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September / October 2012

Big ideas

from small talk

• Lawrence Wong’s softer side • Punggol West – new community • Meaning of a bigger heart

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Contents

Editorial

Our people – the last mile Crucial for ground activists to seek out Singaporeans who do not know where or how to find help. * Also in Chinese, Malay and Tamil

Quick News

A round-up of new policies.

Face to Face

14 Hot Topic

Special meaning from three little words Hope, Heart and Home – three activists reflect on each of these words.

Softer side of Lawrence Wong He talks about his childhood pursuits apart from his official role.

Hot Topic

What it means to have a bigger heart Six party members give their views.

Behind the Scenes

PAP HQ EXCO Elections: Nominees revealed Nominees for PAP Headquarters Exco talk about their motivations and what they hope to contribute.

Publicity and Publications Committee Chairman • Lawrence Wong Vice-Chairman • Seah Kian Peng Secretary • Lim Wee Kiak Members • Alvin Yeo, Arthur Fong, Devi Vasantha Haridas, Kalyani Ramasamy, Chiang Heng Liang, Abdul Jafar Darwis District representative • Diana Pang Young PAP • Hamidah Aidillah PAP Policy Forum • Malminderjit Singh PAP WW • Teo Lin Lee Editor • Lim Huan Chiang Editorial and Design • Focus Publishing Limited (Tel: 6319 2392) Printer • timesprinters, Singapore. Photos courtesy of Singapore Press Holdings, istockphoto.com and Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2012

Behind the Scenes

30 Forum

National problems, Kebun Baru perspectives

National Conversation not a PR exercise

Young activists engage youths with problems close to their heart.

Secretary of 4th PAP Policy Forum Council looks at Singapore 21 and Remaking Singapore to argue his case.

Dialogue

Small island, big dreams: So how?

YP activists discuss population, immigration, cost of living, babies and other issues.

Punggol West: A new community with a big heart

Dr Janil Puthucheary discusses the challenges of building a community in a new town.

View from the Front

Collisions and conversations: Hopes and fears The National Conversation is a chance to listen and debate. But it is also crucial to take decisive action for good governance.

My Say

New context for citizengovt engagement Use the National Conversation to find a common understanding among our people, urges former diplomat Chan Heng Wing.

Backbencher’s Bite

34 Happenings • • • • •

High speed for young members Health screening at your doorstep A pot of Marsiling spirit Fundraising at Family Day Hari Raya food gifts

Overheard

Best of the sound bites by parliamentarians.

MICA (P) 151/11/2011 Petir is published by the People’s Action Party Central Executive Committee. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the prior consent of the publisher. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the PAP or the Government. All rights reserved.

PAP Headquarters Block 57B, New Upper Changi Road, #01-1402, PCF Building, Singapore 463057 • Telephone: 6244 4600 • Telefax: 6243 0114 • Internet: www.pap.org.sg

EDITORIAL D a d f

Our p people p –

the last mile

Political activists make the crucial difference in bringing help to those in the margins, who do not know where or how to ﬁnd help

“O

ld man died alone in house cluttered with junk”, “Kid did not attend kindergarten because Mum feared she could not afford fees”… These are stories of personal tragedy – a life that ends with difficulty, and one that begins with challenges. They are part of the reality of Singapore. But if more of us care for our friends and neighbours, such tragedies can be avoided. To avoid them, we need not just good social policies, but also an effective network of ground activists to deliver help. This is what it means to serve our people and to make the last-mile connection. Very often, we focus on the people who 4

PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

turn up at our Meet-the-People sessions (MPS) to seek help. Rightly so, and we will always do our best to help them. We are at least comforted to know that there are those who know where to look for help. However, there is another group of people who may need help just as badly but do not even know where to turn to. They do not show up at our MPS. We should worry even more about this group. We need a lot of leg work to reach them – regularly walk around our constituencies, spot those who need help and find ways to do so. Helping this group requires more than sitting down and writing letters – it means a daily engagement, and a willingness to help those who may

not know that they need help. Knowing assistance schemes and knowing our people

For us to deliver social assistance across the last mile, our party activists must be aware, not just about the schemes available, but more importantly, about our people and their needs. Only then can we distinguish those who need help the most, focus our efforts on them, and provide assistance effectively. Some of our residents may not understand the many schemes that are in place; others may not know how to apply; still others may not be able to understand the notices sent to them.

O m t a t m i u n w m p s a

Dedicated ground activists ensure effective delivery of assistance to families who need help.

By Chan Chun Sing Acting Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports

who care about others, who are willing to reach out to those in need, and who are prepared to commit their time and effort Beyond offering assistance – The to make a difference. We need more volunteers to visit needy importance of follow-through Even after having sought out and households regularly and distribute aid. provided help to those in need, our role We need more people to support families in need, and help them out of their difin caring for the people has not ended. Very often, financial help can only ficult situations. It is not easy to find enough people to mitigate short-term issues and keep the family afloat. Financial stresses are often do this on a consistent basis and to comthe symptom of more complex issues. plement the work of our social workers. Social problems – dysfunctional families, But we must try. Many of our MPS helpmoney disputes, poor supervision of chil- ers and party activists are already doing dren, gang fights – these are problems that so. We hope more will join their ranks, because the need is do not disappear if great but the workyou hand them a “To reach these people, few. cheque. we will need to go door to ers are Social policies So we need to alone do not make address more fun- door, speak face to face for a more inclusive damental challeng- and make a difference, society. Today, there es, such as finding are still elderly peostable jobs for the one case at a time.” ple living alone, and adults, teaching them basic financial literacy skills, resolv- children who do not make it to pre-school ing family disputes and above all, ensuring because their parents cannot afford it. that children continue to stay in school. These people suffer needlessly because If these fundamental issues are not ad- there are already schemes to help them. dressed, the financial challenges cannot That crucial last mile must be bridged by a community of caring individuals. be truly resolved. Our social safety net is only as good as The biggest challenge – Not money our ability to deliver help to those in need. Party activists play that all important role but willing hands Compared to the early years of nation- in partnering the public sector in ensuring that no one is left behind, even as building, we now have more resources. So our challenge is not just about re- Singapore charts a new path in the global sources. It is about having enough people economy. that ensures effective delivery across that last mile.

s e r e t, e ; l e

Very V ery often f th these hese are eld elderly lderly l res residents. idents. id d they could be families struggling to Or the make ends meet and who have no time to read what is in their mail or to find out about the assistance schemes available. To reach these people, we will need to go door to door, speak face to face and make a difference, one case at a time. This is time-consuming and requires a deep understanding of the personal and unique nature of each case. But it is meaningful work. This is grassroots work at its best and most vital – the Government makes the policies and ensures that sufficient resources are at hand, but it is the conviction and energy of our people at the frontline

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PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

QUICK NEWS

School banding abolished

he Education Ministry has abolished the banding of secondary schools by academic results in September. Currently, schools are grouped into nine bands based on their O-level results. This concept was introduced in 2004

to replace the earlier model of school rankings. The ministry will also simplify the school awards system from 2014. Schools who add value to their students' academic abilities will be recognised through five new awards.

Thomson Line to open by 2019

he new Thomson line will open from 2019, connecting neighbourhoods in the north to the city. When completed, Singaporeâ€™s sixth rail project will have 22 stations spanning 30 km from Woodlands to Marina Bay. Six will be interchanges located at Orchard, Woodlands, Caldecott, Marina Bay, Outram Park

and Stevens MRT stations, linking them to all existing lines. The fully-underground, driverless system will also use a four-car system, instead of the current three-car system to meet greater demand. The $18 billion line is expected to have a daily ridership of 400,000 and shorten commuting time by up to 50 per cent.

MOF tightens procurement rules

he Finance Ministry has taken steps to strengthen procurement rules in government agencies. For government purchases where only a single bid is received, public officers have to provide additional justification before deciding whether to award the contract. The minimum opening period for

suppliers to submit bids for quotations has also been extended from the current four working days to seven. In the past three years, procurements that attracted single bidders accounted for about 2 per cent of the total value of contracts awarded by the Government each year. Most of them were below $70,000 in value.

Curbs on suburban shoebox apartments

he Government is restricting the growth of shoebox apartments in suburban

areas. Under the new guidelines (from Nov 4), there will be a limit on the total number of units that can be built on a non-landed private residential development site outside the central area. Shoebox units are typically smaller than 50 sq m, about half the size of an average HDB flat.

Kindergartens to get curriculum

he Education Ministry will develop a comprehensive kindergarten curriculum to raise the quality of pre-school education. It will also include a teacherâ€™s guide and provide teaching and learning resources to support preschool teachers. Some of these resources will be ready by the first half of 2013. The ministry will also set up several pilot pre-schools over the next few years that incorporate the latest developments and best practices in early-childhood education. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

FACE TO FACE

Softer side of Lawrence Wong Aside from what he wants to focus on in the new Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, new Minister Lawrence Wong talks about some of his childhood pursuits By Wong Sher Maine

f you are lucky, you might catch newly-minted Minister Lawrence Wong, 40, strumming the guitar at a grassroots event. The acting Minister of the new Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY), who will officially take office on Nov 1 after just 18 months in politics, never stopped playing the guitar ever since his father thrust one into his hands as a 10-year-old. Through lessons with a family friend where he learnt to read notes, he went on to inspire young people with his music as a church youth leader, entertained staff during dinner-and-dance events when he was the CEO of the Energy Market Authority, and now plays mostly for himself at home. From acoustic to electric, he can run through what he calls “every guitar player’s list of 100 riffs” from the likes of Eric Clapton to Led Zeppelin. Down-to-earth and straightforward, the hour-long interview at his current office at the Ministry of Information, Communication and the Arts is a friendly chat over cups of sweet tea. There is a certain boyish delight when he finds out that you sent your child to a neighbourhood school in Marine Parade. “Really? I used to live in the HDB estate next to that school,” exclaims the 10 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

Tanjong Katong Secondary and Victoria Junior College alumnus. Some of his fondest childhood memories were of hanging out at the old Marine Parade Library where the NTUC now stands, voraciously devouring all manner of books from the Hardy Boys to C S Lewis and then moving on to the nonfiction he now prefers.

“My job is to help others realise their aspirations. It’s about listening, understanding what various groups like to do and see how I can support them in the best possible way.” These days, though, he has little time for leisure. Since he entered politics in May 2011, the past year, he said, “has been busier than ever but also tremendously fulfilling”. The former CEO of the Energy Market Authority has been getting used to the rigours of weekly Meet-the-People sessions, weekly house visits, grassroots events and working intensely in education

from pre-school to university. Now, top of his to-do list is setting out the broad directions for the MCCY, which will work through the arts, sports, community and youth groups to create a sense of national identity. Developing a sense of national identity, he said, is a constant work in progress. “We have matured and developed as a society and in this phase of development, people are looking beyond bread and butter to see what more they want in life.” The MCCY, he said, will “have conversations with the arts, sports, community and youth groups we deal with, find out what their dreams and aspirations are, and find ways to support and help them realise their goals”. What is clear is that existing programmes will continue. Pressed on whether there will be new programmes under the MCCY, Mr Wong emphasised: “We are not starting from scratch. There are existing plans under the arts, sports, community and youth groups. What we need to do is to think through how we can synergise better.” He sees links between these four areas, which “all relate to touching people’s lives in a deeper and higher level”, and by synergy he means linking groups up. Under the MCCY, more arts groups might explore working with youth

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Mr Wong wants to engage our youths to contribute to the society.

groups, for instance, or community groups. In fact, arts groups are already performing in the heartlands, with financial support from the Community Arts and Culture Fund. He said: “We want to pull the arts, sports, community and youth groups together to achieve a more cohesive, cultured and gracious society.” Mr Wong, who said in an interview just before he entered politics that reaching out to youths is the PAP’s greatest challenge, is heartened that that there are many young people in Singapore who are raring to pour their energies into meaningful work like the “Stand up for Singapore” movement, a group of youths who got together on their own to promote graciousness on public transport. “But a lot more can be done to get our youths to contribute to society and be a part of the different groups out there,”

he said. How would the MCCY do that? “Young people want authenticity, they want purpose. Young people today are more idealistic than the generation I came from.” What does he mean by authentic? Mr Wong said it boils down to communication, and the sort of replies which the Government might have trotted out before would not work. “They would like to understand the realities. For us, it means going beyond just coming up with the standard lines. It’s not that the standard reply is untrue, but they want a deeper understanding.” It also comes down to the activities which are organised to engage young people. “Young people, especially, don’t like things that appear contrived or are forced. I can understand. We can’t just present them with activities, and say

please participate in all of the wonderful activities I have planned for you - but we want to ask them, what would you like to do and how would you like to get involved?” Mr Wong talks about his work and plans with ease. When asked whether he can, with his economics training and background in ‘hard’ areas like finance, energy and trade and industry, empathise with and champion ‘soft’ causes like the arts, sports, community and youths, he said that there was no need to typecast people into a certain mould just because of what they studied or their work experiences. Elaborating on his new work portfolio, he added: “My job is to help others realise their aspirations. It’s about listening, understanding what various groups like to do and see how I can support them in the best possible way.” PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

HOT TOPIC

What it means to have a At the National Day Rally in August, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singapore tomorrow must have a bigger heart – to have care and compassion for the needy and elderly, and to have a largeness of spirit and be generous to those around us. All this would show the sort of people we are and the values we hold dear. We asked six party members to reﬂect on what the PM said and to give us their take on what it means to be bighearted.

“In 20 years’ time, I hope Singapore will be a united and competent society that continues to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate. Having a big heart means being helpful to the less fortunate and tolerant towards others. While there are many Voluntary Welfare Organisations serving the community together with strong neighbourhood and residents' committees and this has helped Singapore build an inclusive society over the years, I believe more can be done. One way is through our education system which can be transformed to focus less on individual achievement per se. Singapore can be our best home if we care for each other and appreciate what we have achieved.”

Mr Goh Yong Seng,

39, a businessman, married, with three daughters, aged six, five and two. He is a member of the Mountbatten Branch.

“The art of graciousness and tolerance is what it takes to be a bighearted Singaporean. If we could get more people to develop such qualities, we would have fewer citizens making critical comments against elderly services in their neighbourhood and the influx of new immigrants. With a rapidly ageing population, we certainly need new immigrants so that Singapore can continue to grow and prosper. What we need to do is to improve and to continue to promote the message of acceptance and tolerance, and explain why Singaporeans have to accept these changing trends. The setting up of the National Integration Council and In Conversation SG are good examples to help build an inclusive society for new immigrants. However, more could be done in getting Singaporeans to understand the need for elderly services at their doorstep and greater tolerance towards one’s neighbour.”

Madam Daisy Koh, 57, married, with two

sons, aged 30 and 23. She is a director of a company in the plumbing and sanitary works sector, and is the Women’s Wing chairperson of the Yio Chu Kang Branch. 12 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

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bigger heart “Most Singaporeans are generally kindhearted and charitable, even during an economic downturn, as seen in our generosity in donating to causes like the President’s Challenge and the victims of the tsunami disasters in Japan and Aceh, and the Sichuan earthquake. We should tap on this kind-hearted spirit within Singaporeans to build an inclusive and big-hearted society.The Education Minister’s removal of the school banding system is a good start to encourage Singaporeans to have a bigger heart. This is because allowing students with different strengths and backgrounds to interact together will provide opportunities for stronger students to help weaker students through peer support programmes. This will strengthen the spirit of caring and sharing.”

Mr Lu Qimin, 29, is an energy efficiency solution engi-

neer who is expecting his first child early next year. He is assistant secretary in the Marsiling Branch and the YP chairman for Sembawang Region.

“Contrary to the word ‘big’, I think being a big-hearted Singaporean does not require us to deliver big-ticket items to charity like a philanthropist does. In fact, it is often the small gestures of ours that count. We have got to take an active stand and treat others the way we want to be treated. Appreciate and acknowledge others, use words like ‘Thanks’ and mean it. It is really this simple. These might just be the missing elements we are lacking towards building a compassionate and inclusive society. I believe our Government has done plenty to foster an inclusive and big-hearted society. The question now should not be what Singapore has done for us, but what we can do for Singapore. I think by now, we should have realised that Singapore is hardly self-sufficient. We will always be affected by external factors because of our geographical constraints and thus we have to stay dynamic. However, in the midst of dynamism, I hope we will gradually foster a common identity that we can all be proud of. An identity that shows our resilience, the harmony we all share and the compassion we possess.”

Mr Lester Tan, 22, student and YP member at the Serangoon Branch.

“Building a big-hearted society starts from a young age. Both parents and the schools have a role to play in making sure that our children have the right social values and etiquette to build an inclusive and big-hearted society. Currently, schools have incorporated the Community Involvement Programme and Racial Harmony Day into their activities to promote social integration and interracial harmony. At the workplace, more bosses should take the Corporate Social Responsibility role seriously. The People’s Association can also chip in by having social work that allows Singaporeans to serve and treat the community as the whole family. To be a big-hearted Singaporean means being able to accept diversity and to be tolerant of people of a different race, culture, religion or background.”

Ms Pauline Sim,

married, with two daughters, aged 18 and 20, is head of human resources and administration. She is the Women’s Wing chairperson of the West Coast Branch and the South West Women's Wing district representative. “PM Lee’s words resonated with me. My life is similar to many of the stories he quoted. My father was a vegetable wholesaler and my mother is a housewife. I am the youngest of seven siblings. We grew up in a kampong in Hougang. Though I am the only graduate in the family, my siblings and I are doing well, well enough to be able to give. Did I get to where I am only because I worked hard? I do not, for any moment, fool myself. For example, I am effectively bilingual today because of the Special Assistance Plan Schools Scheme. I was amongst the pioneer batch. That has helped me advance in my career. I could not have been where I am today without the system that is so uniquely Singaporean. And I know I am not alone. Many of my peers share similar stories. I always remember a childhood lesson which my grandmother taught us: when you point a finger at others, four fingers point back at yourself. Always reflect and manage yourself more strictly than you would others.”

Ms Sim Bee Hia,

46, is the secretary-general of a Chinese clan association. She is single and is the assistant branch secretary of the Mountbatten Branch. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

HOT TOPIC

Special meaning from three little words

This year’s National Day Rally's theme was building “A Home with Hope and Heart”. Each of these three elements – Hope, Heart and Home – holds a special meaning for three activists. To entrepreneur Von Lee Yong Ming, it was Hope that kept him going during the tough times in his early days. Heart comes to play for human resource consultant David Leong when he engages with employers. He believes they should hire with a heart, especially when it comes to low-wage workers. And for company director Teo Lin Lee, she now realises that Home is where her heart is – and more. 14 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

Hope got Von Lee going E ntrepreneur Von Lee Yong Ming knows what it means when anyone talks to him about having a tough life. At the age of 13, he was made to wake up at four every morning to accompany his fishmonger parents to the fish distribution depot at Punggol. After that, he had to help them manage the stall located at a wet market in Ang Mo Kio. Then it was off to school. But that did not mean that his daily chores were finished. After school, he had to return to the market to clean up the mess at the stall. Those days were indeed tough, but it got even harder when his father suffered a stroke and could no longer work when he was 17. The family had to give up their stall, and Mr Lee’s mother did odd jobs to supplement the family’s income. “Life was definitely tough. My father’s stroke was a real setback for the family and we faced severe financial difficulties,” Mr Lee recalled. “My siblings and I then had to take on whatever work we could to help our mother. We all did what we needed to do to get by.” However, despite the hardships that he went through, the young Mr Lee never once lost hope of a brighter future.

He was always aware that if he studied hard and stayed out of trouble, things would change for the better. And it did. He managed to enter university, supporting himself by working as a part-time tutor. When his elder brother started a small business producing signs, he worked for the brother to earn extra money. Looking back at those difficult days, Mr Lee, now 42, reminisced: “Behind every cloud, there is always a silver lining. Although times were hard, but because we were all in it together, we supported each other. We had this strong family bond. “My brothers and sister encouraged me to focus on my studies. That motivated me to want to do better, so I could contribute to the family in any way possible.” Obviously, the hardships he faced growing up and the love he received from his family has moulded Mr Lee to become the man he is today. He now serves as the chairman of Kebun Baru Community Club Management Committee as well as the vicechairman of the Citizens’ Consultative Committee. The father of two children, aged 11 and nine, is the executive chairman of Expand Construction. The company is behind many mega projects including PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

HOT TOPIC the $130 million Supertrees and Energy Centre at Gardens by the Bay. However, Mr Lee describes himself as an entrepreneur by accident. After graduating as a civil engineer in 1995, he joined the HDB as a project manager. Three years later, he decided to leave the statutory board to work with his brother in his signage business. He said: “I saw how my brother was working very hard but was still facing financial difficulties. So I decided to join his business. “The objective then was to contribute

Hiring with a

Strong family support and hard work have moulded Mr Lee into the successful entrepreneur he is today.

m s a t b e

Heart

o takers for dishwashing jobs that pay $3,000 a month? Sakae Sushi’s generous offer made headlines recently when the company revealed that the number of Singaporeans who applied for the dishwasher job was low, and those who took it up, quit soon after they discovered how tough it can be. The dishwashers need to work 12 hours a day, six days a week – from 10.30 am to 10.30 pm. A debate arose out of this on whether Singaporeans can take the long hours and a six-day week, working in a hot and dirty environment. However, according to branch activist Mr David Leong, perhaps what is needed to make the job more attractive is a bit of heart. He says: “Working such a shift leaves the worker with very little time for anything else, especially time with his family. And this is perhaps more important than the money.” Mr Leong, who serves at the Thomson Branch as secretary, is the brains behind 126JOBS, a simple, no-frills website created as a social cause which focuses on the bottom 20 per cent of 16 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

“ e w

the workforce. It operates on the basis of “Singaporeans First” and its mantra to employers is “Hire With a Heart”. The portal allows employers to advertise their job vacancies, free of charge, thus giving low-wage workers access to a broader range of jobs.

“We are a social cause, so what binds this cause to employers and job seekers are our mantra and belief.” – David Leong

Since its launch in July, the portal has been introduced to all branch secretaries and can be accessed by volunteers from Meet-the-People sessions (MPS) and grassroots organisations. Blue-collar workers’ job search processes are very different from those for the mainstream. They do not go online to look for jobs and rely mainly on the clas-

sified advertisement in the newspapers or by word of mouth. Many seek their MPs’ help in looking for jobs. The portal allows volunteers to easily match residents looking for employment with suitable jobs, making it much faster for them to start working. Mr Leong, 42, the managing director of HR firm, PeopleWorldwide Consulting, also hopes that the portal can be an advocate for micro-jobbing – where job-seekers can work with employers for a certain shift or hours. “That is why 126JOBS encourages employers to break up the hours,” Mr Leong explains. “By doing this, more Singaporeans can be encouraged to work in the hours they can, so that employment opportunities can be created. Job seekers may not like to work a 12-hour day, six days week at $3,000 offered for the dishwasher position. “But if you take two or three Singaporean workers to do this job, each taking certain hours and for those nights and weekends, foreign workers can supplement, the job still can get done.” Micro-jobbing also serves the needs of women re-entering the workforce or mothers who may have fixed hours avail-

a o l g e t p o t o t t a v s L m a 1 W c m t t g

“My close family ties gave me hope in my earlier years. With this hope, I could focus and work hard to do well within my ability...” – Von Lee

my part to the family and hope I could do something to at least improve our standard of living. It was very much wanting to add a pair of hands to the ailing family business rather than wanting to be an entrepreneur personally.” Despite his best efforts, the limited

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able to work. It is also helpful for the senior or silver workforce who cannot take the long hours. In a short space of time, 126JOBS has gained a significant reach with some 100 employers and job-seekers registered with the portal. But beyond the numbers, just as important to Mr Leong and his small team of volunteers who manage the portal, is that employers truly embrace the mantra of Hiring with a Heart. “Employers must know that when they come to 126JOBS, they are coming to a low-wage, blue-collar site and it is absolutely free for them to post any job vacancies. They must know that 126JOBS serves only Singaporeans and PRs,” Mr Leong reiterates. “They must also know that these may be at-risk workers or needy workers and therefore, when they hire through 126JOBS, they must hire with heart. We are a social cause, so what binds this cause to employers and job-seekers are our mantra and belief.” Mr Leong is looking for more volunteers to help manage the portal. Those interested can e-mail him at davidskleong@ gmail.com.

growth of the signage business led him to set up Expand Construction in July 2000. Mr Lee is a strong believer in family values and sees strong family ties as a beacon of hope for success. So he could relate to what Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said about Hope in his National

Day Rally Speech. Commenting on the PM’s message, Mr Lee said his story is an example of how, with support and love from family, every Singaporean, regardless of his background, can dream of a brighter future in this little red dot. “My close family ties gave me hope in my earlier years. With this hope, I could focus and work hard to do well within my ability,” he said. “And Singapore is indeed the larger family. This is our home and with hope, we can all live in peace, do a good job and bring up our families.”

Mr Leong has introduced 126JOBS to other PAP branches to help low-wage workers look for jobs. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

HOT TOPIC Why this is

Home to me

N “While reflecting on those difficult days, one can appreciate better how things have changed so much for the better. And, really, those days were not so long ago.”

A lifetime of memories in a stable and peaceful country are reasons why Ms Teo stays rooted in Singapore.

n the early 1960s, I was living in a closely-knit kampong in Geylang Lorong 1. It was a short distance to Gay World where most of the activities took place. My eldest sister would drag me along with her regularly, to watch our favourite Cantonese opera in the amusement park. On one occasion, while on our way home after watching the opera, we were told that there was a racial riot and people were asked to take cover at the nearest home of friends or relatives. Our home in Lorong 1 was deemed “not passable”. So we decided to walk to Old Airport Road to stay in a relative’s house. After that incident, our whole kampong prepared for the worst riot. We built underground shelters and advised all women and children to hide in there should a clash happen. Another memory was the big fire that broke out at our kampong around 1962. As our homes were made of zinc and attap, there was practically nothing left but ashes. I remember vividly how my father piggy-backed my immobilised grandmother to safety. I ran out of my home with only 18 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

a pair of my dad’s favourite slippers. We were later housed in flats in Tanjong Rhu where I lived for over 10 years. Life was much tougher during those days between 1960 and 1980. Secret societies were rampant, crime rate was extremely high and our homes had poor sanitation. The economy was struggling and only a small number of people were able to make it to university. While reflecting on those difficult days, one can appreciate better how things have changed so much for the better. And, really, those days were not so long ago. It seems like only recently that I was watching and listening to former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew delivering his speeches from the veranda of my HDB flat in Cantonment Road overlooking the Tanjong Pagar Community Centre. I was mesmerised by his charisma. It is truly his inspiration and drive that has made Singapore what it is today. My personal transformation is closely linked to what has taken place in this country that I call home. It has given me the opportunity to study hard and work hard. I am now married with two wonder-

– Teo Lin Lee

ful children and they too are enjoying the fruits of our Government’s efforts. Both are in reasonable professional careers. But I must confess that at one point I was not totally convinced about Singapore’s ability to survive. In fact, my family and I had toyed with the idea of moving to another country. However, I am happy to say that better sense prevailed and we stay rooted – for so many good reasons. Foremost is the fact that this is a peaceful and stable country built up, bit by bit, under capable leaders. Its qualities like incorruptibility and fair justice system have become clichéd. What’s more, most of our relatives and friends are here. These are the people we are emotionally connected to and they are irreplaceable. Most importantly, we can talk about anything that is “not right”, and we will always find a listening ear. Looking around, I cannot think of a more comfortable place than Singapore to live and to raise my family. Written by Teo Lin Lee, WW Chairperson of Queenstown Branch.

T h H C

M B t I g c p a c r o y c p p a s i m R p B b t i l I t e t t

BEHIND THE SCENES PAP HQ EXCO Elections:

Nominees revealed The PAP Headquarters Executive Committee (HQ EXCO) Elections are held once every two years to elect four district committee members. Here are the 10 candidates standing for these elections Central District

e h t y g r o t, e m d e e t l a o e, h.

Malminderjit Singh, 33, media. Kebun Baru Branch. Member since 2001. I first started volunteering at MPS at the Mountbatten branch in 2001 before I left to study overseas. As a young Singaporean, I felt it was important to start contributing back to the society that provided young Singaporeans like me a good education, quality of life, a safe country and opportunities to do our best regardless of our family backgrounds, race or religion. After the last GE, it is only right that younger members like us step up to the cause and contribute in whichever way possible. The National Conversation is a useful process and one that all of us should take an opportunity to be a part of as it helps shape the Singapore we want to live in, in the future. We need fewer cynics and more doers. Rina Pua Ling Tah, 32, assistant vice president in a bank. Kebun Baru Branch. Member since 2004. I am the eldest in the family of four. I believe “life is unpredictable” and I want to inspire and empower the youths – this is one of my main focuses. As a youth leader in the various committees I sit in, I hope to be able to provide good direction to my youth members, inspiring and empowering them to come forward and to shape our country. In Dec 2006, an incident made me think seriously about life. My boat had

capsized in the middle of the sea while I was travelling in Pattaya with a group of friends. We were all struggling for our lives. When I survived, I asked myself: “How can I make life a difference for others and myself?” I decided to be active and committed to listen to the voice of our people, our residents and every one of their feedback from the ground. I strongly believe that “Together, as one heart, our nation will progress”. Goh Kah Heng, Ivan, 37, engineer with ExxonMobil. Jalan Kayu Branch since 2005. Branch Young PAP (YP) chairman. I am an easy-going, honest, friendly and approachable person. I like to talk to people and share my perspectives and experiences with friends on any topics that may be of interest to them. I like to play soccer and golf. Sports can bridge gaps between differences and is a very good platform to engage people with common topics. It can also be used to influence others as well. I have been with the party since 2005 and was influenced by my father about the party and I went to find out more. I walked into the branch in 2004 and expressed my desire to help out and since then, did not look back. I am standing for the elections because of my calling to

serve the people. I want to enrich people’s life and hope to add value to them. I would try to speak about the affordable housing issues and medical costs. It’s close to my heart. I have friends who encounter this problem and they are always complaining to me. People look upon the party for solutions and activists like me play a pivotal role bridging the party and Singaporeans. Success depends not just on how well the policies are crafted, but also on targeted and local communication – right to the last person on the ground. I will attempt to provide that role and hope to close the gap between party and public.

PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

BEHIND THE SCENES

Northwest District

Jagathishwaran Rajo, 25, industrial relations officer at NTUC. Zhenghua Branch. Branch YP chairman. YP Holland-Bukit Timah Region chairman. Member since 2009. I am standing for the elections, first, I am confident that I will be able to represent the youth in my division and also the region. Second, I am motivated by the support from the YP activists from my region. I joined the party because I believe in the party values and want to be part of the system to give direct feedback on policies and governance of the republic. I strongly believe that it is important to serve the residents through the Meetthe-People sessions (MPS). Moreover, it is vital to provide genuine feedback to the party and propose practical suggestions to win the hearts and minds of the electorate. Singapore has come very far as a country – it has transformed from a fishing village into an urban city-state. The transformation is the result of the hard work of our forefathers and first-generation leaders. It is important to come out with feasible and sound policies for the nation as a whole.

Northeast District

Roseline Chin, 38, childcare centre owner. Mother of two boys. Bukit Timah Branch. Branch Women’s Wing (WW) chairperson. I have been with the party for the past five years. I am currently involved in the childcare industry, grassroots, clan association and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce. Through my involvement with these various organisations and associations, I am constantly receiving feedback from various channels. As such, I hope to share such feedback with party leaders if I feel that not sufficient attention is being given. I hope to share my concerns on the current pre-school education (i.e. the increasing emphasis on academic studies at

Philip Loh Boon Chuan, 42, general manager, Brahler ICS Pte Ltd, a German manufacturer. Father of three. Tampines West Branch. Member since 2008. I joined the party when I tried to help resolve an issue around my block and I ended up helping our residents and neighbourhood today. I have a lot of support from my family in my career and community engagement. The elections are an opportunity to bring forth ground issues and proposals to the party’s core for a suitable resolution. As I am also with the Citizens’ Consultative Committee and as a Community mentor to the Residents’ Committee, I had the opportunity to experience and

20 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

such a young age) as this might stifle our young children’s creativity and increase unnecessary stress.

understand situations from the people of all walks of life. I can be a bi-directional catalyst. If given a chance in the National Conversation, I would like to touch on the topic of the development of our younger generation. Education alone is inadequate. Questions of morals and identity are equally important. This should be the focus now, not just in school but everyday life. Jonathan Hoe Jun Xian, 29, private banking executive with Barclays Bank PLC – Wealth and Investment Management. Tampines North Branch. Branch YP chairman for 2011/2012. Member since 2010. I come from a family with an Englishspeaking Dad and a Mandarin-speaking Mum, with three sons. I’m the eldest with another brother who is an air force regular and youngest brother in the polytechnic. After joining the branch, I’m empowered to make changes and to come up with

i a N c v f a h t i S

M a s W 2 Y t b w

bad reputation.” And the aunties at the next table gave me thumbs up and a large grin.

1. Jonathan Hoe 2. Benjamin Chua 3. Ivan Goh 4. Philip Loh 5. Anisah Ahmad 6. Rina Pua 7. Eunice Lim Not in picture: Malminderjit Singh, Roseline Chin, Jagathishwaran Rajo

Anisah Ahmad, 24, full-time graduate student at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy. Marine Parade Branch. YP member. Member since 2008. I am standing for elections as I wanted to be more involved in and play a greater role in policy processes. At the HQ Exco, members are involved in policy discussions and hence, that would give me a more direct and proactive role in understanding and applying what I learned. Given my educational background and practical work experience, I am able to suggest creative ideas, communicate them clearly and succinctly, negotiate to manage a myriad of perspectives, and most importantly, am enthusiastic in improving the lives of fellow Singaporeans. Southwest District

of nal nhe er te. re us e. te nk ech er hng th ar c. wth

initiatives through organising events such as our needy giveaways during Chinese New Year, Hari Raya and Deepavali. We can do a lot on the ground – we have a volunteer who picked up a MPS case to follow up and even willing to spend time and effort on giving free tuition despite his commitments. I hope to be the heart of our people, to touch our people by serving our people in this new capacity. Southeast District

Mrs Eunice Lim, 41, marketing manager with PeopleSearch, an executive search firm. Bedok Branch. Branch WW chairperson. Member since April 2012. In March 2011, I e-mailed Mr George Yeo to thank him and told him we have two votes for him. Since everyone was busy with the General Election and we were busy with our move to a new flat, I

didn’t take action until the man I voted for lost the election. Then I realised I have to do more than just vote. Bedok is close to my heart as I grew up in the Fengshan area so I sent Mr Lim Swee Say a Facebook message and started to volunteer for Bedok Branch. I represent the typical Singaporean working mum, wife and daughter. I am unabashed at speaking with strangers, really not shy. A hawker at the Block 58 market, New Upper Changi Road told me that there are beggars who are part of a syndicate plaguing the hawker centre, so I decided to do a stake out. Soon, one hobbled to my table and as I gave him $1, I asked loudly in Mandarin: “Uncle, are you Singaporean? Our Government will help you. Give me your IC, I help you call social services.” He shook his head and tried to shake me off but I followed him and loudly proclaimed: “Oh! You’re not Singaporean. Don’t beg here and give Singaporeans a

Benjamin Chua Guang Long, 24. Yew Tee Branch. Branch YP vice-chairman. Member of PAP Policy Forum. Member since 2008. My generation is blessed to see the world evolve into one that lives on the Internet, and because we have such easy access to all sorts of information, we have grown up to be a curious bunch of people. Our generation has become very critical of the Government, and is not at all afraid to express it. Correcting misconceptions among Gen Y is important to me – it is crucial to earning their respect and their vote. I feel that there is a need to review our current education system. We need to review if junior colleges effectively prepare students for the university, and also try to shorten the time taken to attain a graduate degree. When students are able to start work at an earlier age, they will be able to settle into their jobs faster and start families earlier. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

BEHIND THE SCENES

National problems, Kebun B Young activists engage youths on issues close to their heart By Chong Koh Ping

he most talked-about topic at the branch-level nowadays is on “engaging the ground”. But instead of having endless conversations about engagement, a pair of 19-year-olds at Kebun Baru Branch decided on a more systematic approach. “We want to engage the people for the sake of a better Singapore. The youths are particularly important. For those who are between 17 and 21, they will vote for the first time in the next General Election,” said Mr Benjamin Wong, one half of the duo. “By having a discussion, we can become part of the solution and form a sort of ground-up initiative,” he added. Echoing his view, Mr Gary Seet, a third year polytechnic student, felt that the youths who are in their late teens and early 20s are “not being engaged enough” by the Government. Said Mr Seet, who helps out regularly at the Meet-the-People (MPS) session every week: “We are coming in touch with only the lower-income minorities at the MPS. More should be done to reach out to the other people living in the area.” Reiterating the importance of youth engagement, he said: “Many (youths) don't have a favourable view of the Government. It’s important that we talk to these younger people, listen to them and take their views into consideration.” It is with this idea that the pair got together with four other like-minded 22 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

Benjamin Wong youths in their thirties, namely, Mr Malminderjit Singh, Mr Aneez Ahmad, Dr Lim Chin Heng and Mr Ganesan Arasapan to start a discussion series at the Kebun Baru branch. Dubbed “Melting pot – A series”, each discussion will have a designated topic and the participation of a subject-matter

Malminderjit Singh expert together with the Kebun Baru MP Inderjit Singh. One of the six organisers will take turns to moderate the session. The inaugural session on the issue of foreigners was held on Aug 18 with 25 branch activists and their friends. All of them are youths living or volunteering in Kebun Baru.

d “ w t I t

n Baru perspectives

Aneez Ahmad P s f 5 f n

Mr Wong was the moderator of the day. He described it as a “humbling” and “eye-opening” experience. “The emotions were raw and there were many different views. We ensured that everyone had a chance to speak. But I also had to stop the discussion from time to time to press them for solutions.

Gary Seet I’m very encouraged by the quality of the ideas suggested at the first session,” he said. Mr Malminderjit Singh was quick to add that the discussion is anything but a “talk shop”. “We will have two or three tangible takeaways from each discussion and will

implement the ideas on the ground,” said Mr Singh. “Some suggested that we could improve the integration between companies that hire foreign employees and the grassroots. Another suggestion was for us to work with schools in the neighbourhood. “The key is to pick the low-lying fruits to start with some small and concrete actions that we can take. We discuss national-level issues but offer a Kebun Baru perspective on how to solve the problem,” he added. The group explained that the discussion is based on four key principles: to engage, to discuss, to educate and to have action items. The group will produce a report summarising key points and suggestions raised at each discussion. “We will submit each report to the relevant authorities through our MP. This ensures that the feedback will be heard at different levels,” said Mr Wong. The group has planned for four discussion sessions to be held, once every six weeks, until the end of the year. The next session on education is slated for October and the group will invite Kebun Baru residents to join the discussion. “After this pilot phase, we could grow it bigger and expand it to the GRC level. We also hope that other YP members and branches can draw inspiration from this,” said Mr Ahmad, who is also the YP vice-chairman at Kebun Baru branch. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

DIALOGUE

Small island, big dreams:

YP activists offer candid views on immigration, cost of living, having babies and the future of Singapore By Chong Koh Ping

n the spirit of the “National Conversation”, the latest closed-door dialogue organised by the YP Political Discussions Committee was a departure from the usual format where the participants asked questions and the Minister answered. Instead, it was a lively discussion amongst party activists with Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean participating with comments. Titled “So How?” the session on Sept 8 at NTUC Building saw nearly half of the 40 participants up on their feet expressing their views on population issues. DPM Teo observed that while there were many different points of view, everyone was “searching for a common ground”. He noted that the issues were brought out in order to “unite ourselves” through the conversation, rather than stoke politics of division. The hot-button topic of the day was immigration. Several participants criticised the “pretend immigration”, where foreigners were only here for the short haul. These immigrants make use of Singapore as a springboard to migrate to other countries such as the US while some others retire to their home countries while earning a rental income on the HDB flats that they own. One activist commented that the PRs “should not be in for a free ride”. She suggested that they be given a bond, to ensure that they stay in Singapore for a 24 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

Some 40 party activists attended the "new-style" dialogue where population-related issues took centre-stage.

Comrades Zaqy Mohamad (far left) and Teo Ser Luck (second from left) also attended the session.

stipulated number of years according to a certain set of criteria. Another felt that the PRs should give a mandatory donation to the needy to show their gratitude when they leave. The quantum of the donation will vary with their length of stay in Singapore. In response, a young participant who has just recently completed his studies in the US, suggested that these

foreigners might have left Singapore because they did not feel welcomed by Singaporeans. He reminded Singaporeans to “be nice and not be overly-aggressive”. Singaporeans should be considerate to the foreigners so as to make Singapore an attractive place for them to come and stay. Another participant also said that 80 per cent of his Chinese classmates left

S i w f r f c o t

So how?

Many differing views were raised at the meeting.

e y e e y. 0 ft

Singapore for the US after their studies at the Junior College. He wondered what more could be done to attract these foreigners to stay on in Singapore. A couple of other participants also reiterated that Singapore needs foreigners for further growth and development. “We can’t do everything on our own,” said one, adding that the expatriate population brings with it skills that Singapore-

ans can learn from. In response, another participant said: “We know the need for foreigners, but we still feel the angst. We want to be protected and feel that we are special.” She suggested that there could be a subsidy on public transportation for all Singaporeans to differentiate the two groups. A participant also raised queries about the criteria for obtaining a PR status, she commented: “I know of people who became PRs after just six months because they gross a certain level of income. On the other hand, we also see residents at the MPS (Meet-the-People) session, who want to be PRs, lived in Singapore for many years, but still did not get it.” A couple of activists also gave suggestions on how Singapore can deal with the issue of immigration, going forward. One noted the lack of communication amongst foreign workers, foreign talents and Singaporeans. He suggested that a “National Conversation” with all parties involved, foreign construction workers included, be organised so that everyone will have a better understanding of what everyone is going through. Another activist pointed out that a lack of social identity coupled with a large influx of foreigners is a cause for concern. He observed that many young Singaporeans are slowly losing our cultural identity. He suggested that more should be done to shape the Singaporean identity – it should not just be based on history but also on aspirations for the future. The discussion also touched upon the other key aspect of the population issue – babies. The high cost of living and the cost of raising babies were cited as the main pressures faced by Singaporeans with participants saying that Singaporeans need to be persuaded that the challenges of having a family can be overcome.

DPM Teo Chee Hean’s comments: On population:

Some 25 to 30 per cent of Singaporeans are not getting married. Out of those who marry, 40 per cent of them involve a marriage between a Singapore Citizen and a non-citizen. On the average, most married couples have two children. Hence, with 30 per cent of Singaporeans not having children and 70 per cent of Singaporeans having two children per couple, Singapore’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is between 1.2 and 1.3. On citizenship:

A very important criterion is family ties – whether the foreigner is married to a Singaporean or has children who are Singaporean. Another criterion is the person’s economic contribution to Singapore, be it present or future contributions. We also assess whether he/ she can assimilate to the Singapore society over time. On making Singaporeans feel special:

The single biggest benefit that only Singaporeans have is the ability to buy a flat directly from the HDB. These are flats at a subsidised rate. The flats that are bought on the resale market are at market prices, not at a subsidised rate. The other big benefit is education. Our university fees are highly subsidised. Singapore students pay 25 per cent of the cost, or about $7,500 a year. The total for four years of fees is about $30,000, which is equivalent to one year of the starting salary of a new graduate. I’m a big advocate for giving extra benefits or bonuses to people who’ve done National Service. This is a way to make Singaporeans feel special. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

VIEW FROM FRONT

HoCollis p

v con

e r s a ti o n s :

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t the National Day Rally this year, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong revealed that Minister Heng Swee Keat will lead a National Conversation with Singaporeans. This is a crucial conversation for us to have, as it charts our way forward as a people and a nation. Since then, many people have expressed their views about what this National Conversation is about, how the process should be run, and what the outcomes ought to be. I would like to share my thoughts on how we can conduct this National Conversation purposefully and productively. To simplify matters, I will reduce my thoughts to three “Hope Nots” and three “Hope Fors”. The three “Hope Nots”

First, while we are understandably concerned about our personal interests and passions, we must allow room for others to also articulate their needs, hopes and fears. We should avoid seeing 26 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

this National Conversation as a National Negotiation, where we lobby for our pet project, never mind the interests of others. That would be self-defeating as individuals and groups harden their stands. All of us should suspend our judgment when engaging in this conversation, and really listen carefully to the different views that are expressed. There are reasons why an individual or a group holds dearly to a view, and by listening attentively and respectfully to each other, we allow the motivations and interests to surface.

Second, we should remind ourselves to think long term. This Conversation is not about resolving the shortcomings and irritations of everyday life. Solving these immediate problems is important. At the same time, we must know that a good future does not come about just by solving day-to-day problems. Success is about asking what might be possible, and then making our way there. While thinking ahead and

t i e s c c T

N s

The national exercise gives us a chance to listen and debate. But the need for decisive action, rather than parroting or pandering to every view, remains crucial to good government

. f e , t y t r d

afresh impels us to lift our sights and renew our minds, it also compels us to act soberly in the process. A good future is not reached by splurging our resources. Third, it is good that the Government seeks to be responsive to the citizenry, as well as to larger developments affecting Singapore. This will enable the Government to lead better. The Government, having carefully considered the views and weighed the choices, must retain its ability to clearly articulate the national direction and to act decisively. Inclusiveness is not about parroting or pandering to every view. Governing by public-opinion surveys will only make for weakness and confusion. The Government remains accountable for the outcomes to the people. Three “Hope Fors"

First, I hope that the outreach of the National Conversation be as comprehensive as possible. The People’s Association

uses an All CARE approach in its outreach – C(Channels), A(Ages), R(Races) and E(Estates). I think this is a good approach to take to include people and views from the different segments of society into this National Conversation. The inclusiveness of outreach is important to demonstrate the credibility of the effort. What we are trying to distil from the exercise is a sense of oneness of purpose and a unity of vision. Second, as we pursue this exercise to engage the public, I hope we will, at the same time, keep a keen eye on regional and international developments to see how these are likely to pan out and affect us in the future. Singapore does not exist in isolation. Progress is always relative – to ourselves over time, to each other at any point in time, and with respect to how other countries are doing. If we can do this, then we will neither underestimate our strengths nor delude ourselves with notions of exceptionalism. We can be bold, yet sober, in how we make our way forward in this increasingly turbulent world.

By Heng Chee How

Third, I hope we can use this exercise to move with the times, and turbocharge our society into the future. I recall how management gurus used to stereotype when comparing Japanese to American management styles. The former was typically described as first getting consensus and then speedily and smoothly moving ahead, while the latter as getting top approval quickly and then swiftly be mired in operational difficulties and turf wars that greatly sap energies and effectiveness. Of course, reality for all countries is always somewhere in between those two. However, I hope this National Conversation would help us be much more the former. A National Conversation does not happen very often. We must make full use of this opportunity, play our part and make a difference. This is our privilege as citizens of this country. It is also our responsibility. Let us shape our Nation’s future together. The writer is a senior minister of state at the Prime Minister’s Office PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

MY SAY

New context for citizen-govt engagement U i f d b e l p c a t m f w t

The current National Conversation (above) is not so different from what had taken place before – Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s radio talks on The Battle for Merger in the 1960s was also an effort to engage and to explain a big decision. The difference today lies in the high expectations of the electorate and widespread use of technology.

he most common contact an ordinary citizen has with the Government is when he is in need of services. Issues are not abstract ones but likely to involve questions like whether the Government is able to provide good health care, education opportunities, efficient transportation, decent housing and the numerous other services we use in daily life. Singaporeans have come to expect efficient and effective delivery of such services. Any fall in standards would raise the ire of the citizens. Recent examples are the breakdown of MRT services, crowded buses, long queues for HDB flats and difficulty in obtaining university places. If low service standards or no service

28 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

had been the norm in Singapore, there would have been far fewer complaints. People would simply find ways to get around the problem by seeking help from family and friends or find ways to “buy” the service. Singaporeans who have lived and worked overseas would be familiar with this phenomenon. While Singaporeans and citizens the world over are naturally prone to grumble about the standard of government service, their unhappiness is usually confined to small groups. But things are fast changing. The advent of social media like Twitter, Weibo, Facebook and other platforms have made our private views very public. Individuals feel empowered as publishers

and broadcasters. But it is not that today’s citizens are more vocal. Citizens have always been. The difference is that the citizens today feel more empowered with these new platforms, to make their statements to the whole wide world. In this new environment, governments have to engage their citizens and connect to what is being said, which is not a bad thing. One positive outcome is that it can help improve the provision and delivery of services, which is central to citizen-government engagement. A more citizen-centric government makes the government machinery become more attuned to the needs of the citizen. In the 1990s, the Service Improvement

a t a n u l t w s p h e a b t i o i h t a a t j

By Chan Heng Wing

e . y w o d s e n al t e . t

Unit was set up within the Prime Minister’s Office to improve service delivery for the whole government service. Service delivery will be even more important because of higher expectations and an empowered citizenry who will complain loudly when service does not meet expectations. Social media has to be another tool of communication even if many individuals and organisations fear the excesses out there. This is because some users say the most outrageous things, make complete fabrications or even create outright hoaxes without feeling any responsibility for their action. On its part, the Government and its agencies should take a different tack to the social media. They should use it as an effective means to engage and connect, to cut through the verbiage and understand the trend of thinking in the larger Singapore community, and to take the opportunity to explain how policies will affect their lives. Some governments have already started doing this. In the UK, for example, they have a social media guide to help civil servants not just to consult and engage, but also to be more transparent and accountable, and to be part of the bigger conversation that is going on in the society. Another useful role of the social media is during emergencies and disaster-relief operations. Last year, during the floods in Thailand, quick information-sharing helped villagers to avoid being caught in the rising waters. Information-gathering and dissemination of safety information also helped the hurricane victims in Haiti. Early revelation of epidemics and timely issuance of public health advice are just some of the positive uses of the social

media. Twitter, blogs and internet forum provide real-time information so that relief managers can deploy the resources at hand to the most critical areas. Imagine how more quickly information could have been garnered and health warnings disseminated had the social media been in greater usage when Singapore was coping with SARS. Today, as we embark on our National Conversation, the process is not so different from what had taken place before. Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s radio talks on The Battle

“In this new environment, governments have to engage their citizens and connect to what is being said, which is not a bad thing. One positive outcome is that it can help improve the provision and delivery of services, which is central to citizen-government engagement.” for Merger in the 1960s were perhaps the first efforts to engage Singaporeans and to explain a big decision that Singapore had to make. Then there were the dialogues on The Next Lap, Singapore 21 and Remaking Singapore. What has changed significantly is the backdrop. Technology has made the Conversation more far-reaching and multilateral, and expectations have definitely changed.

This means the result of the National Conversation will be expected to be more inclusive and reflective of the views of all of us as we re-ask ourselves the questions about our society, our values and the identity we want. If the National Conversation were to become narrowly political – either as a process for the Government to further its political programme or for the detractors of the Government to use it to lobby for individual interests – that would be a huge pity. If the National Conversation were to merely become a sounding board of grievances or a political platform for any one political party, we would have missed the opportunity to re-ask ourselves the question of who we are and what we stand for, to reaffirm a set of values that will take us forward as a confident and successful nation. Because the scale of this Conversation is large and encompassing, expectations will be high. But this Conversation is not about adjustment of policies, reexamining processes to be more efficient or reviewing rules that may better serve the country if they are changed. This should be going on at the ministry and agency level as part and parcel of their normal work. If we can use the Conversation to find a common understanding among the people of Singapore about the society we hope to be, the values we want to have and the identity of the Singaporean, then this huge effort would really be worthwhile, not just for us, but for our children’s generation and beyond. The writer is a retired diplomat and serves as a business adviser to several companies. PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

FORUM

National Conversation not a

rime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s National Day Rally speech called on everyone to help chart a new, clear direction for the country and to help build a future Singapore that we Singaporeans want. There have been cynics out there who say that the PM’s calls and the National Conversation are another public relations exercise and that nothing much is going to come out of it. But I disagree. After the PM’s speech, I went back to take a look at the Singapore 21 (S21) and the Remaking Singapore Committee (RSC) reports, which were launched 15 and 10 years ago, respectively. The S21 was about our future as a nation, a society and a people. It was about what Singaporeans want to make of this country. It was launched by Mr Goh Chok Tong in 1997 to strengthen the “heartware”, the intangibles of Singapore society for the 21st century. They were the broad strokes of a future for Singapore and they served as a compass to navigate the future for Singapore then. The five pillars of the S21 were: • Every Singaporean matters • Strong families: our foundation and our future • Opportunities for all • The Singapore Heartbeat • Active citizens: making the difference Have they served us well? To me, the answer is yes. There is much evidence to support that. Over the years, we have seen the Government’s commitment to improving the lot of Singaporeans via scholarships and bursaries, to helping our businesses grow and to creating many jobs for Singaporeans. Strong families and values of Singaporeans have always been highlighted as a core foundation and cornerstone of 30 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

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Singapore’s well-being. The Government today has promised that 40 per cent of each year’s cohort will be able to get a shot at the local universities’ 16,000 places by 2020. The citizens today are also more active and engaged through the Internet, Facebook, Twitter and blogs and are making contributions in various ways. These are just some of the good outcomes of the S21. Thus the S21 has steered us towards developing a more cohesive and resilient nation, a people fully equipped to compete into the future and a people with emotional stakes in Singapore. What about the Remaking Singapore Committee's (RSC) effort in 2002/2003? The RSC was aimed at addressing the challenges in the social, cultural and political spheres (complementing the efforts of the Economic Review Committee). The recommendations centred around four themes for renewal and change, namely:

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A home for ALL Singaporeans A home owned A home for all seasons, and A home to cherish

There were 70 recommendations and the Government responded to all of them in 2004. Some were accepted, some were not. The following are some of the outcomes from the RSC’s recommendations. * diversity in the school curriculum through elective modules; * Singapore School of the Arts (SOTA) was set up; * ranking of schools was modified; * National Youth Forum was set up; * easier registration of groups and societies; * relaxation of policies on the funding for the performing arts and vetting of scripts and busking; * consolidation and rationalisation of the various assistance schemes for those

a s f t e w t r p b j c t t e ly W t s t u e

t a PR exercise

affected by structural unemployment; * Work Assistance Programme (WAP) to help low-income Singaporeans tide over periods of unemployment and to find jobs quickly; * facilitation of employment for the disabled; * harmonising of citizenship privileges of overseas-born children of Singaporean women and their foreign husbands. Today, PM Lee has thrown a challenge to the country: What is the next chapter of the Singapore story? Where do we want Singapore to be 20 years from now? He has called on all Singaporeans to participate actively in a National Conversation. Like the S21 15 years ago and the RSC a decade ago, the 2012 National Conversation will be an excellent opportunity for all segments of Singaporeans to come together to reaffirm or clarify our societal end goals, to ask what values we want, what matters to us most, what we want to achieve as a country, what is good and relevant about the fundamentals in Singapore and where we want to go as a people. We must all seize the opportunity and be counted. The impact will be felt not just in our lives, but also the lives of our children and future generations. I am very sure there will be many positive outcomes at the end of our conversations. The key to success lies in the processes and the quality of the discussions. The National Conversation is definitely not another public relations exercise. We must all actively participate and have the gumption to speak our minds to make sure Singapore has a hope and a future, to make it an even better home for all of us, and eventually, a place where each and every Singaporean heart truly belongs.

The writer is the secretary of the 4th PAP Policy Forum Council and a volunteer at Kolam Ayer Branch.

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By Chiang Heng Liang

Briefly Give everyone a voice I think it is great that our leaders have issued a clarion call for a National Conversation. It is meant to be inclusive, wide-ranging, and non-partisan. Unfortunately, the cynics have already started slamming the Governmentâ€™s good intentions before we have barely had a chance to get the ball rolling. They accuse the PAP leaders of politicising everything, but who is actually doing so? Just look at what happened after PM Leeâ€™s televised conversation.

A few of us who participated were party members, yes, but our contributions were strictly non-partisan. We were nevertheless mercilessly lambasted. Should we have been denied a voice? Bully tactics are not typical of First World democracies anywhere, so let us be genuinely democratic and give everyone a voice within the bounds of civility. Michael Rebaczonok Hong Kah North Branch

Help the greater societal good Divisive global forces and ideologies run rampant in todayâ€™s interconnected world, seeking to undo the semblance of order which has defined the past few decades. Which is why, more than ever, Singaporeans need to stand together on issues of nationhood and home. To do so is not to disregard the unique issues of life each one of us faces, or to gloss over our differences in opinion. More urgently now, we need to be united in our sense of purpose for the country, to ensure that our cherished way of life, our families, and things that define our pride in being Singaporean can endure through the future. How can each of us play a part in doing so? By communicating to

each other and sharing our hopes, our concerns, and our dreams for the Singapore of the future. Let us participate in the National Conversation wholeheartedly and earnestly, always keeping in mind the spirit and intention of helping the greater societal good. Our Government has shown great willingness to adapt and listen to the needs of our citizens, and we should take this opportunity to play our part too, by not abdicating our social responsibilities, but instead to contribute to moulding the society we all desire. Leong Yi Xing (Daniel) Young PAP Vice-Chairman, Bedok Branch PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

BACKBENCHER’S BITE Punggol West: A

new community with a big heart Dr Janil Puthucheary MP for Pasir Ris - Punggol GRC

unggol West, the part of Pasir Ris - Punggol GRC I am responsible for, is a new division. Just after the GE in 2011 we had 39 HDB blocks, one RC, a new branch and very few volunteers and activists. Now there are 94 blocks and growing. Many more residents have moved in over the past year. How do we go about building a community, giving the town a neighbourliness, generating networks of friends and a sense ownership? Especially when the pace of building new flats has been so accelerated, with new residents moving in all the time? Many of our residents are moving into their first home. Before that, they were living with their parents. And for the first time they have become responsible for themselves and their immediate family. Now there are not only bills and other daily household chores to take care of, but they also have to ponder the long-term implications of their decisions. Most have deep ties with family and friends in other parts of Singapore. Their identity is still rooted somewhere else. All this is expected given that Punggol West is a new and rapidly growing community, but it poses some challenges. When we do block visits and community events, our priority is to look out for enthusiastic volunteers, potential activists, future grassroots leaders. But if you have just moved in to a new BTO with plans to start a family, and to concentrate on getting your career going, then finding time to volunteer and contribute to the community, is going to be difficult. The lack of activities and events was a concern for some, with many asking,

“What can I join in?”, “What have you got organised?”. We were faced with a chicken-and-egg situation. Because we had few volunteers, there were not many activities and events. At the same time, it was difficult to attract new volunteers without enough activities and publicity. We needed to bootstrap the community engagement. We concentrated on visiting as many households as possible and engaging the residents in face-to-face discussions. The volunteers and activists made recruiting neighbours their priority, explaining repeatedly their own personal nal reasons to step forward. Despite all the challenges nges of time, other distractions and opportunities, pportunities, and a limited schedule of events vents and activities, we now have five times imes as many volunteers. Many of the new residents idents have organised themselves on Facebook. In some estates, residents havee got together long before moving in and have started to form friendships. These online microcommunities are vibrant, and demonstrate a deep sense of wanting ng to build a sense of identity. There have been a lot of volunteers coming forward to participate rticipate in welfare activities and social service engagement. Punggol ggol West at the moment has few low-income families, so the he interest in this aspect of ourr work was surprising, butt very welcome. The welfare committee was one of the first to be formed, and has become quite active, paying close

attention to the one large block of rental flats in our division. We have had donors stepping forward, one wanting to assist the elderly needy in purchasing wheelchairs; another, a young lady, had received a substantial scholarship to pursue her tertiary education, and in turn her parents decided to give back to the community in a similar way, starting a bursary fund for students from lowincome families. That the residents in our new community have been so intent on building a Home, with a Heart, gives me Hope.

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PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

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HAPPENINGS

High speed for young members

ore than 50 youths had a thrilling experience driving a go-kart on the Formula 1 racing lanes at the F1 Pit building. The event, Go-Kart Outreach, was organised by Kampong Chai Chee Branch on June 9 and July 15 to attract young participants. It was held in collaboration with KF1 Pte Ltd, who organised Singapore’s first KF1 Karting Challenge, and was part of the branch’s effort to organise youthoriented activities. Participants picked up valuable advice from experienced go-karters such how to make a fast and safe turn at the racing lanes. At the end of the event, branch activists collected the participants’ contact details for future activities and engagement through social media. “It was a good experience for me and my family! I look forward to participating in more of such events organised by Kampong Chai Chee,” said Kampong Chai Chee resident Sharon Loy.

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Health screening at your doorstep

or the needy elderly, health screening is as simple as opening their front doors. On July 15, a team from Young PAP (YP) Community Service and the Jurong Central YP Branch conducted personalised door-to-door health screening for 20 households. Led by MP Ang Wei Neng, they were reaching out to older Singaporeans who are alone or face financial difficulties. These were identified through their weekly house visits in the constituency. Jurong Central was selected as one of the pilot sites for Wellness Programme in 2008. Since then, health screenings have become an important component of the programme and more than 3,000 people have participated in the programme so far.

34 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

M d S b c C F p M t $ P w r 2 s C M

A pot of Marsiling spirit

uring the month of Ramadan, PAP Marsiling Branch organised two sessions of porridge distribution on July 31 and Aug 14 to the residents, regardless of their race and religion, within the constituency. The porridge was packed by PAP members of Marsiling Branch and activ-

Fundraising at Family Day

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his year, more than $600,000 was raised from a fundraising event organised by the Ministers and MPs in the Central District for 22 charitable organisations. This is part of the on-going efforts by Ministers, MPs and members of various districts who take turns to raise funds. Started in 2001, about $5.93 million has been collected and distributed to over 148 charitable organisations over the years. This was made known at the PAP Community Foundation (PCF) Annual Family Day which was held at the Singapore Zoo on Sept 2. On that day, guest of honour Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong presented the PCF (Polytechnic) Study Awards of $2,000 each to 49 polytechnic students. PM Lee also announced that the PCF will work closely with the Government to raise the quality of pre-school education. He was joined by PCF Family Day 2012 Organising Committee Chairperson Halimah Yacob, PCF Executive Chairman Lawrence Wong and other Ministers and MPs.

ists. Together with MP Hawazi Daipi who came with his family members, they distributed the porridge to more than 200 residents who turned up. This distribution was an annual activity by PAP Marsiling Branch in promoting social cohesion and building racial and religious harmony.

Hari Raya food gifts

t about 10.30am on Aug 12, a Sunday, a group of PAP activists met within the Tampines North Education Centre, and went through the final stages of their plan to bring a festive cheer to some of the less fortunate. Led by MP for Tampines GRC Baey Yam Keng, the group of about 20 spent the next three hours distributing goody bags to 19 needy families within the Tampines North Branch. The goody bags, worth about $70 each, contained food items such as canned food and instant noodles, and a $30 NTUC voucher for each family. Implemented by the YP, the initiative was the brainchild of Mr Baey who hopes to do it every festive season. “It is part of the many helpinghands approach,” he said. “Some of them are receiving help from other sources, but as a branch, we are extending our well-wishes for the festive season.”

The beneficiaries were first identified through the MP’s regular Meetthe-People sessions and visit from YP members. Among those who received gifts was 35-year-old Madam Raja Suhaila’s family. With four children aged between six and 14, and with only her husband’s monthly income of about $1,000 to rely on, the family has fallen behind on housing loan and water bills. Madam Suhaila, thanking Mr Baey after he delivered the bag to her home, said she was touched that he made the time to deliver the packs. Mazlan B Hadar’s family also benefitted from the scheme. The father of four, who works as a technician, had difficulties making ends meet after he injured his leg following a bad fall. “I am happy because the gifts will help us to celebrate Hari Raya.” YP hopes to expand the scheme to other parts of Tampines GRC eventually.

PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

OVERHEARD I spent a lot of time daydreaming when I was young, and I happen to think it was a rather good investment. – DPM Tharman Shanmugaratnam in response to a NTU undergraduate’s question about the stress young Singaporean children grapple with early in life at a dialogue session held on Sept 6.

"We sometimes pass by this uncle or that auntie who seems to have problems. But we do not speak to them. I ask all of us to be that much more kaypoh and chat with them." – Senior Minister of State Tan Chuan-Jin urges Singaporeans to reach out to their neighbours.

“They can only be as useful as what the people involved want them to be. When sincerity or even a sense of urgency is added, the engagement is greatly enriched. Throw in cynicism and the whole discussion sinks like the Titanic.” – Former minister Lim Hwee Hua speaks on the effectiveness of a committee in evaluating existing policies.

"It was something out of the ordinary; we decided to encourage our Olympians and also to bring our country together, as this says that we are all part of this together." – MP Alex Yam explains why MPs wore red and white, rather than party colours, during the National Day Parade.

"Parents want the best for their children and sometimes what they define as the best is what... stands in the way of their enjoying this journey of parenthood." – Minister of State Halimah Yacob feels that Singaporean parents tend to worry too much about their children. 36 PETIR SEPT / OCT 12

"There are many multiracial and multireligious societies in the world. Only a few are able to have such trust and such harmony among the different communities in that group." – Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasises the uniqueness of the Singapore society in his National Day Message.

"We must continue to remember that the child is at the heart of what we do. Every educator, whether in the classroom, school or ministry, can make a meaningful difference in the life of a child." – Minister of Education Heng Swee Keat stresses that our education system must centre around our young generation.

"We are a YouTube generation. These videos may not be as polished, but people can identify with them and make a connection." – MP Zaqy Mohamad on the popularity of the “unofficial” NDP videos.

"We do not consider people ‘foreign’ if we have a close connection with them. That is true for many of us... For these Singaporeans, it is important that the PRs remain in Singapore." – MP Hri Kumar notes that permanent residents are welcomed by most locals.

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