Why PAP should level the playing field
March 30, 2006
The Straits Times
I REFER to Mr Seto Hann Hoi's letter, 'Don't use public resources to win votes' (ST, March 2
.
The People's Action Party (PAP) does not need to use estate upgrading as a political tool to win votes. The party has history and talent on its side.
Each day, as we drive through our impeccably maintained city, we are reminded of how much life has changed since 1965. Nobody, not even the PAP's harshest critics, should take credit away from the ruling party.
Over the years, the PAP has also maintained a good record in throwing up talented, honest and effective leaders to stand for election. With regard to historical performance and leadership renewal, the opposition has not been able to match the PAP.
These facts are open for all to see. I wonder why the PAP is adding the 'upgrading bazooka' to its impressive arsenal, when the opposition is fighting only with its bare hands.
Singapore is at the crossroads. Everyone, including the ruling party, knows that the socio-economic and political model we used over the past 30 years must be renewed in order for Singapore to progress.
The old political order bred great efficiency and order. Our well-oiled Singapore machine was always primed to 'make things work'. Multinational corporations loved us and came here in large numbers; we built our domestic industries and the lives of every Singaporean improved.
Having gained this newfound prosperity, Singaporeans have also developed a good degree of sophistication. As our society matures, bread-and-butter issues like upgrading will matter less.
A vibrant democracy and true meritocracy within our political ranks are what we are looking for. Over time, using upgrading as a bait will only lead to cynicism and anger. Nobody likes to be told, 'vote for us, or else...' One day, this strategy will backfire.
As mentioned by various ministers and academics, the strategy of being efficient and disciplined will no longer be enough for Singapore to remain relevant to the world. Creativity, vibrancy and dynamism are the new watchwords. These qualities will blossom only if each and every Singaporean has a sub-conscious realisation that our voice matters, that we have a fair chance to shape the future regardless of who we are or where we come from, that we the citizens are ruling this country instead of being ruled over.
For the sake of our sense of nationhood, and for the sake of our economy, my wish is that the PAP will help to level the playing field over time. Only then will Singapore be a truly mature society.
Leon Tham Ngiap Liang
I am confused...I heard some saying we are mature...then some telling us to think properly and considered properly before marking the tick.