended to the management of competition and compassion too, he said.
Using the yin and yang symbol, he said in response to another question: 'If you have too much of the yang, highly effective, your society will have a certain amount of friction. If you have too much the yin, you lose your drive.
'I think in Singapore's case we've got to keep on moving the balance... At no stage do we take away from the high performers too much, so that they decide 'I'm not going to perform, I'm going to migrate.' Then the music stops.'
He was visiting the Lee Kuan Yew School for the first time since it was officially opened last year, and he also launched Managing Globalization: Lessons From China And India, the first book published by the school.
Said Indian student Chetan Shrivastava, 40: 'The dialogue was great, an excellent chance to see a living legend up close. We were extremely fortunate to meet him in person.'

How we respond in emergencies determines our worth as a nation

2006-11-03T13:25:00.000+08:00

3 Nov 2003
'Today' newspaper

by Val Chua

Emotions ran high on a balmy Sunday night as the normally stoic Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew nearly broke down while recounting the ordeal his wife went through in London recently.

The troubles that the couple faced - including joining a queue in a free hospital - when Mrs Lee was hit by stroke two Sundays ago, revealed how differently two systems worked.

"I cannot tell you how restless and unhappy we felt," he said at a community event in Jalan Bukit Merah yesterday.

"We run a (healthcare) system where you have to co-pay ... but you get the attention. There, no attention, just join the queue," he said grimly.

The first sign of trouble was that there was no private hospital with CT scan facility at night in London, he told residents and community leaders.

So, Mrs Lee had to go to the NHS hospital nearest to the Four Seasons Hotel where they were staying - a free facility called the Royal London Hospital - and join the queue.

"We waited 45 minutes for the ambulance for a 10-minute drive," said Mr Lee in his first public appearance since the couple returned on Friday.

"In Singapore, within half-an-hour, you would be in SGH (Singapore General Hospital), TTSH (Tan Tock Seng Hospital) ... and within one-and-a-half to two hours flat, you'd know what went wrong."

When Mrs Lee reached The Royal London Hospital at 12.30am, it happened to have three cardiac arrest patients.

Mr Lee was told his wife's brain problem was "not as important" as the cardiac arrest cases, he recounted solemnly. She would have had to wait till 8am the next morning for her CT brain scan if 10 Downing Street had not intervened to get her early attention. High Commissioner Michael Teo had sought help from 10 Downing Street at 2am on Sunday and she received treatment at 3.30am on the night itself.

"Once upon a time, it was a wonderful hospital. But after 40 plus years ... the system cannot deliver. There's no connection between those in the system and the patients," he said.

But it's the way free healthcare systems work, he added, noting that Singapore must not go down that path, even though there are calls for free C class wards in public hospitals here.

"It's how the system works ... They did not discriminate against us," he noted of his London experience.

This contrasted sharply with how quickly Singaporeans - including national carrier Singapore Airlines - reacted to the situation.

Even though doctors initially advised that Mrs Lee stay put in London for three weeks, Mr Lee decided fly her back once her condition stabilised.

And then there was the big worry that she would get a spasm onboard, he recounted.

But he needn't have worried. Within 48 hours, SIA had fitted out SQ321 with medical support of oxygen tanks and other fixtures for a drip.

"No other airline would have done this," Mr Lee said, looking visibly touched.

On board were also two Intensive Care nurses from Changi General Hospital, two doctors, as well as officials from SIA who made sure all the equipment worked.

"Everyone knows his job," said Mr Lee. "Within 12 to 13 hours, we'd reached Changi Airport. It was a big relief," he said. "Twelve to 13 hours. Your heart stops beating sometimes. We landed at Changi Airport. Great relief. I had my granddaughter (Li Xiuqi) with me. She is very fond of her grandmother. She was so relieved."

Mrs Lee was whisked off in an ambulance to Singapore General Hospital, where she is recovering.

"I think this experience has changed my granddaughter's view of Singapore," Mr Lee said.

The overseas ordeal has made him even more assured that Singapore has what it takes to succeed, despite the downturn. "It's how we respond in an emergency that determines how we fight back. And I have enormous confidence that we can fight back."

The Singapore system - with its efficiency and fighting spirit - must be kept, he said.

"You slacken, you choose the easy way, and you'd be finished," he said.

Choking back tears, he added: "I have immense confidence that in an emergency, our people respond ... If we can do that, we can succeed."

*************************************

This is a very heart wrenching post which stirs up in me great emotions. Like MM Lee's granddaughter, my view of Singapore as the most efficient nation in the world has been solidified. Can there be anymore doubt that Singapore is the safest, most efficient place to live in?

MM Lee (may peace and blessings be upon him!) is absolutely right! It is how we respond in emergencies that determine our worth as a nation. When a life is in danger, when families are at stake, it is how we respond to our fellow men and the swiftness and competency with which we act that determines the greatness of our Motherland, Singapore!

Because the PAP has created such an efficient and vigilant system and keeps our borders safe from dangerous elements like Terrorists and infectious diseases like the Bird Flu, I sleep in peace every night. And every day I give thanks to the great nation I live in and bow deeply to my esteemed political leaders. So should each of you.

Praise be to the PAP (may the PAP progress!), for they have created a nation of wealth, prosperity and efficiency! Let us all rally behind our noble and enlightened government, and support them with all our hearts!

Goh Bock Seng

Singapore is the Best Place on Earth

2006-11-03T13:15:00.000+08:00

Singaporeans do not know how fortunate they are, and they insist on throwing their temper and hurling abuse and insults the moment something goes wrong. With such a pathetic, sloppy mindset and such lack of self-esteem, how can these fools achieve anything in life?

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has created a nation of unprecendented wealth, prosperity, and racial and religious harmony. Our enlightened leaders always plan for the long term and are not afraid to implement unpopular policies for the greater good our nation. With such a wise and competent government, how can Singaporeans here continue to wallow in self-pity and miss the forest for the trees?

Let us all cast aside our self-doubts and stop engaging in mindless criticism of everything that goes on around us. Instead let us rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building, for there is Pot of Gold out there waiting to be grabbed by anyone who has the dare and the drive!

Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

The Needy, Globalization and the PAP

2006-11-01T01:08:00.000+08:00

A post to Sam’s Coffeeshop Forum:

Why do forummers here think that the PAP is insincere in helping the needy and less fortunate? Have you all worked at grassroots and community organizations yourself and have had first hand experience with incompetent or insincere management? Have you all taken a close look at the many programmes being offered or sponsored by the community foundations?

The PAP brought Singapore from 3rd World to 1st and created economic prosperty and racial and religious harmony. Had they been less competent in their social and political duties, today we would be far less well off as a nation and there would be thousands of Mr Tans who are driven to desperation not just financially but also in communal and religious conflict. Why does one single case of financial desperation and suicide stir up this amount of publicity? Precisely because it is rare to begin with! In other countries, Mr Tan's suicide would have counted for nothing.

Globalization is upon us whether we like it or not. We must cope with it and learn to face the challenges it brings. Railing against globalization and stomping your foot on the ground is not going to change things one iota. That's why Singaporeans have to make sacrifices when times get hard and learn to save and invest prudently when the going is good. The Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building is founded on these firm and solid premises.

And no, I am not a member of the PAP (may the PAP progress!). I am just a simple man who speaks his mind freely without fear or favour. If I twisted my views simply to make myself more popular in public forums such as this, I would be doing my viewpoint a big disfavour, and betray all those who share my views. I would be ashamed to call myself a Singaporean.

Goh Bock Seng

http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=121468.27

The Ungrateful Youth of today

2006-11-01T01:06:00.000+08:00

While the youth of today clamour wantonly for freedom of expression and freedom of choice, they are blissfully unaware of the hard work and sacrifices undertaken by the older generation in order to achieve the prosperity and peace that they enjoy today.

Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (praise and blessings be upon him and his family!) and the Old Guard took upon themselves the monumental task of creating a nation from scratch, of taking Singapore from 3rd World to First. Over the past 40 glorious years, they have succeeded beyond their wildest dreams. With their bare hands and sheer, almost incompehensible determination, they realized their goal of a united and independent nation --- Singapore, the land that we are today so very proud to call our Home and our Country!

They faced almost insurmountable odds in the beginning, but with persevence, diligence, and an almost superhuman wisdom, they crafted an independent and soverign Singapore where before the land was filled with communal riots, Communist elements striving to twist the politics of our land in their favour, and sheer poverty that gripped the masses. Today we are living in the land of prosperity and progress.

So let me say to the Youth of today: Be very grateful for what has been given to you, for the prosperity of our Great Motherland, Singapore, did not come easy. Singapore is offering You almost unlimited opportunities to expand your horizons, build a successful and rewarding career, and the chance of enjoying the Great Priviledge of being a citizen of a free, uncorrupt, independent and vibrant nation-state!

Embrace the Unlimited Opportunities before you, O Youth of Singapore, for Singapore is your Home and your Country, and serve our Great Nation with Pride and Distinction!

The PAP (may the PAP progress!) has guided Singapore with a firm and sure hand, making sure that the nation was always kept on a steady course towards the glorious future!

Let us praise our enlightened and independent government, for they are truly of the People, by the People, and for the People! Let us rejoice in the unbounded wisdom and intellect of MM Lee and drink from the ever-flowing fountain of his magnificence and stature. Let us close our ranks and join together in the Great Cause of Nation Building!

Praise be to the PAP, for they will guide and govern our Land to Greatness! Praise be to our government, for it is wise, courageous and resolute!

May the Great Prosperity and Blessings of Our Land be Upon the PAP, and the Good People of Singapore!

Goh Bock Seng

http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=120228.1

PAP wins every election on merit

2006-11-01T00:59:00.000+08:00

The PAP (may the PAP progress!) has won each and every election on their own merit. They have widespread support because they have delivered consistent results all these years, and have brought peace, stability, economic progress, and racial and religious harmony to our Great Motherland, Singapore!

The PAP has fought every election fairly and has created a level playing field for all parties to take part in our great democratic process. The GRC system ensures fair representation of minority races and avails to Singaporeans the best possible parliamentary system.

Throughout these years, I am saddened that the Opposition (may they realize the folly of their ways!) has been sullied by bad hats and poor characters like JBJ, Tang Liang Hong, Jufrie Mahmud, and the likes. These people are found of slanderous and defamatory remarks and engaging in the puerile hogwash of gutter politics. Jufrie Mahmud and Tang Liang Hong were brazen chauvenists who would have brought racial harmony in Singapore to its knees had the PAP not swiftly and decisively acted to discredit their vile and putrid propaganda and seditious remarks.

You may be disappointed by the poor showing of the Opposition in the last couple of elections, but know that it is due to their own incompetence and lack of unity, rather than gerrymandering or unfair practices by the PAP. The facts speak for themselves.

Praise be to the PAP government, for they have the mandate of the People, and are the most competent and dedicated Team to lead Singapore well into the 21st Century! Praise and Blessings be to them, and let us all join ranks in this Great Cause of Nation Building!

Goh Bock Seng

http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=120042.1

O PAP! Enlighten these people here!

2006-10-31T23:58:00.000+08:00

This is a post I made to the Sam’s Coffeeshop Forum.

O PAP! Enlighten these disillusioned people here!

I am sadden by the many disparaging remarks made against the enlightened PAP government, and especially Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (peace and blessings be upon him!) and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (may MM Lee be pleased with him!).

Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (the blessings of our land be upon him!) and the Old Guard single-handed brought Singapore from 3rd World to 1st and create a nation of prosperity, racial and religious harmony, and progress! We owe our very lives to these courageous men who fought with their lives in times of crisis, and created an independent Singapore that we all can be proud of.

The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has delivered on its promises all these years and brought economic prosperity and social progress to our nation. The good they have achieved for Singapore is something we can all share, and which we should all be eternally grateful for. Let us champion the Great Cause of Nation Building and unite behind the PAP, for it is the best government in the region, Asia and beyond!

Let us support all the PAP policies, for they are geared towards the long term good of the nation! Let us welcome all foreigners with open arms, for they create jobs in the long run, make our economy more competitive, and add vibrance and life to our nation! Let us hope many of them will choose to make Singapore their home, so we can all join together in this Great Cause!

Praise MM Lee, for his work will last for generations!

Love Him, for he is Great!

Fear Him, for he is resolute!

Learn from Him, for he is wise!

And last but not least ... WORSHIP Him, for he is God!

The peace and blessings of all the land be upon MM Lee, PM Lee, and the PAP! Amen!

Goh Bock Seng

http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=119754.1

On Being Anti-Establishment

2006-10-31T20:02:00.000+08:00

My post on the Sammyboy Coffeshop forum: http://forums.delphiforums.com/sammyboymod/messages/?msg=122391.1

I have recently watched the famous video clip on YouTube of an RJC teacher lecturing a student, tearing up his answer script, and calling him a slimy old rat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfYT88rEe78

At one point during the scolding, she complains about the student presenting anti-establishment views, and strongly suggests that such fringe views are less than worthy.

Which exactly constitutes being anti-establishment?

In current day usage, being anti-establishment means generally disagreeing with our adminstration or our leaders, going against the grain and the norm, or expressing strong discontent with the rules, principles or policies laid down by the management.

Most forummers here I believe would consider themselves anti-establishment.

If there is a genuine greviance against how things are done, and there are sound reasons why the administration is pursuing the wrong policies or embracing the wrong philosophies, there is absolutely nothing wrong with being anti-establishment. In fact, it is only though rigorous debate and active campaigning that we get things to change for the better. Being anti-establishment is valid if based on concrete and sound reasons.

Unfortunately, many of our youth today (and indeed, many forummers here) are anti-establishment simply because they feel it is cool to disagree, that there is more dignity going against the grain and challenging authority rather than conforming to the norm. Many folk think it is more noble to reject authority and criticise everything that goes on around them. They think people who constantly give praise to what is being done right are weak-minded and silly. To them, counting one's blessings is the act of an apologist and is the anti-thesis of progress or change.

I vehemently disagree with this stance.

The youth of today are living in the most prosperous period of human history, and the opportunities for them to grow and gain valuable experiences are immense. Rather than fussing over every little thing that does wrong in their lives and blaming the government for every last nuance, they should indeed ask themselves who gave them the good life that they live today. They should ask themselves who fought with their very lives and brought our Great Motherland from 3rd World to 1st with almost superhuman grit and determination. They should ask themselves not what our country can do for them, but what they can do for our country.

Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew (praise and blessings be upon him!) and the Old Guard created a nation of peace, prosperty, and racial and religious harmony. The youth of today should learn from where their Great Blessings come from, pull up their socks, and face the challenges of the world with a positive mental attitude.

Let us not wallow in petty arguments and narrow mindsets. Let us instead press on and rally together in the Great and Noble Cause of Nation Building! There is a Pot Of Gold out there, waiting to be grabbed by all who have the drive and the dare!

Praise be to the PAP, and our Great Leaders! Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!

Goh Bock Seng

Welcome to my Blog! -- In Search of Goh Bock Seng

2006-10-31T18:02:00.000+08:00

A very warm welcome to my blog, In Search of Goh Bock Seng!

The purpose of my blog is to share my day-to-day thoughts on what's happening in the world, in particular, Singapore.

Happy reading!

Goh Bock Seng