It was not the first time the Singapore National Team had foreign born Singapore citizens in the line up. In fact, it has been a long time since there were major criticisms of the Sportsmen for Singapore ever since the Foreign Sports Talent Scheme started. Amongst the patriotic Lions fans clad in red, there was notably a portion of distinctive Caucasian dress in red who answered the call of duty to be part of the Kallang crowd. As my friend was claiming them that they must be some relative and friends of Daniel Bennett or John Wilkinson, one must now seriously ponder whether they have immerse into the one of the Singaporeans' favourite pastime.
Many observers have voice their concerns that a more open and globalize Singapore attractive talents/quitters from all over the world could or will lead to a reduce amount of patriotism towards Singapore. Increasingly, it has even affected the younger generation of Singaporeans leading to the emergence of the Hotel Singapore analogy where national boundary is rendered progressively permeable. Well, a globalise Singapore do actually bring in its economic value, however, it has definitely come at a high social cost amongst the true blue Singaporean.
The increasing permeability of across nationality boundaries has certainly left many Singaporeans wondering whether the imbalance in the welfare and responsibilities put on the natives and the ‘new’ Singaporeans. Statistics from a few months ago from the Straits Times points out that only 2/3 of the Singapore Citizens are born and bred locally. Well clearly, the proportion on the Kallang Stadium was nowhere close. No doubt one cannot judge patriotism in this manner but I certainly believe it for more convincing then attending the National Day Parade.
Unmistakably, the government is economic driven. Economic growth is second to none in the hierarchy of the Singapore government. Look at the recent major events, from the Integrated Resorts to the Formula 1 Grand Prix, growth is place ahead of social security and environment well being. Surely, economic prosperity helps to run the country efficiently, however one must not forgo the willingness for the citizens to fight and build a country and strengthen the national identity for the much more tumultuous years ahead. A national identity build solely on economic growth can go nowhere further when tough economic times emerge. Hence, I strongly believe more actions should be done to make the citizens feel more worthy of being here instead of being short-changed in terms of the responsibilities and benefits section. Well, it is time to train for the annual IPPT again.
Majulah Singapura.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Friday, November 7, 2008
Pragmatism = Short of Spirits
I read with concern with regards to the presidential election race in the US. Their support and spirits are simply awesome. Despite the divisive nature of both parties and candidate, both of them have the same aim that is to serve the nation. I can feel the amount of passion that the two candidates possessed with each and every speech and line they say. It is even more so for the people of USA. Their support has for their respective parties are phenomenon. This is how much respect both parties and candidates have earned since the start of the race.
On the contrary, Singapore's political development and its people seemed to be far apart. Taking a look at the speech an American candidate gives and compare it to our National Day rally, a certain amount difference can be felt. (I can feel the sincerity of Obama and McCain for their people.)Their concerns for the Americans, defending their national security, restoring prosperity to the middle class can all be felt. I think it sort of unite the country in a way by having a common vision and contributes to the building of a national identity. Though whether the candidates can solve the problems is another issue.
Nation building certainly cannot be just based on education in school and stage a NDP every year. It has to be seen from the leaders of the nation too.
Even without a change in the current political system of a dominant ruling party, I truly believe that efforts must be shown based on their willingness and eagerness to serve the country and not being appointed based on a certain form of merit. I certainly believe that the people can feel and judge on the amount of sincerity and concern one have for another.
To end of, it is a quote from the online citizen.
pJ on November 6th, 2008 10.47 pm
America sustains its people’s spirit, PAP only offer sustenance for our stomachs. Yet MM, someone with First Class Honours from Cambridge, cannot understand why our people who are smart and successful are leaving our shores in droves. PAP has done a good job of delivering jobs, but left us short on ideals and spirit. Pragmatism can only go so far.
On the contrary, Singapore's political development and its people seemed to be far apart. Taking a look at the speech an American candidate gives and compare it to our National Day rally, a certain amount difference can be felt. (I can feel the sincerity of Obama and McCain for their people.)Their concerns for the Americans, defending their national security, restoring prosperity to the middle class can all be felt. I think it sort of unite the country in a way by having a common vision and contributes to the building of a national identity. Though whether the candidates can solve the problems is another issue.
Nation building certainly cannot be just based on education in school and stage a NDP every year. It has to be seen from the leaders of the nation too.
Even without a change in the current political system of a dominant ruling party, I truly believe that efforts must be shown based on their willingness and eagerness to serve the country and not being appointed based on a certain form of merit. I certainly believe that the people can feel and judge on the amount of sincerity and concern one have for another.
To end of, it is a quote from the online citizen.
pJ on November 6th, 2008 10.47 pm
America sustains its people’s spirit, PAP only offer sustenance for our stomachs. Yet MM, someone with First Class Honours from Cambridge, cannot understand why our people who are smart and successful are leaving our shores in droves. PAP has done a good job of delivering jobs, but left us short on ideals and spirit. Pragmatism can only go so far.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Economism
I attended a lecture today on Singapore society and I find it truly amazed how the government PAP has actually caused such a deep impact and shaped society today.
Economism is a term my lecturer, DR P, is going to published soon. It talks about how Singapore society is run and profit driven the policies adopted by the govt has on its people. An initial policy to curb with the rising population and unemployment has churn out undesirable, unintended consequence in today's society.
In the early years when Singapore gained independence after severing ties with Malaysia, Singapore a resources-less country turn to industrialization as the method to cope with rising population and unemployment. Hence, a series of MNCs were enticed to Singapore by the Economic Development board. On the labour front, Singapore govt introduced an education system which would provide necessary skills to the workforce required by the nature of work, which is maths and science. The intentions were good.
Overtime, Singapore loses her edge to much cheaper labour found in other Southeast Asia. The second part of the change took place as Singapore transformed into a headquarters of MNCs which required more skilled workforce as the manufacturing jobs are transferred to the lesser developed countries. The government placed more focus on maths and science, and expanded tertiary education. This is the time Nanyang Technological Institute was born in 1981 and since renamed Nanyang Technological University in 1991. Polytechnics appeared to supply the economy with higher educated workforce. In recent years, a school called NUS High School of Mathematics and Science is formed. All these work towards the economic growth of the country.
The state places "growth" above social welfare and environment. The building of 2 Integrated Resorts and staging of Formula 1 races are testimony to this.
The result, Singapore society has been shaped to become a profit driven society and people are living by the religion - Economism. Fundamentally, it destroys the reason for education. Many would relate Science background education to be better than Arts education as this will allow them to find jobs easier in the future. The harsh reality is that this is no myth. Hence, many students and parents placed more emphasis in Maths and Science and see subjects like literature, geography and history much more useless subjects.
In my case, only one person that I have met gave me positive response for being in the Arts faculty. Not surprisingly, it’s a foreigner. He used the word "rewarding" to differentiate Arts from Science. Nowadays, I would rather tell people I'm studying Economics rather than be in the Arts faculty.
Has economism affected me? My answer would be yes. Did I mention I study economics? Well, after all we are all living in a paradoxical society.
Economism is a term my lecturer, DR P, is going to published soon. It talks about how Singapore society is run and profit driven the policies adopted by the govt has on its people. An initial policy to curb with the rising population and unemployment has churn out undesirable, unintended consequence in today's society.
In the early years when Singapore gained independence after severing ties with Malaysia, Singapore a resources-less country turn to industrialization as the method to cope with rising population and unemployment. Hence, a series of MNCs were enticed to Singapore by the Economic Development board. On the labour front, Singapore govt introduced an education system which would provide necessary skills to the workforce required by the nature of work, which is maths and science. The intentions were good.
Overtime, Singapore loses her edge to much cheaper labour found in other Southeast Asia. The second part of the change took place as Singapore transformed into a headquarters of MNCs which required more skilled workforce as the manufacturing jobs are transferred to the lesser developed countries. The government placed more focus on maths and science, and expanded tertiary education. This is the time Nanyang Technological Institute was born in 1981 and since renamed Nanyang Technological University in 1991. Polytechnics appeared to supply the economy with higher educated workforce. In recent years, a school called NUS High School of Mathematics and Science is formed. All these work towards the economic growth of the country.
The state places "growth" above social welfare and environment. The building of 2 Integrated Resorts and staging of Formula 1 races are testimony to this.
The result, Singapore society has been shaped to become a profit driven society and people are living by the religion - Economism. Fundamentally, it destroys the reason for education. Many would relate Science background education to be better than Arts education as this will allow them to find jobs easier in the future. The harsh reality is that this is no myth. Hence, many students and parents placed more emphasis in Maths and Science and see subjects like literature, geography and history much more useless subjects.
In my case, only one person that I have met gave me positive response for being in the Arts faculty. Not surprisingly, it’s a foreigner. He used the word "rewarding" to differentiate Arts from Science. Nowadays, I would rather tell people I'm studying Economics rather than be in the Arts faculty.
Has economism affected me? My answer would be yes. Did I mention I study economics? Well, after all we are all living in a paradoxical society.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
In memory of J B Jeyaretnam
Oh the time will come up
When the winds will stop
And the breeze will cease to be a'breathin'
Like the stillness in the wind
Before the hurricane begins
The hour when the ship comes in
And the sea will split
And the ship will hit
And the shoreline sands will be a'shakin'
And the tide will sound
And the waves will pound
And the morning will be breakin'
Oh the fishes will laugh
As they swim out of the path
And the seagulls will be a'smilin'
And the rocks on the sand
Will proudly stand
The hour that the ship comes in
And the words that are used
For to get the ship confused
Will not be understood as they're spoken
For the chains of the sea
Will have busted in the night
And be buried at the bottom of the ocean
A song will lift,
As the mainsail shifts
And the boat drifts out to the shoreline
And the sun will respect
Every face on the deck
The hour that the ship comes in
And the sands will roll
Out a carpet of gold
For your weary toes to be a'touchin'
And the ship's wise men
Will remind you once again
That the whole wide world is watchin'
Oh the foe will rise
With the sleep still in their eyes
And they'll jerk from their beds and think they're dreamin'
And they'll pinch themselves and squeal
And they'll know that it's for real
The hour when the ship comes in
And they'll raise their hands
Sayin' "We'll meet all your demands"
And we'll shout from the bow "Your days are numbered"
And like the pharoah's triumph
They'll be drownded in the tide
Like Goliath they'll be conquered
©1963, 1964 Warner Bros Music 1991 (renewed) Special Rider Music (ASCAP)
Source http://singabloodypore.rsfblog.org/
Palin Biden debate
I have just finished watching the outstanding debate between the vice presidential candidates Sarah Palin and Joseph Biden.
From an outsider point of view, I thought the Democrats' foreign and domestic policy were outstanding. Trying to end the war, and able to sit down and discuss on the political issues would be a major boost to both USA and the world. A softer approach is what the world is seeking for after 8 long hawkish years under Bush administrations. Domestically, they proposed taxes to be levied higher on the higher income people in America in order to make sure the middle class who are the majority would benefit. I believe this strategy would straight away encourage votes for the Republicans. One would agree that the withdrawal of troops overseas will help in the government funds as it can be used in better ways rather than being wasted on the military in Afghanistan and Iraq. Biden's sharp analysis and clear arguments and criticism on the Republicans certainly rattled Palin. It is clear that he has pointed out that there is no difference between Bush and McCain.
Although Sarah Palin showed signs of nerve and avoided some of the questions, Palin and McCain administration do have one important policy. A policy that would garner most working class votes, that is, their governance would be able to attract investors with their low tax rates and thus help in creation of jobs. It is one policy that would outweigh other foreign policies and domestic policy which the Democrats proposed and that is fundamental to the election. Economically, the Republicans have a sound approach. Amidst the recent instability in the market, an untried and dangerous tax system could bring about more declines in the financial sector of the United States. However, Palin should show the Americans the concrete plans of the McCain Palin administration instead of just rattling on "change is coming", which most Americans would certainly want to know more about.
Imagining myself as a middle class American, I might just choose the Republicans as their domestic policies are more viable and is of closer concerns to major Americans. Ultimately, having a job is far more important than foreign policies with NATO, UN, and the Middle East conflict nations. But none the less, the charisma of Obama and Biden is undeniable. Americans might vote for the Democrats after 8 long era under the Republicans.
"If the debate was the defining test this Fall of Sarah Palin, she emerged from it largely unscathed... She may not have had any breakthrough moments but she never stumbled in response to any 'gotcha' questions and Senator Joseph R Biden Jr largely focused his attacks on John McCain, not her." Peter Baker, NYT's The Caucus blog
From an outsider point of view, I thought the Democrats' foreign and domestic policy were outstanding. Trying to end the war, and able to sit down and discuss on the political issues would be a major boost to both USA and the world. A softer approach is what the world is seeking for after 8 long hawkish years under Bush administrations. Domestically, they proposed taxes to be levied higher on the higher income people in America in order to make sure the middle class who are the majority would benefit. I believe this strategy would straight away encourage votes for the Republicans. One would agree that the withdrawal of troops overseas will help in the government funds as it can be used in better ways rather than being wasted on the military in Afghanistan and Iraq. Biden's sharp analysis and clear arguments and criticism on the Republicans certainly rattled Palin. It is clear that he has pointed out that there is no difference between Bush and McCain.
Although Sarah Palin showed signs of nerve and avoided some of the questions, Palin and McCain administration do have one important policy. A policy that would garner most working class votes, that is, their governance would be able to attract investors with their low tax rates and thus help in creation of jobs. It is one policy that would outweigh other foreign policies and domestic policy which the Democrats proposed and that is fundamental to the election. Economically, the Republicans have a sound approach. Amidst the recent instability in the market, an untried and dangerous tax system could bring about more declines in the financial sector of the United States. However, Palin should show the Americans the concrete plans of the McCain Palin administration instead of just rattling on "change is coming", which most Americans would certainly want to know more about.
Imagining myself as a middle class American, I might just choose the Republicans as their domestic policies are more viable and is of closer concerns to major Americans. Ultimately, having a job is far more important than foreign policies with NATO, UN, and the Middle East conflict nations. But none the less, the charisma of Obama and Biden is undeniable. Americans might vote for the Democrats after 8 long era under the Republicans.
"If the debate was the defining test this Fall of Sarah Palin, she emerged from it largely unscathed... She may not have had any breakthrough moments but she never stumbled in response to any 'gotcha' questions and Senator Joseph R Biden Jr largely focused his attacks on John McCain, not her." Peter Baker, NYT's The Caucus blog
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Mishap of NSF
A third NSF passed away recently have rekindled the safety procedures in the National Service, a military conscription by Singapore since 1967.
As a matter of fact, our army have progressed tremendously in terms of technology over the past decades. Today, we have reached a stage called 3G army, where majority of the fighting includes the involvement of high tech machinery and equipments. Compared to the past, soldiers of this generation are generally treated better. Hurling of abuses were less rampant as before, provision of food are now mend by commercial caterers like NTUC and SFI, medical facilities and safety personnel are deployed whenever there is physical training. A recent deaths of Fulltime National Service man do raise question on the management and the running of the SAF that is widely unknown to public, less the men who have gone through NS.
I believed that all 3 deaths that happened are just unfortunate and the general public should not pinpoint SAF until a clearer investigation has been done. In the most recent case, it was understood that PTE Foo Wei Rong had a medical certificate from SGH for sprains and strains of the knee and leg and was given light duty which is Att B status. This status would allow him to be excuse from any forms of physical exercise. Though he did not submit this medical certificate to the medical centre for endorsement, the death does not seem to have a close relation to his injured leg.
Having completed the national service in recent years, I do realise some of the potential dangers of medical status. The commanders do not always keep track on the medical status of the men, especially when a medical certificate was obtained outside camp during a weekend. It is up to the individuals and even buddies to look out if there is anything wrong with each other as they are the closest companions around. Safety briefings are done by officers prior to physical activities and those who are not feeling well may be requested to fall out by seeking permission. As an adult to be at the age of more than 18 years old, one must be able to signal to his buddy or even the commanders if they feel they are unfit to continue.
However, for some cases, soldiers who are unfit or excused would have to do some fatigue work. This may not be welcome by some of the "garang" soldiers who rather go through the exercise with their section or platoon mates. Hence, they choose not to report as they felt they are capable of completing the activity and also preferring not to do the fatigue work.
Ultimately, other than the special forces in the army, the trainings are adhered to the training standards and procedures. Safety personnel and facilities are also being prepared and ensured by the commanders around. Together with briefings by the safety officers, extra measures are done to check with the trainees. It is also the part of the trainees to report their physical conditions correctly to their superiors. Only then, training risk can be narrowed down.
Deaths do come sudden sometimes. When death occurred in the army, society generally relates the death with the risky activities in SAF they perceived.
As a matter of fact, our army have progressed tremendously in terms of technology over the past decades. Today, we have reached a stage called 3G army, where majority of the fighting includes the involvement of high tech machinery and equipments. Compared to the past, soldiers of this generation are generally treated better. Hurling of abuses were less rampant as before, provision of food are now mend by commercial caterers like NTUC and SFI, medical facilities and safety personnel are deployed whenever there is physical training. A recent deaths of Fulltime National Service man do raise question on the management and the running of the SAF that is widely unknown to public, less the men who have gone through NS.
I believed that all 3 deaths that happened are just unfortunate and the general public should not pinpoint SAF until a clearer investigation has been done. In the most recent case, it was understood that PTE Foo Wei Rong had a medical certificate from SGH for sprains and strains of the knee and leg and was given light duty which is Att B status. This status would allow him to be excuse from any forms of physical exercise. Though he did not submit this medical certificate to the medical centre for endorsement, the death does not seem to have a close relation to his injured leg.
Having completed the national service in recent years, I do realise some of the potential dangers of medical status. The commanders do not always keep track on the medical status of the men, especially when a medical certificate was obtained outside camp during a weekend. It is up to the individuals and even buddies to look out if there is anything wrong with each other as they are the closest companions around. Safety briefings are done by officers prior to physical activities and those who are not feeling well may be requested to fall out by seeking permission. As an adult to be at the age of more than 18 years old, one must be able to signal to his buddy or even the commanders if they feel they are unfit to continue.
However, for some cases, soldiers who are unfit or excused would have to do some fatigue work. This may not be welcome by some of the "garang" soldiers who rather go through the exercise with their section or platoon mates. Hence, they choose not to report as they felt they are capable of completing the activity and also preferring not to do the fatigue work.
Ultimately, other than the special forces in the army, the trainings are adhered to the training standards and procedures. Safety personnel and facilities are also being prepared and ensured by the commanders around. Together with briefings by the safety officers, extra measures are done to check with the trainees. It is also the part of the trainees to report their physical conditions correctly to their superiors. Only then, training risk can be narrowed down.
Deaths do come sudden sometimes. When death occurred in the army, society generally relates the death with the risky activities in SAF they perceived.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Formula one in singapore
There is so much excitement in town this past week with the inaugural Formula 1 night race happening in Singapore's financial district. So much so that the neutrals of this rich sporting events are turning their attention to the outstanding event against the backdrop of arguably the most beautiful landscape of any Formula 1 race track. Some of the racing behemoths have given Singapore the title "Monaco of the East" and Bernie Ecclestone have tipped Singapore to be the "crown jewel" of Formula 1 in the years to come.
Well, at least the Ferraris and the Mclarens will be zooming down the Marina Bay district for the next 4 years, which will bolster the already magnificent landscape with the completion of the Integrated Resorts and the hotels.
Many, including me have forgotten about the environmental drawbacks of Formula 1 amidst the buzz of how much economic revenue Singapore will get to reap from this richest sporting event in the world. Though the economic advantage would certainly help Singapore to increase the National Income, Money reporter Jessica Yap have reminded us how much carbon emission a Formula 1 Grand Prix would generate.
Well, at least the Ferraris and the Mclarens will be zooming down the Marina Bay district for the next 4 years, which will bolster the already magnificent landscape with the completion of the Integrated Resorts and the hotels.
Many, including me have forgotten about the environmental drawbacks of Formula 1 amidst the buzz of how much economic revenue Singapore will get to reap from this richest sporting event in the world. Though the economic advantage would certainly help Singapore to increase the National Income, Money reporter Jessica Yap have reminded us how much carbon emission a Formula 1 Grand Prix would generate.
Each of the F1 car consumes up to a litre of fuel per kilometre - and for every km, it spews 1.5 kg of carbon dioxide emissions - largely regarded as the culprit for global warming. So twenty cars at about 305 km each for the entire race, translates to about 9,150 kg of emissions.
On top of car emissions, each F1 team operates more than 30 tonnes of equipment which again consumes copious amounts of energy to transport to the site.
And let's not forget the lights that garnered so much praise for the Singapore Grand Prix organisers - with 108,423m of power cables, 240 steel pylons, approximately 1,600 light projectors, a staggering 3,180,000 watts is used.
If you consider the hundreds of thousands of tourists who flew in for the event, the total carbon footprint of the event is even more mind-boggling.
While there are chances that the future of the Formula 1 would be a more environmentally friendly event, it would not please some of the supremes in the racing teams. One of them actually said this,
"the millions of people watching F1 races on television are thus not using their cars while the race is under way"
Given the economic impact and uplift of the countries image F1 is able to bring, I suppose most pragmatic state would shelves the environmental concerns to of a lesser concerns. If Singapore do not host, there is still some other cities in the world vying for the exclusive spot. Isn't the same amout of carbon being emitted? More cities will be involve in the next 5 years most notable India and South Korea are the newest Asian host following Shanghai, Bahrain and Singapore.
The trend is clear, money makes the world go round.
Reference
Jessica Cheam, http://blogs.straitstimes.com/2008/9/29/can-a-green-f1-ever-exist
To practice my writing skills and...
This is my entry on this blog. Main purpose is to practice my writing skills and keep myself aware on the comments and concerns on major events both global and regional. I will also be concentrating on political and social issues in Singapore.
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