PAP should
adapt its governing style. It won't be judged solely on delivering
the tangibles
I refer to the letter 'Catherine Lim's
illusion of political control' (ST, Dec 13) by Mr Michael Heng Swee
Hai.
While Mr Heng may be frustrated by Dr Lim's thesis, I urge the
government to be more tolerant and take a closer look at the
various issues raised by Dr Lim in her piece.
Although it may be difficult to provide concrete evidence to
substantiate every argument, she correctly pointed out that the
nation is facing a bigger constraint from within.
The increasingly flat world and individual empowerment will create
a nation of individuals who want to be heard and have the ability
to make themselves heard.
I illustrate this with an example: 20 years ago when the government
proposed policy changes and related them to other countries for
reference and justification, the public was more receptive of the
idea.
Today, when the government uses the same approach, individuals have
access to a wealth of information widely available on the internet
and they decide for themselves.
It is in the interest of the nation that the PAP examines how it
can adapt its style of governing to take advantage of the new
opportunities offered by an increasingly connected world.
Instead of building up walls and restricting discussions, the
government should examine ways to increase collaboration between
the leaders and the people so that the government can effectively
address the needs of the nation.
Mr Heng raised the point that Singaporeans now enjoy affordable
housing, education and medical services. Perhaps this is a good
example of the 'disconnect' between the haves and have-nots.
While the basic amenities are affordable to some, there are also
many others who struggle to make ends meet and may not have access
to them.
A $200,000 HDB flat may be very affordable for some, but it may
represent the life savings for others. Hence, we must move away
from our own comfort zones and increase our social awareness about
the needs of the less fortunate.
There is no doubt that our government has delivered outstanding
economic results that are the envy of many countries.
However, the success of a country and competence of the leaders
should not be judged solely by tangible returns such as income and
public housing.
It is the quality of life that matters and this includes many
unquantifiable, intangible aspects which can never be represented
by dollars and cents.
Wang Wencai
ST Forum
