Any careful and astute observer of Singapore's political scene
will notice that Singaporeans still lack maturity with regards to
political issues and need to be carefully guided in their
thinking.
Our restless generation, especially the youth, seem to be
clamouring for more freedom of speech and expression in all areas
of life, including the political front. They like to cite these as
part of so-called "civil liberties". But with freedom comes grave
responsibility. That is what the youth of today are lacking in.
The PAP government (may the PAP progress!) has created a nation
of peace, prosperity, economic progress, and racial and religious
harmony. This has not come easy. Anyone who is in government knows
that the process of nation building is a slow, tedious process that
is incredibly hard. We are where we are today because of the
tireless and selfless dedication of the men and women in office,
many of whom have made monumental sacrifices to take the lead and
bear the immense burden of public office. To these men and women we
should be sincerely grateful.
However many of the present generation are unaware of how we got
to be where we are, and the kind of work and sacrifice it takes to
keep our nation running. Many folk like to view events and
government policies in isolation, randomly criticizing them,
without reflecting upon the bigger picture. People today only seem
to just want more and more -- more money, more handouts, less
taxes, less obligations, more free space, more free speech --
without taking into account the needs of tomorrow. This is truly
irresponsible.
The present day generation, especially our youth, must learn to
appreciate the soundness of our government's policies, and
recognize the fact that the government is not afraid to enact
policies for the long term good of our nation, and not pander to
the short term whims of the electorate. Mindless criticism of the
government and its policies without considering the long term good
of our nation is only going to be counterproductive. The government
devotes all its resources and capabilities, and deploys the best
brains we have towards researching the best policies for our
nation, policies that will serve all Singaporeans through thick and
thin. Singaporeans would do well to recognize this.
While cyberspace and the internet serves as a medium for
Singaporeans to express their views and thoughts freely,
Singaporeans should be mindful that with free speech comes
responsibility -- responsibility to their nation, to their
community, and to themselves ultimately. Singaporeans must learn to
use their freedoms on the internet wisely, and not abuse them, like
so many people are wantonly doing these days. The internet,
unfortunately, has frequently become a hodge-podge of thoughtless
and irresponsible anti-government propaganda. This is indeed
regrettable. It is my sincere hope that Singaporeans can recognize
the grave mistake they are committing. Their thoughtless and
mindless anti-government propaganda is only going to sabotage the
efforts of the government in the long run in building a better and
freer Singapore.
The PAP (may the PAP progress!) is still today the best possible
party to lead our nation further into the 21st century. Their ranks
are filled with capable men and women of honour and integrity, and
their leadership renewal is in progress. Instead of mindlessly
bickering about being affected by inevitable circumstances such as
rising prices or the need to plan and save for a longer retirement,
let us instead close ranks and support the one party in Singapore
that will lead our nation from strength to strength, and serve the
interests of all Singaporeans to the fullest. Let us support the
PAP.
Majulah PAP! Majulah Singapura!
Goh Bock Seng
